Google Pixel 6a vs Moto G84
The Verdict
Google Pixel 6a and Moto G84 occupy different tiers despite similar $170 price gap. Pixel 6a leverages Google's Tensor chip for superior computational photography, delivering exceptional low-light performance and real-time translation features that justify its cost. Its 800-nit OLED display and IP67 rating provide better durability and outdoor visibility. However, Moto G84 counters with genuine practical advantages: 120Hz refresh rate versus 60Hz creates noticeably smoother scrolling, larger 6.55-inch screen, faster 33W charging against 18W, and bigger 5000mAh battery. G84's 50MP main sensor captures higher resolution stills, though Pixel 6a's computational approach often yields better results in difficult lighting. Build quality favors Pixel 6a with aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass 3 versus G84's plastic construction, though G84 is lighter at 168g. For photography enthusiasts valuing computational intelligence and premium materials, Pixel 6a wins decisively. Budget-conscious users prioritizing screen refresh rate, battery endurance, and charging speed should choose Moto G84. Pixel 6a delivers superior performance and longevity; G84 provides better everyday practicality at a lower price.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Google Pixel 6a if…
- →Same Tensor chip as Pixel 6 at $449
- →Excellent computational photography
- →Five years of security updates
Buy the Moto G84 if…
- →P-OLED display at a budget price is rare
- →5000 mAh battery with excellent endurance
- →Lightweight and thin at 168 g
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Google Pixel 6a
Pros
- Same Tensor chip as Pixel 6 at $449
- Excellent computational photography
- Five years of security updates
- Compact and lightweight design
- Clean stock Android experience
Cons
- 60Hz display feels dated
- Slow 18W charging
- No wireless charging
- Only 128 GB storage option
- 12.2 MP camera hardware behind Pixel 6
Moto G84
Pros
- P-OLED display at a budget price is rare
- 5000 mAh battery with excellent endurance
- Lightweight and thin at 168 g
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos
- Clean near-stock Android
Cons
- Snapdragon 695 struggles with heavy games
- No wireless charging
- IP52 is basic splash resistance
- Only Wi-Fi 5 at this point
- Slow software update cadence from Motorola
Full Specifications
| Spec | Google Pixel 6a | Moto G84 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 12 | Android 13 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 178 g | 168 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass 3 | Plastic frame, glass front |
| IP rating | IP67 | IP52 |
| Dimensions | 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.9 mm | 160.04 x 74.04 x 7.99 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 12.2 MP, f/1.7, OIS | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 8 MP, f/2.0 | 16 MP, f/2.45 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 1080p@60fps |
| Ultrawide | 12 MP, f/2.2 | 8 MP, f/2.2 |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 6 GB | 6 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4410 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 18W wired | 33W TurboPower |
| Wireless charging | No | No |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 6.55 inches |
| Type | OLED | P-OLED |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 | 2400 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 800 | 1300 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.80 GHz + 2x2.25 GHz + 4x1.80 GHz) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz + 6x1.7 GHz) |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP20 | Adreno 619 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.1 | USB-C 2.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.1 |
Want to compare a third product?
Add another product for a 3-way comparison.
Related Comparisons
This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
Explore more in phones, see all Google products or all Motorola products. View full details for the Google Pixel 6a or the Moto G84.
