Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8a: Which is the Right Pixel for You?

Google’s Pixel series has always been about delivering a premium Android experience with an emphasis on camera power and clean software.

Even before the launch of the Pixel 9, Google continued this tradition with the release of the Pixel 8a, which offered a separate option for consumers.

However, a question arises: can this mid-range phone take on its older brother, last year’s Google flagship Pixel 8?

Let’s compare the two devices on several aspects to determine which one will be the better buy for you.

Differences between the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8

Design and construction

The design language of both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 stay true to Google’s minimalist aesthetic. They both offer the same circular design with a color-coordinated 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 has a more premium, lighter and slimmer profile. The Pixel 8a also has a glossier finish, which gives it a more expensive feel but also makes it slippery.

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 goes for Gorilla Glass Victus and an IP 68 rating.

In terms of color options, both devices offer a variety to suit different tastes. While both phones are available in Obsidian, the Pixel 8a also offers Porcelain, Bay and Aloe finishes, while the Pixel 8 launches in Rose, Hazel and Mint colours.

Screen and speakers

Both phones feature impressive OLED screens with a high refresh rate of 120 Hz, which ensures smooth scrolling and animations.

But the Pixel 8a has a slightly smaller 6.1-inch FHD+ display compared to the Pixel 8’s 6.2-inch QHD+ panel.

While both screens display vibrant colors and deep blacks, the Pixel 8’s higher resolution may be more appealing to users who prioritize screen 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 missing from the Pixel 8.

Moreover, both phones come equipped with stereo speakers for immersive audio experiences.

Specifications and performance

Under the hood, both devices are powered by Google’s own Tensor G3 chipset paired with 8GB of RAM and 128/256GB of internal storage, ensuring fast performance and seamless multitasking.

Both phones also support 5G connectivity, NFC, Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3, promising fast and reliable connections.

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, also surprisingly higher than the Pixel 8’s 2197GB 5 score even before release. The Pixel 7, on the other hand, managed to score no less than 3095 points.

So looking at these results, the Pixel 8a has overtaken the Pixel 8 in terms of pure performance. However, in daily use this shouldn’t be a big factor as both phones run smoothly.

Cameras

Camera performance has always been a highlight of the Pixel range, and both phones in question continue this trend.

The Pixel 8a has a 64MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide camera, while the Pixel 8 opts for a 50MP main camera and a 12MP ultrawide lens. In terms of selfie cameras, the Pixel 8a offers a 13MP camera, while the Pixel 8 features a 10.5MP camera.

Photo quality from all of the Pixel 8a’s cameras is excellent, thanks largely to Google’s advanced software, which helps it perform strongly in challenging conditions. The Night Sight mode is particularly notable and offers excellent night photography.

The Pixel 8 also shines in photography thanks to its main sensor and exceptional software processing. Whether you’re capturing landscapes or close-ups, the camera delivers consistent excellence in detail, dynamic range and exposure. Night Sight mode also dramatically brightens low-light shots while preserving detail.

Post-recording 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 can also record up to 4K video at 30fps and 60fps, ensuring sharp and detailed images.

Battery life and charging

When it comes to battery life, the Pixel 8 scores slightly better with its larger 4575 mAh battery compared to the Pixel 8a’s 4492 mAh battery. Additionally, the Pixel 8 supports faster 27W wired charging 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.

Both phones provide a full, but mostly light, day on a single charge.

However, the Pixel 8 can reach 44% after half an hour, allowing for faster charging, while the Pixel 8a will charge from empty to just under 41% in 30 minutes.

Software and apps

Both devices run on Android 14, so you are assured of the latest features and security updates from Google.

As Pixel devices, they also benefit from a clean and bloatware-free software experience, with 7 years of Android and security updates straight from Google.

Users can expect the same fluid and intuitive user interface from both phones, along with features like Google Assistant and Pixel-exclusive AI features including Magic Eraser, Live Translate and the new Circle to Search, which enhance the user experience.

Price 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 is only available in Obsidian Black color.

The phone can be purchased from the official Google Store and Amazon, as well as other retailers in both the UK and US.

The Pixel 8 costs $599/£599 for the base 128GB model. Upgrading to the 256GB version costs $659 / £659.

It is available from several retailers in the US and UK, including the official Google Store and Amazon.

Be sure to check out our dedicated articles on Pixel 8a deals and Pixel 8 deals for extensive options. You can also check out our round-up of the best mid-range phones to see what else is out there.

There’s also the brand new Pixel 9 which is available for £799/$799 (the Pixel 8 cost £699/$699 when it first launched), but it’s a heavier recommendation due to the price hike and limited upgrades in some areas compared to the Pixel 8, and a focus on AI features that aren’t fully developed or ready to ship yet.

However, if you want the latest Google tech, check out our roundup of Pixel 9 deals for everywhere you can buy one in the UK and US.

Pronunciation

Choosing between the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 mainly comes down to your budget, as they share many similarities. However, there are important 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 having the same Tensor G3 chip and 8GB RAM combination.

However, with daily use you will not notice the differences.

On the other hand, as a true flagship phone, the Pixel 8 goes the extra mile with its higher resolution screen (though it lacks an LTPO technology), superior build quality, larger battery with faster charging speeds, and extra 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 bet right now.