Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4
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Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00
Google Pixel 4
Starting at
£131.91What's the difference between the Google Pixel 3a and Google Pixel 4?
Google Pixel 3a vs 4 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 starts at £131.91, £23.09 less than the Google Pixel 3a.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a, Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 4.
- The Google Pixel 4 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2800 mAh.
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 specs
Both the Google Pixel 3a and Pixel 4 launched in 2019 and offer solid Android experiences, but they suit different user needs. The Pixel 4 provides a sharper screen resolution and a slightly larger display, making it better for watching videos and browsing. It also has a faster chipset and more RAM, which helps with multitasking and demanding apps. Meanwhile, the Pixel 3a has a larger battery capacity, which may offer longer usage between charges. Storage options vary too, with the Pixel 4 available in 64GB and 128GB, while the Pixel 3a comes in 64GB only. Weight and size also differ, with the Pixel 3a being lighter and a bit taller. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise performance and screen detail or battery life and a lighter device.
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 price
Colour
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Storage
- 64GBSold out
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Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and software updates affect how long a device lasts in daily use. Both phones run Android and are from 2019, so their software base is similar. Battery size influences how long you can use them before recharging.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3a has a 3000 mAh battery, which is larger than the Pixel 4's 2800 mAh. This means the Pixel 3a is suited for users who need extra battery life for longer days without charging. The Pixel 4's slightly smaller battery may require more frequent charging in heavy use.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. These affect how smoothly the phone runs apps and handles multitasking.
Processor
The Pixel 4 features a Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 chipset built on a 7 nm process, which offers better efficiency and power than the Pixel 3a's Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 built on a 10 nm process. This suits users who run more demanding apps or multitask frequently.
Memory
With 6 GB of RAM, the Pixel 4 can keep more apps open simultaneously and handle more intensive tasks smoothly. The Pixel 3a has 4 GB of RAM, which is suitable for everyday use and lighter multitasking.
Storage Options
The Pixel 4 is available in both 64GB and 128GB storage options, giving you more space for apps, photos, and media if you choose the larger capacity. The Pixel 3a comes with 64GB of storage, which suits users with moderate storage needs.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 screen
Screen size, resolution and type determine your viewing experience, affecting clarity, colour and space for content.
Screen Size
The Pixel 4 has a 5.7 inch screen, slightly larger than the Pixel 3a's 5.6 inch display. This extra size offers a bit more room for watching videos or browsing websites.
Resolution
The Pixel 4's screen resolution is 1080 x 2280 pixels, providing a slightly taller display compared to the Pixel 3a's 1080 x 2220 pixels. This means the Pixel 4 offers a marginally sharper and more detailed viewing experience.
Screen Type
The Pixel 3a uses an OLED screen, while the Pixel 4 has a P-OLED screen. Both types provide vibrant colours and deep blacks, but the difference in naming does not imply a major visual change for everyday use.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 camera
Camera quality is important for capturing photos and selfies, while the front camera also plays a role in video calls and portraits.
Main Camera
Both devices have a 12.2 megapixel main camera, delivering similar detail and quality for photos and videos.
Front Camera
Each phone features an 8 megapixel front camera, suitable for selfies and video calls with comparable clarity.
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 size and design
Other differences include size, weight, carrier compatibility and storage expansion options. These factors can impact comfort and flexibility.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 3a measures 151.3 mm in height and 70.1 mm in width, weighing 147 g. The Pixel 4 is shorter and narrower at 147.1 mm tall and 68.8 mm wide but weighs more at 162 g. The Pixel 3a suits those who prefer a lighter, taller device, while the Pixel 4 offers a more compact feel with added weight.
Carrier Compatibility and SIM
Both phones work with any network and support a physical SIM plus eSIM, giving flexibility in choosing or changing carriers.
Storage Expansion
Neither the Pixel 3a nor the Pixel 4 includes an SD card slot, so storage expansion with external cards is not possible.
Depth
Both devices have the same depth of 8.2 mm, meaning their thickness feels similar in hand or pocket.
Mobile Network
Both phones support 4G networks, allowing for fast mobile data speeds where available.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 3a or Google Pixel 4: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 2800 mAh)
- you want a lighter build (147 g vs 162 g)
Buy the Google Pixel 4 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £131.91, £23.09 less than the Google Pixel 3a
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
What our customers say
Customers of the Google Pixel 3a find it reliable for everyday use, with many praising its condition and ease of setup. Some mention it being slow at times or having minor charging issues, but most appreciate its performance for general apps and tasks. The battery life is noted positively by users replacing older devices. A few have experienced hardware problems like a faulty power button or employee locks, but overall the phone is seen as a solid choice for those wanting a dependable refurbished Pixel.
The Google Pixel 4 receives praise for its screen quality and battery, with customers happy about its condition and performance. Some users note issues with face lock and battery health, reporting common screen problems like dead pixels or green lines. Despite these concerns, many find it meets their needs well and appreciate its capabilities for daily tasks. The phone is described as functioning better than expected by several buyers, though some report battery life challenges.
The Pixel 3a suits buyers looking for a lighter phone with a larger battery and sufficient power for everyday apps. The Pixel 4 is better for those who value a sharper screen, more RAM, and slightly faster processing for multitasking or media use.
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 FAQs
Google Pixel 3a vs 4 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a, Qualcomm SM8150 Snapdragon 855 (7 nm) on the Google Pixel 4. The Google Pixel 4 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Google Pixel 4 is cheaper refurbished, from £131.91 compared with £155 for the Google Pixel 3a.
The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2800 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 3a ended in May 2022. Its last version is Android 12.1. Updates for the Google Pixel 4 ended in Oct 2022. Its last version is Android 13.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3a comes in 64GB, and the Google Pixel 4 in 64GB and 128GB.
