Google Pixel 8a vs Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Google's Pixel 8a delivers exceptional value with its 6.1-inch Actua OLED display (2000 nits), Tensor G3 processor, and computational photography prowess at $499. Samsung's Galaxy S24 Ultra ($1299.99) commands premium pricing with a larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display (2600 nits), superior 200MP main camera with dual telephoto lenses, faster Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, and 45W charging. Performance-wise, the S24 Ultra significantly outpaces the 8a in raw specs and versatility, particularly in video (8K capability) and zoom capabilities. Battery capacity favors Samsung (5000mAh vs 4492mAh), though both support wireless charging. For casual users prioritizing photography and software experience, the Pixel 8a remains outstanding value. Professionals needing advanced zoom, video, and processing power should choose the S24 Ultra. Budget-conscious consumers won't regret the 8a; those demanding flagship features need the Ultra.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Google Pixel 8a | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 14 | Android 14, One UI 6.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 188 g | 232 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass 3 | Titanium frame, Gorilla Glass Armor |
| IP rating | IP67 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm | 162.3 x 79.0 x 8.6 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 64 MP, f/1.89, OIS | 200 MP, f/1.7, OIS |
| Front camera | 13 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps |
| Ultrawide | 13 MP, f/2.2, 120-degree | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Telephoto | — | 50 MP 5x periscope + 10 MP 3x |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4492 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 18W wired | 45W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W (Qi) | 15W |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Type | Actua OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 | 3120 x 1440 |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 2000 | 2600 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Nona-core (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4x2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4x2.15 GHz Cortex-A510) | Octa-core (1x3.39 GHz + 5x3.1 GHz + 2x2.9 GHz) |
| GPU | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Adreno 750 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G3 | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 3.0 | USB-C 3.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6E | Wi-Fi 7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
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
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
Pros
- Flat titanium design with anti-reflective Gorilla Glass Armor
- Outstanding 200 MP camera with dual telephoto
- Built-in S Pen for productivity
- Bright 2600-nit display readable in sunlight
- Seven years of OS and security updates
Cons
- Very heavy at 232 g
- Expensive starting price
- Charging speed unchanged at 45W
- S Pen lost Bluetooth air actions
Related Comparisons
Explore more in phones, see all Google products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Google Pixel 8a or the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra.