Google Pixel 8a vs. Google Pixel 7a: A Detailed Comparison to Help You Understand the Advancements and Make an Informed Choice.
Google Pixel 8a
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 188g |
| Dimensions | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9mm |
| Screen size | 6.1-inch |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G3 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB/256GB |
| Battery | 4,492mAh |
| Rear camera | 64MP + 13MP |
| Front camera | 13MP |
The Pixel 8a delivers a near-flagship experience. Its design resembles the Pixel 7a, though the 8a benefits from superior software support.
Advantages
- Advanced AI tools
- Attractive design and colors
- Seven years of Android updates
Disadvantages
- The cameras are decent, not outstanding
- Battery life is lacking
- Price could be more competitive
Google Pixel 7a
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 193.5g |
| Dimensions | 152 x 72.9 x 9mm |
| Screen size | 6.1-inch |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G2 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB |
| Battery | 4,385mAh |
| Rear camera | 64MP + 13MP |
| Front camera | 13MP |
The Pixel 7a excels with its camera performance and processing power. However, its battery life and limited software support are notable drawbacks.
Advantages
- Comparable speed to the Pixel 7 Pro
- Excellent photo capabilities and editing features
- Smooth Android interface
Disadvantages
- Battery life is subpar
- Only three years of Android updates
- Pricey considering the compromises
Google’s latest mid-range phone, the Pixel 8a, is set to replace the Pixel 7a. However, the Pixel 7a remains available for purchase. It’s still listed on Google’s official store and various third-party retailers.
Therefore, comparing these two phones is crucial. What advantages does the Pixel 8a offer over the Pixel 7a? Also, how much more does it cost to access these new features? Is the additional expense justified?
We have thoroughly tested both devices in our Google Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a reviews. Below is a detailed comparison of these two mid-range Android phones.
| Specification | Google Pixel 8a | Google Pixel 7a |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm | 152 x 72.9 x 9 mm |
| Weight | 188 g | 193.5 g |
| Display | 6.1-inch OLED | 6.1-inch OLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G3 | Google Tensor G2 |
| Rear Cameras | 64MP (wide), 13MP (ultra-wide) | 64MP (wide), 13MP (ultra-wide) |
| Front Camera | 13MP | 13MP |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB |
| Battery | 4,492mAh | 4,385mAh |
| Charging | 18W wired, 7.5W wireless | 18W wired, 7.5W wireless |
Google Pixel 8a vs Pixel 7a: Price
The Pixel 7a was released on May 10, 2023. The Pixel 8a followed on May 14, 2024.
There is only one version of the Pixel 7a, featuring 128GB of storage. This model costs $499 / £449 / AU$749. Since the launch of the Pixel 8a, the price for the 7a has remained steady.
The Pixel 8a starts at $499 / £499 / AU$849 for the 128GB model. Additionally, a 256GB version is available for $559 / £559 / AU$949.
The price difference might seem minor, but discounts are available for the Pixel 7a. For example, Amazon lists the 7a for $399 in the US and £399 in the UK, including an official charger.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 7a: Design and Display
Both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a are compact phones with rounded metal frames and plastic backs. They share a width-spanning rear camera module, though the Pixel 8a’s is slightly thicker.
The Pixel 8a features rounder, less acute corners, giving it a softer look. Its rear has a matte finish, enhancing its aesthetic compared to the Pixel 7a’s glossy plastic.
The Pixel 8a is about 5.5g lighter than the Pixel 7a and marginally smaller and thinner. Overall, their designs are very similar.
| Specification | Pixel 8a | Pixel 7a |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 5.5g lighter | Heavier by 5.5g |
| Corners | Rounder, less acute | Less rounded, more acute |
| Rear Finish | Matte finish | Glossy plastic finish |
Turning to the front, both phones feature 6.1-inch OLED screens with vibrant colors and 1080 x 2400 (FHD+) resolutions. The Pixel 8a, however, has a few advantages.
Firstly, it reaches a peak brightness of 2000 nits in HDR, offering a 40% brightness boost over the Pixel 7a. This difference is noticeable when both phones are compared side by side.
Additionally, the Pixel 8a’s screen is smoother with a 120Hz refresh rate, compared to the Pixel 7a’s 90Hz. The 120Hz rate is typically found in flagship phones, making it impressive in this mid-range device.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 7a: Cameras
The Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a have almost identical dual-camera setups. Both phones feature a 64MP main sensor with an f/1.89 aperture and a 13MP ultra-wide camera with a 120-degree field of view.
Additionally, each device includes a 13MP front-facing camera for selfies. The photographic hardware in both models is the same.
| Camera | Pixel 8a | Pixel 7a |
|---|---|---|
| Main Sensor | 64MP, f/1.89 aperture | 64MP, f/1.89 aperture |
| Ultra-wide Camera | 13MP, f/2.2, 120° FOV | 13MP, f/2.2, 120° FOV |
| Front Camera | 13MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.2 |
The key difference lies in the Pixel 8a’s Tensor G3 chip. This chip enhances image processing and AI capabilities.
For instance, the Best Take feature allows you to adjust group photos so everyone looks their best. The Audio Magic Eraser can remove unwanted background noise from videos shot on the Pixel 8a.
In practical use, the Pixel 8a captures slightly better photos. It produces warmer and more natural images in good lighting and brighter shots in low-light conditions.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 7a: Performance and Software
The Pixel 8a’s Tensor G3 chipset offers a clear upgrade over the Pixel 7a’s Tensor G2. Both phones have 8GB of RAM and the Titan M2 security coprocessor, but the Pixel 8a has a performance edge.
While the difference in real-world power isn’t drastic, benchmark scores highlight a noticeable improvement. The Pixel 8a scores around 4100 in Geekbench 6 multicore tests, compared to the Pixel 7a’s 3500. In PCMark’s Wild Life Extreme GPU test, the Pixel 8a scores 2400 (15fps), while the Pixel 7a scores 1800 (11fps).
| Test | Pixel 8a | Pixel 7a |
|---|---|---|
| Geekbench 6 Multicore | 4100 | 3500 |
| PCMark Wild Life Extreme | 2400 (15fps) | 1800 (11fps) |
In everyday usage, the difference is hard to notice. Switching between apps and using the camera feels similar on both phones. Gaming performance is also comparable, though the Pixel 8a benefits from a 120Hz display in supported games.
The G3 chip, built on a 4nm process, should theoretically run cooler and more consistently. This advantage, however, remains to be seen in practical use.
The main upgrade in the Pixel 8a lies in the Tensor G3’s AI performance. While hard to quantify, the Pixel 8a supports advanced AI features.
For example, it includes unique camera tricks and will soon access Gemini. This AI assistant helps with tasks like summarizing emails. Users can type, talk, and add images for various on-the-go assistance.
Software-wise, both phones run Android 14 with Google’s clean UI. However, the Pixel 8a has a significant advantage: seven years of software updates. This means support until May 2031, compared to the Pixel 7a’s support until May 2026. This extended support is arguably the biggest difference between the two devices.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 7a: Battery Life
The Pixel 8a has a slightly larger 4,492mAh battery compared to the Pixel 7a’s 4,385mAh. This difference alone is minor.
However, the more efficient Tensor G3 chip in the Pixel 8a might improve battery life. The Pixel 8a’s brighter, faster display could impact this, but we expect some improvement.
The Pixel 7a often struggled to last a full day with heavy use. We need to test if the Pixel 8a performs better.
Both phones support 18W wired charging, which is slow. The Pixel 7a took 45 minutes to reach 50% from empty, and the Pixel 8a will likely be similar.
Both phones also support 7.5W wireless charging, which is uncommon in sub-£500 phones.
| Feature | Pixel 8a | Pixel 7a |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4,492mAh | 4,385mAh |
| Chip Efficiency | Tensor G3 | Tensor G2 |
| Wired Charging | 18W | 18W |
| Wireless Charging | 7.5W | 7.5W |
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 7a: Conclusion
The Pixel 8a is a clear upgrade, boasting a brighter display, improved performance, and access to Google’s latest AI features.
Its longer software support is a major advantage, ensuring longevity compared to the Pixel 7a.
However, the Pixel 8a comes at a higher price. If immediate cost is your priority, the Pixel 7a might be the better choice.