Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max
Shop Google Pixel
Google Pixel 8a
Starting at
£189.00
iPhone 17 Pro Max
Starting at
£1,209.00What's the difference between the Google Pixel 8a and iPhone 17 Pro Max?
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a starts at £189, £1020 less than the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a, Apple A19 Pro on the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
- The iPhone 17 Pro Max has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
- Battery: 4492 mAh on the Google Pixel 8a, 4823 mAh, 5088 mAh on the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max specs
The Google Pixel 8a and the iPhone 17 Pro Max differ in size, performance, camera setups, and storage options. The Pixel 8a is smaller and lighter, suited to those who prefer a compact phone with a 6.1 inch screen and 8 GB of RAM for everyday use. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is larger, with a 6.9 inch screen and more RAM, offering a roomier display and higher multitasking capacity. Camera choices vary between higher front camera resolution on the iPhone and a higher main camera megapixel count on the Pixel. Storage options on the iPhone extend much higher, catering to users needing more space. Both support 5G, are unlocked, and run different operating systems, so your choice will depend on your preference for iOS or Android and how you use your device.
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max price
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Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, software updates, operating system, and physical features. Battery size and operating system differ, which may influence daily use and longevity.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone 17 Pro Max offers a larger battery capacity of 4823 mAh or 5088 mAh compared with the Pixel 8a's 4492 mAh. This means the iPhone may last longer between charges, which is useful if you spend long periods away from a charger or use power-hungry apps.
Operating System
The Google Pixel 8a runs on Android, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max uses iOS. Your choice between these operating systems will affect app availability, user interface, and integration with other devices.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max performance
Performance depends on chipset, RAM, and storage options. The Pixel 8a and iPhone 17 Pro Max use different chipsets and offer varied memory and storage capacities tailored to different needs.
Chipset and RAM
The Pixel 8a has 8 GB of RAM paired with the Google Tensor G3 chipset, which keeps everyday apps running smoothly. The iPhone 17 Pro Max has 12 GB of RAM and the Apple A19 Pro chipset, providing more memory to keep multiple apps open and handle demanding tasks.
Storage Options
The Pixel 8a is stocked with 128GB of storage, which suits average users. The iPhone 17 Pro Max comes in several options from 256GB up to 2TB, making it ideal for those who need extensive space for photos, videos, and large apps.
Chipset
RAM
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max screen
Screen quality affects how you view content, with differences in size, resolution, and display technology. Both phones support a smooth 120 Hz refresh rate for fluid visuals.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPhone 17 Pro Max has a larger 6.9 inch screen with a resolution of 2868 x 1320, providing a more spacious and sharper display for watching videos and multitasking. The Pixel 8a has a more compact 6.1 inch screen at 1080 x 2400 resolution, which suits users preferring a smaller device that fits comfortably in the hand.
Screen Type
The Pixel 8a uses an OLED screen, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max features a Super Retina XDR display. Both offer vibrant colours and deep blacks, but the Super Retina XDR may deliver higher brightness and contrast, enhancing viewing in bright environments.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max camera
Audiovisual features centre on camera resolution. The devices offer different strengths for front and main cameras, catering to different photography styles.
Front Camera
The iPhone 17 Pro Max has an 18 megapixel front camera, ideal for detailed selfies and high-quality video calls. The Pixel 8a's 13 megapixel front camera provides good clarity for everyday use.
Main Camera
The Pixel 8a has a 64 megapixel main camera, which captures detailed photos, especially useful for those who prioritise photography. The iPhone 17 Pro Max features a 48 megapixel main camera, offering a balance of resolution and advanced imaging features.
Front camera
Main camera
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max size and design
Miscellaneous specs include physical dimensions, weight, connectivity, and network support. These affect portability and compatibility with carriers.
Size and Weight
The Pixel 8a is smaller and lighter at 152.1 mm tall, 72.7 mm wide, and 188 g. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is larger and heavier, measuring 163.4 mm in height, 78 mm in width, and weighing 233 g. The Pixel suits those wanting a compact phone, while the iPhone offers a larger form factor.
Carrier and Network
Both phones come unlocked and support 5G mobile networks, allowing flexible use with different carriers and fast data speeds.
SIM and Connector
Both have a physical SIM plus eSIM and use USB-C connectors, providing similar options for SIM cards and charging or data connections.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Google Pixel 8a or iPhone 17 Pro Max: which should you buy?
Buy the Google Pixel 8a if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £189, £1020 less than the iPhone 17 Pro Max
- you want an OLED screen
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (64 megapixels vs 48 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone 17 Pro Max if
- you want more RAM (12 GB vs 8 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (6.9 inch vs 6.1 inch)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (18 megapixels vs 13 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Google Pixel 8a often highlight its like-new condition and ease of use. Many mention the battery holds charge well and that the phone feels fresh despite being refurbished. Users appreciate the Pixel 8a's size and performance for daily tasks. Some note minor regional differences with certain models but generally find the phone reliable and recommend it for those switching to Android or seeking good value with solid features.
Reviews for the iPhone 17 Pro Max praise its excellent condition and battery health. Customers find it easy to transfer data from older iPhones and enjoy the quality of the device and screen. Some users mention occasional call issues, but most report satisfaction with the phone's performance and appearance. The iPhone suits those who prefer iOS and want a larger screen with more storage.
Overall, the Pixel 8a appeals to users wanting a compact Android phone with good cameras and everyday performance. The iPhone 17 Pro Max fits those looking for a larger iOS device with higher RAM and extensive storage options.
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max FAQs
Google Pixel 8a vs iPhone 17 Pro Max comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Google Tensor G3 on the Google Pixel 8a, Apple A19 Pro on the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The iPhone 17 Pro Max has more RAM: 12 GB vs 8 GB.
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper refurbished, from £189 compared with £1209 for the iPhone 17 Pro Max.
The Google Pixel 8a has 4492 mAh and the iPhone 17 Pro Max has 4823 mAh, 5088 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 17 Pro Max is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Google Pixel 8a comes in 128GB, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB and 2TB.
