Google dropped a surprise by introducing the Pixel 8a, previously speculated to debut at the upcoming I/O 2024 developers conference on May 14. With a starting price of Rs 52,999, Pixel 8a cannot be considered a budget-friendly device. It costs a lot more than Pixel 7a, just a year old, and is almost as expensive as the more capable Pixel 8, with the recent price cuts.
No doubt the Pixel 8a, Pixel 8, and Pixel 7a (review) are the three devices you need to consider if you want a compact Android smartphone with premium design and flagship specs. If you are confused which one to go for, here is a detailed comparison:
Pixel 7a is the cheapest
Just like the Pixel 7, the Pixel 7a also has a 90Hz OLED panel (Image credit: Anuj Bhatia)
Being the oldest, the Pixel 7a is the cheapest among these three models and currently sells for Rs 36,999. The affordable price tag, however, comes with a few compromises when compared to the other two devices. This includes an older chip and shorter software support with just three years of updates. The other two are eligible for seven years of software support.
The Pixel 7a is available with only a 128 GB internal storage option, while the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8 (review) come in 256 GB versions as well. If you are ok with the lower storage option and want a Google-made smartphone at the lowest possible price, 7a is the one you should pick. However, if you intend to use it for a longer period, going with the Pixel 8 or the Pixel 8a will be better, but these will come with higher price tags.
Only minor differences in the design
The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. (Image: Zohaib Ahmed/The Indian Express)
All three devices offer a metal frame. The displays on the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 7a are protected by Gorilla Glass 3, while the Pixel 8 comes with a sturdier Gorilla Glass Victus. The Pixel 8a is IP67 rated for water and dust resistance like the Pixel 7a, while the slightly more expensive Pixel 8 offers an improved ingress protection with an IP68 rating.
There is a 90Hz screen on the Pixel 7a, while the Pixel 8a gets a faster 120Hz screen like the Pixel 8. The Pixel 8 with its minimal bezels, however, looks more premium among the three.
The Pixel 8, despite being similar in size to the Pixel 8a, has a bigger 6.2 screen. The Pixel 8a and the Pixel 7a have a smaller 6.1-inch screen.
All three phones have a dual-camera setup at the back with a 64 MP primary sensor and a 13 MP ultra-wide angle lens. The Pixel 8 has a 10.5 MP selfie camera, the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 7a have a 13 MP selfie camera. Despite the slightly lower resolution sensor on the Pixel 8, it is likely to perform better since its sensor is significantly bigger.
Identical software, similar hardware experience
Pixel 8 Pro running on Android 14 (Express Photo)
The newer Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8 are based on the Tensor G3 chip, while the Pixel 7a comes with the Tensor G2. All three devices currently run on Android 14 OS, and the Pixel 7a will receive two more major OS upgrades, while the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8 will receive seven major OS upgrades. In terms of performance, the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8 will be similar, while the Pixel 7a with its older chip will lag behind.
Even when it comes to the AI experience, the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8 get the most number of features, and it is likely to continue with the upcoming major OS updates and Pixel feature drop.
Choose wisely
If you are looking for a new Google-made Android phone for long-term usage, pick the Pixel 8a/Pixel 8. If you care more about the price, the Pixel 7a comes out as a better deal.
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First uploaded on: 08-05-2024 at 14:44 IST
