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Worth the upgrade: Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a
Unleash creativity and be ready for anything. Discover which smartphone is right for you with our Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a comparison.

Maximise your device’s ability to support you, whether that’s by capturing quality photos instantly, staying up-to-date with the latest features or allowing Google AI tools to help you navigate life.

Lights, camera, action: Photo features on Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a

Share flawless snaps that capture the moment without distractions. Both Pixel models boast Magic Eraser, making it easier than ever to refine and sharpen images–or remove that one rogue photobomber in the background–so all you’re left with is the perfect memento of a precious moment.3 Someone looks away or forgets to make the funny face you agreed on? No worries. Best Take lets you combine similar photos, so you get everyone’s greatest side in one image.3

When it comes to comparing Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a, however, the former really comes into its own with the ability to help you savor group memories. Enjoy snaps that include the whole crew (even the photographer) with Add Me, an AI-backed feature that merges two images into one.4 It lets you swap people in and out, generating a single perfect picture that’s sure to remain a keepsake for years to come.

While Pixel 8a is great for capturing key moments with a noteworthy 64MP camera, crisp, high-resolution images remain a given with Pixel 9a’s 48MP main camera, thanks to its large sensor with 0.8µm pixels and dual-pixel autofocus. Finally, just because the sun sets, it doesn’t mean your creativity has to; Night Sight on Pixel 9a lets you snap special moments even after dark.

Experience life in the fast lane

Enjoy faster performance and seamless use with Pixel 9a, thanks to the Google Tensor G4 chipset, a step up from Pixel 8a’s Tensor G3. It allows for a smooth journey that effortlessly works with an assortment of handy, on-device AI tools, so you can turn to your smartphone for help when navigating simple or complex day-to-day tasks. The chip is the powerhouse behind Pixel phones, making it easier for you to take incredible photos and boost your productivity, plus so much more.

Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a: Examining the look and feel

See things bigger, brighter and clearer with Pixel 9a. Measuring slightly larger than Pixel 8a, the latest model boasts a screen size that’s approximately 6.3-inches, allowing you to scroll with enhanced comfort and ease.5 Alongside the vibrant display, you can also enjoy a contemporary appearance with 9a’s flat design, a look that’s carried through the other series 9 models. In comparison, Pixel 8a delivers a slightly more compact appearance and feel, which is accented by curved contours.

The bright side: Display on Google Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a

When comparing Pixel devices, we’d be remiss not to mention the brighter, bolder outlook delivered by the newest model. Enjoy clear and impactful colours on 9a’s larger screen, that also boasts adaptive 60/120Hz refresh rate and a 35% brighter Actua display compared to Pixel 8a. In fact, its peak brightness rivals even that of Pixel 9. Although Pixel 8a benefits from the same OLED screen (albeit slightly smaller) and a similar refresh rate, those drawn to brighter displays are sure to feel more at home with 9a’s capabilities.

Seize the day with a long battery life

Enjoy a phone that doesn’t run out of juice before you do. There’s nothing like a sidekick that can keep up with your exciting excursions, no matter how long they are; Pixel 9a is designed to do just that. With a larger 5,000mAh battery (compared to 8a’s 4,492mAh battery), Pixel 9a is built to tackle the day for as long as you need it to.2 Plus, it’s only a slightly smaller battery than the one inside Pixel 9 Pro XL, which is a rather impressive feat for this model. Powering up is a breeze too, with 18W wired and 7.5W wireless charging, the same as Pixel 8a.6

The overall specs: Compare Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a

Enjoy a bigger screen, faster performance, longer battery life and additional AI-powered camera features on Pixel 9a. Its prowess certainly cements it as a worthwhile upgrade if you’re in the market for one. The model is built to last too, so you can carry it with confidence. There’s improved water and dust resistance, plus additional protection from drops (they do happen from time to time).7 Pixel 9a benefits from seven years of feature drops, operating systems and security upgrades, so there’s no need to worry about missing out on future updates either.8,9 

How it compares: Pixel 9a vs Pixel 9

Pixel 9a is a strong contender for the Pixel phone with the most impressive endurance. Its 5000mAh battery is larger than Pixel 9’s 4,700mAh battery, indicating some serious stamina.2 Both smartphones boast a 6.3-inch OLED screen with a similar adaptive refresh rate, you can also expect equally bold and vivid hues from both phones with impressive peak brightness.1 Sleek performance is also built into the two devices, courtesy of the Google Tensor G4 chipset.

Takeaways
Say hello to the perfect picture each time with enhanced camera features on Pixel 9a vs 8aEnjoy a bigger and bolder screen with Pixel 9a’s 6.3-inch and 35% brighter Actua display compared to Pixel 8aSeize every opportunity and leave the power bank at home thanks to Pixel 9a’s large 5000mAh battery, a rather impressive step up from Pixel 8a’s 4,492mAh offering
Pixel 9a
Powerful camera and AI features at a great price
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  1. Screen has rounded corners. When measured diagonally as a rectangle, screen is 6.3 inches. Actual viewable area is less. Dimension may vary by configuration and manufacturing process. 35% brighter compared to Pixel 8a.

  2. Estimate of typical capacity based upon testing and expected cell behaviour.

  3. May not work on all images.

  4. Not available for all cameras, apps or modes. Results may vary.

  5. Screen has rounded corners. When measured diagonally as a rectangle, screen is 6.3 inches (for Pixel 9a, 9, and Pixel 9 Pro), 6.8 inches (for Pixel 9 Pro XL), 6.1 inches (for Pixel 8a), and external screen is 6.3 inches and internal screen is 8 inches (for Pixel 9 Pro Fold). Actual viewable area is less. Dimension may vary by configuration and manufacturing process.

    Fast wired charging rates (up to 23 W on Pixel 9a, up to 27 W on Pixel 9, up to 27 W on Pixel 9 Pro and up to 37 W on Pixel 9 Pro XL) are based on use of the Google 45 W USB-C® Charger plugged into a wall socket. Actual results may be slower. Adaptors sold separately. Charging speed based upon testing with device batteries drained to 1% and charged with Google 45 W USB-C® Charger. Charging testing conducted by Google in early 2024 on pre-production hardware and software using default settings with the device powered on. Charging speed depends upon many factors including usage during charging, battery age and ambient temperature. Actual charging speed may be slower.

    Designed to comply with dust and water protection rating IP68 under IEC standard 60529 when each device leaves the factory, but the device is not waterproof or dustproof. The accessories are not water or dust resistant. Water resistance and dust resistance are not permanent conditions and will diminish or be lost over time due to normal wear and tear, device repair, disassembly or damage. Phone is not drop/tumble proof and dropping your device may result in loss of water/dust resistance. Damage from drops, tumbles, slips and other external forces are not covered under warranty. Liquid damage voids the warranty. See g.co/pixel/water for details.

  6. Pixel updates for 7 years from when the device first became available on the Google Store in the US. See g.co/pixel/updates for details.

  7. See g.co/pixel/updates for details on when your Pixel is eligible to receive Pixel Drops. Availability of some Pixel Drops may vary.

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