Google Pixel 9a vs Samsung Galaxy A16
Over a full contract, the A16 works out around £275 all-in, about £136 less than the Pixel 9a.
13 reviews 3.4
3 reviews
Prices updated 10 July 2026
Google Pixel 9a
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Samsung Galaxy A16
|
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.4 13 reviews |
3.4 3 reviews |
| Screen | 6.3" | 6.7" |
| Display | P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits | Super AMOLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2424 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 421 | 385 |
| Rear Camera | 48 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 13 Megapixels | 13 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6 nm) |
| Battery | 5,100 mAh | 5,000 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB |
| OS | Android 15 | Android |
| SIM Type | nano-SIM and e-SIM | nano-SIM and e-SIM |
| Connectivity | Up to 5G | N/A |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6 tri-band | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3 with A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm | 164.4 x 77.9 x 7.9 mm |
| Weight | 186 grams | 200 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min) | IP54 |
| Contracts |
£14.99/mo
£29.00 upfront |
£9.99/mo
£5.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £309.99 | £103.55 |
| Prices updated 10 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy A16 cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Samsung Galaxy A16 is cheaper on contract at £275.16 over the life of the deal from £9.99 per month with £5.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy A16?
The Samsung Galaxy A16 has the bigger screen at 6.7" compared to the Google Pixel 9a's 6.3", the Google Pixel 9a has the sharper display at 421 pixels per inch versus 385, and the Google Pixel 9a uses a P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits panel while the Samsung Galaxy A16 has a Super AMOLED.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy A16?
The Google Pixel 9a features a 48 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy A16 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 9a or Samsung Galaxy A16?
The Samsung Galaxy A16 is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £103.55.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy A16?
The Google Pixel 9a is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy A16 comes in 128GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy A16 use?
The Google Pixel 9a is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Samsung Galaxy A16 uses the Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy A16?
The Google Pixel 9a is the more portable of the two: it's 14g lighter at 186 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm, the Samsung Galaxy A16 is slimmer at 7.9mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy A16?
The Google Pixel 9a is rated IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min), while the Samsung Galaxy A16 is rated IP54.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy A16 run?
The Google Pixel 9a runs Android 15 and the Samsung Galaxy A16 runs Android. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.