Google Pixel 10a vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
Our verdict: On contract, the Google Pixel 10a works out £579.64 cheaper overall than the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra wins on display with a bigger 6.9" screen and a sharper 498 PPI. If you'd rather buy outright, the Google Pixel 10a starts at £409.00 SIM-free. The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra gives you more flexibility with 3 storage options to choose from.
Google Pixel 10a
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Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra
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|
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 6.3" | 6.9" |
| Display | P-OLED, HDR, 120Hz, 2000 nits (HBM), 3000 nits (peak) | Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2424 | 1440 x 3120 |
| Pixels Per Inch | 421 | 498 |
| Rear Camera | 48 Megapixels | 200 Megapixels |
| Front Camera | 13 Megapixels | 12 Megapixels |
| Chipset | Google Tensor G4 (4nm) | Qualcomm SM8850-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm) |
| Storage | 128GB, 256GB | 256GB, 512GB, 1TB |
| OS | Android 16 | Android |
| 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 | 6.0, A2DP, LE | 5.4, A2DP, LE |
| Dimensions | 153.9 x 73 x 9 mm | 163.6 x 78.1 x 7.9 mm |
| Weight | 183 grams | 214 grams |
| Water Resistance | IP68/IP69 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min) | IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min) |
| Contracts |
£11.95/mo
£169.00 upfront |
£22.00/mo
£649.00 upfront |
| SIM-free | £409.00 | £1016.10 |
| Deals | Deals |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Google Pixel 10a or Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra cheaper on contract?
Based on total cost of ownership, the Google Pixel 10a is cheaper on contract at £425.80 over the life of the deal from £11.95 per month with £169.00 upfront.
Which has the better screen, the Google Pixel 10a or Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has the bigger screen at 6.9" compared to the Google Pixel 10a's 6.3", the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has the sharper display at 498 pixels per inch versus 421, and the Google Pixel 10a uses a P-OLED, HDR, 120Hz, 2000 nits (HBM), 3000 nits (peak) panel while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has a Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X.
Which has the better camera, the Google Pixel 10a or Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The Google Pixel 10a features a 48 Megapixels rear camera, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra has a 200 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 10a or Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The Google Pixel 10a is cheaper SIM-free, starting from £409.00.
What storage options are available for the Google Pixel 10a and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The Google Pixel 10a is available in 128GB, 256GB, while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra comes in 256GB, 512GB, 1TB.
What processors do the Google Pixel 10a and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra use?
The Google Pixel 10a is powered by the Google Tensor G4 (4nm), while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra uses the Qualcomm SM8850-AC Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (3 nm).
Which is easier to carry and hold, the Google Pixel 10a or Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The Google Pixel 10a is the more portable of the two — it's 31g lighter at 183 grams, it's also the more compact phone at 153.9 x 73 x 9 mm, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is slimmer at 7.9mm thick.
Which is more water resistant, the Google Pixel 10a or Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra?
The Google Pixel 10a is rated IP68/IP69 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min), while the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is rated IP68 dust tight and water resistant (immersible up to 1.5m for 30 min).
What operating system do the Google Pixel 10a and Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra run?
The Google Pixel 10a runs Android 16 and the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra runs Android. This is one of the biggest factors when choosing between the two, as each ecosystem has its own apps, services and features.