Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S25 Ultra
Starting at
£678.00£1,249.00 new
Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S25 Ultra and Google Pixel 8a?
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £489 less than the Galaxy S25 Ultra. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a.
- The Galaxy S25 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a specs
The Galaxy S25 Ultra and Google Pixel 8a cater to different needs. The Galaxy S25 Ultra offers a larger, higher resolution screen and more RAM, making it suitable for users who want a spacious display and multitasking capabilities. Its advanced camera setup also appeals to those who prioritise photography. The Google Pixel 8a is more compact with a smaller screen and less RAM, fitting users who prefer a lighter, easier to handle device for everyday use. Your choice depends on whether you value size, camera detail, and memory or prefer a smaller device with essential features for daily tasks.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a price
Colour
Storage
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and physical design. Battery size and dimensions affect daily endurance and handling.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a 5000 mAh battery, which offers more capacity compared to the Pixel 8a's 4492 mAh. This means the S25 Ultra may last longer between charges, making it a better fit if you use your phone heavily or spend long periods away from power. The Pixel 8a's battery still supports typical daily use well but might need more frequent charging under heavier loads.
Physical Size And Weight
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is larger and heavier, measuring 162 mm tall, 77 mm wide, and weighing 218 g. The Pixel 8a is smaller and lighter at 152.1 mm tall, 72.7 mm wide, and 188 g. If you prefer a phone that is easier to hold and fits more comfortably in pockets or small bags, the Pixel 8a suits better. The S25 Ultra offers a more substantial feel that some may find reassuring.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a performance
Performance focuses on the chipset, RAM, and storage options which affect speed, multitasking, and how much data you can keep on the device.
Chipset And Memory
The Galaxy S25 Ultra uses the Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset and has 12 GB RAM, supporting smooth multitasking and demanding apps. The Pixel 8a features the Google Tensor G3 chipset with 8 GB RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly and suits regular use. Users who run many apps at once or need more power for intensive tasks may prefer the S25 Ultra.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is available with 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of storage, accommodating large libraries of photos, videos, and apps. The Pixel 8a comes with 128GB, which is sufficient for everyday users who store moderate amounts of data. If you need more space for media or files without relying on cloud storage, the S25 Ultra offers more flexibility.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a screen
Screen quality influences how you experience media, gaming, and general use. Both phones have 120 Hz refresh rates for smooth scrolling and animations, but size and resolution vary.
Screen Size And Resolution
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a large 6.9 inch display with a resolution of 1440x3120 pixels. This provides a very spacious and sharp viewing area, ideal for watching videos, gaming, or multitasking. The Pixel 8a's screen is smaller at 6.1 inches with a 1080 x 2400 resolution, which fits well for users who prefer a more compact device with a clear and vibrant display.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy S25 Ultra uses a Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X screen, which can adjust refresh rate to save power while delivering bright, rich colours. The Pixel 8a has an OLED screen, offering deep blacks and good contrast. Both deliver excellent image quality, but the S25 Ultra's screen is designed for high-end visual performance.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a camera
Audiovisual features focus on the cameras, important for photography and video calls. Differences here affect photo detail and versatility.
Main Camera Setup
The Galaxy S25 Ultra boasts a multi-camera system with a 200 MP wide camera, plus telephoto lenses with 3x and 5x optical zoom. This setup provides detailed photos and versatile zoom options, catering to photography enthusiasts and those who want flexibility in shooting. The Pixel 8a features a 64 MP main camera, which captures good detail and is suitable for everyday photography.
Front Camera
For selfies and video calls, the Pixel 8a has a slightly higher resolution 13 MP front camera compared to the Galaxy S25 Ultra's 12 MP. This means the Pixel 8a could offer marginally sharper front-facing photos, appealing if selfies or video chat quality is a priority.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a size and design
Other practical differences include physical dimensions, connectivity, and network capabilities that affect daily handling and compatibility.
Network And SIM Options
Both phones support 5G and offer physical SIM plus eSIM, so you can use multiple numbers or switch carriers easily. They are also unlocked, which works well if you want freedom to choose your network provider.
Physical Dimensions
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is deeper at 8 mm, taller at 162 mm, and wider at 77 mm, with a weight of 218 g. The Pixel 8a is slimmer and more compact at 8.9 mm depth, 152.1 mm height, and 72.7 mm width, weighing 188 g. If you prefer a lighter phone that fits easily in one hand and pockets, the Pixel 8a suits better.
Connector Type
The Galaxy S25 Ultra uses USB-C, while the Pixel 8a has USB Type-C. Both serve for charging and data transfer with widely compatible cables.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
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Width
Galaxy S25 Ultra or Google Pixel 8a: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S25 Ultra if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4492 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.9 inch vs 6.1 inch)
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £189, £489 less than the Galaxy S25 Ultra
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
- you want a lighter build (189 g vs 218 g)
What our customers say
Customers appreciate the Galaxy S25 Ultra for its like-new condition and reliable performance. Many note the excellent battery life and bright, clear display. The camera quality receives praise for capturing detailed photos in various lighting. Users mention the phone feels solid yet easy to use, and some highlight the added value of the S Pen. The larger screen and extensive storage options suit those who want a premium device for multitasking and media.
For the Google Pixel 8a, customers commend its pristine condition and ease of use, especially for those new to Pixel or less tech savvy. The battery performance is described as strong for daily use. Buyers like the compact size and lighter weight, making it comfortable to handle. The Pixel 8a's camera and screen quality satisfy everyday photography and viewing needs. Some users appreciate the straightforward, reliable experience without unnecessary complexity.
Choosing between the two depends on your priorities. The Galaxy S25 Ultra fits those seeking a spacious screen, powerful performance, and advanced camera features. The Pixel 8a suits users who want a smaller, lighter phone with solid everyday capabilities and simplicity.
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a FAQs
Galaxy S25 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM8750-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite (3 nm) on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a. The Galaxy S25 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £678 for the Galaxy S25 Ultra.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra has a higher-resolution main camera: 200 megapixels vs 64 megapixels.
The Galaxy S25 Ultra gets updates until Feb 2032. The Google Pixel 8a gets updates until May 2031.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S25 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the Google Pixel 8a in 128GB.
