Affordable phones keep getting better and good phones keep getting more affordable. But, yes, not all great mid-range phones are easy to buy. However, the case is different for the Google Pixel 7a and the Samsung Galaxy A55. They are a bit easier to get hold of than some of the Chinese alternatives.
But the question is, which is the better choice of the two? Spoiler alert! The recently launched Samsung Galaxy A55 is a better buy than the Pixel 7a. And there are some good reasons behind this. Let’s take a closer look.
1. You get a better screen
Budget phones often skimp on displays, but the Galaxy A55 and Pixel 7a offer some advantages. However, the A55 boasts a larger and smoother viewing experience.
The Galaxy A55 features a spacious 6.6-inch FHD AMOLED display, perfect for catching up on your favorite shows or movies. By comparison, the Pixel 7a’s display is 6.1 inches.
But wait, there’s more! The A55 ups the ante with a 120Hz refresh rate. This means smoother visuals in videos, animations and especially games compared to the Pixel 7a’s 90Hz refresh rate. Overall, the A55’s display offers a more immersive and fluid user experience.
2. Galaxy A55 is more durable
While the Galaxy A55 and Pixel 7a boast IP67 water resistance for everyday splashes, the A55 takes durability a step further.
A55 is shielded by Corning’s Gorilla Glass Victus Plus on both the front and back, making it stronger and more scratch-resistant than the Pixel 7a’s Gorilla Glass 3. This upgrade from last year’s A54 translates into better drop protection – a key benefit for clumsy users (or those with slippery hands!). While Gorilla Glass 3 offers some scratch resistance, it may not do so well in an accidental drop. At least that’s what Corning’s own tests show. So if durability is a primary concern, the A55 may be the more reliable choice.
3. More flexible camera setup
The camera systems on these phones present an interesting contrast. The Galaxy A55 boasts a triple camera setup comprising a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultra-wide sensor and a 5MP macro sensor. This last addition could be attractive for taking close-up photos, especially since the Pixel 7a doesn’t have a dedicated macro mode.
Megapixels don’t tell the whole story, though. The Pixel 7a consistently impresses in camera tests, earning a spot on the list of best camera phones. So while the A55’s extra macro lens offers some flexibility, the Pixel 7a’s overall camera performance may still be the champion. We’ll have to wait for in-depth reviews to see which phone reigns supreme in the photography department.
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4. Samsung Galaxy A55 brings a large battery and faster charging
Battery life is no longer flagship-exclusive, and the Galaxy A55 boasts a potential advantage here. Packed with a larger 5,000 mAh battery, the A55 can outlast the Pixel 7a’s 4,385 mAh offering.
The Pixel 7a averaged 10 hours and 5 minutes in benchmark battery tests. This has been surpassed by newer budget phones such as the Nothing Phone 2a. The A55’s larger battery capacity suggests it can hold a charge for longer, but real-world testing is needed to confirm this.
The Galaxy A55 also boasts a faster 25W wired charging solution compared to the Pixel 7a’s 18W wired charging. When pressed for time, the A55’s faster charging will charge your battery faster. This feature is perfect for those mornings when you need a quick boost of power before you hit the road.
Note, however, that Samsung has ditched wireless charging in the A55, a feature still offered by the Pixel 7a. So if wireless charging is a must for you, the Pixel 7a might be the better choice.
5. Better color options
Looking for a phone that complements your personality? The Galaxy A55 can win you over with its richer choice of colors. While the Pixel 7a’s color options remain under wraps, the A55 boasts four vibrant choices: Awesome Ice Blue, Awesome Yellow, Awesome Navy, and the eye-catching Awesome Lilac with its glitter effect.
Even if you plan to use a case, a phone in a color you like can enhance the overall experience. So if you prioritize a touch of personal style, the A55’s color variety could be the deciding factor.
6. The Samsung Galaxy A55 is more affordable
Let’s face it: affordability is a major concern when choosing a budget phone. Here, the Galaxy A55 takes the lead. Overseas markets such as the UK list the A55 at £439, compared to the Pixel 7a’s price of £449. If this pricing trend continues in the US, the A55 could win the title of best budget phone, following in its predecessor’s footsteps.
But the Pixel 7a is still a better choice for its camera and Android experience
While the Samsung Galaxy A55 wins in some key aspects, the Pixel 7a is still a good choice in others. As mentioned earlier, the Google phone is known for delivering consistent camera performance. So if you want a smartphone with a reliable camera, the Pixel 7a is the one.
Moving on, the Google Pixel 7a offers a stock Android experience. This is how Google wants operating systems to be experienced. You also get a large number of Pixel-exclusive features on this phone.
