Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S23 FE
Starting at
£205.00£605.75 new
Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S23 FE and Google Pixel 8a?
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £16 less than the Galaxy S23 FE. The Google Pixel 8a is the newer model, released in 2024.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Front camera
- Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) / Exynos 2200 (4nm) on the Galaxy S23 FE, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a.
- Battery: 4500 mAh on the Galaxy S23 FE, 4492 mAh on the Google Pixel 8a.
- The Galaxy S23 FE has a bigger screen: 6.4 inch vs 6.1 inch.
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a specs
The Galaxy S23 FE and Google Pixel 8a both offer solid choices for Android users but suit different preferences. The Galaxy S23 FE has a larger screen and a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, making it good for watching videos or gaming on a bigger canvas. It also offers more storage options, up to 256GB, and a dual physical SIM setup for those who need multiple lines. The Google Pixel 8a is lighter and more compact with a slightly taller screen resolution and a higher megapixel front camera for detailed selfies. Its Tensor G3 chipset might appeal to users who prefer Google hardware.
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a price
Colour
- BeigeStarting at £207.15
- GreyStarting at £205.00
- BlueStarting at £207.15
- OrangeStarting at £205.00
- GreenStarting at £207.15
- PurpleStarting at £218.85
- BlackSold out
- BlueSold out
- BeigeSold out
- GreenSold out
Storage
- 128GBSold out
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a battery life and software updates
Durability focuses on battery capacity, software updates and physical design. Both phones keep pace with current Android updates and share similar battery sizes, which influences how long they last between charges. Physical dimensions and SIM options add practical differences for users.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S23 FE has a 4500 mAh battery, just slightly larger than the Google Pixel 8a's 4492 mAh. This means both phones offer comparable battery life suitable for a full day of regular use, so you can expect similar endurance whether you're browsing, streaming or messaging.
Software Updates
This ensures you get current features and security patches, so either phone will stay up to date with the Android ecosystem.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy S23 FE supports dual physical SIM cards alongside an eSIM, which suits travellers or those managing separate work and personal numbers. The Google Pixel 8a offers a physical SIM plus eSIM setup, fitting users who prefer a simpler SIM arrangement.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM and storage, which affect speed, multitasking and the capacity for apps and media. Both phones have 8 GB of RAM, keeping everyday apps running smoothly, while the choice of chipset and storage options differ.
Chipset Differences
The Galaxy S23 FE uses either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2200 chipset, both built on a 4nm process. The Google Pixel 8a runs on Google's Tensor G3 chip. These different processors may suit users who have preferences for Qualcomm or Google hardware and associated performance characteristics.
RAM and Multitasking
Both devices come with 8 GB of RAM, which is enough to keep everyday apps running smoothly. You can expect similar performance handling multiple apps and tasks at once on either phone.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S23 FE is available with 128GB or 256GB of storage. This wider choice benefits users needing more space for photos, apps and files. The Google Pixel 8a offers 128GB storage, which suits those with moderate storage needs or who use cloud services.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a screen
Screen quality matters for viewing comfort and clarity. Both phones have 1080p resolution but differ in size, type and pixel count, which influence how you experience media, gaming and everyday use.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S23 FE has a larger 6.4 inch display, offering more room for watching videos or browsing. The Google Pixel 8a's 6.1 inch screen is more compact and easier to handle with one hand, appealing to users who prefer smaller phones.
Screen Resolution
The Pixel 8a has a slightly taller resolution at 1080 x 2400 pixels compared to the Galaxy S23 FE's 1080 x 2340 pixels. This means the Pixel's screen may display a bit more content vertically, which could be noticeable when reading or scrolling.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S23 FE features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for vibrant colours and high brightness, ideal for media lovers. The Google Pixel 8a uses an OLED screen, which also delivers good contrast and colour but with a simpler technology that suits everyday use.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a camera
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a size and design
Other practical differences include size, weight and connectivity features that affect daily handling and compatibility with networks and accessories.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy S23 FE measures 158 mm tall, 76.5 mm wide and 8.2 mm deep, weighing 209 g, making it a larger and heavier device. The Google Pixel 8a is smaller and lighter at 152.1 mm tall, 72.7 mm wide, 8.9 mm deep and 188 g. This makes the Pixel easier to carry and use one-handed.
Network and Carrier Compatibility
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks, giving you the freedom to choose or switch carriers and enjoy fast mobile data speeds where available.
Connector Type
Both devices use USB-C connectors, which is the common standard for charging and data transfer, so you can use widely available cables and accessories.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S23 FE or Google Pixel 8a: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S23 FE if
- you want a bigger screen (6.4 inch vs 6.1 inch)
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £189, £16 less than the Galaxy S23 FE
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 10 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (until May 2031 vs until Oct 2028)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S23 FE often highlight its excellent condition, describing it as looking brand new with no marks or faults. They appreciate the phone's performance, noting it runs smoothly and represents a big upgrade from previous models. Battery life is mentioned positively, as well as the phone's premium feel and large screen size. Some users note minor issues like the charging port needing cleaning but overall satisfaction is high, with many recommending it and planning to order again.
Google Pixel 8a customers praise the phone for its pristine condition and ease of use. Many appreciate the battery life and performance, saying it works like new or better than older phones. The front camera is noted for good quality selfies and several users mention the phone's compact size and light weight make it comfortable to handle. A few point out region-specific models but most find the Pixel 8a meets their needs well and express happiness with their purchase.
Both phones suit different users: the Galaxy S23 FE appeals to those wanting a larger, premium screen and more storage flexibility, while the Pixel 8a fits users who prefer a lighter, smaller device with a sharp front camera and straightforward setup.
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a FAQs
Galaxy S23 FE vs Google Pixel 8a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 (4nm) / Exynos 2200 (4nm) on the Galaxy S23 FE, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a. Battery: 4500 mAh on the Galaxy S23 FE, 4492 mAh on the Google Pixel 8a.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £205 for the Galaxy S23 FE.
The Galaxy S23 FE has 4500 mAh and the Google Pixel 8a has 4492 mAh.
The Galaxy S23 FE gets updates until Oct 2028. The Google Pixel 8a gets updates until May 2031.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S23 FE comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the Google Pixel 8a in 128GB.
