Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 3
Starting at
£121.00
Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00What's the difference between the Google Pixel 3 and Google Pixel 3a?
Google Pixel 3 vs 3a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 starts at £121, £34 less than the Google Pixel 3a. The Google Pixel 3a is the newer model, released in 2019.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Software updates
- Chipset: Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3, Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a.
- The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2915 mAh.
- Screen size: 5.5 inch on the Google Pixel 3, 5.6 inch on the Google Pixel 3a.
Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a specs
The Google Pixel 3 and Pixel 3a differ in several ways that suit different needs. The Pixel 3 has a more powerful Snapdragon 845 chipset, making it better for users who want faster performance. The Pixel 3a offers a slightly larger screen with a bit higher resolution, ideal if you prefer a roomier display for video or reading. Battery capacity is close, with the Pixel 3a holding a bit more charge, which can help if you use your phone extensively. Choose the Pixel 3 for stronger performance and a smaller size. Pick the Pixel 3a for a bigger screen and marginally longer battery life.
Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- WhiteSold out
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
- 64GBSold out
Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, operating system, and software update support. Both devices share some features but differ in battery capacity, which affects usage time.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3a has a 3000 mAh battery, slightly larger than the Pixel 3's 2915 mAh. This means the Pixel 3a may offer a bit more screen-on time or standby duration, which benefits those who use their phone heavily throughout the day.
Operating System And Updates
This means you will have access to a stable Android experience but without the newest features or security patches beyond their last supported version.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a performance
Performance depends largely on the chipset and memory. Both devices have the same RAM amount and storage options, but their processors differ, which affects speed and responsiveness.
Processor Differences
The Google Pixel 3 uses the Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 chipset, while the Pixel 3a uses the Snapdragon 670. The Snapdragon 845 is a higher tier chipset, delivering faster performance and smoother multitasking. This is suitable if you run demanding apps or prefer quicker overall responsiveness.
Memory And Storage
Both devices offer 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage. This combination supports everyday apps and media storage comfortably, making them both capable for general use and moderate multitasking.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a screen
Screen quality involves size, resolution, and panel technology. These influence how much you see and the visual experience when watching videos or browsing.
Screen Size And Resolution
The Google Pixel 3a has a slightly larger 5.6 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2220, compared to the Pixel 3's 5.5 inch display at 1080 x 2160. The extra screen real estate and pixels on the Pixel 3a provide a bit more room for viewing content and can feel more immersive.
Screen Type
The Pixel 3 features a P-OLED screen, while the Pixel 3a uses an OLED panel. Both technologies offer rich colours and deep blacks, but P-OLED can differ subtly in brightness and contrast. Users who value screen detail and vibrant images may notice these differences when comparing the two.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a camera
Audiovisual features like cameras are important for capturing photos and video calls. Both devices have the same camera specifications, making them comparable in this area.
Camera Quality
Both the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3a have an 8 megapixel front camera and a 12.2 megapixel main camera. This means they capture images with the same level of detail, suitable for everyday photography and video calls.
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a size and design
Other practical details include size, weight, network compatibility, and physical features. These affect how the phone feels in hand and how it connects.
Dimensions And Weight
The Pixel 3 measures 145.6 mm in height, 68.2 mm in width, and 7.9 mm in depth, weighing 148 g. The Pixel 3a is taller and wider at 151.3 mm and 70.1 mm, is slightly thicker at 8.2 mm, and weighs 147 g. The Pixel 3 suits those who prefer a smaller phone, while the Pixel 3a fits users who want a larger display but with similar weight.
Network And SIM
Both phones support 4G mobile networks and come unlocked with the same SIM options: physical SIM plus eSIM. This provides flexibility for different network providers.
Storage Expansion
Neither device includes an SD card slot. Storage is fixed at 64 GB, so plan accordingly for your apps and media files.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 3 or Google Pixel 3a: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £121, £34 less than the Google Pixel 3a
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 2915 mAh)
- you want the newer model (2019)
What our customers say
Customers find the Google Pixel 3 attractive for its small size and light weight, appreciating how it fits comfortably in hand. Many say it looks like new and works perfectly, with good performance for everyday use. Some mention keeping an eye on battery life, though experiences vary. The screen condition is generally well received, though one customer noted a slight pinky orange tint. Battery and charging issues appear rare but can affect some users.
For the Google Pixel 3a, customers appreciate the condition and find it works well for everyday tasks. The larger screen is suited to those who want more display space. Some users report slower performance and occasional charging problems. Others have used the device for different operating systems without issue. Battery replacements have been noted, which suggests some users value the option to refresh the battery. Build quality and ease of setup are praised by several customers.
Both devices suit users looking for reliable Android phones with solid cameras and 64 GB storage. The Pixel 3 is better for those wanting stronger processing power and a smaller form factor. The Pixel 3a appeals to users who prefer a bigger screen and slightly longer battery life with straightforward Android usage.
Google Pixel 3 vs Google Pixel 3a FAQs
Google Pixel 3 vs 3a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3, Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a. The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2915 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3 is cheaper refurbished, from £121 compared with £155 for the Google Pixel 3a.
The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2915 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 3 ended in Oct 2021. Its last version is Android 12. Updates for the Google Pixel 3a ended in May 2022. Its last version is Android 12.1.
The Google Pixel 3a adds a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 2915 mAh). Refurbished, it costs £34 more (from £155 vs £121).
Both come in 64GB refurbished.
