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After the Google Pixel 6 set the gold standard as one of the best Android smartphones in 2021, Google upped the ante with its successors, the Pixel 7 vs Pixel 7a. Both phones come packed with impressive features, but they also share many similarities. So, how do you decide which one is right for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the Google Pixel 7 vs. 7a debate, comparing everything from wireless charging capabilities to sensor quality, durability, and more.
Whether you’re looking for a premium flagship or a phone with a powerful processor and high megapixels in the main camera, we’ve got you covered.
Specs Showdown: Google Pixel 7 vs 7a
When it comes to the new Pixel phones, both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a are designed to offer a top-notch user experience.
However, there are subtle differences that could tip the scales in favor of one over the other, depending on your specific needs. Let’s dive into the specs to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and chipset
Both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a are equipped with Google’s Tensor G2 SoC chip, backed by 8GB of RAM. This ensures that both phones offer a responsive and efficient user experience.
However, the Pixel 7, given its flagship status, is engineered to excel in more demanding tasks. At first glance, you might not notice the difference, but for power users, the Pixel 7 has a slight edge.
Battery life
The Pixel 7a takes the lead in the battery department with a 4,385mAh battery, slightly larger than the Pixel 7’s 4,355mAh. Coupled with potentially more power-efficient components, the Pixel 7a might offer better battery longevity, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize battery life.
Display quality
When it comes to the display, both phones are almost neck-and-neck. The Pixel 7 features a 6.3-inch FHD+ OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, offering a vibrant and smooth visual experience.
On the other hand, the Pixel 7a sports a slightly smaller 6.1-inch FHD OLED display but gives you the flexibility to choose between 60Hz and 90Hz refresh rates. If a top-tier display is on your checklist, the Pixel 7 slightly pulls ahead.
Durability and build
Both phones are built with durability in mind, featuring Corning Gorilla Glass Victus. This ensures that your phone can withstand daily wear and tear, making both options equally durable.
Price and storage options
The Pixel 7a comes at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. Both phones offer multiple storage options, giving you the flexibility to decide based on your needs.
Launch offers
Keep an eye out for launch offers that might include additional perks like free accessories or extended warranties. These could add extra value to your purchase and tip the scales in favor of one phone over the other.
Here’s a comparison table of Google Pixel 7 and 7a specs:
| Specs | Google Pixel 7 | Google Pixel 7a |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 155.6 × 73.2 × 8.7mm | 152.4 × 72.9 x 9mm |
| Display Type | 6.3-inch FHD+ OLED | 6.1″ FHD, OLED |
| SoC | Google Tensor G2 | Google Tensor G2 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB and 256 GB | 128 GB |
| Camera | Dual lens rear camera50MP primary camera12MP ultra-wide secondary camera10.8MP front camera | Dual lens rear camera64MP primary camera13MP ultra-wide secondary camera13MP front camera |
| Battery | 4,355mAh | 4,385mAh |
| Color | Lemongrass, Snow, Obsidian | Charcoal, Coral, Sea, Snow |
| OS | Android 13 | Android 13 |
| Weight | 197g | 193g |
| IP Rating | IP68 | IP67 |
| Price | $599 | $499 |
Design
The Pixel 7 and 7a can’t be any more similar. Both feature Google Pixel’s signature-style camera bar, with two lenses on the left and a flashlight on the right. You can only tell them apart when you look closely at them. The Pixel 7a device has a slightly smaller size and is a little thicker.
Camera showdown
When it comes to camera capabilities, the Pixel 7a surprisingly outshines the Pixel 7 in several aspects. Both phones offer unique features that cater to different photography needs. Let’s delve into the details to see how they stack up against each other.
Primary and secondary cameras
The Pixel 7a boasts a robust dual-lens setup featuring a 64MP primary camera and a 13MP secondary camera. In contrast, the Pixel 7 comes with a 50-megapixel main camera. The higher megapixel count on the Pixel 7a ensures clearer and more detailed photos, especially when zooming in. The Pixel 7a’s primary camera offers up to 8 times max zoom-in without losing image quality.
Field of view and zoom capabilities
The field of view is another area where these two phones differ. The Pixel 7a offers a wider field of view at 120 degrees compared to the Pixel 7’s 114 degrees. This allows the Pixel 7a to zoom out to 0.5 times, while the Pixel 7 can only zoom out to 0.7 times.
Front cameras and selfies
When it comes to selfie cameras, the Pixel 7a takes the lead with a 13MP front camera, outperforming the Pixel 7’s 10.8MP camera. Whether you’re snapping a quick selfie or video recording, the Pixel 7a ensures higher resolution and better detail.
Special camera features
Both phones come with a range of special features to enhance your photography experience:
- Portrait Mode: Create professional-looking portraits with a cinematic blur in the background.
- Night Sight: Capture stunning low-light photos without a flash.
- HDR Support: Enjoy enhanced dynamic range in your photos.
- Motion Mode: Capture fast-moving subjects with clarity.
- Telephoto Lens and Ultrawide Camera: While the Pixel 7a doesn’t have a dedicated telephoto lens, its higher megapixel count compensates when zooming in. The Pixel 7, however, offers an ultra-wide camera for capturing more in your frame.
- Photo Unblur: Both phones come with technology to reduce blur in photos, ensuring clearer shots.
Software and performance
Since both devices run on the same SoC, Google Tensor G2, and even have the same RAM, they perform almost identical. The operating system is also the same, Android 13. So, you can expect to use some features brought in by Android 13, like customizable UI, Direct My Call, etc., in both smartphones.
Final verdict
Whether you opt for the Pixel 7 or Pixel 7a depends on your priorities and budget. For instance, you should opt for Google Pixel 7 if you need a lot of internal storage. The Pixel 7 also comes in a 256 GB variant, which is unavailable with the Pixel 7a. Additionally, the screen in the Pixel 7 is a little larger, and the charging with 30W is also faster.
On the other hand, you should go with the Pixel 7a if you are on a tight budget and want to save $100 for almost the same features.
Moreover, consider getting the Pixel 7a if you like taking images.
