Reading time: 3 minutes.
The comparison between the Google Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8 highlights Google’s strategic choices in positioning these two devices within its portfolio. Although they share many characteristics, there are significant differences that could influence your purchasing decision.
Design and Dimensions
Both devices feature similar aesthetics with a recycled aluminum camera bar and frame. However, the Pixel 8a offers a matte look that reduces fingerprints, while the Pixel 8 features a glossy glass back with Gorilla Glass Victus protection. The Pixel 8a has IP67 protection against dust and water, while the Pixel 8 offers slightly higher protection with IP68.
Display
Both models boast AMOLED displays with a 120Hz refresh rate and 2400×1080 resolution, but the Pixel 8 has slightly thinner bezels which could make it more visually appealing. The Pixel 8 uses Gorilla Glass Victus for added durability, compared to the Pixel 8a’s Gorilla Glass 3.
Performance and Hardware
| Specifications | Google Pixel 8a | Google Pixel 8 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Android 14 (upgradable to Android 21) | Android 14 (upgradable to Android 21) |
| Display | 6.1-inch Actua AMOLED, 120Hz, 2400×1080, HDR10+, 2000 nits, Gorilla Glass 3 | 6.2-inch Actua AMOLED, 120Hz, 2400×1080, HDR10+, 2000 nits, Gorilla Glass Victus |
| Chipsets | Google Tensor G3, Titan M2 security module | Google Tensor G3, Titan M2 security module |
| RAM | 8GB LPDDR5X | 8GB LPDDR5X |
| Memory | 128GB/256GB UFS 3.1 | 128GB/256GB UFS 3.1 |
| Rear camera 1 | 64MP Quad PD wide, ƒ/1.89, OIS, 4K at 60fps | 50MP Octa PD wide, ƒ/1.68, PDAF, OIS, 4K at 60fps |
| Rear camera 2 | 13MP FF, ƒ/2.2, 120° wide angle | 12MP AF, ƒ/2.2, 125° wide angle |
| Front camera | 13MP, ƒ/2.2, 96.5° wide angle | 10.5MP, ƒ/2.2, 95° wide angle |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E, 5G Sub-6 (mmWave in USA), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB-C 3.2 | Wi-Fi 7, 5G Sub-6 (mmWave in USA), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB-C 3.2 |
| Input resistance | IP67 dust and water | IP68 dust and water |
| Safety | Fingerprint sensor in the display | Fingerprint sensor in the display |
| Audio | Stereo sound, 2 microphones | Stereo sound, 3 microphones, spatial audio |
| Drums | 4492mAh, 18W wired charging, 5W wireless charging | 4575mAh, 27W wired charging, 20W wireless charging, 5W reverse wireless charging |
| Dimensions and weight | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9mm, 188g | 150.5 x 70.8 x 8.9mm, 187g |
| Colors | Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, Aloe | Obsidian, Hazel, Mint, Rose |
The Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 are powered by the same Google Tensor G3 chip and have 8GB of RAM. Their performance should therefore be comparable. Both offer storage options of 128GB and 256GB, ensuring enough space for apps and media.
Cameras
The Pixel 8a has a 64MP main camera without autofocus and a 13MP ultra-wide camera. While it offers advanced AI features, it lacks some capabilities found in the Pixel 8, such as autofocus for sharper shots and a wider angle in the ultra-wide camera. The Pixel 8, on the other hand, has a 50MP main camera with autofocus and a 12MP ultra-wide camera that supports autofocus, making it slightly superior for photography enthusiasts.
Battery and Charging
The Pixel 8a has a 4492mAh battery with 18W wired and 5W wireless charging capability, similar to the Pixel 8 but offers faster charging with 27W wired and 20W wireless.
Software and Updates
Both devices offer seven years of OS updates, starting with Android 14. This makes them sustainable long-term choices.
Price and Ratings
The Pixel 8a, with an introductory price of $499, offers almost all the features of the Pixel 8 but at a cost of $200 less. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking for good value for money without sacrificing high-level performance.
While the Pixel 8 offers some marginal improvements in terms of cameras and charging options, the Pixel 8a represents a budget option with few compromises. It is ideal for users looking for a high-performance device at a more accessible price, while still maintaining good quality and durability. This comparison shows that, depending on your priorities, you could opt for the Pixel 8a for excellent value or the Pixel 8, find it on Amazonfor its slight technical and aesthetic improvements.
