Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold: Impressive design, slow charging speeds
Key Points:
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold charges slower than other Pixel models, limited to 21 watts.
- Foldable design adds challenges to fast charging and battery life optimization.
- Wireless charging speed is capped at 7.5 watts, slower than Pixel siblings.
Google’s Pixel 9 Pro Fold is an exciting addition to their lineup, offering a sleek foldable design. However, one trade-off is its slower charging speed, which is notably below that of its Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro counterparts.
Why Does the Pixel 9 Pro Fold Charge So Slowly?
While the Pixel 9 can charge at 27 watts and the Pixel 9 Pro at 37 watts, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold maxes out at 21 watts. This difference may not seem large, but compared to other Pixel devices and competing foldables, it’s quite noticeable.
The slower charging speed is likely due to the more complex design of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold. Foldable devices require careful balancing between the flexibility of the screen, internal mechanics, and the overall battery system. Enhancing charging speed without impacting the device’s durability or battery lifespan can be challenging with such intricate hardware.
In real-world usage, this means the Pixel 9 Pro Fold will take longer to charge fully. This could be frustrating for users who need a quick top-up while on the move.
Wireless Charging: Even Slower
The Pixel 9 Pro Fold also lags behind in wireless charging. While other Pixel models support faster wireless charging, the foldable device is limited to just 7.5 watts, making it noticeably slower in this area too.
This combination of slower wired and wireless charging might be a downside for users who value fast recharging, but it’s a trade-off that Google seems to have made in favor of the phone’s innovative foldable design.