Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9
Our Verdict: There's only a year between the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 9, so expect small changes rather than big ones. The 8a leads on camera hardware with a 64MP main sensor to the 9's 50MP, plus a 13MP selfie camera against 5MP, and the 9 has the bigger screen, 6.3" against 6.1". The 8a is the lighter phone at 188g against 198g. Get the 9 for a few more years of updates, or save money with the 8a if you don't mind.
If you'd rather pay up front, the 8a is the cheaper buy at £200 SIM-free.
12 reviews 4.2
13 reviews
Prices updated 27 July 2026
Google Pixel 8a
|
Google Pixel 9
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.3 12 reviews |
4.2 13 reviews |
| Screen | 6.1" | 6.3" |
| Display | OLED | OLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2424 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 431 | 421 |
| Rear Camera | 64 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 13 Megapixels | 10.5 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) |
| Battery | 4,492 mAh | 4,700 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android | Android 14 |
| 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/7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 with A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm |
| Weight | 188 grams | 198 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP67 - Dust and water resistant | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts | - |
£54.42/mo
£30.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £199.99 | £319.00 |
| Prices updated 27 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 8a or Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 9 has the bigger screen at 6.3" compared to the Google Pixel 8a's 6.1", the Google Pixel 8a has the sharper display at 431 pixels per inch versus 421, and both use OLED panels.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 8a or Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 8a features a 64 Megapixels rear camera, while the Google Pixel 9 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 8a or Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 8a is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £199.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 8a and Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 8a is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Google Pixel 9 comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 8a and Google Pixel 9 use?
The Google Pixel 8a is powered by the Google Tensor G3 (4 nm), while the Google Pixel 9 uses the Google Tensor G4 (4nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 8a or Google Pixel 9?
It's a trade-off: the Google Pixel 8a is lighter but the Google Pixel 9 is more compact. It's 10g lighter at 188 grams, though the Google Pixel 9 is actually the more compact phone at 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm, the Google Pixel 9 is slimmer at 8.5mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 8a or Google Pixel 9?
The Google Pixel 8a is rated IP67 - Dust and water resistant, while the Google Pixel 9 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 8a and Google Pixel 9 run?
The Google Pixel 8a runs Android and the Google Pixel 9 runs Android 14. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.