Google Pixel 6a 5G vs Google Pixel 8a
Our Verdict: The Pixel 8a is two years newer than the Pixel 6a 5G, and it shows in the specs. The 8a leads on camera hardware with a 64MP main sensor to the 6a 5G's 12MP, plus a 13MP selfie camera against 8MP, and the 8a offers up to 256GB of storage versus 128GB on the 6a 5G. The 6a 5G is the lighter phone at 178g against 188g. The 8a 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 6a 5G starts at £135 SIM-free.
10 reviews 4.3
12 reviews
Prices updated 10 July 2026
Google Pixel 6a 5G
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Google Pixel 8a
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.2 10 reviews |
4.3 12 reviews |
| Screen | 6.1" | 6.1" |
| Display | OLED | OLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2400 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 431 | 431 |
| Rear Camera | 12 Megapixels | 64 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 8 Megapixels | 13 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor (5nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) |
| Battery | 4,410 mAh | 4,492 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/6e |
| Bluetooth | 5.2, A2DP, LE | 5.3 with A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.9 mm | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 178 grams | 188 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP67 - Dust and water resistant | IP67 - Dust and water resistant |
| Contracts | - | - |
| SIM-free | £134.99 | £169.99 |
| Prices updated 10 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8a?
Both phones have a similar screen size at around 6.1", both screens are similarly sharp at around 431 pixels per inch, and both use OLED panels.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G features a 12 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 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £134.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 6a 5G and Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G is available in 128GB, while the Google Pixel 8a comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 6a 5G and Google Pixel 8a use?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G 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 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G is the more portable of the two: it's 10g lighter at 178 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.9 mm.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 6a 5G or Google Pixel 8a?
Both phones share the same water resistance rating of IP67 - Dust and water resistant.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 6a 5G and Google Pixel 8a run?
The Google Pixel 6a 5G runs Android 12 and the Google Pixel 8a runs Android. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.