Google Pixel 9a vs Samsung Galaxy XCover 7
Our Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 has a slightly higher-resolution main camera, 50MP against the Google Pixel 9a's 48MP, and the Pixel 9a packs the bigger battery, 5100mAh against 4050mAh, which usually means longer between charges. The Galaxy XCover 7 has the bigger screen at 6.6" against 6.3", while the Pixel 9a has the sharper one at 421 PPI, and the Pixel 9a offers up to 256GB of storage versus 128GB on the Galaxy XCover 7. Get the Pixel 9a if those extras are worth it to you; otherwise the Galaxy XCover 7 covers the basics for less.
Over a full contract, the Galaxy XCover 7 works out around £380 all-in, about £31 less than the Pixel 9a.
13 reviews 3.6
6 reviews
Prices updated 26 July 2026
Google Pixel 9a
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Samsung Galaxy XCover 7
|
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.4 13 reviews |
3.6 6 reviews |
| Screen | 6.3" | 6.6" |
| Display | P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits | PLS LCD |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2424 | 1080 x 2408 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 421 | 400 |
| Rear Camera | 48 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 13 Megapixels | 5 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm) |
| Battery | 5,100 mAh | 4,050 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 128GB |
| OS | Android 15 | 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/6 tri-band | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm | 169 x 80.1 x 10.2 mm |
| Weight | 186 grams | 240 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min) | IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes |
| Contracts |
£14.99/mo
£29.00 upfront |
£13.79/mo
£49.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £289.99 | £349.00 |
| Prices updated 26 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 is cheaper on contract at £379.96 over the life of the deal from £13.79 per month with £49.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy XCover 7?
The Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 has the bigger screen at 6.6" compared to the Google Pixel 9a's 6.3", the Google Pixel 9a has the sharper display at 421 pixels per inch versus 400, and the Google Pixel 9a uses a P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits panel while the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 has a PLS LCD.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy XCover 7?
The Google Pixel 9a features a 48 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 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 XCover 7?
The Google Pixel 9a is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £289.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy XCover 7?
The Google Pixel 9a is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 comes in 128GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 use?
The Google Pixel 9a is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 uses the Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy XCover 7?
The Google Pixel 9a is the more portable of the two: it's 54g lighter at 186 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm, and is slimmer at 8.9mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy XCover 7?
The Google Pixel 9a is rated IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min), while the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 is rated IP68 - Dust and water resistant over 1.5 meter and 30 minutes.
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 run?
The Google Pixel 9a runs Android 15 and the Samsung Galaxy XCover 7 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.