In 2025, choosing a good smartphone under budget can get overwhelming. especially when you’re stuck deciding between the Pixel 7a vs Pixel 8a. These phones might look similar on the surface but the differences start to show once you dig deeper. Whether you’re buying your first Pixel or upgrading from an older one, it’s essential to understand what each device truly offers.
Google’s Pixel A-series is well-known for delivering flagship-grade cameras and clean Android experience, all without the heavy price tag. But with the Pixel 8a entering the market with some fresh upgrades, is it still worth saving money and going for the Pixel 7a? Let’s break it down.
👀 Design & Feel in Hand
At first glance both phones follow the same Pixel design philosophy—minimal, modern, and practical. The Pixel 7a, launched in 2023 brought a nice balance between size and build. It’s compact with a solid frame and even though it uses plastic on the back, it doesn’t feel cheap.
Now enter the Pixel 8a. Google decided not to reinvent the wheel here. The shape remains familiar, but you’ll notice softer curves, a slightly better grip and an overall more polished finish. Plus, the 8a gets a nod for using more recycled materials. which is great if you care about the planet as much as performance.
📱 Display Comparison
Here’s where things get interesting. The Pixel 7a sports a 6.1-inch OLED screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, which is smooth enough for most everyday tasks—scrolling Instagram, watching YouTube or playing games.
However, the Pixel 8a steps it up with a 120Hz Actua display. That faster refresh rate makes every swipe and animation look buttery smooth. If you’re someone who notices those tiny details in motion, you’ll appreciate the upgrade. Also, the 8a’s screen gets brighter outdoors, which is a bonus under the harsh Delhi sun or while traveling.
🔋 Battery Life & Charging
Battery-wise, the two phones are more alike than different. The Pixel 7a has a 4385mAh battery and the Pixel 8a slightly bumps it up to 4492mAh. Not a big leap but thanks to the newer processor inside the 8a, battery management is a bit smarter.
In daily use—calls, navigation, watching reels and work emails—you can expect both to last through the day. But don’t expect magic in terms of charging speeds. Google still caps wired charging at 18W and wireless at 7.5W on both models, which feels a bit slow in 2025 standards.
⚙️ Performance: What’s Under the Hood
Let’s talk about what’s powering these phones.
The Pixel 7a runs on the Tensor G2 chip, while the Pixel 8a uses the upgraded Tensor G3. While the G2 is no slouch the G3 brings smoother performance, less heating, and more advanced AI features.
In real-world terms? Apps open a tad quicker, games are a bit more stable, and features like real-time translation, voice typing and photo editing with Magic Eraser work a bit faster on the 8a. If you like a snappy phone and plan to keep it for years that performance edge matters.
📸 Cameras: The Pixel Magic
If there’s one thing both these phones do exceptionally well it’s photography.
The Pixel 7a introduced a 64MP main camera with a 13MP ultra-wide, and the Pixel 8a keeps the same setup. On paper you’d think there’s no difference. But software does a lot of the heavy lifting here.
Thanks to Tensor G3, the Pixel 8a delivers slightly sharper images, better dynamic range and cleaner shots in low light. Google also added its newer editing tools like “Best Take” and improved Night Sight, exclusive to the 8a.
Still, if your camera needs are basic or you’re not a pixel peeper. the 7a already does a brilliant job. The difference isn’t night and day—more like evening and late evening.
🔒 Software & Updates
Both phones ship with Android 14 but here’s where things really split.
The Pixel 7a will receive three major Android updates and five years of security patches. Meanwhile the Pixel 8a now enjoys Google’s new promise of seven years of full software updates, including Android upgrades.
That’s a game-changer if you plan to stick with your phone long-term. Imagine still getting new features and security patches in 2032—that’s what you get with the 8a.
Also, the 8a unlocks newer AI tools like smarter call screening, better summaries and in-app suggestions, all processed on-device.
💰 Price & Value
Let’s get down to the most practical question—how much do they cost?
Pixel 7a (2025): Available around ₹36,999 to ₹39,999 during deals.
Pixel 8a (2025): Officially launched at ₹52,999 but often available for ₹47,999 on discounts.
That’s roughly a ₹10,000 difference. If you’re tight on budget or just want a reliable, no-nonsense Pixel, the 7a is still very much worth it. But if you’re into longevity, display smoothness and the latest AI stuff. the Pixel 8a justifies the extra money.
✅ Verdict: Which Pixel Is Right for You?
If you’re someone who doesn’t need the latest chip or the highest refresh rate display. the Pixel 7a still holds up incredibly well in 2025. It’s great for students, casual users and anyone looking for the Pixel experience at a more affordable price.
But if you’re planning to use your phone for the next 4–5 years want smoother visuals, better AI and longer support. the Pixel 8a is a future-proof choice that won’t let you down.
Your move now depends on how long you want to keep the phone and what matters most—budget or performance.
