Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a
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Google Pixel 8
Starting at
£205.00
Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00What's the difference between the Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8a?
Google Pixel 8 vs 8a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £16 less than the Google Pixel 8. The Google Pixel 8a is the newer model, released in 2024.
Refurbished from
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- Chipset: Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 8, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a.
- Battery: 4575 mAh on the Google Pixel 8, 4492 mAh on the Google Pixel 8a.
- Screen size: 6.2 inch on the Google Pixel 8, 6.1 inch on the Google Pixel 8a.
Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a specs
The Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a share many core features like the same Tensor G3 chipset and 8 GB RAM, making both capable for everyday tasks and multitasking. The Pixel 8 has a slightly larger 6.2 inch screen and a bigger 4575 mAh battery, suited for those who want a bit more display space and longer battery capacity. The Pixel 8a offers a higher resolution front camera at 13 megapixels and a main camera with 64 megapixels, ideal for users who prioritise photography. Storage options differ too, with the Pixel 8 available in 128GB and 256GB, while the Pixel 8a comes with 128GB only. Each device suits different needs depending on whether you value screen size, battery capacity, or camera detail more.
Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a price
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Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a battery life and software updates
Battery size and operating system are key factors in how these phones perform daily. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a offer different choices in battery capacity and software.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 8 has a 4575 mAh battery which offers a slightly larger capacity than the Pixel 8a's 4492 mAh. This means the Pixel 8 might keep going a little longer between charges, which can suit users who need extended use away from power sources. The Pixel 8a still has a sizeable battery that should comfortably support typical daily use.
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Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a performance
Both phones share the Google Tensor G3 chipset and 8 GB RAM, ensuring smooth performance for common apps and multitasking. Storage options differ between them.
Processor and RAM
Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a use the Google Tensor G3 chipset, with the Pixel 8 specifying it is built on a 4 nm process, while the Pixel 8a lists the same chipset without this detail. Each device includes 8 GB of RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly and supports good multitasking.
Storage Options
The Pixel 8 offers 128GB and 256GB storage variants, giving more choice for users who need extra space for apps, photos, and files. The Pixel 8a is available with 128GB storage, which suits most everyday needs but might require more frequent management of storage if you keep large amounts of data.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a screen
Screen size and type influence your viewing experience. Both devices share the same resolution and refresh rate, but screen dimensions differ slightly.
Screen Size
The Pixel 8 has a 6.2 inch OLED screen, offering a bit more room for watching videos, reading, and browsing. The Pixel 8a features a 6.1 inch OLED screen, which might feel more compact and easier to handle with one hand. Both have a 120 Hz refresh rate and 1080 by 2400 resolution, providing smooth motion and sharp images.
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Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a camera
Camera quality varies notably between these two models, especially on the front and main cameras, which affects photo and video detail.
Front Camera
The Pixel 8a offers a 13 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail compared to the Pixel 8's 10.5 megapixel front camera. This makes the Pixel 8a a good choice for those who take many selfies or use video calls frequently.
Main Camera
With a 64 megapixel main camera, the Pixel 8a captures higher resolution photos than the Pixel 8's 50 megapixel main camera. Users who prioritise sharper, more detailed pictures may prefer the Pixel 8a for photography.
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a size and design
Several physical and connectivity aspects are similar, but there are differences in size, storage, and physical dimensions that might influence your choice.
Dimensions and Weight
The Pixel 8a is slightly taller and wider at 152.1 mm by 72.7 mm compared to the Pixel 8's 150.5 mm by 70.8 mm. Both share the same depth of 8.9 mm and are very close in weight, with the Pixel 8 at 187 g and the Pixel 8a at 188 g. The Pixel 8a may feel a little larger in the hand.
Connectivity and SIM
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks. Each uses a USB Type-C connector and supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM, providing flexibility for network choices.
Storage Variants Stocked
The Pixel 8 is stocked in two storage options, 128GB and 256GB, while the Pixel 8a is stocked with 128GB only. This means if you want higher storage capacity, the Pixel 8 offers more options.
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Google Pixel 8 or Google Pixel 8a: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £189, £16 less than the Google Pixel 8
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (64 megapixels vs 50 megapixels)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 10.5 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers who have bought the Google Pixel 8 often highlight its like-new condition and solid performance. Many mention the phone's fast speed, good battery life, and excellent camera quality, especially for photos. The size and feel suit those who want a compact phone with a sharp screen. Some users note the fingerprint sensor can be sensitive to screen protectors, but overall the Pixel 8 is praised for reliability and ease of use. Several customers find the Pixel 8 a great choice when moving from older models or switching back to Android.
Buyers of the Google Pixel 8a appreciate its pristine condition and how it compares favourably to their previous phones. The Pixel 8a's battery life and camera quality receive positive mentions, with some users valuing the high-resolution front and main cameras. The phone's size and simplicity suit users looking for a straightforward, reliable handset for everyday use. New Pixel users and those transitioning from other brands report satisfaction with ease of setup and overall performance.
Both phones appeal to different users: the Pixel 8 suits those who want a slightly larger screen and more storage options, while the Pixel 8a is a solid choice for those prioritising camera detail and a compact design.
Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a FAQs
Google Pixel 8 vs 8a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 8, Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a. Battery: 4575 mAh on the Google Pixel 8, 4492 mAh on the Google Pixel 8a.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £205 for the Google Pixel 8.
The Google Pixel 8 has 4575 mAh and the Google Pixel 8a has 4492 mAh.
The Google Pixel 8a has a higher-resolution main camera: 64 megapixels vs 50 megapixels.
The Google Pixel 8 gets updates until Oct 2030. The Google Pixel 8a gets updates until May 2031.
The Google Pixel 8a adds a higher-resolution main camera (64 megapixels vs 50 megapixels), a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 10.5 megapixels) and longer software support (until May 2031 vs until Oct 2030). Refurbished, it costs £16 less (from £189 vs £205).
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8 comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the Google Pixel 8a in 128GB.
