Google Pixel 7a vs Google Pixel 8a
The Verdict
Both phones share the same $499 price point and similar dimensions, but the Pixel 8a delivers meaningful generational improvements. Its Tensor G3 processor outperforms the 7a's G2, while the Actua OLED display offers superior brightness (2000 nits vs 1400) and doubles the refresh rate to 120Hz for noticeably smoother scrolling. Battery capacity edges up to 4492 mAh, and you gain storage flexibility with a 256GB option. Camera systems are virtually identical, though the 8a benefits from Android 14's newer computational photography. The 7a remains capable with its 90Hz OLED and proven Tensor performance, making it solid for budget-conscious buyers. However, the 8a's display technology, processor efficiency, and extended software support make it the superior choice. For an identical price, the newer model justifies the upgrade through more vibrant visuals and future-proof performance.
Who Should Buy
Buy the Google Pixel 7a if…
- →Flagship Tensor G2 chip at mid-range price
- →64 MP main camera greatly improved over Pixel 6a
- →Five years of OS and security updates
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if…
- →Flagship-grade Tensor G3 chip at mid-range price
- →Seven years of software updates (rare at this price)
- →Excellent main camera for the class
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Google Pixel 7a
Pros
- Flagship Tensor G2 chip at mid-range price
- 64 MP main camera greatly improved over Pixel 6a
- Five years of OS and security updates
- Wireless charging added vs previous generation
- Compact and easy to use one-handed
Cons
- Only one storage option (128 GB)
- Slow 18W wired charging
- Plastic back feels less premium than glass
- No telephoto camera
- 90Hz capped (not adaptive)
Google Pixel 8a
Pros
- Flagship-grade Tensor G3 chip at mid-range price
- Seven years of software updates (rare at this price)
- Excellent main camera for the class
- Bright 120Hz OLED display
- Wireless charging support
Cons
- Slow 18W wired charging
- Smaller battery than competitors
- Plastic back instead of glass
- No telephoto camera
- Bezels are thicker than the flagship Pixels
Full Specifications
| Spec | Google Pixel 7a | Google Pixel 8a |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 13 | Android 14 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 193.5 g | 188 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass 3 | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass 3 |
| IP rating | IP67 | IP67 |
| Dimensions | 152.4 x 72.9 x 9.0 mm | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 64 MP, f/1.89, OIS | 64 MP, f/1.89, OIS |
| Front camera | 13 MP, f/2.2 | 13 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 4K@60fps |
| Ultrawide | 13 MP, f/2.2, 120-degree | 13 MP, f/2.2, 120-degree |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4385 mAh | 4492 mAh |
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W (Qi) | 7.5W (Qi) |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 6.1 inches |
| Type | OLED | Actua OLED |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 | 2400 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1400 | 2000 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.85 GHz Cortex-X1 & 2x2.35 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) | Nona-core (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4x2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4x2.15 GHz Cortex-A510) |
| GPU | Mali-G710 MP7 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G2 | Google Tensor G3 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.2 | USB-C 3.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 6E |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
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.
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