Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 3a
Starting at
£155.00
iPhone XS
Starting at
£138.35£559.00 newWhat's the difference between the Google Pixel 3a and iPhone XS?
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone XS starts at £138.35, £16.65 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
Main camera
- Chipset: Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS.
- The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
- The iPhone XS has a bigger screen: 5.8 inch vs 5.6 inch.
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS specs
The Google Pixel 3a and iPhone XS differ in several key areas that suit different users. The Pixel 3a offers a larger battery and comes with Android, making it suitable for those who prefer that operating system and value longer battery life. Screen quality varies with the iPhone XS providing a higher resolution and a larger display, ideal for media consumption. Camera options are close, with the Pixel 3a offering a higher front camera resolution. Storage options also differ, with the iPhone XS available in larger capacities for those needing more space. Overall, the Pixel 3a suits everyday use and Android fans, while the iPhone XS fits those seeking high performance and iOS compatibility.
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS price
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, and operating systems. These factors affect how long you can use the phone each day and how current the software remains over time.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 3a has a 3000 mAh battery, which provides more power capacity than the iPhone XS's 2658 mAh. This difference may mean the Pixel 3a lasts longer between charges for everyday tasks. If you often use your phone away from a charger, the Pixel 3a's larger battery could be beneficial.
Software Updates
Users who prioritise up-to-date software may prefer the iPhone XS.
Operating System Choice
The Pixel 3a runs on Android, while the iPhone XS uses iOS. Your preference for either operating system will shape your experience, app availability, and ecosystem compatibility.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. These define how smoothly the device runs apps, handles multitasking, and stores your files.
Processor Power
The iPhone XS features the Apple A12 Bionic chipset, which is designed for high performance. The Google Pixel 3a uses the Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 chipset, suitable for everyday use. If you regularly use demanding apps or want faster response times, the iPhone XS may suit you better.
Memory
Both phones have 4 GB of RAM, which supports smooth multitasking for common apps and tasks. You can expect similar performance here for everyday use.
Storage Options
The Pixel 3a is available with 64GB of storage, which is enough for typical use including apps and media. The iPhone XS offers 64GB and 256GB options, making it a good choice if you want more space for photos, videos, or large apps.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS screen
Screen quality affects how you view content, from web browsing to watching videos. Differences in size, resolution, and screen type shape your visual experience.
Screen Size
The iPhone XS has a 5.8 inch screen, slightly larger than the Pixel 3a's 5.6 inch display. A larger screen suits those who want more room for videos, games, or reading.
Resolution
The iPhone XS offers a resolution of 1125 x 2436 pixels, providing a sharper image compared to the Pixel 3a's 1080 x 2220 resolution. This higher pixel count benefits users who value clear, detailed visuals.
Screen Type
Both phones use OLED technology, with the iPhone XS featuring a Super Retina OLED screen. This screen type supports vivid colours and deep blacks, enhancing the viewing experience on the iPhone XS.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS camera
Camera quality is key for selfies and photos. Front and main camera megapixels indicate the detail you can capture.
Front Camera Detail
The Google Pixel 3a has an 8 megapixel front camera, offering more resolution than the iPhone XS's 7 megapixels. This may benefit those who frequently take selfies or video calls and want sharper front images.
Main Camera Detail
The Pixel 3a's main camera has 12.2 megapixels, just above the iPhone XS's 12 megapixels. Both cameras are capable of capturing detailed photos, so either phone suits photography enthusiasts looking for clear images.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS size and design
Miscellaneous features include physical size, weight, network compatibility, and SIM options. These affect how the phone feels and fits into your daily life.
Size and Weight
The Google Pixel 3a measures 151.3 mm in height and weighs 147 g, making it taller but lighter than the iPhone XS, which is 143.6 mm tall and weighs 177 g. If you prefer a lighter phone that feels less bulky, the Pixel 3a suits you. The iPhone XS is slightly more compact in height.
SIM and Network
Both phones support 4G networks and offer a physical SIM plus eSIM. This makes either suitable for flexible mobile plans and travel.
Carrier Compatibility
Each device is unlocked, giving you the freedom to choose your mobile carrier without restrictions.
Depth and Width
The Pixel 3a is 8.2 mm thick and 70.1 mm wide, while the iPhone XS is slimmer at 7.7 mm thick and slightly wider at 70.9 mm. These subtle differences affect how the phone fits in your hand and pocket.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
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Width
Google Pixel 3a or iPhone XS: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 3a if
- you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (8 megapixels vs 7 megapixels)
- you want a lighter build (147 g vs 177 g)
Buy the iPhone XS if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £138.35, £16.65 less than the Google Pixel 3a
- you want a bigger screen (5.8 inch vs 5.6 inch)
What our customers say
Customers of the Google Pixel 3a appreciate its reliable condition and overall performance for everyday tasks. Many report excellent condition and easy setup, with some noting it runs perfectly with no signs of wear. A few mention slower performance and charging issues, while others value the battery replacement options and the ability to install alternative operating systems like Ubuntu. Overall, buyers feel confident ordering the Pixel 3a again, praising the phone's balance of features and condition.
Reviews for the iPhone XS highlight its like-new appearance and smooth operation. Customers enjoy the compact size and good battery life, often noting the phone feels fresh and well maintained, even in higher storage capacities. Some users mention minor cosmetic marks or specific camera issues, but most are pleased with the phone's performance and camera quality. The iPhone XS is frequently praised for its smooth running of apps and ease of setup.
Both phones suit different needs: the Pixel 3a appeals to those who want solid everyday performance on Android with a lighter device, while the iPhone XS fits buyers seeking a compact, high-performance phone with the latest iOS support and larger storage options.
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS FAQs
Google Pixel 3a vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Qualcomm SDM670 Snapdragon 670 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3a, Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS. The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
The iPhone XS is cheaper refurbished, from £138.35 compared with £155 for the Google Pixel 3a.
The Google Pixel 3a has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
The Google Pixel 3a has 12.2 megapixels and the iPhone XS has 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Google Pixel 3a ended in May 2022. Its last version is Android 12.1. Updates for the iPhone XS ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 3a comes in 64GB, and the iPhone XS in 64GB and 256GB.
