Google Pixel 6a 5G vs Google Pixel 8
Our Verdict: The Pixel 8 is two years newer than the Pixel 6a 5G, and it shows in the specs. The 8 5G has the better camera on paper, 50MP versus 12MP, and the 8 5G goes up to 256GB of storage, where the 6a 5G tops out at 128GB. The 8 5G is the lighter phone at 0g against 178g. The 8 5G is the better phone; upgrade from the 6a 5G if you want the newer hardware, or hold on if yours still does the job.
Buying outright, the 8 5G starts at £175 SIM-free.
10 reviews 4.3
10 reviews
Prices updated 26 July 2026
Google Pixel 6a 5G
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Google Pixel 8
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.2 10 reviews |
4.3 10 reviews |
| Screen | 6.1" | 6.2" |
| Display | OLED | AMOLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 431 | 424 |
| Rear Camera | 12 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 8 Megapixels | 10.5 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor (5nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) |
| Battery | 4,410 mAh | 4,575 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android 12 | 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/6e | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6/7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| Dimensions | 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.9 mm | - |
| Weight | 178 grams | 0 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP67 - Dust and water resistant | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts | - | - |
| SIM-free | £184.99 | £174.95 |
| Prices updated 26 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8?
The Google Pixel 8 has the bigger screen at 6.2" compared to the Google Pixel 6a 5G's 6.1", both screens are similarly sharp at around 431 pixels per inch, and the Google Pixel 6a 5G uses a OLED panel while the Google Pixel 8 has a AMOLED.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G features a 12 Megapixels rear camera, while the Google Pixel 8 has a 50 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 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8?
The Google Pixel 8 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £174.95.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 6a 5G and Google Pixel 8?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G is available in 128GB, while the Google Pixel 8 comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 6a 5G and Google Pixel 8 use?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G is powered by the Google Tensor (5nm), while the Google Pixel 8 uses the Google Tensor G3 (4 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8?
The Google Pixel 8 is the more portable of the two: it's 178g lighter at 0 grams.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G is rated IP67 - Dust and water resistant, while the Google Pixel 8 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 6a 5G and Google Pixel 8 run?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G runs Android 12 and the Google Pixel 8 runs Android. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.