Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00
Google Pixel 9
Starting at
£314.00What's the difference between the Google Pixel 8a and Google Pixel 9?
Google Pixel 8a vs 9 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £125 less than the Google Pixel 9.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Main camera
- Chipset: Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9.
- The Google Pixel 9 has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- The Google Pixel 9 has a bigger battery: 4700 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 specs
The Pixel 9 offers a larger 6.3 inch screen with a slightly higher resolution and more RAM, suited for users who want a roomier display and smoother multitasking. The Pixel 8a has a smaller 6.1 inch screen and 8 GB RAM, enough for everyday tasks. The Pixel 8a has higher megapixel counts on both front and main cameras, which may appeal to those prioritising photo detail. The Pixel 9 has a bigger battery and newer chipset, which suits users looking for longer use and a more powerful processor. Storage options also differ, with the Pixel 9 available in 256GB for more space. Both phones are unlocked and support 5G, so either fits well for modern use depending on your needs.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- BlueSold out
- BeigeSold out
- GreenSold out
- BlackSold out
- BeigeSold out
- GreenSold out
- PinkSold out
Storage
- 128GBSold out
- 128GBSold out
- 256GBSold out
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 battery life and software updates
Both phones share key durability features like Android OS and 5G support. Differences in battery size and physical dimensions affect daily use and feel.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 9 has a 4700 mAh battery, slightly larger than the Pixel 8a's 4492 mAh. This means the Pixel 9 may run longer between charges, which suits users who need extended battery life throughout the day. The Pixel 8a's battery size is still solid for regular daily use.
Physical Size
The Pixel 9 is a little taller at 152.8 mm versus 152.1 mm for the Pixel 8a, and slightly wider at 72 mm compared to 72.7 mm. The Pixel 9 is also slimmer and a bit heavier at 198 g versus 188 g. This means the Pixel 9 offers a larger device feel with a more substantial grip, while the Pixel 8a is a bit more compact and lighter to carry.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 performance
Performance differences centre on chipset, RAM, and storage, affecting speed, multitasking, and available space.
Processor Power
The Pixel 9 uses the Google Tensor G4 chip built on a 4 nm process, while the Pixel 8a has the Google Tensor G3. The newer processor in the Pixel 9 is designed for smoother performance and efficiency, which benefits users who run demanding apps or multitask frequently. The Pixel 8a's chip handles everyday tasks comfortably.
Memory Capacity
With 12 GB RAM, the Pixel 9 supports keeping more apps open and switching between them smoothly. The Pixel 8a's 8 GB RAM is suitable for everyday use, such as browsing, messaging, and social media, but the Pixel 9 better suits users who want extra memory for heavier multitasking or gaming.
Storage Options
The Pixel 8a is stocked with 128GB storage, while the Pixel 9 offers 128GB and 256GB options. If you need more space for apps, photos, and files, the Pixel 9's larger storage choice is useful. The Pixel 8a's storage suits users with average space needs.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 screen
Screen differences influence how much you see and how smooth visuals appear. Both phones use OLED screens with the same refresh rate.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Pixel 9 has a 6.3 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2424, offering a larger and slightly taller display than the Pixel 8a's 6.1 inch screen at 1080 x 2400. This extra screen space suits watching videos or multitasking on screen. Both have 120 Hz refresh rates for smooth scrolling and animations.
Screen Type and Refresh Rate
Both phones use OLED screens with a 120 Hz refresh rate, which means vibrant colours and fluid motion. This makes either device good for media viewing and everyday use where smooth visuals matter.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 camera
Camera differences affect photo and selfie detail, which matters when capturing images or video calls.
Front Camera
The Pixel 8a has a 13 megapixel front camera, higher than the Pixel 9's 10.5 megapixels. This means the Pixel 8a may capture sharper selfies and video calls with more detail, which suits users who often use the front camera.
Main Camera
The Pixel 8a features a 64 megapixel main camera compared to the Pixel 9's 50 megapixels. The higher megapixel count on the Pixel 8a allows for capturing more detailed photos, which benefits users who prioritise photography detail.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 size and design
Other practical differences include connectivity, physical dimensions, and weight, affecting handling and carrier flexibility.
Carrier and SIM Options
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks, offering flexibility to use with a range of UK carriers. They also support a physical SIM plus eSIM, so either phone fits well with current network setups.
Connector Type
The Pixel 8a uses USB Type-C, while the Pixel 9 uses USB-C. Both are widely compatible charging and data ports. This means you can use common cables and accessories with either device.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The Pixel 9 is slimmer at 8.5 mm depth compared to 8.9 mm on the Pixel 8a. The Pixel 9 weighs 198 g while the Pixel 8a is lighter at 188 g. This means the Pixel 9 feels a bit more substantial in hand with a thinner profile, while the Pixel 8a is more compact and lighter.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 8a or Google Pixel 9: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £189, £125 less than the Google Pixel 9
- 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)
Buy the Google Pixel 9 if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4700 mAh vs 4492 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.3 inch vs 6.1 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Google Pixel 8a appreciate its like-new condition and reliability for everyday use. Many say the phone looks and feels new, with several praising the battery life and ease of setup. Users switching from other brands find it easy to use, and the camera quality is well received, fitting well for those who want good photo detail. Some buyers highlight the value for money and the compact size as positives.
For the Google Pixel 9, customers note its smooth performance and larger screen. Many mention it feels like a brand new phone with excellent battery life and good camera quality despite the lower megapixel count compared to the 8a. The phone suits those who want a bit more power and storage options. Some users mention that transferring data was straightforward and the device handles multitasking well.
Overall, the Pixel 8a is popular among buyers seeking a compact, sharp camera phone with solid battery life for everyday tasks. The Pixel 9 appeals to those wanting a larger screen, more RAM, and extra storage, suited for heavier use and media consumption.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 FAQs
Google Pixel 8a vs 9 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9. The Google Pixel 9 has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £314 for the Google Pixel 9.
The Google Pixel 9 has a bigger battery: 4700 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
The Google Pixel 8a has a higher-resolution main camera: 64 megapixels vs 50 megapixels.
The Google Pixel 8a gets updates until May 2031. The Google Pixel 9 gets updates until Aug 2031.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a comes in 128GB, and the Google Pixel 9 in 128GB and 256GB.
