Google’s new Pixel 9a, an affordable A-series entry, redefines “budget phone.” Priced at $499, the same as the Pixel 8a, it offers incredible value. Its camera outperforms competitors in its price range, it boasts the same processor and display as the Pixel 9, and it sports a fresh design. Is the Pixel 9 worth the extra $300? Let’s compare these two Google phones.
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Specifications
| Feature | Google Pixel 9a | Google Pixel 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm (6.1 x 2.9 x 0.4 inches) | 152.8 x 72.0 x 8.5 mm (6.0 x 2.8 x 0.3 inches) |
| Weight | 186 grams (6.6 ounces) | 198 grams (7 ounces) |
| Display | 6.3-inch Actua OLED, 1080 x 2424, 422 ppi, 60-120Hz, 1800 nits (HDR)/2700 nits (peak) | 6.3-inch Actua OLED, 1080 x 2424, 422 ppi, 60-120Hz, 1800 nits (HDR)/2700 nits (peak) |
| Durability | Corning Gorilla Glass 3, IP68 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2, IP68 |
| Colors | Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, Peony | Obsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, Peony |
| Processor | Google Tensor G4 | Google Tensor G4 |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| Software | Android 15 | Android 15 |
| Updates | 7 years of OS, Feature Drops, and security updates | 7 years of OS, Feature Drops, and security updates |
| Rear Cameras | 48MP main (f/1.7, 82° FOV), 13MP ultrawide (f/2.2, 120° FOV) | 50MP main (f/1.68, 82° FOV), 48MP ultrawide (f/1.7, 123° FOV) |
| Front Camera | 13MP (f/2.2, 96° FOV) | 10.5MP with autofocus (f/2.2, 95° FOV) |
| Battery | 5,100mAh | 4,700mAh |
| Charging | 23W wired, 7.5W Qi wireless | 27W wired, 15W wireless (Pixel Stand), 12W Qi wireless, Reverse wireless |
| Price | Starts at $499 | Starts at $799 |
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Design
Alternative text for image
2024 saw Android manufacturers embrace flat-sided phone designs. Following this trend, the Pixel 9 and 9a both feature flat sides and screens. However, the Pixel 9a stands out with its lack of a camera bump, a bold departure from the industry norm.
Alternative text for image
This design also marks a shift from Google’s signature camera bar. The Pixel 9a’s flush cameras and pill-shaped window offer a distinctive look. While the Pixel 9a features Gorilla Glass 3 and a matte plastic back, compared to the Pixel 9’s Gorilla Glass Victus 2, both phones have an IP68 dust and water resistance rating. Both offer unique designs and colors, making this category a tie.
Winner: Tie
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Display
Alternative text for image
The Pixel 9a matches the Pixel 9’s 6.3-inch Actua display, with identical resolution, refresh rate, and brightness. While the Pixel 9’s Gorilla Glass Victus 2 offers marginally better visual quality due to lower reflectivity, the difference is negligible.
Winner: Tie
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Performance
Alternative text for image
Both phones utilize the powerful Tensor G4 chip, providing smooth performance. However, the Pixel 9’s 12GB of RAM compared to the Pixel 9a’s 8GB gives it an edge, especially for multitasking and resource-intensive applications.
Winner: Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Software and Features
Alternative text for image
Both phones run Android 15 and offer Google’s signature AI features, including Magic Eraser and Magic Editor. However, the Pixel 9’s larger RAM allows for a more responsive Gemini experience and access to more advanced AI capabilities.
Alternative text for image
Winner: Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Cameras
Alternative text for image
While both phones offer excellent camera features, the Pixel 9 boasts superior hardware, particularly in its ultrawide lens. The Pixel 9a’s 48MP main camera and 13MP ultrawide lens are a step down from the Pixel 9’s 50MP main and 48MP ultrawide setup.
Winner: Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Battery and Charging
Alternative text for image
The Pixel 9a’s 5,100mAh battery slightly outpaces the Pixel 9’s 4,700mAh battery. However, the Pixel 9 offers faster wired and wireless charging, along with reverse wireless charging.
Winner: Google Pixel 9
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Price and Availability
The Pixel 9a starts at $499 for 128GB and $559 for 256GB. The Pixel 9, launched in August 2024, starts at $799 for 128GB and $899 for 256GB.
Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 9: Verdict
Alternative text for image
The Pixel 9a offers exceptional value at $499, with a great camera, display, and processor. The Pixel 9 justifies its higher price with more RAM, enhanced AI capabilities, a better camera system, faster charging, and a premium design. The best choice depends on your budget and needs.
