In this comparison between the Google Pixel 8a vs the Google Pixel 7a, we list the biggest differences. How much better is Google’s new mid-range?
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Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 7a
Just before Google I/O 2024, the search giant announced its new midrange smartphone: the Pixel 8a. In some ways, the device is quite similar to its predecessor, the Pixel 7a. This means you have the same cameras: a 64 megapixel main camera and a 13 megapixel wide-angle lens for wider pictures. Nothing changes on the selfie front either. They again have a resolution of 13 megapixels.
Thanks to the IP67 certification, the new device is just as resistant to water and dust as its predecessor. Unfortunately, it also charges just as slowly at 18 watts, although the battery itself has grown slightly: from 4385 mAh to 4492 mAh. You can read the bigger differences below in our Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 7a comparison.
1. Rounder design
The Google Pixel 7a had a somewhat blocky design, with thick bezels and a sizable chin at the bottom. We also find that chin on the Pixel 8a. The device has significantly larger edges than the more expensive Pixel 8.
However, Google has provided a new and more modern design for the 8a: the corners are a lot rounder. Not only does this look nicer, but the smartphone also feels better in the hand. Little has changed at the rear. The camera strip again runs across the entire width of the device and looks approximately the same.
With the Pixel 8a you can choose from the colors green, blue, black and white. The Pixel 7a is available in gray, white, blue and orange.
2. Faster hardware
A new smartphone usually also means a faster chip. The Google Pixel 8a has a Tensor G3 processor on board, while the Pixel 7a runs on a Tensor G2 chip. The difference is not earth-shattering, but the G3 is slightly faster and is also more energy efficient. For a mid-range car, it is an excellent processor that will last you for years to come.
There is again 8GB of RAM, but this time you can choose from two storage variants: 128GB or 256GB. The Pixel 7a was only available with 128GB. If you need a lot of space, the Pixel 8a is definitely the better choice.
3. Smoother and brighter screen
The Pixel a devices are a relief for those who do not want a large smartphone. Both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a have a compact 6.1-inch OLED screen. That of the 8a is a lot better. The refresh rate has increased from 90 to 120Hz for even smoother images.
Perhaps more important is the higher brightness. The Pixel 8a reaches a maximum of 2000 nits, which is 40 percent more than the Pixel 7a. This means you can enjoy better HDR images and the screen should be easier to read in the bright sun.
4. Much longer support
Google promised to give the Pixel 7a three major Android upgrades and provide security patches for five years. That was already an excellent update policy, but the company has gone a step further with the Pixel 8a. The new smartphone will receive support for no less than seven years. This includes new versions of Android as well as Feature Drops and security patches.
This makes the update policy just as good as the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. Especially in this price range, Google is far ahead of the competition.
5. Higher price
We still need to talk about that price range. Because the Google Pixel 8a may be a mid-range device, but it is quite expensive. With a suggested retail price of 549 euros (for 128GB storage) it costs 40 euros more than the Pixel 7a last year. You can now get that older smartphone for €389.
At the time of writing, the difference between the Google Pixel 8a vs the Google Pixel 7a is about 160 euros. In return, you get a faster chip, a much better screen and much longer software support. If your budget allows it, we think the Pixel 8a is definitely worth the extra price.
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