Google Pixel 8a vs Samsung Galaxy S25
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Samsung Galaxy S25 commands a significant $300 premium with flagship specifications that justify the price difference. Its Snapdragon 8 Elite processor outperforms the Tensor G3, while the Dynamic AMOLED 2X display reaches 2600 nits versus the Pixel's 2000. Camera capabilities diverge notably: S25 adds a dedicated 3x telephoto lens and 8K video recording, though the Pixel's computational photography remains competitive for everyday shooting. Battery capacity slightly favors the 8a at 4492mAh, but S25's superior charging (25W vs 18W) and Qi2 wireless charging provide faster replenishment. Build quality tips toward S25 with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 and IP68 submersion rating. For budget-conscious users prioritizing pure value, Pixel 8a delivers exceptional software optimization and everyday performance. Serious photography enthusiasts and power users benefit from S25's versatile camera system and processing prowess. Choose Pixel 8a for affordability and reliable daily use; select Galaxy S25 for professional features and raw performance.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Google Pixel 8a | Samsung Galaxy S25 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 14 | Android 15, One UI 7 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 188 g | 162 g |
| Material | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass 3 | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2 |
| IP rating | IP67 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm | 146.9 x 70.5 x 7.2 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 64 MP, f/1.89, OIS | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 13 MP, f/2.2 | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps |
| Ultrawide | 13 MP, f/2.2, 120-degree | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Telephoto | — | 10 MP 3x optical |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 8 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 4492 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| Charging | 18W wired | 25W wired |
| Wireless charging | 7.5W (Qi) | 15W Qi2 |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.1 inches | 6.2 inches |
| Type | Actua OLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 | 2340 x 1080 |
| 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 (2x4.47 GHz + 6x3.53 GHz) |
| GPU | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Adreno 830 |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G3 | Snapdragon 8 Elite 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 | 5.4 |
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 S25
Pros
- Compact and pocketable flagship
- Same Snapdragon 8 Elite as the Ultra model
- 12 GB RAM upgraded from prior generation
- Excellent 120Hz AMOLED display
- Long 7-year software support promise
Cons
- Small 4000 mAh battery limits endurance
- Slow 25W charging
- 1080p resolution instead of QHD
- No major camera hardware upgrades
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