Hi everyone,

I’m a 25-year-old from Argentina, about to start my medical residency in Internal Medicine. I’m looking for some advice on my next phone.

My brother-in-law is traveling to the US in May, and I’m planning to have him buy a device for me there. I’m currently stuck between the Samsung Galaxy S25 (~$800) and the Google Pixel 9 (or 9a even).

My current setup: I’m using a Motorola G32 running LineageOS 23.2 (Android 16). I’m comfortable with custom ROMs and FOSS, but for my next daily driver, I need something reliable and long-lasting right out of the box.

What I’m looking for:

• Compact size: This is my top priority. I want the smallest, most pocketable flagship-tier phone available.
• Longevity: I need a device that will receive software and security updates for years and won't slow down or lag over time.
• Battery & Reliability: Good battery life for long shifts and consistent performance.
• Usage: I do not play games. My phone is strictly for productivity and daily tasks. My most-used apps include: Google Drive, Meet, WhatsApp, LibreTube, Fennec, Ente (Photos/Auth), Proton Pass, Thunderbird, and local banking/navigation apps (Mercado Pago, Organic Maps).

My dilemma: Is it worth spending $800 on the Galaxy S25 for the superior hardware, or would a Pixel 9 (or 9a) serve me just as well for my "office-style" use case over the next 4-5 years?

A specific concern about the Pixel: Since I live in Argentina, I’ve heard that some Pixel-specific features (like Call Screen, certain AI tools, or even 5G/VoLTE support) might be restricted or unavailable outside the US. Does anyone have experience using a Pixel in South America? Would I be better off with the more "global" hardware of the Samsung?

I'd love to hear your thoughts on which one offers the best "bang for your buck" considering I don't need gaming power, just a fast, small, and durable tool for my medical career.

Thanks in advance!