The Google Pixel a-series has established itself as a formidable player in the smartphone market, renowned for its exceptional cameras and streamlined software at an attractive price point. With the recent launch of the Pixel 8a, buyers face a dilemma: should they opt for the reliable Pixel 7a or upgrade to the latest iteration? To guide your decision, let’s delve into a detailed comparison of their specifications.
Table of Interests
Pixel 7a vs. Pixel 8a: Does it Worth the Upgrade?
1. Display and Design
Both phones boast a similar 6.1-inch FHD+ display size. However, the Pixel 8a takes the lead with a smoother 120Hz refresh rate compared to the 7a’s 90Hz. It should translate to silkier animations and scrolling, especially noticeable in games and fast-paced content.
The Pixel 8a also boasts a brighter peak at 1000 nits, offering better visibility outdoors. Both phones utilize Gorilla Glass 3 for scratch protection and come with IP67 dust and water resistance.
The design language remains largely unchanged. Both phones feature a plastic back with an aluminum frame, offering a comfortable grip. The Pixel 7a comes in Charcoal, Snow, and Coral color options.
The Pixel 8a introduces fresh new colors with Obsidian, Porcelain Bay, and Aloe colorways. It also has a slightly rounded body compared to the 7a’s squared-off look.
2. Performance
The Pixel 8a packs the more powerful Google Tensor G3 chip, the same found in the flagship Pixel 8. It promises improved performance and efficiency compared to the Pixel 7a’s Tensor 2 chip. Daily tasks, multitasking, and even light gaming should feel noticeably smoother on the 8a. But you can expect satisfactory everyday performance from the Pixel 7a too.
The two Pixels in this comparison use the same 8GB RAM capacity, and both come with 128GB of by default. But there’s now a 256GB option on offer with the Pixel 8a, good news for users who tend to quickly fill up their phones with apps and photos.
3. Photography
Both phones sport the same dual-camera system: a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide. But megapixels don’t tell the whole story. Google’s software smarts are what really make these cameras shine. You’ll get amazing pictures in all kinds of lighting, whether you choose the Pixel 7a or 8a.
That said, Google has equipped the Pixel 8a with its Real Tone coloring for video. This makes sure all skin tones look natural in your recordings. This feature will likely be available for other Pixel phones later, but its currently not available on the Pixel 7a.
The Pixel 8a also improves on a feature called Guided Frame. This helps people with visual impairments take selfies by giving them audio cues. Guided Frame works with the rear cameras too, helping you line up shots of people, pets, and even food!
4. Battery Life and Charging
The Pixel 8a packs a slightly larger 4492 mAh battery compared to the 7a’s 4385 mAh. While real-world usage will determine the actual difference, the 8a might offer an extra hour or two of uptime. Both phones support 18W fast wired charging and 7.5W Qi wireless charging, which feels a bit dated in 2024.
5. Software
Here’s a big difference between the two: The Pixel 8a gets a longer software support window. Google promises a whopping 7 years of major OS and security upgrades for the 8a.
The Pixel 7a, on the other hand, has three years of security updates and two years of major OS upgrades. This means the 8a will stay safer and up-to-date for much longer.
For those who love AI, there’s more good news. Google confirmed that the Pixel 8a will be compatible with Gemini Nano after a future Feature Drop update. This makes the 8a a fantastic choice for trying out on-device AI. Unfortunately, the Pixel 7a might not get this feature.
6. Pricing
The Pixel 7a is a bit cheaper than the Pixel 8a. In India, it starts at Rs 52,999 or USD 499 in the US for the base 8/128GB version. But if you’re watching your budget closely, the Pixel 7a still gives you great bang for your buck. Initially priced higher, the Pixel 7a now costs around Rs 37,000 in India and USD 399 in the US.
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The Pixel 8a emerges as the clear winner for power users who crave the smoothest display, the latest processor, and extended software support. However, the Pixel 7a remains a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. You’re likely to get a similar experience.
