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The Google Pixel 8a is Google’s latest mid-range offering in the popular Pixel lineup. Launched in May, the Pixel 8a aims to bring many premium features from its higher-end siblings, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, into a more affordable package.
The Pixel 8a shares a similar design and feature set as the Pixel 8, with a 6.1″ 120Hz OLED display, Google’s Tensor G3 chip, and the latest Android 14 out of the box. The main differences include a plastic back instead of glass, a slightly downgraded camera system, and a few minor spec changes to hit the lower price point.
Does the Pixel 8a deliver the core Pixel experience at a wallet-friendly price, or do the cost-cutting measures hold it back?
Pixel 8a vs 8 vs 8 Pro Specification
Google Pixel 8a:
– Announced: 2024, May 07
– Status: Available. Released 2024, May 14
– Dimensions: 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm
– Weight: 188 g
– Build: Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back, aluminum frame
– SIM: Nano-SIM and eSIM
– IP Rating: IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 min)
– Display Type: OLED, HDR, 120Hz, 2000 nits (peak)
– OS: Android 14
– Chipset: Google Tensor G3 (4 nm)
– CPU: Non-core (1×3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4×2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4×2.15 GHz Cortex-A510)
– GPU: Immortalis-G715s MC10
– Card slot: No
– Internal: 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM
– Storage Type: UFS 3.1
– Rear Cameras: 64 MP, f/1.9, 26mm (wide), 1/1.73″, 0.8µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS, 13 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1.12µm
– Features: Dual-LED flash, Pixel Shift, Ultra HDR, panorama, Best Take
– Video: 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps, OIS
– Front Cameras: 13 MP, f/2.2, 20mm (ultrawide), 1.12µm
– Features: Auto-HDR, panorama
– Video: 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps
– Loudspeaker: Yes, with stereo speakers
– 3.5mm jack: No
– WLAN: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual/tri-band (market/region dependent)
– Bluetooth: 5.3, A2DP, LE
– Positioning: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, NavIC
– NFC: Yes
– USB: USB Type-C 3.2
– Sensors: Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer
– Battery: Li-Po 4492 mAh, non-removable
– Charging: 18W wired, PD3.0, 7.5W wireless
– Colors: Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, Aloe
– Price: £449
Pixel 8a vs 8 vs 8 Pro Specification
Google has made incremental differences to each model, making them distinct from each other. The Pixel 8a, compared to the Pixel 8, has a slightly smaller body, thicker bezels with a smaller screen-to-body ratio, a plastic back, Corning Gorilla Glass 3 instead of Victus, a lower spec camera, WiFi 7 support, Aptx HD, multi-band GNSS (GPS), a smaller battery, and slower charging.
While there are noticeable differences, most people may not be affected by them. The Pixel 8a’s camera does a decent job, even though it lacks the primary camera found in the Pixel 8.
Design and Display
The Pixel 8a maintains the same design as the Pixel 8, with a minimalist aesthetic and a two-tone back panel. The plastic back has a matte finish, and the aluminum frame adds durability. The Gorilla Glass 3 protects the front, with slightly thicker bezels compared to the Pixel 8.
The 6.1″ FHD+ OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. While not as impressive as the Pixel 8 Pro’s LTPO panel, it is one of the best displays in its price range.
Biometrics
The Pixel 8a features an under-display optical fingerprint sensor for security. Face unlock is also available but is not as secure.
Camera
The Pixel 8a’s main rear camera is a 64MP f/1.9 shooter with a 1/1.73″ sensor, offering excellent photo quality in various lighting conditions. The ultrawide and selfie cameras also deliver detailed and colorful shots. Video recording is up to 4K 60fps.
Performance and Benchmarks
Powered by the Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8a offers snappy performance for everyday tasks. Benchmark tests show that while it falls short of other flagship chipsets, it performs well for its price range.
Battery Life
The 4492mAh battery provides solid performance, lasting a full day with moderate to heavy use. Charging speeds are reasonable, with a full charge taking a little over 90 minutes.
Android 14
The Pixel 8a comes with Android 14, offering a clean and intuitive user experience with Pixel-exclusive features like Live Translation and Magic Eraser.
Price and Alternative Options
The Pixel 8a is competitively priced at £449, offering a great value for its features. Alternative phones to consider include the Motorola Edge50, POCO X6 Pro, Xiaomi 13T, and Samsung Galaxy S23 FE.
Overall
The Pixel 8a distills the core Pixel experience into an affordable package, offering great value with its display, performance, cameras, and software support. While it may lack some premium features, it excels in the fundamentals and is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable mid-range Android phone with long-term support.
