Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S20 5G
Starting at
£161.35£899.00 new
Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S20 5G and Google Pixel 3a?
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3a starts at £155, £6.35 less than the Galaxy S20 5G. The Galaxy S20 5G is the newer model, released in 2020.
Refurbished from
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- The Galaxy S20 5G has more RAM: 12 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy S20 5G has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
- The Galaxy S20 5G has a bigger screen: 6.2 inch vs 5.6 inch.
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a specs
The Galaxy S20 5G and Google Pixel 3a differ mainly in screen size, battery capacity, memory, and network capabilities. The Galaxy S20 5G has a larger and higher-resolution screen that suits watching videos or browsing with more detail. It offers more RAM and options for storage, making it better for multitasking and storing media. Its 5G network support fits users needing faster mobile internet. The Pixel 3a is smaller and lighter, with a slightly higher main camera resolution for photography enthusiasts who prefer a compact phone. Its storage and RAM suit everyday use and lighter app multitasking. Both phones run Android and are unlocked, so either can fit well depending on your priorities for screen size, speed, or portability.
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a price
Colour
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a battery life and software updates
Battery life and software support are key points in durability.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S20 5G has a 4000 mAh battery, which generally provides longer usage between charges. This suits users who spend more time away from power sources. The Pixel 3a has a 3000 mAh battery, making it suitable for lighter daily use or those who charge more frequently.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a screen
Screen size, resolution, and technology influence how you experience media and apps. The Galaxy S20 5G and Pixel 3a have different displays that cater to different needs.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Galaxy S20 5G has a larger 6.2 inch screen with a resolution of 1440 x 3200, offering a sharper and more spacious display. This is ideal for watching videos, gaming, or multitasking on screen. The Pixel 3a's 5.6 inch screen with 1080 x 2220 resolution suits users who prefer a more compact device that is easier to hold and use one-handed.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S20 5G uses a Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, which generally produces brighter colours and deeper blacks. The Pixel 3a has an OLED screen, which also delivers good contrast and colour but with fewer advanced features. This difference may appeal to those sensitive to screen quality.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a camera
Camera quality is important for selfies and photos. While both phones have similar main cameras, their front cameras differ slightly, which affects video calls and self-portraits.
Front Camera
The Galaxy S20 5G has a 10 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail for selfies and video calls. This suits users who prioritise clear self-portraits or frequent video chats. The Pixel 3a has an 8 megapixel front camera, suitable for everyday selfie use.
Main Camera
The Pixel 3a has a 12.2 megapixel main camera, very slightly higher than the Galaxy S20 5G's 12 megapixels. Both are capable of taking detailed photos, but the Pixel 3a might appeal to those who want a camera focused on photo quality.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a size and design
Other features include network compatibility, storage, and physical size. These affect connectivity, data space, and how the phone feels in your hand.
Mobile Network and SIM
The Galaxy S20 5G supports 5G networks and has Dual Physical SIM slots, which suits users wanting faster internet and multiple SIMs. The Pixel 3a supports 4G and uses a Physical SIM plus an eSIM, which may suit those who prefer digital SIM flexibility.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S20 5G comes in 128GB and 256GB versions and supports microSDXC cards, allowing easy storage expansion. This is good for users with large media libraries or apps. The Pixel 3a has a 64GB internal storage option without expandable storage, fitting users with moderate storage needs.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 3a is smaller and lighter at 151.3 mm height, 70.1 mm width, and 147 g weight, making it comfortable for one-handed use and pocket-friendly. The Galaxy S20 5G is taller and wider at 151.7 mm height, 69.1 mm width, and weighs 163 g, providing a larger display but a less compact feel.
Physical Depth
The Galaxy S20 5G is 7.9 mm deep, while the Pixel 3a measures 8.2 mm. Both have similar thickness, so they feel comparably slim in hand and pocket.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S20 5G or Google Pixel 3a: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S20 5G if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4000 mAh vs 3000 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.2 inch vs 5.6 inch)
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £155, £6.35 less than the Galaxy S20 5G
- you want a lighter build (147 g vs 163 g)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy S20 5G looks like new and performs well, with many praising its speed and battery life. The screen is described as pristine, and the camera performance meets expectations. Several users note the phone runs fast and is responsive, with good battery endurance lasting through the day. Some mention minor issues like the phone heating up or battery concerns, but overall satisfaction is high. The larger screen and smooth operation suit those who want a more powerful phone for everyday use and media.
Reviews for the Pixel 3a highlight excellent condition and reliable performance. Users appreciate its compact size and camera quality, mentioning the phone works perfectly for daily tasks. Some mention slower performance and charging issues, but many recommend the phone for lighter use. The device suits those who want a straightforward Android phone with a good camera in a smaller form factor.
In summary, customers find the Galaxy S20 5G suitable for users needing a larger screen and faster performance, while the Pixel 3a fits those seeking a simpler phone with good photos and portability.
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a FAQs
Galaxy S20 5G vs Google Pixel 3a comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. The Galaxy S20 5G has more RAM: 12 GB vs 4 GB. The Galaxy S20 5G has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3a is cheaper refurbished, from £155 compared with £161.35 for the Galaxy S20 5G.
The Galaxy S20 5G has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
The Galaxy S20 5G has 12 megapixels and the Google Pixel 3a has 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S20 5G ended in Mar 2025. Updates for the Google Pixel 3a ended in May 2022. Its last version is Android 12.1.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S20 5G comes in 128GB, and the Google Pixel 3a in 64GB.
