Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S26 Ultra
Starting at
£894.79£1,449.00 new
Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S26 Ultra and Google Pixel 8a?
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £705.79 less than the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is the newer model, released in 2026.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Main camera
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a.
- The Galaxy S26 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a specs
The Galaxy S26 Ultra offers a larger, higher-resolution screen and more RAM, making it suited for those who want a roomier display and smoother multitasking. It also comes with more storage options up to 1TB. The Pixel 8a has a smaller screen and less RAM, fitting well for everyday use and easier handling. Its front camera has a slightly higher megapixel count, which may appeal if selfies are a priority. Both phones are unlocked, compatible with 5G, and include physical SIM and eSIM support.
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a price
Colour
- BlackStarting at £929.69
- BlueStarting at £966.44
- Rose GoldStarting at £1,072.75
- VioletStarting at £894.79
- PurpleStarting at £894.79
- SilverStarting at £1,031.27
- WhiteStarting at £914.25
- BlackSold out
- BlueSold out
- BeigeSold out
- GreenSold out
Storage
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a battery life and software updates
Durability covers software updates, operating system, and physical design aspects. Both phones share some key traits but differ in release year and physical size.
Software Compatibility
This means you get current features and security improvements on either device.
Physical Dimensions
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is larger in height, width, and thinner in depth compared to the Pixel 8a. This results in a bigger device that feels more substantial in hand, while the Pixel 8a is more compact and easier to hold for longer periods.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a screen
Screen quality affects how you experience video, games, and everyday use. Both devices offer smooth refresh rates but differ in size and resolution.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S26 Ultra features a 6.9 inch display, providing a spacious viewing area suitable for watching movies or multitasking. The Pixel 8a has a 6.1 inch screen, which is more manageable for one-handed use and pocket-friendly.
Resolution
With a resolution of 1440 by 3120, the Galaxy S26 Ultra delivers sharper and more detailed images, which benefits users who prioritise high-definition content. The Pixel 8a's 1080 by 2400 resolution still offers clear visuals but with fewer pixels overall.
Refresh Rate
Both phones have a 120 Hz refresh rate, meaning animations and scrolling are smooth. This refresh rate supports fluidity whether you are gaming or browsing.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a camera
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a size and design
This section covers various practical features from connectivity to physical size and storage options that affect daily use.
Storage Capacity
The Galaxy S26 Ultra comes with multiple storage options up to 1TB, suiting users with large app libraries, photos, or videos. The Pixel 8a is available with 128GB storage, suitable for everyday needs and simpler use.
Weight and Size
Weighing 214 g, the Galaxy S26 Ultra is heavier and larger in every dimension than the Pixel 8a, which weighs 188 g. This weight difference may be noticeable when carrying the phone for long periods.
Connectivity and SIM
Both phones offer 5G support and are unlocked, allowing use with any compatible UK network. Each supports a physical SIM plus eSIM, giving flexibility in mobile plans.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S26 Ultra or Google Pixel 8a: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S26 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, £705.79 less than the Galaxy S26 Ultra
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
- you want a lighter build (189 g vs 214 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy S26 Ultra often praise its condition, describing it as like new or brand new even when refurbished. They highlight the phone's speed, camera quality, and battery life as strong points. Some note the phone's larger size and weight, which matches the specs, but find it comfortable and solid. A few mention minor cosmetic marks that do not affect use, and others enjoy the new AI tutorials and overall smooth experience.
Pixel 8a customers appreciate the device's condition and ease of use, often commenting on how it feels like new. Many found it straightforward to set up and suitable for everyday use. The battery performance is noted as reliable, and the camera quality meets expectations for its class. A few customers mention receiving Japanese models with some feature restrictions, but overall satisfaction with the phone's functionality is clear.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra suits those wanting a larger screen, higher resolution, and more storage for extensive use. The Pixel 8a fits users seeking a compact, straightforward phone with a good front camera and solid performance for daily tasks.
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a FAQs
Galaxy S26 Ultra vs Google Pixel 8a comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy on the Galaxy S26 Ultra, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a. The Galaxy S26 Ultra has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £894.79 for the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra has a higher-resolution main camera: 200 megapixels vs 64 megapixels.
The Galaxy S26 Ultra gets updates until Mar 2033. The Google Pixel 8a gets updates until May 2031.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S26 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB, and the Google Pixel 8a in 128GB.
