Google has been making smartphones for over a decade and their portfolio features two great series – the Nexus and Pixel. The latest entrant in the Pixel series is the Google Pixel 7a. The 7a is a fantastic budget-friendly alternative to the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. If you are thinking about investing in a Pixel smartphone and can’t decide between the two, here are some points to consider. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll break down the key differences between the two phones and help you make an informed decision. From design to display, camera to battery life, and everything in between, we’ll cover all the important aspects so you can decide which Pixel device is worth your hard-earned money. So let’s dive in and find out which one comes out on top!
Google Pixel 7a and Pixel 7 : Comparison
Display Comparison
The Pixel 7 features a 6.2-inch OLED display, while the Pixel 7a features a slightly smaller 6.0-inch OLED display. While the difference in size may not be significant, it’s worth noting that the Pixel 7’s display has a higher resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, compared to the Pixel 7a’s resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. This means that the Pixel 7 offers slightly sharper and more detailed visuals.
Pixel 7: 6.2-inch OLED display; 1080 x 2400 pixels
Pixel 7a: 6.0-inch OLED display; 1080 x 2400 pixels resolution
Which is better? – Pixel 7
Design Comparison
In terms of design, both phones have a similar look and feel. They both feature a sleek and modern design, with a metal frame and a glass back. However, the Pixel 7a has a plastic back, which may make it feel slightly less premium than the Pixel 7. Additionally, the Pixel 7 has a slightly larger screen-to-body ratio, which means that it has a slightly more immersive display.
Pixel 7: Gorilla Glass Victus front and back
Pixel 7a: Plastic back
Which is better? – Pixel 7
Overall, when it comes to design and display, the Pixel 7 may be the better choice for users who want a premium feel and higher-resolution display. But these differences are relatively minor, and both phones offer a modern and sleek design.
Camera Comparison
The Pixel smartphones have impressive camera capabilities and both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a don’t disappoint.
The Pixel 7’s camera features a large 50MP 1/1.31-inch sensor while the 7a comes with a larger 64MP/1/1.73-inch sensor. The smaller sensor means the 7a loses out to the 7 when it comes to low-light images and detail capture. There is a slightly more noise in the images but only on closer inspection.
The Pixel 7a boasts a 13MP ultrawide with a broader 120-degree field of view. The 7 with its 12MP camera only supports a 144-degree camera. On the front, the Pixel 7a has a 13MP sensor, compared to the Pixel 7’s 10.8MP selfie cam.
When it comes to videos, although both devices support 4k video recording, the Pixel 7a appears to have slightly poor video stabilization resulting in a jerkier video captures. Recording in low light conditions is better on the 7 with the 7a displaying some noise. If video quality is important to you, the Pixel 7 has a slightly better edge with clear detailed footage.
Pixel 7: Better quality images in day/night
Pixel 7a: Slight noise in low light and video quality
Which is better? – Pixel 7
Overall, the Pixel 7’s dual-camera setup may give it a slight edge in terms of camera capabilities. But, both phones do take excellent photos and offer a variety of camera features.
Performance Comparison
When it comes to performance and battery life, the Pixel 7 features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor, while the Pixel 7a has a slightly less powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G processor. While both phones offer smooth and snappy performance, the Pixel 7’s more powerful processor may be better suited for heavier use, such as gaming or multitasking.
Pixel 7: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor
Pixel 7a: Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G processor
Which is better? – Pixel 7
Overall, if you prioritize performance, the Pixel 7 may be the better choice.
Battery Comparison
In terms of battery life, the Pixel 7 has a 4080mAh battery, while the Pixel 7a has a slightly smaller 3800mAh battery. While the difference in battery size may not seem significant, the Pixel 7’s more powerful processor may drain the battery faster than the Pixel 7a’s processor. However, both phones offer solid battery life and should last through a full day of use.
Pixel 7: 4080mAh battery; may drain faster
Pixel 7a: 3800mAh battery
Which is better? – Pixel 7a
Overall, if battery life is a top priority, the Pixel 7a may be the better option.
Software and Features Comparison
Both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a run on the latest version of Android 13. They also both come with a variety of Google-exclusive features, such as Google Assistant and the Pixel Launcher.
One notable difference between the two phones is that the Pixel 7 comes with 5G capabilities, while the Pixel 7a does not. While 5G may not be available in all areas yet, it’s worth considering if you plan on keeping your phone for a few years.
Additionally, the Pixel 7 comes with an IP68 water and dust resistance rating, which means that it can withstand being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 60 minutes. The Pixel 7a, on the other hand, has a IP67 water and dust resistance rating, which is slightly less protection.
Pixel 7: 5G capabilities; IP68 water and dust resistance rating
Pixel 7a: No 5G; IP67 water and dust resistance rating
Which is better? – Pixel 7
Overall, both phones offer the latest software and a variety of Google-exclusive features. However, the Pixel 7’s 5G capabilities and water and dust resistance may make it the better choice.
Price Comparison
The Pixel 7 starts at $699, while the Pixel 7a starts at $449. While the Pixel 7 certainly offers more premium features, such as a more powerful processor and a higher-resolution display, the price difference may not be worth it for some users.
Pixel 7: starts at $699
Pixel 7a: starts at $449
Which is better? – Pixel 7a
The Pixel 7a offers a compelling budget-friendly option that still offers many of the same features as the Pixel 7. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the Pixel 7, it still offers solid performance and camera capabilities at a significantly lower price point.
Ultimately, the decision between the two phones may come down to your budget and what features you prioritize most.
Pros and Cons of Google Pixel 7a and Pixel 7
Here’s a quick look at some pros and cons of each phone.
| Pixel 7 Pros | Pixel 7 Cons |
| Pixel 7 Pros | Higher price point |
| More powerful processor | Slightly shorter battery life |
| Higher-display resolution | |
| Dual-camera setup with ultra-wide camera | |
| 5G capabilities | |
| IP68 water and dust resistance rating |
| Pixel 7a Pros | Pixel 7a Cons |
| More budget-friendly option | Plastic back gives off a less premium feel |
| Solid performance | No ultra-wide camera |
| Excellent camera capabilities | Slightly less powerful processor |
| Long battery life |
Tech Specs: Comparison
| Feature | Google Pixel 7a | Google Pixel 7 |
| Display | 6.1-inch OLEDFHD+ 2400 x 1080 | 6.3-inch AMOLED FHD+ 2400 x 1080 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage | 128GB; No microSD card support | 128GB / 256GB; No microSD card support |
| Battery | 4,385mAh | 4,355mAh |
| Cameras | Rear: 64MP wide primary sensor; 13MP ultrawide; 13MP wide front camera | 50MP wide primary sensor; 12MP ultrawide; 10.8MP wide front camera |
| Software | Pixel UI Android 13 | Pixel UI Android 13 |
| IP rating | IP67 | IP68 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi 6E Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Dimensions | 152.4 x 72.9 x 9.0mm | 155.64 x 73.16 x 8.7mm |
| Weight | 193g | 197g |
| Colors | Charcoal, Coral, Sea, Snow | Obsidian, Lemongrass, Snow |
Google Pixel 7a and Pixel 7: Which one is worth buying?
So which Pixel phone is worth your hard-earned money? It ultimately depends on your priorities and budget.
If you prioritize a premium feel, a slightly larger and higher-resolution display, and more powerful performance, the Pixel 7 may be the better choice. However, it comes with a significantly higher price tag.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still offers solid performance and camera capabilities, the Pixel 7a is an excellent choice. While it may not have all the features of the Pixel 7, it still offers a modern and sleek design and many of the same software features.
See the Google Pixel 7 on Amazon
See the Google Pixel 7a on Amazon
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, both phones offer a variety of features and capabilities that make them worth considering. Whether you prioritize premium features or a budget-friendly option, there’s a Pixel phone that’s right for you. So take some time to consider your priorities and make an informed decision on which phone is worth your money.
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