Google's latest mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 8a, has hit the market with some notable improvements over its predecessor. But are the upgrades worth the €100 price increase? Let's dive into a detailed comparison.
Design and Display
The Pixel 8a maintains a similar form factor to the 7a but introduces more rounded corners for improved ergonomics. The most significant upgrade comes in the display department:
- 6.1 OLED screen (same size as 7a)
- 120Hz refresh rate (up from 90Hz)
- 1,500 nits peak brightness (vs ~1,000 nits on 7a)
These enhancements result in a smoother, brighter, and more vibrant viewing experience.
Performance
Powered by Google's Tensor G3 chip (4nm), the Pixel 8a offers a notable performance boost over the 7a's Tensor G2 (5nm):
- ~20% improvement in CPU-intensive tasks (Geekbench 6)
- ~25% better overall performance (AnTuTu 10)
- ~27% increase in GPU performance (3DMark Wild Life)
The base model still comes with 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, but a new 256GB option is now available.
Camera
Both devices share identical camera hardware:
- 64MP main camera (f/1.9, 26mm)
- 13MP ultrawide (f/2.2, 120°)
- 13MP selfie camera (f/2.2, 20mm)
Daytime photo quality is virtually indistinguishable between the two. However, the 7a surprisingly edges out in low-light scenarios, particularly with the ultrawide lens and 2x zoom, producing cleaner and sharper images.
Battery and Charging
The Pixel 8a offers slightly improved battery life across various usage scenarios. However, charging speeds remain similar, with both devices supporting 18W wired and 7.5W wireless charging.
Software and Long-term Support
One of the Pixel 8a's biggest selling points is Google's promise of 7 years of OS updates, compared to the 2 remaining years for the 7a.
Price and Value Proposition
At a €100 premium over the 7a, the Pixel 8a presents a compelling package for those who value:
- A significantly improved display
- Better performance
- Longer software support
- Slightly better battery life
- Improved ergonomics
However, if camera performance, charging speeds, and immediate savings are your priority, the Pixel 7a remains a strong contender.
Verdict
The Google Pixel 8a is a worthy upgrade that justifies its higher price tag for most users. The combination of a superior display, increased performance, and extended software support make it a future-proof option in the mid-range smartphone market. However, the Pixel 7a still holds its ground, especially for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize camera performance.
