Google Pixel 9a vs Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
Our Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 has a slightly higher-resolution main camera, 50MP against the Google Pixel 9a's 48MP, and there's more battery in the Pixel 9a, 5100mAh to 4400mAh, which should mean longer between charges in day-to-day use. The Galaxy Z Fold5 5G has the bigger screen at 7.6" against 6.3", while the Pixel 9a has the sharper one at 421 PPI, and storage goes higher on the Galaxy Z Fold5 5G, up to 512GB against 256GB. The Galaxy Z Fold5 5G is the one to have if you want what it adds, but the Pixel 9a is the smarter buy if you'd rather keep the money.
Over a full contract, the Pixel 9a works out around £411 all-in, about £434 less than the Galaxy Z Fold5 5G.
13 reviews 4.0
12 reviews
Prices updated 26 July 2026
Google Pixel 9a
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Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5
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|---|---|---|
| Expert Rating | 4.4 13 reviews |
4.0 12 reviews |
| Screen | 6.3" | 7.6" |
| Display | P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits | Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2424 | 1812 x 2176 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 421 | 373 |
| Rear Camera | 48 Megapixels | 50 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 13 Megapixels | 4 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Qualcomm SM8475 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) |
| Battery | 5,100 mAh | 4,400 mAh |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 256GB, 512GB |
| OS | Android 15 | Android |
| SIM Type | nano-SIM and e-SIM | Nano 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/6/7 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.2 with A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| Dimensions | 154.7 x 73.3 x 8.9 mm | 158.5 x 67.5 x 14.5 mm |
| Weight | 186 grams | 275 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min) | IPX8 - water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins) |
| Contracts |
£14.99/mo
£29.00 upfront |
£67.33/mo
£30.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £304.99 | £389.99 |
| Prices updated 26 July 2026 | ||
| Deals | Deals | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Google Pixel 9a is cheaper on contract at £411.16 over the life of the deal from £14.99 per month with £29.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 has the bigger screen at 7.6" compared to the Google Pixel 9a's 6.3", the Google Pixel 9a has the sharper display at 421 pixels per inch versus 373, and the Google Pixel 9a uses a P-OLED, HDR10+, 120Hz, 1800 nits panel while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 has a Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Google Pixel 9a features a 48 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 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 Z Fold5?
The Google Pixel 9a is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £304.99.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Google Pixel 9a is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 comes in 256GB, 512GB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 use?
The Google Pixel 9a is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 uses the Qualcomm SM8475 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
It's a trade-off: the Google Pixel 9a is lighter but the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is more compact. It's 89g lighter at 186 grams, though the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is actually the more compact phone at 158.5 x 67.5 x 14.5 mm, the Google Pixel 9a is slimmer at 8.9mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 9a or Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5?
The Google Pixel 9a is rated IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min), while the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 is rated IPX8 - water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins).
What operating system do the Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 run?
The Google Pixel 9a runs Android 15 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 runs Android. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.