Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00
iPhone 16 Pro Max
Starting at
£840.13£1,399.00 newWhat's the difference between the Google Pixel 8a and iPhone 16 Pro Max?
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £651.13 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a, Apple A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
- The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger battery: 4685 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
- The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger screen: 6.9 inch vs 6.1 inch.
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max specs
The Pixel 8a offers a more compact screen and a higher megapixel count on both front and main cameras, making it a good choice for users who want detailed photos in a smaller phone. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a larger and higher resolution display with a premium OLED type, plus more storage options, suited for those who want a very large screen and ample space for apps and media. Performance and battery sizes are close, but the iPhone uses a different chipset and connector standard. Overall, the Pixel 8a fits well for everyday use with unlocked flexibility, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max suits users seeking a larger display and more storage.
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max price
Colour
- BlackSold out
- BlueSold out
- BeigeSold out
- GreenSold out
Storage
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Durability involves battery size, operating system, and update support.
Battery Capacity
The Google Pixel 8a has a 4492 mAh battery, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max carries a slightly larger 4685 mAh battery. This means the iPhone might offer a bit more battery life between charges, which can be important for heavy users or those who want longer use without charging.
Operating System
The Pixel 8a runs on Android, which offers extensive customisation and integration with Google services. The iPhone 16 Pro Max uses iOS 18, known for smooth performance and a wide range of apps. Your choice here depends on which ecosystem you prefer and what software experience suits you.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max performance
Performance covers the chipset, RAM, and storage options you can choose from. Both phones have 8 GB of RAM, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly and supports multitasking.
Chipset Differences
The Pixel 8a uses the Google Tensor G3 chipset, while the iPhone 16 Pro Max features the Apple A18 Pro. Each chipset is designed to work optimally with its phone's software and hardware. Your experience may vary depending on your preferred apps and tasks.
Storage Capacity
The Pixel 8a is stocked with 128 GB of storage, suitable for general use including apps, photos, and media. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is available in 256 GB, 512 GB, and 1 TB options, offering more room for users who store large amounts of content or use many apps.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max screen
Screen quality affects how you view media and interact with apps. Both phones offer smooth 120 Hz refresh rates for fluid scrolling and animations, but they differ in size and resolution.
Screen Size
The Pixel 8a has a 6.1 inch screen, making it more compact and easier to use one-handed. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a much larger 6.9 inch display, providing more space for watching videos, gaming, or multitasking.
Resolution and Display Type
The Pixel 8a's screen resolution is 1080 x 2400, offering clear visuals on its size. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a higher 1320 x 2868 resolution and uses an LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED screen. This means the iPhone's display delivers sharper images with enhanced brightness and colour accuracy, which benefits users who prioritise premium screen quality.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max camera
Audiovisual features include front and main cameras, which determine photo and video quality. Both phones have strong camera setups but with different focuses.
Front Camera
The Pixel 8a has a 13 megapixel front camera, offering high detail for selfies and video calls. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a 12 megapixel front camera, which still provides excellent quality for these uses.
Main Camera
The Pixel 8a features a 64 megapixel main camera, which can capture very detailed images. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a 48 megapixel main camera, designed to balance detail with other photography features. Depending on your photo preferences, the Pixel may appeal if you want higher megapixels, while the iPhone offers a well-rounded camera experience.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max size and design
Miscellaneous specs cover size, weight, connectivity, and SIM options, all of which influence daily handling and compatibility.
Physical Dimensions and Weight
The Pixel 8a measures 152.1 mm in height, 72.7 mm in width, and 8.9 mm in depth, weighing 188 g. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is larger at 163 mm tall, 77.6 mm wide, and slimmer at 8.3 mm depth, but heavier at 227 g. Choose the Pixel if you prefer a lighter, smaller phone. The iPhone suits those who want a larger device with a slim profile.
SIM Card Options
The Pixel 8a supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM, offering flexibility if you want to use multiple numbers or swap SIMs easily. The iPhone 16 Pro Max uses only eSIM, which is convenient for managing multiple plans digitally but does not support a physical SIM card.
Carrier Compatibility and Network
Both phones are unlocked and support 5G networks, so you can use them with a wide range of carriers and enjoy fast mobile internet speeds.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 8a or iPhone 16 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £189, £651.13 less than the iPhone 16 Pro Max
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (64 megapixels vs 48 megapixels)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone 16 Pro Max if
- you want a bigger battery (4685 mAh vs 4492 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.9 inch vs 6.1 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Google Pixel 8a highlight how the phone feels like new, often praising its condition and smooth performance. Many mention the battery life holds up well and some appreciate the ease of setup. The Pixel's size and quality suit users switching from other brands or those looking for a reliable everyday phone. A few note that certain models may have regional restrictions but overall the Pixel 8a is seen as a solid, easy-to-use device.
Buyers of the iPhone 16 Pro Max report high satisfaction with the phone's near-new condition and battery health. The screen responsiveness and premium feel receive praise and many appreciate the larger storage capacities available. The iPhone is popular with users who want a big, sharp display and smooth performance. Customers often remark that the phone meets or exceeds their expectations for a refurbished device with battery health frequently near 100%.
Both phones suit different users well. The Pixel 8a fits those who want a smaller, lightweight phone with a focus on camera detail and flexibility with SIM cards. The iPhone 16 Pro Max appeals to users who want a larger screen, more storage, and a premium display experience.
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max FAQs
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 16 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a, Apple A18 Pro on the iPhone 16 Pro Max. The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger battery: 4685 mAh vs 4492 mAh.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £840.13 for the iPhone 16 Pro Max.
The iPhone 16 Pro Max has a bigger battery: 4685 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 iPhone 16 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a comes in 128GB, and the iPhone 16 Pro Max in 256GB, 512GB and 1TB.
