Pixel 7a vs. Pixel 7: Is the Mid-Range Phone Better Value Than the Flagship?
Google’s Pixel 7a and 7 have a lot in common, but the 7a is a lot cheaper. However, price should not be the only guiding factor when deciding which to buy. They have subtle differences, which, in the grand scheme of things, can make you pick one over the other.
To help you make an informed choice, let’s take a look at the critical differences between Pixel 7a and 7.
Dimensions and Build Quality
Dimension-wise, you won’t see much noticeable difference between the two phones. The design language stays the same in the Pixel 7a, with Google’s conspicuous rear camera bar.
The colors can help differentiate the two though not too much. The Pixel 7a is available in four colors: Charcoal, Snow, Sea, and Coral, while the 7 is only available in Obsidian, Lemongrass, and Snow.
Build quality makes the Pixel 7 stand out with an IP68 rating and glass back, compared to IP67 and plastic on the 7a.
Google’s Pixel 7a is the first phone in the A-series to support a higher than 60Hz refresh rate. With a 90Hz refresh rate display, it offers a similar smooth scrolling experience to the 7.
But, the 7 has a bigger 6.3-inch panel with higher peak brightness, HDR10+ support, and Corning’s more robust Gorilla Glass Victus protection. The only winning point for the 7a is the slightly higher pixel density due to having a smaller panel.
You get a dual rear camera setup on both phones, but the Pixel 7 uses the same 50MP sensor found on the Pro version. As ourPixel 7 Pro reviewindicates, you may expect impressive images from the sensor. The 12MP ultra-wide is also not new; it was also available on the Pixel 6 Pro.
The 7a uses a newer 64MP sensor from Sony that’s larger than the one on the Pixel 6a, but still smaller than the one on the 7. It’s paired with a secondary 13MP ultra-wide lens with an impressive 120-degree field of view (FoV).
From the spec sheet, the main advantages the Pixel 7 has are the larger sensor and the ability to shoot 4K videos at 60fps on the front camera, while it lacks the 8x zoom capability and wider FoV of the 7a.
However, camera specs can get complicated fast. And thanks to Google’s track record in camera software and image processing, you shouldn’t expect either to be a flop while shooting.
Memory and Storage
Both devices have 8GB of memory and 128GB of onboard storage. 128GB of internal storage is enough for most people, but if you’re the type that hoards media files and takes lots of images and videos, you may quickly fill it up.
The 7 offers a 256GB option if you need more storage because, like most smartphones, there’s no microSD card slot for expansion. Generally, bigger is better, but theamount of storage you need on a smartphonedepends on your typical smartphone usage.
Battery and Charging
Whether you buy the Pixel 7a or 7, you get almost the same battery capacity. The 7 has a slightly bigger battery but don’t expect noticeable screen time differences due to its 6.3-inch panel. However, the Pixel 7 stands out for its 20W wired and 20W wireless charging, which can go from zero to 50% in 30 minutes, Google says.
With 18W wired charging support, the Pixel 7a is slower at charging, although only slightly. But, if you preferwireless charging, the 7.5W will feel sluggish.
Should You Buy the Pixel 7a or 7?
The Pixel 7a starts at $499 and the 7 at $599. The 7 is marginally better due to its build, a slightly bigger (and better) display, a camera system with a proven history, and support for higher charging speeds. And it offers two storage options.
The 7a offers a higher resolution 64MP sensor with better zoom capability and a wider FoV. Depending on your needs, you may find it worth spending the extra $100 on the 7. Both are solid devices, and the 7a offers the best value for money. However, if you can get the 7 for less than the launch price, it’s worth it.
The Pixel 7a packs some major improvements over the Pixel 6a, but it also has a higher price tag. So, is it really better and should you upgrade?
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