Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S9
Starting at
£116.50£449.00 new
Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00What's the difference between the Galaxy S9 and Google Pixel 3a?
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a comes down to the screen size, screen type and main camera. Refurbished, the Galaxy S9 starts at £116.50, £38.50 less than the Google Pixel 3a. The Google Pixel 3a is the newer model, released in 2019.
Refurbished from
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
Software updates
Weight
- The Galaxy S9 has a bigger screen: 5.8 inch vs 5.6 inch.
- Screen type: Super AMOLED on the Galaxy S9, OLED on the Google Pixel 3a.
- Main camera: 12 megapixels on the Galaxy S9, 12.2 megapixels on the Google Pixel 3a.
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a specs
The Galaxy S9 and Google Pixel 3a share many core features like battery capacity, RAM, and camera megapixels, making both suitable for everyday use. The Galaxy S9 offers a larger and higher resolution Super AMOLED screen, which suits users who want a sharper and more vibrant display for media. The Pixel 3a has a slightly smaller OLED screen and is lighter, which may appeal to those preferring a more compact and lighter phone. Galaxy S9 supports microSDXC cards for extra storage and has physical SIM only, while Pixel 3a offers eSIM support but no microSD slot.
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a price
Colour
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a battery life and software updates
Battery and software support are key to durability.
Battery Capacity
Both the Galaxy S9 and Google Pixel 3a have a 3000 mAh battery. This means you can expect similar battery life from each device under comparable usage, so battery size will not be a deciding factor.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a screen
Screen size, resolution, and display type affect how you see content and interact with your phone. The Galaxy S9 has a larger and more detailed screen, while the Pixel 3a focuses on a slightly smaller but still high-quality display.
Screen Size
The Galaxy S9 offers a 5.8 inch screen, which provides more room for watching videos or browsing. The Pixel 3a has a 5.6 inch screen, which suits users who prefer a more compact display that fits comfortably in one hand.
Screen Resolution
With a resolution of 1440 x 2960, the Galaxy S9 delivers sharper images and finer detail than the Pixel 3a's 1080 x 2220 resolution. This makes the Galaxy S9 better for users who want a crisp screen for photos and videos.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S9 uses Super AMOLED technology, known for vivid colours and deep blacks. The Pixel 3a has an OLED screen, which still offers good contrast and colour but with a slightly different visual quality. Both are suited for enjoying media, with the Galaxy S9 leaning towards more vibrant output.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a camera
Camera and front-facing camera quality matter for photos, video calls, and selfies. Both phones have similar megapixel counts, which means comparable image detail.
Main Camera
The Galaxy S9 features a 12 megapixel main camera, while the Pixel 3a has a 12.2 megapixel camera. The slight difference in megapixels means both capture similar levels of detail, suitable for everyday photography.
Front Camera
Both phones have an 8 megapixel front camera, making them equally capable for selfies and video calls. This matches the needs of users who often use their front camera for social media or communication.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a size and design
Other features like storage options, SIM types, and physical dimensions influence how each phone fits into your daily life. These differences help match each device to particular user preferences.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S9 comes in 64GB and 128GB versions and supports microSDXC cards, allowing you to expand storage. The Pixel 3a is stocked with 64GB and does not support expandable storage, so it suits users comfortable with fixed internal space.
SIM Card Support
The Galaxy S9 uses a physical SIM only, while the Pixel 3a supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM. The eSIM option on the Pixel 3a provides flexibility for users who want to use multiple carriers or switch plans without changing SIM cards.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy S9 measures 147.7 mm in height, 68.7 mm in width, and 8.5 mm in depth, weighing 163 g. The Pixel 3a is slightly taller at 151.3 mm, wider at 70.1 mm, and a bit thicker at 8.2 mm, but lighter at 147 g. Users who prioritise a lighter phone may prefer the Pixel 3a, while those wanting a slightly smaller footprint might choose the Galaxy S9.
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Galaxy S9 or Google Pixel 3a: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S9 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £116.50, £38.50 less than the Google Pixel 3a
- you want a bigger screen (5.8 inch vs 5.6 inch)
- you want a memory card slot
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want a lighter build (147 g vs 163 g)
- you want the newer model (2019)
What our customers say
Customers buying the Galaxy S9 often mention that the phone looks like new or better than expected, even when purchased in fair or below excellent condition. Many appreciate the storage options, smooth performance, and the screen quality, although some note the battery may need topping up by evening. A few customers mention issues like overheating or minor screen problems, but most are pleased with the phone's functionality and appearance.
Reviews for the Google Pixel 3a highlight that the phone is in excellent condition and works well for everyday use. Some customers mention the phone runs slower or has charging issues, but others find it perfect for their needs and easy to set up. The eSIM support and lighter weight are appreciated by some users. There are occasional reports of hardware faults like a broken power button or employee lock, but these are not common.
The Galaxy S9 suits users wanting a larger, sharper screen and expandable storage, while the Pixel 3a appeals to those who prefer a lighter phone with eSIM support. Both are good for everyday Android use with similar cameras and battery sizes.
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a FAQs
Galaxy S9 vs Google Pixel 3a comes down to the screen size, screen type and main camera. The Galaxy S9 has a bigger screen: 5.8 inch vs 5.6 inch. Screen type: Super AMOLED on the Galaxy S9, OLED on the Google Pixel 3a.
The Galaxy S9 is cheaper refurbished, from £116.50 compared with £155 for the Google Pixel 3a.
Both have the same battery: 3000 mAh.
The Galaxy S9 has 12 megapixels and the Google Pixel 3a has 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S9 ended in Apr 2022. Updates for the Google Pixel 3a ended in May 2022. Its last version is Android 12.1.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S9 comes in 64GB and 128GB, and the Google Pixel 3a in 64GB.
