Google Pixel 9 vs Google Pixel 9a
Our verdict: Add up the full contract cost and the Google Pixel 9a comes in £304.11 cheaper than the Google Pixel 9. Photography fans should note the Google Pixel 9 packs a 50MP main sensor. Video callers will appreciate the Google Pixel 9a and its 13MP front camera. If weight matters, the Google Pixel 9a is easier to pocket at 186g.
Google Pixel 9
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Google Pixel 9a
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|---|---|---|
| Screen | 6.3" | 6.3" |
| Display | OLED | P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2424 | 1080 x 2424 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 421 | 421 |
| Rear Camera | 50 Megapixels | 48 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 10.5 Megapixels | 13 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB, 256GB |
| OS | Android 14 | Android 15 |
| 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/7 | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 tri-band |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 198 grams | 186 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes | IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min) |
| Contracts |
£54.42/mo
£30.00 upfront |
£13.95/mo
£75.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £331.49 | £289.99 |
| Deals | Deals |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9 or Google Pixel 9a cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Google Pixel 9a is cheaper on contract at £379.80 over the life of the deal from £13.95 per month with £75.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9 or Google Pixel 9a?
Both phones have a similar screen size at around 6.3", both screens are similarly sharp at around 421 pixels per inch, and the Google Pixel 9 uses a OLED panel while the Google Pixel 9a has a P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9 or Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9 features a 50 Megapixels rear camera, while the Google Pixel 9a has a 48 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 9 or Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9a is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £289.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9 and Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9 is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Google Pixel 9a comes in 128GB, 256GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9 and Google Pixel 9a use?
The Google Pixel 9 is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Google Pixel 9a uses the Google Tensor G4 (4nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9 or Google Pixel 9a?
It's a trade-off: the Google Pixel 9a is lighter but the Google Pixel 9 is more compact. It's 12g lighter at 186 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 9 or Google Pixel 9a?
The Google Pixel 9 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes, while the Google Pixel 9a is rated IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min).
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9 and Google Pixel 9a run?
The Google Pixel 9 runs Android 14 and the Google Pixel 9a runs Android 15. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.