The obvious choice
The biggest difference with the Pixel 8a is that the phone finally gets a 120Hz panel, bringing it on par with other mid-range devices. Google is also rolling out the same seven-year software update guarantee as the regular Pixel 8 series, and that gives the Pixel 8a a distinct edge in this category — no other mid-range phone will get as many updates. The cameras haven't changed, but you get all the latest AI features that debuted on the Pixel 8, and there's a 256GB model this time. The phone is costlier than last year, but the upgrades combined with long-term software updates means the Pixel 8a is an easy recommendation.
For
- 120Hz OLED panel
- Seven years of software updates
- Terrific cameras
- Clean software with no bloatware
- 256GB model
Against
- Costlier than last year
- Charges at 18W
- Still not available in most global markets
Still great
The Pixel 7a still has a lot to offer in 2024, and there isn't any area where the phone falls short. That said, it has a tendency to overheat during extended gaming sessions, so if playing games is a priority, you should look at the Pixel 8a instead. The cameras are the best in this segment, you get clean software, and the battery lasts a day. However, the Pixel 8a offers much better upgrades, and unless you're getting a great deal on the Pixel 7a, I'd suggest going with the 8a.
For
- Better value
- Reliable in daily use
- Standout cameras at the back
- Clean software without any bloat
Against
- 90Hz panel
- Limited to 128GB of storage
- Overheats while gaming
- Only three platform updates
