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Google Pixel 8a vs Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

Google's Pixel 8a delivers exceptional value at $499, featuring a brilliant 2000-nit Actua OLED display, competitive Tensor G3 performance, and Google's legendary computational photography with a 64MP main camera. Battery life reaches a full day with modest usage, while 18W charging and 7.5W wireless charging provide reasonable replenishment speeds. Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 5 commands double the price with its innovative foldable design, more durable Gorilla Glass Victus 2, and faster 25W charging, but suffers from a smaller 3700mAh battery and lower-resolution 12MP cameras. Performance-wise, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 edges out Tensor G3, yet the Pixel 8a's software integration and AI features often deliver superior real-world results. For most users seeking a reliable daily driver with excellent cameras and display quality, the Pixel 8a offers unbeatable value. The Z Flip 5 appeals primarily to those prioritizing novelty and durability over practicality. Choose the Pixel 8a unless foldable innovation justifies the $500 premium.

Google Pixel 8a
Google
Google Pixel 8a
$499
8.3/10
Winner
VS
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
Samsung
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
$1,000
7.9/10

Full Specifications

SpecGoogle Pixel 8aSamsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
SoftwareAndroid 14Android 13, One UI 5.1.1
Body
Weight188 g187 g
MaterialAluminum frame, Gorilla Glass 3Armor Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2
IP ratingIP67IPX8
Dimensions152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm165.1 x 71.9 x 6.9 mm unfolded
Camera
Main camera64 MP, f/1.89, OIS12 MP, f/1.8, OIS
Front camera13 MP, f/2.210 MP, f/2.2
Video4K@60fps4K@60fps
Ultrawide13 MP, f/2.2, 120-degree12 MP, f/2.2
Memory
RAM8 GB8 GB
Storage options128 GB, 256 GB256 GB, 512 GB
Battery
Capacity4492 mAh3700 mAh
Charging18W wired25W wired
Wireless charging7.5W (Qi)15W
Display
Size6.1 inches6.7 inches inner, 3.4 inches cover
TypeActua OLEDDynamic AMOLED 2X LTPO
Resolution2400 x 10802640 x 1080 inner, 720 x 748 cover
Refresh rate120Hz120Hz
Brightness (nits)20001600
Processor
CPUNona-core (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X3 & 4x2.45 GHz Cortex-A715 & 4x2.15 GHz Cortex-A510)Octa-core (1x3.36 GHz + 2x2.8 GHz + 2x2.8 GHz + 3x2.0 GHz)
GPUImmortalis-G715s MC10Adreno 740
ChipsetGoogle Tensor G3Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
Connectivity
5G
NFC
USBUSB-C 3.0USB-C 3.2
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6EWi-Fi 6E
Bluetooth5.35.3

Category Scores

Google Pixel 8a
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
Value
9.2
6.8
Camera
8.9
7.2
Battery
7.8
6.5
Display
8.8
8.5
Performance
8.0
8.6

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 Z Flip 5

Pros

  • Much larger 3.4-inch cover screen allows full app use when folded
  • Compact pocketable flip form factor
  • Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 flagship chip
  • IPX8 water resistance
  • Stylish design with many color options

Cons

  • Small 3700 mAh battery drains quickly
  • Only 12 MP main camera, no telephoto
  • Slow 25W charging
  • Inner display crease still noticeable

Explore more in phones, see all Google products or all Samsung products. View full details for the Google Pixel 8a or the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5.