The release of the Google Pixel 7a, powered by Google Tensor G2, has sparked a lot of debates and comparisons with its predecessor, the Google Pixel 6a, powered by Google Tensor. While both devices have similar features and specs, there are a few differences that set them apart.
In this article, we will compare the Google Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a in terms of display, camera, performance, battery life, connectivity, and more to help you decide which one is the better smartphone for you.
Differences between both Flagship devices
The Google Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a are both flagship smartphones from Google, but there are a few key differences between them.
- The Pixel 7a has a higher display refresh rate of 90 Hz, which makes for smoother scrolling and improved gaming experience.
- It also has 33% more RAM than the Pixel 6a, with 8GB versus 6GB, which makes multitasking more seamless.
- Another advantage of the Pixel 7a is that it can handle wireless charging up to 18W, which is faster than the Pixel 6a’s wireless charging capabilities.
- On the other hand, the Pixel 6a weighs 15.5 grams less than the Pixel 7a, making it slightly lighter and more portable.
Other than these, there are not many differences between these two devices.
Battery life
This is an important factor to consider when choosing a smartphone, and both the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a have decent battery life. The Pixel 7a is equipped with a 4,500mAh battery, while the Pixel 6a has a slightly smaller 4,300mAh battery.
However, both devices have similar charging speeds, with the Pixel 7a supporting up to 18W wired charging and 18W wireless charging, and the Pixel 6a supporting up to 30W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.
Camera Differences
Here’s the camera comparison of the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a smartphones:
| Specifications | Pixel 7a | Pixel 6a |
|---|---|---|
| Matrix | 64 megapixels | 12.2 megapixels |
| Image Resolution | 9000 x 7000 | 4032 x 3024 |
| Zoom | Digital | Digital |
| Flash | Dual LED | Dual LED |
| Stabilization | Optical | Optical |
| 8K Video Recording | No | No |
| 4K Video Recording | Up to 60FPS | Up to 60FPS |
| 1080p Video Recording | Up to 60FPS | Up to 60FPS |
| Slow Motion | 240 FPS (1080p) | 240 FPS (1080p) |
| Angle of Widest Lens | 120° | 114° |
| Lenses | 2 (64 MP + 13 MP) | 2 (12.2 MP + 12 MP) |
| Wide (Main) Lens |
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| Ultra-wide Lens |
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| Camera Features |
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The Pixel 7a boasts a 64-megapixel matrix for its main camera, while the Pixel 6a comes with a 12.2-megapixel matrix. The higher megapixel count on the Pixel 7a indicates the potential for capturing more detail and sharper images. The Pixel 7a offers an impressive 9000 x 7000 resolution, significantly higher than the 4032 x 3024 resolution of the Pixel 6a. Higher resolution images provide more flexibility for cropping and better overall image quality.
Both smartphones utilize digital zoom technology, allowing users to zoom in on subjects without sacrificing image quality. The zoom capabilities on the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a are comparable. The Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a feature dual LED flash, providing ample lighting in low-light situations. With this feature, you can capture well-lit photos even in challenging lighting conditions.
Optical stabilization is incorporated into the camera systems of both the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a. This technology helps reduce motion blur, resulting in sharper images and smoother videos. Both smartphones support 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second (FPS). This capability allows users to capture high-quality, detailed videos with smooth motion. Unfortunately, neither device supports 8K video recording.
The Pixel 7a’s wide lens boasts an impressive 64-megapixel resolution with an aperture of f/1.9 and a focal length of 26 mm. The Sony IMX787 (Exmor-RS CMOS) sensor ensures excellent image quality, while the phase autofocus (Dual Pixel) technology allows for fast and accurate focusing. Optical stabilization further enhances image stability.
In contrast, the Pixel 6a’s wide lens features a 12.2-megapixel resolution with an aperture of f/1.7 and a focal length of 27 mm. The sensor used is the Sony IMX363 (Exmor-RS CMOS), known for its excellent low-light performance. The phase autofocus (Dual Pixel) and optical stabilization technologies contribute to sharper images and improved stability.
Camera Features
Both the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a share several camera features that enhance the photography experience. These features include:
- Bokeh Mode: Both smartphones offer a bokeh mode, allowing users to capture photos with a shallow depth of field and beautifully blurred backgrounds. This feature adds a professional touch to portrait shots, making the subject stand out.
- Pro Mode: With the pro mode, users have more control over camera settings such as ISO, shutter speed, and white balance. This feature is ideal for photography enthusiasts who prefer to fine-tune their camera settings for optimal results.
- RAW Support: Both the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a support RAW image capture. RAW files retain more information and provide greater flexibility during post-processing. This feature enables photographers to have more control over editing and achieving their desired look.
Under the hood
the Pixel 7a is powered by the Google Tensor G2 processor, while the Pixel 6a runs on the previous generation Google Tensor processor. Both processors offer fast and efficient performance, ensuring smooth multitasking and handling of demanding applications. The Pixel 7a comes with 8GB of RAM, providing ample memory for seamless multitasking, while the Pixel 6a is equipped with 6GB of RAM.
Storage
Both devices offer two options: 128GB and 256GB. Unfortunately, neither device supports expandable storage, so you’ll have to rely on the built-in storage capacity. This should be sufficient for most users, but if you have a large media library or use your phone for extensive gaming, you might want to opt for the higher storage capacity.
Connectivity
Both devices have similar connectivity options. Both devices support 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC. However, the Pixel 7a has a newer Bluetooth version than the Pixel 6a, which may provide better connectivity.
End of Discussion
Ultimately, both smartphones offer exceptional camera quality, fast and efficient performance, and a user-friendly software experience. Whichever device you choose, you can expect a high-quality smartphone that will meet your everyday needs and provide a reliable and enjoyable user experience. If I am to advise, I would ask that you go for the Google Pixel 7a seeing that it beats the Pixel 6a in many aspects
