Google Pixel 6 vs Google Pixel 8a
Our Verdict: The Pixel 8a is two years newer than the Pixel 6, and it shows in the specs. The 8a has the better camera on paper, 64MP versus 50MP, and the 6 has the bigger screen at 6.4" against 6.1", while the 8a has the sharper one at 431 PPI. Storage goes higher on the 8a, up to 256GB against 128GB, and the 6 is the lighter phone at 0g against 188g. If you're on the 6, the 8a is a real step up, but only worth it if the changes above matter to you.
Buying outright, the 6 starts at £115 SIM-free.
10 reviews 4.3
12 reviews
Prices updated 25 July 2026
Google Pixel 6
|
Google Pixel 8a
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.4 10 reviews |
4.3 12 reviews |
| Screen | 6.4" | 6.1" |
| Display | AMOLED | OLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 1080 x 2400 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 403 | 431 |
| Rear Camera | 50 Megapixels | 64 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 12 Megapixels | 13 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor (5nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) |
| Battery | 4,614 mAh | 4,492 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android | Android |
| SIM Type | nano-SIM and e- SIM | nano-SIM and e-SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 5G | Up to 5G |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 with A2DP, LE, aptX HD | 5.3 with A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 160.4 x 75.1 x 8.2 mm | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 0 grams | 188 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | IP67 - Dust and water resistant |
| Contracts | - | - |
| SIM-free | £115.00 | £194.99 |
| Prices updated 25 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 6 or Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6 has the bigger screen at 6.4" compared to the Google Pixel 8a's 6.1", the Google Pixel 8a has the sharper display at 431 pixels per inch versus 403, and the Google Pixel 6 uses a AMOLED panel while the Google Pixel 8a has a OLED.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 6 or Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6 features a 50 Megapixels rear camera, while the Google Pixel 8a has a 64 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 6 or Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £115.00.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 6 and Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6 is available in 128GB, while the Google Pixel 8a comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 6 and Google Pixel 8a use?
The Google Pixel 6 is powered by the Google Tensor (5nm), while the Google Pixel 8a uses the Google Tensor G3 (4 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 6 or Google Pixel 8a?
It's a trade-off: the Google Pixel 6 is lighter but the Google Pixel 8a is more compact. It's 188g lighter at 0 grams, though the Google Pixel 8a is actually the more compact phone at 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm, the Google Pixel 6 is slimmer at 8.2mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 6 or Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes, while the Google Pixel 8a is rated IP67 - Dust and water resistant.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 6 and Google Pixel 8a run?
Both phones run Android.