Confused about which Google Pixel to buy? We compare the Pixel 8, 8a and 8 Pro to help make your decision easier.
Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8a vs Pixel 8 Pro: Which smartphone is right for you?
Looking for a new Google smartphone? The Pixel 8, Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro are all great options, but which one is right for your needs and budget? This article guides you through the features and differences of each model to help you make the right choice.
In October 2023, Google created a buzz by revealing its latest Pixel smartphone lineup – the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pro. More recently, the brand introduced a third model with the launch of the Pixel 8a. So, when comparing Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8a vs Pixel 8 Pro, which one comes out on top?
Although all 3 smartphones uphold the core Android DNA and the brand’s renowned photography features, they vary in terms of technical specifications and pricing.
Google Pixel 8, Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro Comparison
Which Google Pixel 8 smartphone is right for you? This article offers a detailed comparison to help you make your choice, analysing each model in depth: design, screen, performance, camera and price.
A technical specifications summary table is also included for a quick comparison.
- Google Pixel 8, Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro Comparison
- Design
- Screen
- Performance
- Photo and Video
- Price: Google Pixel 8, Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro
- Technical Specifications: Pixel 8 vs 8a vs 8 Pro
- Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8a vs Pixel 8 Pro: Which one to buy in 2024?
Design
The Pixel 8 features a sleek design reminiscent of its predecessor, with slightly rounded edges. Its aluminium frame and photo block give it a premium finish, available in 4 colours: Mint (green), Hazel (grey), Obsidian (black) and Rose (pink).
The design of the Pixel 8a is more compact. It’s also available in 4 colours, namely: Aloe (green), Bay (light blue), Obsidian (black) and Porcelain (white).
The Pixel 8 Pro is distinguished by its striking design and matte finish that is more resistant to fingerprints. It, too, is available in 4 colours: Mint (green), Bay (light blue), Obsidian (black) and Porcelain (white).
Screen
The Pixel 8 features a 6.2-inch Actua (1080 x 2400) OLED display with a refresh rate of 60 to 120 Hz, offering smooth browsing and excellent colour reproduction. The Pixel 8a uses the same Actua (1080 x 2400) OLED screen, but in a slightly smaller size of 6.1 inches.
As for the Pixel 8 Pro, it comes with a large 6.7-inch LTPO OLED Super Actua (1344 x 2992) display, with an adaptive refresh rate of from 1 to 120 Hz. These features enable an immersive visual experience, while optimising energy consumption.
Performance
All 3 models run on the Google Tensor G3 processor, delivering powerful, smooth performance for all your everyday tasks – from games to resource-hungry apps.
The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a both come with 8GB of RAM, and are available with either 128GB or 256GB of storage.
The Pixel 8 Pro comes with 12GB of RAM, offering a smoother multitasking experience and better memory management for the most demanding applications. It comes with 4 storage options; 128GB, 256GB, 512GB or 1TB.
Photo and Video
Photography is one of the strong points of the Pixel range. All 3 smartphones benefit from Google’s image processing technology, guaranteeing high-quality photos and videos, even in low-light conditions.
- The Pixel 8 features a dual rear camera consisting of a 50MP wide-angle sensor and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle sensor.
- The Pixel 8a uses the same dual rear camera, with an improved 64 MP wide-angle sensor and a 13 MP ultra-wide-angle sensor.
- The Pixel 8 Pro features a triple rear camera with a 50 MP wide-angle sensor, a 48 MP telephoto lens with x5 optical zoom and a 48 MP ultra-wide-angle sensor.
All 3 can record 4K video at 60 frames per second (fps). They benefit from exclusive Google features such as Magic Eraser to remove unwanted objects from your photos and Real Tone for more lifelike portraits.
Price: Google Pixel 8, Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro
Price is, of course, an important factor to consider when buying a new smartphone.
- The Pixel 8a is the cheapest option, starting at £499.
- The Pixel 8 is the mid-range, with a starting price of £699.
- The Pixel 8 Pro is the top-of-the-range model, with a price tag of £999.
The prices given in this article are the prices quoted by Google. You may occasionally find cheaper prices offered by high-tech retailers and mobile operators. If you’re thinking of buying a Google Pixel 8, we encourage you to check out the deals posted on hotukdeals for Google Pixel smartphones to take advantage of the best prices.
Technical Specifications: Pixel 8 vs 8a vs 8 Pro
| Feature | Pixel 8 | Pixel 8a | Pixel 8 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen | 6.2-inch, Actua (1080 x 2400) OLED, 60 to 120 Hz | 6.1-inch, Actua (1080 x 2400) OLED, 60 to 120 Hz | 6.7-inch, Super Actua (1344 x 2992) LTPO OLED, 1-120 Hz |
| Processor | Google Tensor G3 | Google Tensor G3 | Google Tensor G3 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB | 12 GB |
| Storage | 128 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB, 512 GB, 1 TB |
| Rear camera | 50 MP (wide angle) + 12 MP (ultra wide angle) | 64 MP (wide angle) + 14 MP (ultra wide angle) | 50 MP (wide angle) + 48 MP (telephoto) + 48 MP (ultra wide angle) |
| Front camera | 10.5 MP | 10.5 MP | 13 MP |
| Battery | 4,575mAh | 4,492mAh | 5,050mAh |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 14 | Android 14 |
| Price | From £499 | From £699 | From £999 |
Google Pixel 8 vs Pixel 8a vs Pixel 8 Pro: Which one to buy in 2024?
The Pixel 8 is the standard model, offering great value for money. It has a fluid 6.2-inch Actua OLED display with a refresh rate of up to 120Hz. The Pixel is also equipped with a powerful Google Tensor G3 processor, a dual rear camera and a long-lasting battery.
The Pixel 8a is the more affordable option, with a more simplistic design and taking on most of the features of the Pixel 8. Nevertheless, note the improved camera with a 64MP wide-angle sensor, compared to just 50MP for the Pixel 8. It’s ideal for those looking for a high-performance smartphone at a low price.
The Pixel 8 Pro is the top-of-the-range model, with a large 6.7-inch Super Actua (1 344 x 2 992) LTPO OLED display, a triple rear camera with telephoto lens and x5 optical zoom and a larger battery. It’s designed for those looking for the very best in Pixel technology.
In short, choosing the right Pixel for you depends on your needs and your budget. If you’re looking for excellent value for money, the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a are top choices. If you demand the best and price is no object, the Pixel 8 Pro is for you.
Discover the best Google Smartphone deals at hotukdeals. Every day, members of our community share their great deals to help you save money.
This article has been adapted from our partner Magazine, Dealabs. For the original post in French, visit Dealabs Magazine.
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