Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 6a: Which Phone Should You Buy?
If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly smartphone, Google’s Pixel series likely has your attention. The Pixel 6a, released two years ago, has been a reliable choice, but now we have the Pixel 8a, which brings some exciting new features. Let’s compare these two models, so you can choose the one that suits you best.
Design and Build
When you hold the Pixel 8a, you’ll notice a more refined design compared to the Pixel 6a. The Pixel 8a feels smoother and more rounded in your hand, moving away from the sharper, angular design of the Pixel 6a.
Both phones use Gorilla Glass 3 on the front and have a matte-frosted polycarbonate back that meets an aluminum frame, offering a sturdy and premium feel.
Although the Pixel 8a is slightly heavier at 188 grams compared to the Pixel 6a’s 178 grams, it’s a difference you might only notice during long periods of use.
Display Upgrades
One of the first things you’ll appreciate about the Pixel 8a is its display. While both phones feature a 6.1-inch OLED screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400, the Pixel 8a has a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and animations look smoother and more fluid.
The Pixel 8a’s screen also gets much brighter, reaching up to 2000 nits, which means you’ll have no trouble using it in bright sunlight—something the Pixel 6a struggles with.
Performance and Software Longevity
If you’re looking for performance, the Pixel 8a won’t disappoint. It’s powered by the new Tensor G3 processor, a significant upgrade from the Tensor G1 found in the Pixel 6a. This chip, built on a 4nm process, boosts overall performance and efficiency, although it can get quite warm during intensive tasks.
Both phones run on Android 14, but here’s where the Pixel 8a really shines: it promises seven years of software updates, keeping it up-to-date and secure through 2031. The Pixel 6a, on the other hand, only has one more year of major updates left.
Camera Enhancements
For those of us who love taking photos, the Pixel 8a brings some major improvements. It features a new 64MP main sensor that uses pixel-binning technology to deliver detailed 12MP photos, replacing the Pixel 6a’s older 12MP sensor.
The Pixel 8a also includes a 120-degree 12MP ultrawide camera, which offers a wider field of view compared to the 114-degree lens on the Pixel 6a. Selfies are also better on the Pixel 8a, thanks to its upgraded 13MP front camera, compared to the 8MP front camera on the Pixel 6a.
Battery Life and Charging
When it comes to battery life, both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 6a have similar capacities, around 4400mAh, which should last you a full day under typical use. However, neither phone is particularly fast at charging, as both support only 18W wired charging.
The Pixel 8a does offer wireless charging, though it’s quite slow at 7.5W, adding some convenience for those who prefer it.
Pricing and Availability
Price is always a crucial factor. The Pixel 8a is priced at $499, reflecting its new features and extended support. It’s available in several colors, including Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and the A-series exclusive Aloe. The Pixel 6a, meanwhile, is more budget-friendly at around $295, but it’s becoming harder to find as it’s been on the market for two years.
So, which one should you choose? If you can stretch your budget, the Pixel 8a is the way to go. It offers significant improvements in display quality, performance, camera capabilities, and software support, making it a smart long-term investment.
However, if you’re looking to save money, the Pixel 6a is still a solid choice with excellent photography and clean software.
Ultimately, if you can afford it, the Pixel 8a’s advanced features and long-term support make it a fantastic option, ensuring a reliable and high-performing smartphone experience for years to come.