The search giant’s mid-range Pixel-A series offerings are slightly toned-down versions of the flagship non-Pro number series devices. The latest Pixel 8a borrows the same design language, processor, and notably the longer software support policy from the more premium Pixel 8.
Pixel 8a vs Pixel 8: which one makes sense?
There are only slight differences between the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8. However, the main differentiating factor between the two phones is in terms of pricing.
Additionally, the Pixel 8 is also nearly six months old now (as of writing this article). It is often found at discounted prices during sales. This begs the question of whether it makes sense to purchase the latest mid-ranger Pixel or the premium offering.
In this article, we have compared everything between the Pixel 8a and Pixel from specifications to pricing that should help you make the correct buying decision.
The Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 have identical designs with rounded corners and a horizontal bridge housing two cameras inside a pill-shaped cutout. The former is IP67 certified whereas the latter has an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The Pixel 8’s front and back panels are shielded by Gorilla Glass Victus which is stronger than the Gorilla Glass 3 protecting the Pixel 8a’s front fascia.
The display specs are similar on both the Pixel 8a and 8. Although the screen size on the two phones is 6.1 and 6.2 inches, both have an OLED panel with FHD+ resolution, 2,000 nits peak brightness, a 120Hz refresh rate, and support for HDR10.
2. Camera
The camera is where the Pixel 8a is different compared to the Pixel 8. The latest mid-range has a 64MP 1/1.73″ main sensor with f/1.9 aperture, dual-pixel PDAF and OIS support. There is a 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens. It is capable of recording up to 4K videos at 60fps. Up front also, the device features a 13MP selfie snapper.
On the contrary, the Pixel 8’s dual camera setup comprises a 50MP 1/1.31 main with f/1.7 and a 12MP ultra-wide sensor. There is a 10.5MP front-facing snapper. This camera hardware is comparatively better than the one on the Pixel 8a.
Anyways, both phones come with features like Best Take, Auto HDR, Ultra HDR, Audio Erase, and more.
3. Hardware
The Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 are powered by Google’s in-house Tensor G3 processor. Both pack 8GB RAM and are offered in 128GB and 256GB storage options. The Pixel 8a is backed by a 4,492mAh battery with support for 18W wired and 7.5W wireless charging. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 runs on a larger 4,575mAh cell with support for faster 27W wired and 18W wireless charging.
Software-wise, both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a are eligible for seven years of OS updates and security patches.
4. Pricing and availability
The Pixel 8a carries a price tag of $499 / EUR 549 / Rs 52,999 and $559 / EUR 609 / Rs 59,999 for the 128GB and 256GB variants respectively. Meanwhile, the same configurations of the Pixel 8 retail at $438 / EUR 599 / Rs 75,999 and $694 / EUR 749 / Rs 82,999 respectively. That makes the device a lot cheaper than the latest mid-range offering.
5. Verdict
In our opinion, it doesn’t make any sense to go for the latest Pixel 8a over the six-month-old Pixel 8. This is mainly due to the difference in prices of both devices. The mid-range A-series model has a slightly toned-down camera sensor even though the megapixel count is higher. The Pixel 8 has a larger battery along with fast charging support. Barring this, everything is the same across the board.
We would also recommend waiting for the Pixel 9 series which is due to arrive this fall with an entirely new design language.
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