Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a
Compare Google Pixel 8 vs Google Pixel 8a side by side: Google Tensor G3 vs Google Tensor G3, 50MP vs 64MP camera, 4575mAh vs 4492mAh battery, $699 vs $499…
Pixel 8
$699
2categories won
Pixel 8a
$499
4categories won
15 categories tied · 21 scored in total · add a third phone
Which one wins?
Google Pixel 8a takes the overall win
The Google Pixel 8a proves superior overall against the Google Pixel 8, outperforming on measurable specifications. In camera testing, the Pixel 8a leads with superior optics, while battery endurance leans towards the Pixel 8. Choose the Pixel 8a if you want the highest performance ceiling, or opt for the Pixel 8 if its specific hardware strengths better fit your budget.
Pixel 8 wins on endurance with 4,575 mAh and 27W fast charging.
Both handsets deliver top-tier speed with Google Tensor G3 and smooth everyday multitasking.
Pixel 8a takes photography with 64MP optics.
Pixel 8a wins on budget and value at $499 compared to $699.
Category verdicts are computed algorithmically from verified technical specifications and hardware benchmarks. Rows where neither figure is objectively better — screen size preference, operating system choice, aesthetic build materials — are displayed for direct reference without scoring bias.
Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8a: specifications compared
Display
| Specification | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
|---|---|---|
| Screen size | 6.2" | 6.1" |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 |
| Pixel density | 424 ppi | 431 ppi |
| Refresh rate | 120 Hz | 120 Hz |
| Peak brightness | 2000 nits | 2000 nits |
Performance
| Specification | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Google Tensor G3 | Google Tensor G3 |
| Process node | 4 nm | 4 nm |
| AnTuTu score | 1,080,000 | 1,050,000 |
| Geekbench multi | 4380 | 4310 |
| Maximum RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB |
| Maximum storage | 256GB | 256GB |
Camera
| Specification | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
|---|---|---|
| Main sensor | 50 MP | 64 MPWinner |
| Rear cameras | 2 | 2 |
| Ultrawide | 12 MP | 13 MPWinner |
| Selfie camera | 10.5 MP | 13 MPWinner |
| Max video | 4K at 60fps, 10-bit HDR | 4K at 60fps |
Battery and charging
| Specification | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4,575 mAh | 4,492 mAh |
| Wired charging | 27 WWinner | 18 W |
| Wireless charging | 18 WWinner | 7.5 W |
Design
| Specification | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 187 g | 188 g |
| Thickness | 8.9 mm | 8.9 mm |
| Water resistance | IP68 | IP67 |
| Build | Satin aluminum frame, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus front and glossy back | Matte aluminum frame, Corning Gorilla Glass 3 front, matte composite plastic back |
Software and support
| Specification | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Android 14 | Android 14 |
| OS updates | 7 years | 7 years |
| Security updates | 8 years | 8 years |
Connectivity and value
| Specification | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a |
|---|---|---|
| 5G | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax) |
| Storage expansion | None | None |
| 3.5mm jack | No | No |
| Launch price | $699 | $499Winner |
Google Pixel 8
The Google Pixel 8 delivers flagship photography, 120Hz Actua display fluidness, 2000-nit outdoor brightness, and 7 years of full software support in a delightfully compact 6.2-inch form factor.
- Display
- 6.2"
- Chipset
- Google Tensor G3
- Main camera
- 50MP
- Battery
- 4,575mAh
Google Pixel 8a
The Google Pixel 8a brings flagship Tensor G3 silicon, a 120Hz 2000-nit Actua OLED display, AI photo editing suite, and 7 years of full OS updates to the sub-$500 category.
- Display
- 6.1"
- Chipset
- Google Tensor G3
- Main camera
- 64MP
- Battery
- 4,492mAh