Google’s Pixel line has always aimed to deliver a premium Android experience with an emphasis on camera prowess and sleek software.
Even before the Pixel 9 launched, Google continued this tradition with the release of the Pixel 8a, providing a distinct option for consumers.
However, a question arises: can this mid-range phone compete with its predecessor, the Pixel 8, Google’s flagship from last year?
Let’s compare the two devices from different aspects to determine which one will turn out to be the better purchase for you.
Differences between Pixel 8a and Pixel 8
Design and build
The design language of the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 stays true to Google’s minimalist aesthetic. They both offer the same round design with a color-matched camera bar. However, there are differences in materials and dimensions.
The Pixel 8a feels slightly bulkier and heavier due to its larger dimensions, while the Pixel 8 features a more premium, lighter and thinner profile. The Pixel 8a also has a glossier finish, which feels more expensive but also makes it slippery.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
When it comes to durability, the Pixel 8a features Gorilla Glass 3 on the front and an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance. On the other hand, the Pixel 8 opts for Gorilla Glass Victus and an IP 68 rating.
In terms of color options, both devices offer variety to suit different tastes. Although both phones are available in Obsidian, the Pixel 8a also offers Porcelain, Bay and Aloe finishes, while the Pixel 8 launched with Rose, Hazel and Mint colorways.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Screen and speakers
Both phones feature impressive OLED displays with a high refresh rate of 120Hz, ensuring smooth scrolling and animations.
But the Pixel 8a sports a 6.1-inch FHD+ display that’s slightly smaller than the Pixel 8’s 6.2-inch QHD+ panel.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Although both displays offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, the Pixel 8’s higher resolution may appeal more to users who prioritize display sharpness. It’s also brighter at 950 nits, compared to the Pixel 8a’s 812 nits we measured.
However, the Pixel 8a offers an LTPO display, a feature the Pixel 8 lacks.
Additionally, both phones come with stereo speakers for immersive audio experiences.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Specifications and performance
Under the hood, both devices are powered by Google’s Tensor G3 chipset paired with 8GB of RAM and 128/256GB of internal storage, ensuring fast performance and smooth multitasking.
Both phones also support 5G connectivity, NFC, Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3, promising fast and reliable connections.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
In our Geekbench 6 multi-core test, the Pixel 8 scored 2842 points, while the Pixel 8a left it far behind with 3955 points.
Last year’s Pixel 7a scored 2720 points, which is also surprisingly higher than the Pixel 8’s score of 2197GB 5, even before its release. The Pixel 7, on the other hand, managed to score up to 3095 points.
So, looking at these results, the Pixel 8a surpassed the Pixel 8 in terms of pure performance. However, in daily use this should not play a major role since both phones work fine.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Cameras
Camera performance has always been a strong point of the Pixel lineup, and the two phones in question continue that trend.
The Pixel 8a features a 64MP main camera and a 13MP ultra-wide camera, while the Pixel 8 opts for a 50MP main shooter and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. In terms of selfie cameras, the Pixel 8a offers a 13MP camera, while the Pixel 8 has a 10.5MP camera.
Photo quality across all of the Pixel 8a’s cameras is excellent, particularly benefiting from Google’s advanced software, making it a very capable device in difficult conditions. The Night Sight mode is particularly noteworthy, offering exceptional nighttime photography.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
The Pixel 8 also shines in photos thanks to its main sensor and exceptional software processing. Whether capturing landscapes or close-ups, it delivers consistent excellence in detail, dynamic range and exposure. Night Sight mode also impressively brightens low-light photos while retaining detail.
Post-capture editing features on both phones include ‘Best Take’, which swaps faces, ‘Magic Editor’ for subject manipulation, and ‘Magic Audio Eraser’ which effectively reduces background noise.
Both phones are also capable of recording up to 4K video at 30fps and 60fps, ensuring sharp and detailed images.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Battery life and charging
When it comes to battery life, the Pixel 8 edges it out slightly with its larger 4,575mAh battery compared to the Pixel 8a’s 4,492mAh battery. Additionally, the Pixel 8 supports faster wired charging at 27W compared to the Pixel 8a’s 18W wired charging.
It also offers the convenience of 18W wireless charging (compared to the 8a’s 7.5W) and reverse wireless charging, features missing from the Pixel 8a.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Both phones will give you a full, but above all light, day on a single charge.
However, the Pixel 8 can reach 44% after half an hour, providing faster charging, while the Pixel 8a will charge from zero to just under 41% in 30 minutes.
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Anyron Copeman / Foundry
Software and applications
Both devices run Android 14, ensuring the latest features and security updates from Google.
As Pixel devices, they also get a clean, bloatware-free software experience, with 7 years of Android and security updates straight from Google.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Users can expect the same smooth and intuitive user interface on both phones, along with features like Google Assistant and Pixel-exclusive AI features including Magic Eraser, Live Translate, and the new Circle to Search, improving user experience.
Pricing and availability
The Pixel 8a costs £499/$499 for 128GB of storage, with an option to upgrade to 256GB for £559/$559, although the larger capacity only comes in Obsidian Black color.
The phone can be purchased from the official Google store and Amazon, as well as other retailers in the UK and US.
The Pixel 8 is priced at $599/£599 for the base 128GB model. Upgrading to the 256GB version costs $659/£659.
It is available from various retailers in the US and UK, including Google’s official store and Amazon.
Be sure to check out our dedicated Pixel 8a deals and Pixel 8 deals articles for the full options. You can also take a look at our pick of the best mid-range phones to see what else is out there.
There’s also the all-new Pixel 9, available for £799/$799 (the Pixel 8 was priced at £699/$699 when it initially launched), but this is a stricter recommendation in due to its price increase and limited upgrades in certain areas compared to the Pixel 8 and focus on AI features that are not yet fully developed or ready to ship.
However, if you want to get the latest Google tech, check out our roundup of Pixel 9 deals everywhere you can buy one in the UK and US.
Verdict
Choosing between the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 mainly depends on your budget as they share many similarities. There are, however, key differences.
The Pixel 8a offers excellent value for money with its attractive design, impressive camera setup, and better raw performance than the Pixel 8, despite the same Tensor G3 chip and 8GB of RAM combo.
However, you won’t notice the differences in everyday life.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
Chris Martin / Foundry
On the other hand, the Pixel 8, as a true flagship phone, steps up the game with its higher resolution screen (although it lacks LTPO technology), superior build quality, bigger battery with faster speeds. faster charging speeds and additional features like wireless charging and reverse charging. wireless charging.
If you’re willing to invest a little more in a premium experience, the Pixel 8 is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a solid mid-range option without breaking the bank, the Pixel 8a might be your best choice right now.
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