Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a
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Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00
Google Pixel 9a
Starting at
£265.00What's the difference between the Google Pixel 8a and Google Pixel 9a?
Google Pixel 8a vs 9a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £76 less than the Google Pixel 9a. The Google Pixel 9a is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9a.
- The Google Pixel 9a has a bigger battery: 5100 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
- The Google Pixel 9a has a bigger screen: 6.3 inch vs 6.1 inch.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a specs
The Google Pixel 8a and Pixel 9a both run Android and support 5G, offering solid performance and similar storage and memory. The Pixel 9a has a larger 6.3 inch P-OLED screen with a slightly higher resolution, making it better for watching videos or browsing. Its battery capacity is bigger at 5100 mAh, which suits users wanting longer usage between charges. The Pixel 9a also uses the newer Google Tensor G4 chipset, providing an upgrade in processing power. The Pixel 8a is more compact with a smaller 6.1 inch OLED screen and a 4492 mAh battery, ideal for those who prefer a lighter, easier-to-handle phone. Both phones have the same front camera resolution and are unlocked for use with any carrier.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a price
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Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a battery life and software updates
Durability involves battery capacity and software support, which affects how long each device lasts daily and over time.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 8a has a 4492 mAh battery, which offers solid daily use for most users. The Pixel 9a's larger 5100 mAh battery is suited to those who want longer periods between charges, making it a good choice if you often use your phone for extended periods without easy access to charging.
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Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a performance
Performance here focuses on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. Both phones provide smooth multitasking and storage suitable for everyday apps and media.
Processor
The Pixel 8a runs on the Google Tensor G3 chipset, capable of handling daily tasks and apps efficiently. The Pixel 9a upgrades to the Google Tensor G4 (4 nm), which offers improved processing power and efficiency, benefiting users who want a faster or more responsive experience.
Memory and Storage
Both devices come with 8 GB of RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly. Storage is 128GB on each device, providing ample space for apps, photos, and media without needing an SD card.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a screen
Screen quality impacts how you view content and interact with your phone. The Pixel 9a offers a slightly larger and higher resolution display with a different OLED technology, which can affect brightness and colour.
Screen Size and Resolution
The Pixel 8a has a 6.1 inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400, which is comfortable for one-handed use and fits easily in a pocket. The Pixel 9a's screen is larger at 6.3 inches with a resolution of 1080 x 2424, giving more space and a bit more detail for videos and browsing.
Screen Type
The Pixel 8a uses an OLED display, known for deep blacks and vibrant colours. The Pixel 9a features a P-OLED screen, a variation that can offer improved display performance in some lighting conditions, which could appeal if you often use your phone outdoors or for viewing photos.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a camera
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a size and design
Other features include physical dimensions, weight, carrier compatibility, and connectivity, which affect daily handling and flexibility.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 8a measures 152.1 mm in height and 72.7 mm in width, weighing 188 g. The Pixel 9a is slightly taller at 154.7 mm and wider at 73.3 mm but weighs a little less at 186 g. The Pixel 8a suits users who prefer a more compact phone, while the Pixel 9a offers a bigger screen in a weight that remains comfortable.
Carrier and SIM Options
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks, with the option for a physical SIM card plus eSIM. This makes them flexible choices for various carriers and plans.
Connector Type
The Pixel 8a uses USB Type-C and the Pixel 9a uses USB-C. Both are widely supported connector types for charging and data transfer.
Expansion and Design
Neither phone has an SD card slot, so storage relies on the internal 128GB. The depth of both phones is 8.9 mm, keeping a slim profile.
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Height
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Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
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Width
Google Pixel 8a or Google Pixel 9a: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £189, £76 less than the Google Pixel 9a
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (64 megapixels vs 48 megapixels)
Buy the Google Pixel 9a if
- you want a bigger battery (5100 mAh vs 4492 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.3 inch vs 6.1 inch)
- you want longer software support (until Apr 2032 vs until May 2031)
What our customers say
Customers choosing the Google Pixel 8a appreciate its condition, often noting it looks and feels like new. Many mention its battery life holds well and performs reliably for everyday use. The 6.1 inch screen and solid performance suit those who want a manageable size and smooth Android experience. Some users mention ease of setup and a good introduction to Google Pixel phones. Occasional notes mention regional model differences but overall satisfaction with the device's quality and value.
Reviews for the Google Pixel 9a highlight its strong performance and good battery life, with users appreciating the larger screen and smooth operation. The phone is described as looking new and running well, with some users noting the straightforward setup, though a few mention language defaults and initial setup challenges. The 8 GB RAM and Tensor G4 chipset provide fast and responsive use, suitable for users wanting a bit more screen space and processing power. Customers also value the unlocked status and 5G support.
Both phones attract buyers who want a reliable refurbished Pixel with good battery and performance. The Pixel 8a suits people who prefer a smaller and lighter phone, while the Pixel 9a appeals to those wanting a larger screen and newer chipset for everyday use.
Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9a FAQs
Google Pixel 8a vs 9a comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a, Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) on the Google Pixel 9a. The Google Pixel 9a has a bigger battery: 5100 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £265 for the Google Pixel 9a.
The Google Pixel 9a has a bigger battery: 5100 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
The Google Pixel 8a has a higher-resolution main camera: 64 megapixels vs 48 megapixels.
The Google Pixel 8a gets updates until May 2031. The Google Pixel 9a gets updates until Apr 2032.
The Google Pixel 9a adds a bigger battery (5100 mAh vs 4492 mAh), a bigger screen (6.3 inch vs 6.1 inch) and longer software support (until Apr 2032 vs until May 2031). Refurbished, it costs £76 more (from £265 vs £189).
Both come in 128GB refurbished.
