Google Pixel 7a Review: High Quality Smartphone, But High Price!
The Google Pixel 7a is Google’s latest addition to the A-series lineup and is touted as their most advanced A-series device to date. While it closely matches the specifications of the flagship Pixel 7, it comes with a slightly more affordable price tag, albeit with a noticeable increase compared to its predecessor. Packed with a sleek design, impressive specifications, and a reliable camera system, the Pixel 7a aims to provide a premium experience at a relatively more accessible price point.
However, despite its impressive features and capabilities, the Google Pixel 7a finds itself in a challenging position when compared to its siblings. The Pixel 7, which offers several noteworthy upgrades, is priced slightly higher at $599. With just a $100 price difference, potential buyers might be enticed to spend a little more for the enhanced features and overall superior experience provided by the Pixel 7.
Furthermore, the previous generation Pixel 6a remains available at a reduced price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
Ultimately, potential buyers will need to consider their budget and desired features to determine which device best suits their needs and preferences.
| Specs | Google Pixel 7a |
| Dimensions | 152 x 72.9 x 9 mm |
| Weight | 193.5g (6.84 oz) |
| Weter resistant | IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 min) |
| Display | 6.1 inches, OLED, HDR, 90Hz, |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~429 ppi density) |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G2 (5 nm) |
| CPU | Octa-core |
| GPU | Mali-G710 MP7 |
| Card slot | NO |
| Internal | 128GB ROM, 8GB RAM |
| Main camera | 64 MP, f/1.9, 26mm (wide), 1/1.73", 0.8µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS |
| 13 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1.12µm | |
| Selfie camera | 13 MP, f/2.2, 20mm (ultrawide), 1.12µm |
| 3.5mm jack | NO |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, NavIC |
| NFC | YES |
| Sensors | Fingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, |
| gyro, proximity, compass, barometer | |
| Battery | Li-Po 4385 mAh, non-removable |
| Charging | 18W wired, PD3.0 |
| 7.5W wireless | |
| Colors | Charcoal, Snow, Sea, Coral |
Google Pixel 7a: Design
The Google Pixel 7a retains a design similar to its predecessor, with a few subtle differences. It maintains a high gloss plastic back that resembles glass until you touch it, paired with an aluminum frame that surrounds the edges. However, unlike the Pixel 6a’s metallic black finished frame, the aluminum frame of the Pixel 7a matches the color of the device you choose, adding a cohesive and seamless look.
One noticeable design change on the Pixel 7a is the metallic camera bar, which resembles the one found on the standard Pixel 7 but is slightly thinner, likely due to the smaller sensors used. This camera bar adds a touch of elegance and visual distinction to the device.
In terms of size, the Pixel 7a is slightly taller and wider compared to the Pixel 6a. Its product dimensions measure 72.9 x 152.4 x 9.0mm, and it weighs slightly more at 193 grams, as opposed to the previous model’s 178 grams. Despite these minor differences, the Pixel 7a maintains the same display size as its predecessor, with a 6.1-inch screen. This compact form factor makes it the most portable option within the Pixel 7 lineup.
In terms of durability, the Pixel 7a boasts an IP67 rating, ensuring its ability to withstand water and dust without issues. Additionally, the front display is covered with Corning Gorilla Glass 3, providing scratch resistance and added protection against everyday wear and tear.
Google Pixel 7a: Display
The Google Pixel 7a shares the same screen size as its predecessor, the Pixel 6a, measuring 6.1 inches. The device features a Full HD OLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio, providing a vibrant and immersive visual experience. To ensure durability, the Pixel 7a is equipped with Corning Gorilla Glass 3, protecting the screen from scratches and accidental damage.
One notable improvement in the Pixel 7a is its enhanced refresh rate. While previous Pixel A-series devices typically had a standard 60Hz refresh rate, the Pixel 7a introduces a smoother 90Hz adaptive refresh rate, known as “Smooth Display.” This upgrade brings numerous benefits, including smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and improved graphics, particularly during gaming sessions. By increasing the refresh rate, the device delivers a heightened visual experience for users.
However, it is worth mentioning that the Smooth Display setting is disabled by default on the Pixel 7a. Users have the option to manually enable it if they desire the enhanced refresh rate experience. The reason for this default setting is likely to mitigate potential battery life concerns. Higher refresh rates generally consume more power, which can have an impact on the device’s battery performance.
Google Pixel 7a: Performance
The Google Pixel 7a comes equipped with an upgraded Tensor G2 chip, surpassing the performance of the first-generation Tensor found in the Pixel 6a. This improved chipset ensures smoother operation and enhanced overall performance. Additionally, the Pixel 7a boasts 8GB of RAM, an increase from the 6GB seen in its predecessor. The device offers a single storage option of 128GB, providing ample space for apps, photos, and other files.
While the specifications of the Pixel 7a appear impressive on paper, it’s important to note that the upgrade from the Pixel 6a may not be significant enough for everyone. For individuals seeking an affordable budget phone, the Pixel 6a still stands as a commendable choice. The inclusion of the 90Hz refresh rate in the Pixel 7a does contribute to a smoother visual experience, but for many users, the Pixel 6a offers a satisfactory performance at a lower price point.
In everyday usage, the Pixel 7a handles common tasks with ease. From checking emails and messages on platforms like Microsoft Teams to browsing through social media applications such as Instagram and Facebook, the device proves to be responsive. It performs well during camera usage, allowing for photo editing and capturing memorable moments. Additionally, the Pixel 7a handles app usage, streaming videos, and watching content on platforms like YouTube. It also handles light, casual gaming without any major issues.
Google Pixel 7a: Camera
The Google Pixel 7a, despite being the budget offering in the Pixel 7 lineup, surprises users with impressive camera hardware that even surpasses the capabilities of the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro in certain aspects.
At the core of the camera system, the Pixel 7a features a 64MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide sensor. In comparison, the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro have a 50MP main camera and a 12MP ultrawide camera. It’s important to note that although the Pixel 7a boasts a higher megapixel count, Google clarifies that the sensor size is not as large as that of the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. This difference suggests that the Pixel 7a may not perform as well in capturing low-light images.
However, despite the potential limitations in low-light scenarios, the 64MP camera on the Pixel 7a impresses with its ability to capture detailed and sharp photos without appearing overly processed. The colors in the images are vibrant and punchy, striking a good balance without excessive saturation.
Even in cloudy or overcast environments, the device performs well, producing great results despite the circumstances. Thanks to the powerful Tensor G2 chip powering the Pixel 7a, the device exhibits swift performance when capturing photos.
The selfie camera on the Pixel 7a is a significant improvement over its predecessor and even surpasses the base model Pixel 7 in terms of specifications. With an 8MP front camera, the Pixel 7a delivers excellent selfie capabilities.
However, it’s worth noting that the Pixel 7a may struggle in low-light conditions when it comes to capturing images. While the device’s camera system performs acceptably in such scenarios, the larger sensors found in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro would provide a notable advantage in this aspect.
Google Pixel 7a: Battery
The Google Pixel 7a comes with a 4,385mAh battery, which is slightly smaller than its predecessor’s 4,410mAh battery but comparable to the Pixel 7’s 4,355mAh battery. Battery life is one area where the Pixel 7a falls slightly behind. As the Pixel A-series devices are typically the smallest in the Pixel lineup, they tend to have smaller batteries to match their physical size.
The Pixel 7a supports 18W fast charging via a USB-C cable. It takes a little over 1.5 hours to charge the phone from zero to 100%. While not the fastest charging technology available, it provides a reasonable charging speed for everyday use.
One notable addition to the Pixel 7a is wireless charging, which is a first for the A-series devices. However, the wireless charging speed is slower compared to even the regular Pixel 7. It supports 7.5W wireless charging with Qi-compatible wireless chargers. If you use Google’s Pixel Stand accessory, you may experience slightly faster wireless charging speeds. Unfortunately, the Pixel 7a does not support reverse wireless charging (Battery Share), a feature found in the Pixel 7.
Google Pixel 7a: Conclusion
The Google Pixel 7a offers a compelling package for those in search of a budget-friendly smartphone. It features a 6.1-inch Full HD OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing smoother scrolling and improved graphics. The inclusion of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 ensures durability and protection against accidental damage.
Under the hood, the Pixel 7a impresses with its new Tensor G2 chip, delivering enhanced performance compared to its predecessor. The 8GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, and the 128GB storage option offers ample space for apps, photos, and files.
The camera hardware on the Pixel 7a is noteworthy, surpassing even the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro in certain aspects. The 64MP main camera captures detailed and vibrant photos, while the 13MP ultrawide sensor allows for wider-angle shots. The selfie camera with its 13MP resolution delivers impressive self-portraits with a pleasing bokeh effect.
Battery life is the Pixel 7a’s weakest point, with a 4,385mAh battery that is slightly smaller than its predecessor. However, the device supports 18W fast charging via a USB-C cable, allowing for reasonably quick charging times. Wireless charging is also available, although at a slower speed compared to other Pixel devices.
In terms of software, the Pixel 7a runs on the clean and user-friendly Android operating system, offering a seamless and familiar experience. As a part of the Pixel lineup, it benefits from Google’s software updates and regular security patches.
Overall, the Google Pixel 7a is a solid choice for those seeking a budget smartphone. It combines an impressive display, capable camera system, reliable performance, and the benefits of being a part of the Pixel ecosystem.
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