Google Pixel 8A vs 7A
Google announced the new Pixel 8A on May 7th (pre-orders) with full launch slated for May 14th. The new Pixel 8A is priced similarly as 7A launch prices, at $499. 7A, now a one-year old phone can be picked up at more than $100 discount at certain online and retail locations. Here we see the key differences between the two, helping you decide whether to go for 8A or pick up the discounted 7A.
Display
Both the latest and previous iterations of Pixel a-series smartphones boast identical 6.1-inch screens with FHD resolution. However, upon closer inspection, advancements are evident in the newer model. The Pixel 8a adopts the Actua display technology featured in the Pixel 8, resulting in a screen that is 40% brighter at its maximum brightness compared to the Pixel 7a. Furthermore, it offers a smoother maximum refresh rate of 120Hz, an upgrade from the previous 90Hz, albeit with a minimum of 60Hz.
Beyond the display, the Pixel 8a stands out from its predecessor, the Pixel 7a, with its rounded corners reminiscent of the Pixel 8 series. Additionally, it has transitioned to a matte-textured back panel, departing from the previous glossy finish, which should result in fewer fingerprints marring the appearance of the phone. However, similarities such as the fundamental shape, centrally located front camera cut-out, and rear camera bar indicate a strong familial resemblance between these two devices.
Both phones provide the same durability specifications. Google continues to utilize a Gorilla Glass 3 display and IP67 dust/water resistance, which are satisfactory for a device in this price range, although there is potential for enhancement.
Color
The Pixel 8a comes in Aloe green, Bay blue, Obsidian black, and Porcelain white color options. While there are resemblances to the Sea blue, Charcoal black, and Snow white variants offered with the Pixel 7a, some users may feel disappointed that the Coral orange option from the Pixel 7a won't be making a return.
Camera
The previous and latest Pixel a-series smartphones have identical camera setups, consisting of a 64MP primary camera, a 13MP ultrawide camera at the rear, and a 13MP front-facing camera.
Google has introduced its Real Tone technology to the Pixel 8a for video recording, a feature absent in previous Pixel models. Real Tone ensures accurate representation of all skin tones in images, making its integration into video recording a natural progression. While it's likely to be available as a software update for other flagship Pixel models in the future, its availability for the Pixel 7a remains uncertain.
Similarly, the Pixel 8a introduces an enhanced version of Guided Frame for all its cameras. This Pixel-specific accessibility feature aids individuals with visual impairments in framing their shots, previously focused on selfies. Now, it extends to the rear cameras as well, capable of detecting people, pets, and food to assist users in aiming the camera effectively.
Performance
The Pixel 8a houses the Tensor G3 chip, an anticipated upgrade from the Pixel 7a's Tensor G2. Although the Tensor G3 is believed to be a toned-down version compared to the one featured in the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, it is expected to offer increased power and efficiency compared to its predecessor.
Both of the compared Pixels boast an 8GB RAM capacity and ship with a default storage of 128GB. However, the Pixel 8a now presents an additional option of 256GB, which will be welcomed by users prone to swiftly filling up their phones with apps and photos.
Battery
Google hasn't introduced any charging enhancements in the transition from the Pixel 7a to the Pixel 8a. Both models retain 18W wired charging and Qi wireless charging support, neither of which are exceptionally fast but are sufficient for adequately powering up your phone.
The Pixel 8a hosts a 4,492 mAh battery, an increase from the 4,385 mAh capacity found in the Pixel 7a. This augmentation suggests a potentially longer battery life for the Pixel 8a.
Software
Although originally launched with Android 13, the Pixel 7a has been upgraded to run Android 14, aligning it with the Pixel 8's native operating system. This grants both devices access to a range of shared features, including photo manipulation tools like Best Take, Magic Editor, and Magic Eraser, as well as Video Audio Magic Eraser, the Call Assist suite to combat spam calls and assist with holding, and Live Translate for seamless communication across different languages.
The Pixel 8a is stepping up its game even further. It's acquiring the Google Circle to Search feature, initially introduced in the Pixel 8 series and the Samsung Galaxy S24, simplifying the process of searching for items found in your social media feed or photos.
Additionally, for enthusiasts of artificial intelligence, Google has committed to making the Pixel 8a compatible with Gemini Nano through a future Feature Drop update. This is an uncommon offering for a device in this price range and could serve as an excellent entry point for experimenting with on-device AI.
Moreover, these functionalities are just the start, as Google has committed to providing seven years of comprehensive software updates for the Pixel 8a, mirroring the support offered to the Pixel 8 series. This extended support period surpasses the initial guarantee of two years for the Pixel 7a. Such a commitment is unprecedented for a device in this price range and enhances its value proposition significantly, especially for those who plan to hold onto it for an extended period without upgrading.
Conclusion
The Pixel 8a seems to hold an edge in terms of display brightness, performance, battery longevity, and the breadth and longevity of software features, all while maintaining the same price point as last year's model, or only slightly higher. However, given that the camera hardware, display size and resolution, charging standards, and overall size and design remain unchanged, some users may find the Pixel 7a to be a more cost-effective option, particularly with its newly discounted price.
