Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL
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Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00
Google Pixel 4 XL
Starting at
£149.99What's the difference between the Google Pixel 3a and Google Pixel 4 XL?
Google Pixel 3a vs 4 XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 4 XL starts at £149.99, £5.01 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 XL.
- The Google Pixel 4 XL has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL specs
The Google Pixel 3a and Google Pixel 4 XL, both released in 2019, suit different user needs based on their features. The Pixel 3a is lighter and smaller with a simpler screen and less powerful chipset, fitting everyday use and easier handling. The Pixel 4 XL offers a larger, higher-resolution screen and more RAM for smoother multitasking and richer visuals. It has a bigger battery to support its larger display but is heavier and wider. Choose the Pixel 3a for a compact, straightforward phone and the Pixel 4 XL for a roomier screen and stronger performance.
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- WhiteSold out
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
- 64GBSold out
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery size, software updates, and the operating system. Battery capacity differs, which affects how long each lasts between charges.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a 3700 mAh battery, which is larger than the Pixel 3a's 3000 mAh. This means the Pixel 4 XL can generally last longer on a single charge, which suits users who prefer more screen time or heavier use. The Pixel 3a's smaller battery supports everyday use and lighter activity.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL performance
Performance depends on processor power, memory, and storage. These affect how smoothly apps run and how well the phone handles multitasking and demanding tasks.
Processor
The Pixel 4 XL features a Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 chipset built on a 7 nm process, which is more powerful and energy efficient compared to the Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) in the Pixel 3a. This means the Pixel 4 XL is better suited to users who want stronger performance for apps and multitasking.
RAM
With 6 GB of RAM, the Pixel 4 XL keeps more apps open and running smoothly at once. The Pixel 3a has 4 GB of RAM, which is enough for everyday use and simpler multitasking but may be less suited to heavy app use.
Storage
Both phones come with 64GB of storage in the models stocked here, providing the same space for apps, photos, and files.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL screen
Screen quality is important for how content looks and how much space you have for viewing. Differences include size, resolution, and screen technology.
Screen Size
The Pixel 4 XL has a 6.3 inch screen, giving you more room for watching videos, browsing, or using apps comfortably. The Pixel 3a has a smaller 5.6 inch screen that fits more easily in a pocket or smaller hand.
Resolution
With a resolution of 1440 x 3040, the Pixel 4 XL offers sharper and more detailed images compared to the Pixel 3a's 1080 x 2220. This suits users who value clearer text and richer visuals.
Screen Type
The Pixel 3a uses an OLED screen, while the Pixel 4 XL has a P-OLED display. Both provide vibrant colours and deep blacks, enhancing viewing quality.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL camera
Audiovisual features focus on camera capabilities. Both phones share the same front and main camera megapixel counts, providing similar photo and video quality.
Camera Resolution
Both the Pixel 3a and Pixel 4 XL have an 8 megapixel front camera and a 12.2 megapixel main camera. This means they capture photos and selfies with similar detail and quality, suitable for everyday photography.
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL size and design
Other physical and connectivity features affect comfort, compatibility, and expandability. Size, weight, and network options vary between the two devices.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 4 XL is taller at 160.4 mm and wider at 75.1 mm, weighing 193 g, making it more substantial in hand. The Pixel 3a is smaller at 151.3 mm tall and 70.1 mm wide, and lighter at 147 g, which suits users preferring a compact and lighter phone.
Network and SIM
Both phones support 4G mobile networks and use a combination of a physical SIM card and eSIM, offering flexible options for mobile connectivity.
Expandable Storage
Neither device supports an SD card slot, so storage is fixed at the internal 64GB available on both models stocked.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 3a or Google Pixel 4 XL: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want a lighter build (147 g vs 193 g)
Buy the Google Pixel 4 XL if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £149.99, £5.01 less than the Google Pixel 3a
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3700 mAh vs 3000 mAh)
What our customers say
Customers of the Google Pixel 3a often praise its condition and reliability, noting that the phone works perfectly and looks like new. Some mention it runs slower or has occasional charging problems, but others appreciate its suitability for everyday use and enjoy installing alternative operating systems like Ubuntu. The phone is seen as easy to set up and good for those who want a straightforward smartphone experience.
Reviews for the Google Pixel 4 XL highlight its larger, high-resolution screen and solid performance. Many customers comment that the phone looks almost new with minimal signs of wear. Some users appreciate the Android system and consider switching fully from other platforms. However, there are mixed experiences with battery life, with a few reports of faults. Overall, it is seen as a good value for those who want a bigger display and more memory.
The Pixel 3a suits customers who want a lighter, more compact phone for everyday tasks. The Pixel 4 XL appeals to those who prefer a roomier screen and stronger performance, accepting a larger, heavier device.
Google Pixel 3a vs Google Pixel 4 XL FAQs
Google Pixel 3a vs 4 XL 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 XL. The Google Pixel 4 XL has more RAM: 6 GB vs 4 GB.
The Google Pixel 4 XL is cheaper refurbished, from £149.99 compared with £155 for the Google Pixel 3a.
The Google Pixel 4 XL has a bigger battery: 3700 mAh vs 3000 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 XL ended in Oct 2022. Its last version is Android 13.
Both come in 64GB refurbished.
