What makes the Google Pixel 8a different from the Google Pixel 8?

Google has finally unveiled the Pixel 8a, the company’s latest budget offering. As the successor to the Pixel 7a, new an affordable Android phone from Google brings a lot to the table. Maybe even fall into a dilemma when choosing between it and the more expensive Pixel 8.

Speaking of which, what are the differences between the Google Pixel 8a and the Google Pixel 8? If you take the higher priced option, or Should save $200 and get the affordable device instead? Let us give you a summary of the things they ask the two smartphones separately to make things easier for you.

Google Pixel 8a comes with slightly worse Display

The Google Pixel 8a took a big leap the terms of refresh rate. It has a 120 Hz screen. To fill you up on Pixel 7a came with a 90 Hz display. Also, its display size is slightly below that 6.2 inches on the Pixel 8. Don’t be fooled by the specs though. The Pixel 8a display comes with thicker bezels, making it less elegant.

This difference in frame size may surprise you. After all, the Pixel 8a is in fact a little taller widerand heavier than its more expensive counterpart. Both phones offer a peak brightness of 2000 nits. However, the Pixel 8 gets a slight edge in terms of durability with Gorilla Glass Victus compared to the Pixel 8a’s Gorilla Glass 3.

In short, you’re giving up some screen real estate and a premium feel with the Pixel 8a. The display is generally good though. The choice depends on whether a slightly larger display and a more modern design are worth the extra cost for you.

The backs of the Pixel 8a and Pixel are too Different

The Pixel 8a may steal some design cues from the Pixel 8. But a closer look reveals some key differences in construction materials. The affordable phone opts for a matte composite back. This translates as a plastic shell with a special rubber coating. While it gives it a less luxurious feel compared to the Pixel 8’s glass front and back, that’s a good thing in terms of durability.

It is, you can expect the Google Pixel 8a to survive accidental drops better. Also, even if you manage to break the back, the repair won’t be as expensive as the more expensive phone.

Except that the Google Pixel 8a is available in a wider range of color options. This includes refreshing light greens and vibrant blues that may appeal to those who prefer a more playful aesthetic.

So who is the winner? In the end, choosing a design comes down to personal preference. If a sleek glass design is a priority, the Pixel 8 might be the way to go. But if you value a slightly more durable phone with a wider color palette, the Pixel 8a could be the perfect match.

The Pixel 8 comes with more powerful cameras

Don’t let the megapixel count fool you! The Google Pixel 8a boasts a higher megapixel main sensor (64MP) compared to Pixel 8 (50MP). But Pixel 8 offers superior camera capabilities in most aspects. Let’s start withit has a larger sensor (1/1.31-inch) that allows it to capture more light, resulting in better low-light performance and sharper images.

In addition, the 50 MP camera on the Google Pixel 8 has a wider aperture (f/1.68). This allows more light to be taken in, which further improves low-light photography. 8a won’t do well either When we are talking about zoom due to its small sensor.

Pixel 8’s ultrawide camera boasts a wider field of view (125.8 degrees) and larger pixels (1.25 μm) compared to Pixel 8a. This results in sharper ultra-wide shots. Plus, the ultra-wide Pixel 8 offers a macro focus feature that the 8a lacks.

As for the front-facing camera, the Google Pixel 8a takes a hit on that one as well. Pixel 8’s 10.5MP front-facing camera with bigger pixels will take better selfies compared to 13MP sensor on 8a.

Differences in loading speed

Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a boast impressive battery capacity. The Pixel 8 offers a slightly larger battery at 4575mAh compared to the Pixel 8a’s 4492mAh. Google claims battery life is similar for both phones, lasting over 24 hours on a single charge. Extends to a whopping 72 hours with extreme battery saver mode enabled.

However, there are differences in terms of billing. The Google Pixel 8 supports significantly faster 27W wired charging. This allowing you to quickly recharge your battery when needed. The Pixel 8a lags behind behind with a slower 18W wired charging speed. So it might take some time for 8a to fully charge.

This gap widens even further with wireless charging. Pixel 8 offers 18W wireless charging with Pixel Stand (2nd generation) and 12W on each Qi-certified pad. The Pixel 8a, on the other hand, is limited to a slow 7.5W wireless charging speed.

How about the price?

Pixel 8a the biggest selling point is its attractive price. At $499, it undercuts the Pixel 8 by a significant $200. This lower price comes with some trade-offs, as we’ve covered in this article.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’re giving up with the Pixel 8a:

• A slightly smaller and less premium display with thicker bezels
• Plastic back compared to the Pixel 8’s glass build
• Less powerful cameras, especially in low light and zoom capabilities
• Slower wired and wireless charging speeds

However, the Pixel 8a is not just a compromise. It offers nearly identical battery life to the Pixel 8 and boasts a wider range of color options. In the end, the choice comes down to your priorities.