Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteiTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
In the cited Geekbench 6 comparison of the iPhone 16 and Pixel 9, Apple’s A18 scores higher than Google’s Tensor G4 in single-core CPU, multi-core CPU, and GPU compute tests. Those results compare two complete phones—not the chips under identical conditions—and should not be treated as a prediction for every app, game, or sustained workload.
How the A18 and Tensor G4 are configured
The chips use different CPU layouts and graphics hardware. Core count alone does not indicate which processor will be faster: core designs, clock speeds, software, and the phone around the chip also matter.
| Specification | Apple A18 | Google Tensor G4 |
|---|---|---|
| CPU configuration | Six cores: two performance cores and four efficiency cores, according to CPU-Monkey | Eight cores: one Cortex-X4 at 3.1 GHz, three Cortex-A720 at 2.6 GHz, and four Cortex-A520 at 1.92 GHz, according to NanoReview |
| Graphics | Five-core Apple GPU, according to CPU-Monkey | Mali-G715 MP7, according to NanoReview |
| Reported process node | 3 nm, according to CPU-Monkey | 4 nm, according to NanoReview |
Process-node labels are reported specifications, not direct measurements of power use, heat, or manufacturing quality. The available comparisons do not establish a controlled, same-device efficiency test.
Geekbench 6 results: iPhone 16 versus Pixel 9
NanoReview’s iPhone 16 versus Pixel 9 comparison reports these scores:
#1 Best Overall
- This phone is unlocked and compatible with any carrier of choice on GSM and CDMA networks (e.g. AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, Verizon, US Cellular, Cricket, Metro, Tracfone, Mint Mobile, etc.).
- Please check with your carrier to verify compatibility.
- The device does not come with headphones or a SIM card. It does include a generic (Mfi certified) charging cable.
- Tested for battery health and guaranteed to have a minimum battery capacity of 80%.
| Geekbench 6 measure | iPhone 16 with A18 | Pixel 9 with Tensor G4 |
|---|---|---|
| Single-core CPU | 3,431 | 1,707 |
| Multi-core CPU | 8,638 | 4,431 |
| GPU compute | 28,010 | 7,536 |
In this comparison, the iPhone 16 leads on all three reported measures. The figures are results for these phone-and-test combinations; they are not fixed specifications of either chip, universal performance ratios, or proof that every game will run better on the A18.
Why another Pixel 9 result differs
A separate Geekbench Browser submission for a Pixel 9, using Geekbench 6.7.1 for Android, records 1,663 single-core and 3,365 multi-core. These numbers differ from the Pixel 9 figures in NanoReview’s comparison. A benchmark score is an observation from a particular run and version, not an immutable chip specification; results can vary with benchmark version, OS build, device configuration, temperature, and run-to-run conditions.
Rank #2
- 6.9" LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision, 1320x2868px at 460ppi, 1000 nits (typ), 2000 nits (HBM), 4685mAh Battery
- 1TB, 8GB RAM, Apple A18 Pro (3nm), Hexa-core (2x4.05 GHz + 4x2.42 GHz), Apple GPU 6-core, iOS 18, upgradable to iOS 18.3
- Rear camera: 48MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 12MP, f/2.8 (periscope telephoto) 5x optical zoom + 48MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide), TOF 3D LiDAR scanner (depth), Front Camera: 12MP, f/1.9 (wide)
- 2G: 850/900/1800/1900, 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100, 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/14/17/18/19/20/25/26/28/29/30/32/34/38/39/40/41/42/48/53/66/71, 1/2/3/5/7/8/12/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/40/41/48/53/66/70/71/75/76/77/78/79/258/260/261 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Dual eSIM
- Unlocked for freedom to choose your carrier. Compatible with both GSM & CDMA networks. The phone is unlocked to work with all GSM Carriers & CDMA Carriers Including AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint., Etc.
What the benchmark can—and cannot—tell you
What it supports
- For the cited Geekbench 6 phone comparison, the iPhone 16/A18 scores higher in both CPU tests and the GPU compute test.
- The A18 has fewer CPU cores than the Tensor G4, but that count by itself does not determine performance.
What it does not establish
- It does not isolate the chips in otherwise identical phones. The iPhone 16 and Pixel 9 also differ in software, cooling, and device configuration.
- It does not establish which chip is faster in every game or app, or how either performs during a long, sustained workload.
- The cited sources do not provide a controlled comparison of sustained performance, battery efficiency, thermal behavior, or equivalent on-device AI tasks.
- A chip benchmark alone cannot determine which phone is the better purchase. Price, camera, display, battery, software support, and ecosystem are separate considerations.
Which result should you use?
If you want a direct answer based on the cited Geekbench 6 comparison, the A18-equipped iPhone 16 leads the Tensor G4-equipped Pixel 9 in the listed CPU and GPU compute scores. Treat that as a comparison of those reported phone results, not a guarantee about another workload or a controlled measurement of silicon. Apple’s iPhone 16 specifications page provides the official product reference for the iPhone used in the comparison.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 6.7inch Super Retina XDR display. ProMotion technology. Always-On display. Titanium with textured matte glass back. Action button
- Dynamic Island. A magical way to interact with iPhone. A17 Pro chip with 6-core GPU
- Pro camera system. 48MP Main | Ultra Wide| Telephoto. Super-high-resolution photos (24MP and 48MP). Next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control. Up to 10x optical zoom range
- Emergency SOS via satellite. Crash Detection. Roadside Assistance via satellite
- Up to 29 hours video playback. USB-C, Supports USB 3 for up to 20x faster transfers. Face ID
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- There will be no visible cosmetic imperfections when held at an arm’s length.
- This product is eligible for a replacement or refund within 90 days of receipt if you are not satisfied.
- Product may come in generic Box.
Rank #3
- 6.1inch Super Retina XDR display. Aluminum with color-infused glass back. Ring/Silent switch
- Dynamic Island. A magical way to interact with iPhone. A16 Bionic chip with 5-core GPU
- Advanced dual-camera system. 48MP Main | Ultra Wide. Super-high-resolution photos (24MP and 48MP). Next-generation portraits with Focus and Depth Control. 4X optical zoom range
- Emergency SOS via satellite. Crash Detection. Roadside Assistance via satellite
- Up to 26 hours video playback. USB C, Supports USB 2. Face ID
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
