The latest addition to Google's Pixel smartphone lineup is the affordable Pixel 7a, taking the place of its predecessor, the Pixel 6a.
To assist you in making an informed purchase decision, we'll compare the Pixel 7a to the Pixel 6a and highlight their differences.
Design
Although the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a share a similar design that includes a rear camera visor, there is a difference in the materials used.
The Pixel 7a boasts an aluminum chassis that smoothly merges into the visor, much like the more expensive Pixel models. Conversely, the Pixel 6a's visor is made of glass.
Display
The Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a share a 6.1-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2,400x1,080 pixels and support for HDR playback.
Although the displays feature some bezels, there's no need to worry about them. However, the Pixel 7a outshines the Pixel 6a with its 90Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and swiping feel even smoother.
Performance
The Pixel 7a packs Google's second-generation Tensor G2 chip, the same chip found in the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro, providing a significant upgrade compared to the Pixel 6a's first-gen Tensor chip.
The Pixel 7a offers a generous 8GB of RAM, while the Pixel 6a comes with 6GB. Both models come with 128GB of internal storage.
The Pixel 7a comes with the latest Android 13 operating system, whereas the Pixel 6a shipped with Android 12, which is now upgradeable to Android 13.
Battery
The Pixel 7a is equipped with a 4385mAh battery, which is slightly less powerful than the Pixel 6a's 4500mAh battery.
Nonetheless, the Pixel 7a is the first 'a' series Pixel phone to offer 7.5W wireless charging, and it also supports 18W wired charging, which necessitates a separately purchased charger.
Camera
The Pixel 7a's camera is a significant improvement over its predecessors and the previous generations of 'a' series Pixel phones.
It replaces the 12.2MP sensor of the Pixel 6a with a 64MP primary sensor and a 13MP ultrawide camera, which is an upgrade from the 12MP version.
The 64MP camera quadruple-bins shots, but still captures 16MP images, resulting in more detailed photos than the 12MP ones.
Additionally, the larger sensor should deliver superior low-light photography.
The front-facing camera has also been upgraded to a 13MP sensor from the Pixel 6a's 8MP sensor.
Video Recording
Both the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a's primary cameras can capture videos at a maximum of 4K and 60fps.
However, the Pixel 7a's ultrawide camera has a higher resolution than the Pixel 6a's, capable of recording up to 4K at 30fps compared to the Pixel 6a's 1080P at 60fps.
Similarly, the Pixel 7a's front-facing camera can record 4K videos, while the Pixel 6a's is limited to 1080P.
Price in India
In India as of May 2023, the Google Pixel 7a has a retail price of Rs. 43,999.]
On the other hand, the Pixel 6a, which was introduced last year, is now priced at Rs. 28,999 in India.
It's important to note that the Pixel 6a's cost has decreased significantly since its introduction, making it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable smartphone with adequate features.
Both the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a provide excellent value for money, with pricing varying based on location and availability.
Prospective buyers should evaluate their budget and priorities before deciding to purchase the Pixel 7a or Pixel 6a smartphones, despite the fact that these devices boast exceptional displays, features, cameras, and processors.