
Last month, Google held its annual developer conference,Google I/O 2023. The event gave us a glimpse of some exciting new gear coming soon, includingFold pixelsITablet-pixel. But Google also ditched the latest budget-friendly Pixel 7 linePixel 7a. For just $499, you get a 64MP camera, 6.1-inch screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, Tensor G2 processor, and wireless charging capability.
Contents
- Megapixels don't really matter
- The screen is still good
- The Pixel 7a's wireless charging isn't great
- The Pixel 6a is still a strong value in 2023
However, in an interesting move, Google has decided to keep itPixel 6aaround because you can still buy it. But it also got a big price cut, dropping it to just $349.
Recommended videos
On paper, all of these new Pixel 7a features sound appealing, but is it really worth $150 more than last year's Pixel 6a? It should also be taken into account that the normpixels 7it's only $100 more than the Pixel 7a, and you get even more features (like bigger camera sensors, reverse wireless charging, and a bigger screen).
Related
- This Pixel Watch 2 leak just made it the 2023 smartwatch I've been looking forward to
- I need to stop using my Pixel 7a, but I don't want to
- Got an old Google Pixel? This camera review will make you want the Pixel 7a
Let's go back to the Pixel 6a and see how it fares in 2023.
Megapixels don't really matter
As someone who relies heavily on smartphone cameras because I miss a true standalone digital camera, I tend to consider megapixel count as an important factor when buying a phone. Don't let the Pixel 7a's 64MP main camera fool you though, because one of the great things about the Pixel phones is that they all take great photos - mostly due to computer processing, not necessarily the hardware. This includes the Pixel 6a.
I didComparison of the Pixel 6a and Pixel 7a camerasand frankly, there is hardly any difference between the two devices. If there were any differences, they were so insignificant that you wouldn't even be able to tell if you didn't check every photo with impeccable analysis. Most photos are shared on social media these days anyway, and trust me, no one is going to comb through every little detail.
1z8








While the Pixel 6a only has a 12.2MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide camera and an 8MP selfie camera, it's not the camera hardware that takes good images on Pixel phones - it's more about the software and the processor. Thanks to the Google Tensor chips, there are a lot of AI and computing processes involved in things like photography, so the end result will always be a great looking image. So despite the Pixel 7a having more megapixels, photos taken with the Pixel 6a can look just as good as those taken with the Pixel 7a thanks to Google's magic with computational photography.
As I said, compared to my camera, the Pixel 7a isn't worth $150 more than the Pixel 6a if you want good cameras. Yes, a 64MP camera might be tempting, but Google's computational photography process is so good it doesn't really matter. You get very similar results, even with a 12MP camera.
The screen is still good
The Google Pixel 6a comes with a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 and a refresh rate of 60 Hz. For techies, the 60 Hz refresh rate can be a problem compared toThe 90 Hz refresh rate that the Pixel 7aoffers. But for the average person? I doubt they would really care or notice.
I've got the Pixel 6a and Pixel 7a side by side, and while the Pixel 7a has slightly smoother and faster-scrolling animations, the Pixel 6a isn't bad at all. I wouldn't even say the 90Hz refresh rate is worth the extra $150 over the Pixel 6a. If it were 120Hz it would be a different story, but it isn't.
Aside from the refresh rate, the Pixel 6a's screen is still good, especially at the new price of $349. It's still an OLED screen, and the colors are crisp and clear. Brightness levels are pretty good too, even outdoors, and text looks crisp and sharp in all the apps I use. I may be used to 120Hz with my primaryiPhone 14 Pro, but the Pixel 6a's screen is fine for the price.
The Pixel 7a's wireless charging isn't great
While Google has opted to add wireless charging capabilities to the Pixel 7a, it might be better to just leave the feature out. ThePixel 7a wireless chargingit reaches a charging speed of 7.5 W and doesn't even have reverse wireless (aka Battery Share). The Pixel 7, on the other hand, which costs just $100 more than the Pixel 7a, has up to 20W wireless chargingIsupports battery sharing.
Wireless charging has never been faster than wired charging, but the Pixel 7a's 7.5W is just a slap in the face. At this rate, you'll hardly get a charge when you need it, and at this point it's best to charge overnight. But even then, you need to make sure your phone doesn't move away from that "sweet spot" on the wireless charging pads; otherwise it would all have been for nothing.
While the Pixel 6a doesn't have wireless charging, you might not miss it. I usually don't do wireless charging anyway, because then I can't use my phone while it's charging, and I prefer faster charging via cable. I only really use wireless charging if it's something like Apple's MagSafe system.
Plus, the Pixel 7a has an even smaller battery capacity than the Pixel 6a - 4385 mAh vs 4410 mAh respectively. It's not a particularly big difference, but the Pixel 6a has better battery life, which is odd considering the Pixel 7a should be better.
The Pixel 6a is still a strong value in 2023
Despite the Google Pixel 6a coming out in 2022, it's still a great budget phone to consider in 2023, especially if you want to try the Pixel.
While the Pixel 7a is also a good phone, I just don't see the new features added by Google worth $150 more than its predecessor, which is still on sale. And if you're going to spend that kind of money, you might as well go a bit further and get the standard Pixel 7 which has everything the Pixel 7a has and then some. The $499 price tag just puts the Pixel 7a in an odd spot in the current Pixel lineup.
If you want an affordable Pixel that still performs great, especially for photos, you really can't go wrong with the Pixel 6a. And if the Pixel 6a is still doing as well as it did a year after its release, you have no reason not to consider it.
Editor's Recommendations
- I put iPhone Dynamic Island on my Pixel 7 Pro and I can't go back
- No, you don't really need the Google Assistant on your smartwatch
- Google can make the perfect Pixel phone - if it changes one thing
- What does the inside of the Pixel 7a look like? This cool case shows it
- This awkward camera comparison is bad news for the Pixel 7a
FAQs
Will there be a new Pixel phone in 2023? ›
Pixel 8 and 8 Pro
Google typically releases its flagship, slab-style smartphones during the fall season, and that cadence looks to remain in 2023. This year, the company is expected to launch the Pixel 8 series around September and October, succeeding last year's 7 series.
Pixel phones are supported with guaranteed software updates for three years.
Which is the cheapest model of Google pixel? ›Google Pixel price in India starts from ₹ 9,999. The lowest price of Google Pixel is ₹ 9,999 at Flipkart on 4th June 2023.
Is Google Pixel 7 worth buying? ›Google Pixel 7 verdict
If you must have the latest and best from Google, you can't go wrong with the polished Google Pixel 7. Compared to the Pixel 6, the design is more refined, it's got the latest clever features, new photography skills and an improved high-res selfie camera.
The Galaxy S24 Plus and Galaxy S24 will be Samsung's "regular" flagships for the first half of 2024, which will take the reins from the Galaxy S23 series as the main heavy-hitters in the giant's portfolio.
Will Pixel 7a have wireless charging? ›Quick answer: Yes, the Google Pixel 7a supports wireless charging up to 5W with any Qi-certified BPP charger. Google recently announced the newest addition to its mid-range phone lineup, the Google Pixel 7a.
Will Pixel 7a have headphone jack? ›Unfortunately, one feature that both the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a have in common is a missing headphone jack. The Pixel 6a was the first Pixel a-series phone to get rid of the legacy audio port, and Google has continued that trend with the Pixel 7a.
Will Google make Pixel 7a? ›Great photos made simple. Pixel 7a brings amazing clarity and vibrant details to every photo – even in low light. With a 120° field of view, get more of the landscape or fit more friends in the frame. Spend less time getting the perfect selfie with a 95° ultrawide field of view.
Does iPhone or Pixel last longer? ›Another reason to pick an iPhone over a Pixel is that iPhones get longer software updates of five to six years, while Pixel phones only get three years of major Android updates. So, if you don't upgrade your phone often, an iPhone will serve you for longer.
Is iPhone or Google pixel better? ›The Pixel has a bigger screen and fast refresh rate, two advantages over the iPhone. The biggest difference between these two is just in physical size as the iPhone is the more compact phone, while the Pixel is a wider and taller device.
Is Google pixel still worth it? ›
TL;DR: Yes, but you might want to wait. The Pixel 7 Pro has a ton of things going for it. It looks great. Its Android 13 software is bliss to use and its multicamera array on the back takes stunning photos that comfortably rival shots from Apple's best phone.
Which phone is best in Google pixel? ›- Best flagship phone: Pixel 7 Pro – check price.
- Best mid-range phone: Pixel 7 – check price.
- Best affordable phone: Pixel 7a – check price.
As you would expect, the Pixel 7 Pro is also one of the best smartphone cameras, featuring a 50MP primary shooter, a 48MP telephoto lens with 5x optical and 30x digital zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera that doubles as a macro lens.
Does Pixel 7 have heating issues? ›The devices affected by the battery drainage and heating issues are the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro. Some users attempted to install an older version as part of their search for a solution, but this did not resolve the issue. Even a factory data reset could not solve the problem.
Is Pixel 7 better then Pixel 6? ›Ultimately, we think you'll be impressed by the camera performance of both of these phones. However, if you take a lot of selfies or front-facing videos, then it could be worth going for the Pixel 7 due to its better selfie snapper.
Which phone is best in 2023? ›- Apple iPhone 14 Pro. Best Overall. ...
- OnePlus 11. Best Affordable Flagship. ...
- Google Pixel 7. Best Affordable Almost Flagship. ...
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G. Best Mid-ranger. ...
- OnePlus Nord N20 5G. Best Budget. ...
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. Best Foldable. ...
- Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4. Best Small Foldable. ...
- Oppo Find N2 Flip.
Some tracfones, flip phones, Jitterbugs and even older-style smartphones will no longer be able to make calls once the networks are taken down. Most of these phones, which are sometimes called “third generation” phones were launched nearly 20 years ago and will no longer work with most of the carriers in 2022.
What year will phones be obsolete? ›As the world enters the age of 6G, where connectivity is more consistent and powerful, smartphones will be obsolete within 10 years and the human body as an interface will become much more prevalent in our everyday lives.
Is Pixel 7a waterproof? ›Quick answer: No, the Google Pixel 7a is not waterproof. It does offer an IP67 dust and water resistance rating, which means it can survive up to 1 meter in water for 30 minutes or less, though you shouldn't push it.
Can you use any charger with Pixel 7? ›Pixel phones use USB-C with USB 2.0 power adapters and cables. To charge your phone with a USB-A power adapter, use a USB-C to USB-A cable. This charges your phone more slowly than USB-C. Other Android cables and power adapters might not work with Pixel phones.
Can Pixel 7 reverse charge? ›
You can use Battery Share to wirelessly charge Qi-certified phones or accessories, like Pixel Buds, on your Pixel 5, Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 7, and Pixel 7 Pro. Set your accessory or other phone on the back of your phone to charge.
Why did Pixel get rid of headphone jack? ›"We ultimately decided that including a headphone jack detracted from core product specifications and didn't align with the Google ecosystem we are striving for," a Google representative told Insider. "We significantly improved the Pixel 6a's Bluetooth performance by adding Bluetooth v5.
What was the last Pixel phone with a headphone jack? ›Is there a 3.5mm headphone jack in the Pixel 7? It shouldn't come as a surprise that Google hasn't added a 3.5mm headphone jack to the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. The last mainstream Pixel phone to include a wired analog headphone port was the original Pixel, released in 2016.
What is expected price of Google pixel 7a? ›Phone | Guaranteed Android version updates until at least: | Guaranteed security updates until at least: |
---|---|---|
Pixel 7a | May 8, 2026 | May 7, 2028 |
Pixel 7 & Pixel 7 Pro | October 2025 | October 2027 |
Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro | October 2024 | October 2026 |
Pixel 6a | July 2025 | July 2027 |
The smartphone-maker has announced that it will officially discontinue the Pixel 5. In addition to that, the company has also discontinued the Pixel 4a 5G smartphone. According to a report by The Verge, Google has listed the Pixel 4a 5G and the Pixel 5 smartphones as 'Sold Out' on its online store in the US.
Why is pixels better than Apple? ›The hardware is top quality, the software is the cleanest and smartest I've seen in all my years of using Android, and the camera doesn't make me miss my iPhone, which is saying a lot. Not having much HomeKit-enabled smart home equipment also means the Home experience on this phone is better for me.
Is Pixel safer than iPhone? ›Android phones are generally considered less secure than iPhones thanks to Apple's focus on encryption. But both are more susceptible to hackers thanks to their popularity. The more people who use a phone, the more high value a target it presents to hackers.
Is Android better than Apple? ›Are you wondering why iOS is better than Android? It has no bloatware. Compared to Android, iPhones have fewer pre-installed apps, which allows the device to perform better. Plus, users can remove certain pre-installed apps on iPhones to enhance their experience.
Is it worth switching from iPhone to pixel? ›Considering key specifications and features, it is definitely worth switching from iPhone to Pixel, especially if it has been a long time you're using an Apple device.
Why is Google pixel so good? ›
Google Pixel 6 verdict
We love its unique design, sharp display, customisable interface and excellent camera. While the more affordable Pixel 6a is the best value Google phone in 2023, the Pixel 6 has a better 50MP camera, a higher refresh rate and wireless charging.
It is believed that Google failed to sell its Pixel devices in India due to its Soli Radar chip on the front, which utilised the 60GHz frequency band banned for commercial use in India. However, Google later on scrapped that feature. But there are more reasons for Google's failure to attract Indian customers.
Is Pixel 6 Pro still worth buying 2023? ›The 6 Pro has many features that make it stand out despite being an older model. It was released back in 2021, but this smartphone can still handle most, if not all, apps for your daily needs. So, if you're looking for an excellent smartphone at a discount, the Pixel 6 Pro should be at the top of your list.
Why are Google Pixel so cheap? ›In a bid to reduce costs, Google's designers and engineers worked to build the device in a way that reduced the need for extraneous materials and labor. "[The Pixel 4a] is easier to manufacture, so it takes less people to put it together," Rakowski said.
What is the pixel 7 equivalent to? ›The phone we think is most equivalent to this is the OnePlus 10T, which launched around the same time. The OnePlus 10T has a larger screen size – 6.7-inches – and it's got an AMOLED panel with an 120Hz refresh rate.
Is Pixel a long lasting? ›A long-lasting battery is guaranteed with the Google Pixel 7 even despite a fairly middling 4,355mAh internal cell. I'm still able to get just short of two days of moderate use with my unit. That's more than enough for my own use case but might fall short of anyone tied to their screen for 10+ hours per day.
Why is Google pixel better than other phones? ›3. Google's Pixel Camera Tech is Amazing. Besides Android updates and software design, Google's camera tech is the main thing that its Pixel phones are known for. Unlike everybody else in the mobile phone space, Google's Pixel phones are ALL about doing more with less.
Is the Samsung or Pixel camera better? ›Diving into zoom: Samsung has the advantage
The limitation that the Pixel has on telephoto comes from the hardware. There's a single periscope lens on the rear offering 5x zoom. It has a high-resolution sensor which Google attempts to use to its advantage and preserve detail while cropping.
Ultimately, deciding which phone to buy depends on your needs and budget. If you want a budget-friendly phone with a great camera, the Pixel 6a is a superb value option. If you are looking for the latest technology, the Pixel 7a is worth considering.
Which Google pixel has magic eraser? ›Magic Eraser is exclusively available on the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, and Pixel 7 series. The good thing is that there are some Magic Eraser alternatives worth trying if you don't use a Pixel phone, though your mileage may vary with them.
Is Google coming out with a new Pixel? ›
Both phones are being tested with 12GB of RAM, which would be a step up for the smaller of the two: this year's Pixel 7 has 8GB, while the Pro is already packing 12GB. As first reported by Android Authority, an 'anonymous but trustworthy source' gifted the publication a roadmap for the Pixel from 2023-2025.
How many years will the Pixel 6 last? ›Google Pixel 6 and Google Pixel 6 Pro
With Tensor, like the 6a, Google promises three years of OS updates and five years of security updates. This means the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro will receive OS updates until at least October 2024 and security updates until at least October 2026.
According to the report, it'll be part of the Pixel 9 lineup, due out in fall 2024. The idea is that, like Apple, Google will have two sizes of pro phones with the same feature set— one with a 6.7-inch screen, like the current model, and one with a 6.3-inch screen, which is the same size as today's regular Pixel 7.
Are they making a Pixel 7? ›Pixel 7 is super fast and responsive, with an adaptive battery and so much more. for even more power. The powerful new processor is custom built with Google AI and makes Pixel 7 faster, more efficient, and more secure. It delivers even more helpful features and Pixel's best photo and video quality yet.
Does the Pixel 7 have a headphone jack? ›This doesn't exactly come as a surprise, given that the Pixel 7 doesn't feature a headphone jack either. Smartphones without headphone jacks are becoming increasingly common, and this trend is no longer limited to just flagships.
How long is pixel 7 supported for? ›Pixel 6 and later phones will get updates for at least five years from when the device first became available on the Google Store in the US.
Do iPhones last longer than Google Pixel? ›Another reason to pick an iPhone over a Pixel is that iPhones get longer software updates of five to six years, while Pixel phones only get three years of major Android updates. So, if you don't upgrade your phone often, an iPhone will serve you for longer.
Why are Pixel phones not popular? ›Google's phones focused on just software with mediocre tech specs and cameras, famously keeping the same primary camera sensor from the Pixel 2 through the Pixel 5. Despite improving the photo software every year to compensate, Google's phones still got a reputation for lagging behind other top phones in hardware.
What is the failure of Google pixel? ›It is believed that Google failed to sell its Pixel devices in India due to its Soli Radar chip on the front, which utilised the 60GHz frequency band banned for commercial use in India. However, Google later on scrapped that feature. But there are more reasons for Google's failure to attract Indian customers.
How do I transfer everything from my old Pixel to my new Pixel? ›- Step 1: Get ready to set up your new Pixel. Charge both phones. ...
- Step 2: On your Pixel. Turn on your Pixel, and tap Get Started. ...
- Step 3: Insert your SIM card. Insert your SIM card. ...
- Step 4: Connect the phones. You can connect your phones to copy data to your new Pixel phone with: ...
- Step 5: Copy your data.
Is Pixel 7 back glass? ›
Fast and secure, with an advanced camera and amazing battery, the sleek, yet rugged, Pixel 7 is IP68-rated for water resistance and is designed with tough, scratch- and drop-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® front and back.
How much will a Google Pixel 7 cost? ›Google Pixel phone | Price | Processor |
---|---|---|
Pixel 7 Pro | $749 | Google Tensor G2 |
Pixel 6 | $417 | Google Tensor |
Pixel 5a with 5G | $299 | Snapdragon 765G |
Pixel 7a | $499 | Google Tensor G2 |
Pixel 7 Pro, 7, 6a, 6 Pro, 6, 5a (5G), 5, 4, 3, and 2 phones are designed to be water-resistant. But normal wear and tear can reduce water-resistance. To help your Pixel phone last longer, avoid actions that could lead to water damage.