Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy Note8
Starting at
£139.32
Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00What's the difference between the Galaxy Note8 and Google Pixel 3a?
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy Note8 starts at £139.32, £15.68 less than the Google Pixel 3a. The Google Pixel 3a is the newer model, released in 2019.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 8895, Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 on the Galaxy Note8, Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a.
- The Galaxy Note8 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy Note8 has a bigger battery: 3300 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a specs
The Galaxy Note8 and Google Pixel 3a differ in size, performance, screen quality, and some features that suit different user needs. The Note8 has a larger 6.3 inch Super AMOLED screen and more RAM, making it well suited for those who want a spacious display and smoother multitasking. The Pixel 3a offers a slightly smaller 5.6 inch OLED screen and a simpler chipset, fitting buyers who prefer a more compact phone for everyday use. Storage is the same at 64GB, but the Note8 includes a microSDXC slot for expanding storage, while the Pixel 3a supports eSIM alongside a physical SIM. Battery capacities are close, with the Note8 having a 3300 mAh battery and the Pixel 3a a 3000 mAh battery. Choose the Note8 for screen size and memory, and the Pixel 3a for a lighter, smaller device with eSIM support.
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
- 64GBSold out
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and basic physical features.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Note8 has a 3300 mAh battery while the Google Pixel 3a offers a 3000 mAh battery. This means the Note8 may provide longer use between charges for users who need their phone to last through a busy day. The Pixel 3a's battery suits everyday use with slightly less capacity.
Operating System
Both phones run on Android, so you can expect a familiar interface and app compatibility.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a performance
Performance differences come down to chipset and RAM, affecting speed and multitasking abilities. Both phones have 64GB storage in stock, which suits general app use and media storage.
Chipset
The Galaxy Note8 uses either the Exynos 8895 or Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 chipset, while the Google Pixel 3a runs on the Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670. The Note8's chipsets are higher-end options for more demanding tasks, making it better suited for users who run heavier apps or multitask frequently. The Pixel 3a is designed for everyday use with moderate performance needs.
RAM Capacity
With 6 GB of RAM, the Galaxy Note8 keeps more apps open in the background and supports smoother multitasking. The Google Pixel 3a has 4 GB of RAM, which supports everyday functions well but may be less suited for intensive multitasking.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a screen
Screen quality affects how content looks and how comfortable the phone is for media or reading. The Galaxy Note8 has a larger and higher resolution screen for a more immersive experience.
Screen Size and Type
The Galaxy Note8 features a 6.3 inch Super AMOLED screen, providing a larger viewing area and vibrant colours. This suits users who watch videos or work on their phone. The Google Pixel 3a has a 5.6 inch OLED screen, which is smaller and easier to handle with one hand, ideal for users who prefer compact devices.
Screen Resolution
With a resolution of 1440 x 2960, the Galaxy Note8 offers sharper and more detailed visuals, enhancing photos and text clarity. The Pixel 3a's 1080 x 2220 resolution is still clear and suitable for daily use but is less sharp, fitting users who prioritise size over pixel density.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a camera
Audiovisual specs focus on cameras. Both phones have similar front camera resolution and very close main camera resolution, keeping photo quality comparable.
Front Camera
Both the Galaxy Note8 and Google Pixel 3a have an 8 megapixel front camera. This means selfies and video calls will have similar detail and image quality on both phones.
Main Camera
The Galaxy Note8 has a 12 megapixel main camera, while the Pixel 3a has a slightly higher 12.2 megapixel main camera. The difference is small and both cameras are suitable for capturing detailed photos in everyday situations.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a size and design
Other features include physical size, expandability, SIM options, and weight. These can influence comfort, convenience, and connectivity choices.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy Note8 measures 162.5 mm by 74.8 mm and weighs 195 g, making it larger and heavier. This may suit users who want a substantial device with a big screen. The Pixel 3a is smaller at 151.3 mm by 70.1 mm and lighter at 147 g, fitting users who prefer a compact, pocket-friendly phone.
Storage Expansion
The Galaxy Note8 includes a microSDXC slot, allowing you to add more storage if needed. This is useful for users who store lots of photos, videos, or apps. The Pixel 3a does not have this slot.
SIM Options
The Galaxy Note8 uses a physical SIM card only. The Google Pixel 3a supports both a physical SIM and eSIM. eSIM suits users who want the flexibility to switch networks or plans without changing physical SIM cards.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy Note8 or Google Pixel 3a: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy Note8 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £139.32, £15.68 less than the Google Pixel 3a
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3300 mAh vs 3000 mAh)
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want a lighter build (147 g vs 195 g)
- you want the newer model (2019)
What our customers say
Customers who buy the Galaxy Note8 often praise how the phone looks brand new and performs well, with many describing it as perfect or excellent. Some report issues with battery life, noting it requires frequent charging, and a few mention problems with unlocking or initial charging warnings. The large screen and solid performance seem to suit users who want a substantial, capable device. Overall, users appreciate the phone's condition and feel it is a good bargain despite some battery concerns.
Reviews for the Google Pixel 3a highlight its excellent condition and reliable performance for everyday use. Customers find it easy to set up and appreciate the compact size. Some mention the phone runs slower at times and have experienced minor issues with charging or buttons. A few reports note problems with device locks, but many recommend the phone for its balance of condition and function. The Pixel 3a appeals to those looking for a simpler phone with good value.
In summary, the Galaxy Note8 attracts buyers wanting a larger screen and more memory, while the Pixel 3a suits those who prefer a lighter, smaller phone with flexible SIM options. Both have customers pleased with their performance and condition.
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a FAQs
Galaxy Note8 vs Google Pixel 3a comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 8895, Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 on the Galaxy Note8, Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a. The Galaxy Note8 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Galaxy Note8 is cheaper refurbished, from £139.32 compared with £155 for the Google Pixel 3a.
The Galaxy Note8 has a bigger battery: 3300 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
The Galaxy Note8 has 12 megapixels and the Google Pixel 3a has 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy Note8 ended in Nov 2021. Updates for the Google Pixel 3a ended in May 2022. Its last version is Android 12.1.
Both come in 64GB refurbished.
