Pixel 8 & Pixel 8a share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Pixel 8 rather than the Pixel 8a.
Why Do I Recommend The Pixel 8?
- The Google Pixel 8 has a 50MP main camera with a larger sensor and Laser Detect Autofocus for sharper low-light photos and faster focusing, while the Google Pixel 8a has a 64MP main camera with a smaller sensor and no LDAF.
- Google Pixel 8’s ultrawide camera can record 4K video at 60 fps for smoother, sharper wide shots, while the Pixel 8a’s ultrawide camera only records 4K at 30 fps.
- It supports 27W wired charging for quicker top-ups in daily use, whereas the Google Pixel 8a supports only 18W wired charging.
- The Google Pixel 8 includes advanced camera software features like Macro Focus and Cinematic Blur for more creative photography, while the Google Pixel 8a lacks these premium camera modes.
- Google Pixel 8 features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for stronger resistance against drops and scratches, whereas the Google Pixel 8a uses Gorilla Glass 3.
- It includes 18W wireless charging for convenient and faster cable-free charging, while the Google Pixel 8a supports just 7.5W wireless charging.
- The Google Pixel 8 has slimmer bezels and a slightly smaller frame for a more compact and premium look, whereas the Google Pixel 8a has thicker bezels and a taller, wider build.
- Google Pixel 8 comes with an IP68 water and dust resistance rating for better protection in harsher conditions, whereas the Google Pixel 8a is limited to IP67.
Maybe the Pixel 8a price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Pixel 8. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
Side By Side Comparison
| Feature | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
| Display size | 6.2-inch OLED | 6.1-inch OLED |
| Glass protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Build material | Glass back with aluminum frame | Matte plastic (composite) back with aluminum frame |
| Water resistance rating | IP68 | IP67 |
| Selfie video | 4K at 60 fps | 4K at 30 fps |
| Charging (wired) | 27 W fast charging | 18 W fast charging |
| Charging (wireless) | 18 W Qi wireless | 7.5 W Qi wireless |
| Battery capacity | 4575 mAh | 4492 mAh |
| Weight | 187 g | 188 g |
| Bezels | Thinner bezels | Slightly thicker bezels |
| Finish / Design accents | Sleeker, premium design | Rounded corners, more mid-range aesthetic |
| Software-exclusive features | Includes Macro Focus, Macro Focus Video, Cinematic Blur | AI features, but lacks Macro and Cinematic tools |
| Color options | Obsidian, Hazel (silver), Rose | Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, Aloe |
| Price | Check Pixel 8 Price | Check Pixel 8a Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
- Processor: Both smartphones feature the Google Tensor G3 chip, ensuring consistent AI-driven performance and smooth multitasking across apps.
- Display Technology: Each model uses an Actua OLED panel with 120Hz refresh rate, providing fluid animations and vibrant visuals for everyday use.
- Peak Brightness: Both devices reach up to 2000 nits peak brightness, making the screen easily visible even under direct sunlight.
- Operating System: Each phone launched with Android 14, ensuring access to the latest Google features and interface design at release.
- Update Commitment: Both smartphones come with 7 years of software and security updates, guaranteeing long-term usability and protection.
- AI Features: Each model supports Google’s AI-powered tools such as Magic Editor and Best Take, helping enhance photos and daily tasks.
- RAM Capacity: Both include 8 GB of LPDDR5X memory, allowing for efficient multitasking and stable app performance.
- Storage Options: Each device is available in 128 GB and 256 GB UFS 3.1 variants, offering ample space with fast read and write speeds.
- Camera Setup: Both phones feature a dual rear camera system consisting of a wide and ultrawide lens, covering versatile photography needs.
- Security Chip: Each model integrates the Titan M2 chip, delivering advanced protection for sensitive data and device authentication.
- Connectivity: Both support 5G, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC, enabling fast networking and seamless wireless connections.
- Battery Saver Modes: Each phone includes Extreme Battery Saver mode, extending battery life up to 72 hours when needed.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Both smartphones use an under-display fingerprint scanner, providing secure and convenient unlocking.
- Design Philosophy: Each device follows Google’s signature rounded Pixel design, creating a recognizable and comfortable in-hand feel.
- AI Assistant: Both models integrate Google Assistant and Gemini AI tools, enabling smart suggestions, voice commands, and productivity boosts.
Common Features
| Feature | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
| Processor | Google Tensor G3 | Google Tensor G3 |
| Display type and refresh rate | OLED “Actua” display, 120 Hz | OLED “Actua” display, 120 Hz |
| Operating system at launch | Android 14 | Android 14 |
| Update promise | 7 years of software/security updates | 7 years of software/security updates |
| Display brightness (peak) | Up to 2000 nits | Up to 2000 nits |
| AI feature support | AI-powered tools | AI-powered tools |
| RAM options | 8 GB LPDDR5X | 8 GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage options | 128 GB / 256 GB UFS 3.1 | 128 GB / 256 GB UFS 3.1 |
| Rear camera configuration | Wide + Ultrawide dual cameras | Wide + Ultrawide dual cameras |
| USB Type-C and sensors | USB-C, under-display fingerprint, accelerometer, gyroscope, etc. | USB-C, under-display fingerprint, accelerometer, gyroscope, etc. |
| Connectivity standards | 5G, Wi-Fi (Wi-X), Bluetooth, NFC | 5G, Wi-Fi (lower gen), Bluetooth, NFC |
| Security chip | Titan M2 security module | Titan M2 security module |
| Battery longevity modes | ~24 h typical, up to 72 h Extreme Battery Saver | ~24 h typical, up to 72 h Extreme Battery Saver |
| AI assistant and features | Pixel UI + Gemini-powered features | Pixel UI + Gemini-powered features |
| Actua display vividness & clarity | High color accuracy, rich detail | High color accuracy, rich detail |
| Price | Check Pixel 8 Price | Check Pixel 8a Price |
FAQ
Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a use the same processor? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a have the same display refresh rate? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a reach the same peak brightness? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a launch with the same software? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a get the same software support duration? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a include the same AI-powered features? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a have the same RAM capacity? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a offer the same storage options? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a have similar rear camera setups? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a include the same security chip? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a support 5G connectivity? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a come with NFC support? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a feature under-display fingerprint sensors? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a include battery saver modes? Do the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a integrate Google Assistant and Gemini AI tools? |
