Why I chose Samsung over Pixel

The last few weeks I've been so back and forth on whether I wanted to get the S25 or Pixel 9 Pro. Coming from the S24 Ultra, I knew I wanted a smaller phone and it was between these two.

I've had both in the past but way more Samsung and love the customization One UI offers. But the simplicity and Pixel UI was appealing to at least try.

After not being able to decide, I tried something crazy. I preordered the S25 and bought a Pixel 9 Pro. Now before you all say I have too much money, yes I was able to afford it BUT I did so knowing that there is a return policy on both phones and I will be returning the one I don't like as much.

Of course I was able to get the Pixel first (S25 was delivered today). First impressions of the Pixel are that it's an amazing device that feels very premium. And much smaller and lighter compared to the S24 Ultra. Pixel UI has come a long way since I last use it and it runs super smooth.

Still, there are things I can't do on Pixel that I can do on Samsung (examples are way more lock screen and AOD customization, the close all button not being right below your task changer, no edge lighting, and many more). But I thought I would be able to get by without these because the Pixel really is a solid phone and I would get used to it. But then my S25 was delivered.

Immediately upon picking it up, while on paper it doesn't look crazy, it's quite a bit smaller and lighter than the Pixel 9 Pro. I was amazed how it feels and love the all matte finish. And then as I started playing around with One UI 7, I remembered how much I love to tinker with things that Pixel doesn't offer.

Long story short, the Pixel is going back. Don't get me wrong, it's a great phone and I can see the appeal and why people love it (haptics and weather app are absolutely incredible). But for me, I need to tinker and play around with random things on my phone so we are sticking with team Samsung.

Thanks for coming to my Ted Talk.