Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a
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Google Pixel 3 XL
Starting at
£100.00
Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00What's the difference between the Google Pixel 3 XL and Google Pixel 3a?
Google Pixel 3 XL vs 3a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 XL starts at £100, £55 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 XL, Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a.
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger screen: 6.3 inch vs 5.6 inch.
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a specs
The Google Pixel 3 XL and Google Pixel 3a both run Android and offer similar camera and memory configurations, making them strong choices for users who value familiar software and solid photography. The Pixel 3 XL features a larger screen with higher resolution and a bigger battery, which suits users who prefer a more expansive display and longer battery capacity. The Pixel 3a is smaller, lighter and uses an OLED screen, ideal for those who want a more compact phone for everyday use. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise screen size and battery or a lighter, smaller device.
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- PinkSold out
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
- 128GBSold out
- 64GBSold out
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a battery life and software updates
Durability covers the battery size and software support, which affect how long the phone lasts on a charge and its software updates.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a 3430 mAh battery, offering a larger capacity for longer use between charges. The Google Pixel 3a has a 3000 mAh battery, which may suit users who prefer a lighter phone and are comfortable charging more often.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a performance
Performance relates to the chipset, RAM and storage options, influencing speed, multitasking and how much data you can keep on your device.
Processor Differences
The Google Pixel 3 XL uses the Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 chipset, while the Google Pixel 3a uses the Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670. Both chipsets are made with 10 nm technology, but the Snapdragon 845 is a higher-tier processor, which may be more responsive for demanding apps and tasks.
Memory and Storage
Both phones have 4 GB of RAM, supporting smooth everyday app use. The Google Pixel 3 XL offers storage options of 64GB and 128GB, appealing to users who want more space for apps and media. The Google Pixel 3a is available with 64GB of storage, which suits users with moderate storage needs.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a screen
Screen quality affects how much you see and the clarity of images. These two phones differ in size, resolution and screen technology.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a larger 6.3 inch screen with a high resolution of 1440 x 2960 pixels, ideal for watching videos and browsing with more detail. The Google Pixel 3a offers a smaller 5.6 inch screen at 1080 x 2220 resolution, which suits users who prefer a more compact display for everyday tasks.
Screen Type
The Google Pixel 3 XL uses a P-OLED screen, which provides vibrant colours and deep blacks. The Google Pixel 3a features an OLED screen, also known for good colour and contrast. Both screens offer quality viewing experiences suited to their size.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a camera
Audiovisual features cover the main and front cameras. Both phones have the same camera specifications, so their photography and video capabilities are similar.
Camera Specifications
Both the Google Pixel 3 XL and Google Pixel 3a have a 12.2 megapixel main camera and an 8 megapixel front camera. This means both phones can capture detailed photos and clear selfies, making them well suited for everyday photography.
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a size and design
The miscellaneous section covers physical dimensions, weight, network compatibility and SIM options, which affect portability and connectivity.
Size and Weight
The Google Pixel 3 XL measures 158 mm in height, 76.7 mm in width and 7.9 mm in depth, weighing 184 g. It suits users who prefer a larger phone with a substantial feel. The Google Pixel 3a is smaller and lighter at 151.3 mm tall, 70.1 mm wide, 8.2 mm deep and 147 g in weight, making it more comfortable for one-handed use or pocket carry.
Network and SIM
Both phones support 4G networks and are unlocked, giving you flexibility to use them with various carriers. Each device supports a physical SIM and eSIM, allowing dual SIM use or easy switching between plans.
Carrier compatibility
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 3 XL or Google Pixel 3a: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £100, £55 less than the Google Pixel 3a
- you want a bigger battery (3430 mAh vs 3000 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.3 inch vs 5.6 inch)
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want a lighter build (147 g vs 184 g)
- you want the newer model (2019)
What our customers say
Customers generally say the Google Pixel 3 XL looks like new and works well, with several noting it has no scratches and performs as expected. Some mention battery life as a concern, while others praise its quality and camera. A few customers reported issues with Bluetooth or the camera, but many remain happy with the phone's condition. The size and screen seem to suit those used to larger phones.
For the Google Pixel 3a, customers describe it as being in excellent condition and working perfectly, with some buying it to replace previous units due to battery problems. The smaller size and simplicity make it a good everyday device for many, although some mention slower performance or occasional charging and button issues. Overall, users appreciate its reliability and compact design.
The Google Pixel 3 XL suits users who want a larger screen and more storage options, while the Google Pixel 3a fits those who prefer a lighter, smaller phone for daily tasks.
Google Pixel 3 XL vs Google Pixel 3a FAQs
Google Pixel 3 XL vs 3a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3 XL, Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a. The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £100 compared with £155 for the Google Pixel 3a.
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 3 XL 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 lighter build (147 g vs 184 g). Refurbished, it costs £55 more (from £155 vs £100).
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3 XL comes in 64GB and 128GB, and the Google Pixel 3a in 64GB.
