Google Pits $1,299 Pixel 11 Pro XL Against $1,199 iPhone 17 Pro Max
Updated
Updated · CNET · Aug 17
Google Pits $1,299 Pixel 11 Pro XL Against $1,199 iPhone 17 Pro Max
3 articles · Updated · CNET · Aug 17
Summary
$1,299 buys Google’s new Pixel 11 Pro XL with 256GB, putting it directly against Apple’s $1,199 iPhone 17 Pro Max in the big-screen flagship tier.
3,600 nits of peak brightness, a 2nm Tensor G6 chip and up to 120x Super Res Zoom give the Pixel its clearest hardware edge on paper, while Gemini currently outclasses Siri’s still-limited AI features.
5,115 mAh of battery and 45W wired charging slightly top the iPhone’s 5,088 mAh and 40W, but Apple still sets the benchmark after CNET named the 17 Pro Max its best battery-life phone tested in 2025 and early 2026.
Camera specs are close — triple rear systems on both phones — with Google adding Magic Capture and Camera Looks, while Apple counters with Photographic Styles and a stronger established photo reputation.
Price may stay the deciding factor as Google’s higher base price now matches Apple’s storage tiers, with trade-in deals and Apple’s expected iPhone 18 launch likely to reshape the comparison within weeks.