Google Pixel 4 vs Google Pixel 4a
Our Verdict: Same generation, two tiers: the Pixel 4a at the top and the Pixel 4 below it. The 4 has the better camera on paper, 16MP versus 12MP, and the 4a is the lighter phone at 143g against 162g. Only the 4 has a water-resistance rating (IP68); the 4a has none. Unusually, the cheaper 4 takes some of the spec wins as well, so it's the obvious choice for most people.
If you'd rather pay up front, the 4 is the cheaper buy at £110 SIM-free.
Prices updated 17 July 2026
Google Pixel 4
|
Google Pixel 4a
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 5.7" | 5.81" |
| Display | P-OLED | OLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2280 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 443 | 444 |
| Rear Camera | 16 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 8 Megapixels | 8 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Qualcomm SDM855 Snapdragon 855 | Qualcomm SDM730 Snapdragon 730G |
| Battery | 2,800 mAh | 3,140 mAh |
| Storage | 64GB, 128GB | 128GB |
| OS | Android | Android 10 |
| SIM Type | Nano SIM | Nano SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 4G | Up to 4G |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 with A2DP, aptX HD, LE | 5.0 with A2DP, aptX HD, LE |
| Dimensions | 147.1 x 68.8 x 8.5 mm | 144 x 69 x 8.2 mm |
| Weight | 162 grams | 143 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | Not rated |
| Contracts | - | - |
| SIM-free | £109.99 | £230.00 |
| Prices updated 17 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 4 or Google Pixel 4a?
The Google Pixel 4a has the bigger screen at 5.8" compared to the Google Pixel 4's 5.7", both screens are similarly sharp at around 443 pixels per inch, and the Google Pixel 4 uses a P-OLED panel while the Google Pixel 4a has a OLED.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 4 or Google Pixel 4a?
The Google Pixel 4 features a 16 Megapixels rear camera, while the Google Pixel 4a has a 12 Megapixels rear camera. Both devices also have front-facing cameras for selfies and video calls.
Which is cheaper to buy SIM-free, the Google Pixel 4 or Google Pixel 4a?
The Google Pixel 4 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £109.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 4 and Google Pixel 4a?
The Google Pixel 4 is available in 64GB, 128GB, while the Google Pixel 4a comes in 128GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 4 and Google Pixel 4a use?
The Google Pixel 4 is powered by the Qualcomm SDM855 Snapdragon 855, while the Google Pixel 4a uses the Qualcomm SDM730 Snapdragon 730G.
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 4 or Google Pixel 4a?
The Google Pixel 4a is the more portable of the two: it's 19g lighter at 143 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 144 x 69 x 8.2 mm, and is slimmer at 8.2mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 4 or Google Pixel 4a?
The Google Pixel 4 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes, while the Google Pixel 4a is rated Not rated.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 4 and Google Pixel 4a run?
The Google Pixel 4 runs Android and the Google Pixel 4a runs Android 10. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.