Should You Upgrade from the Google Pixel 4a to the Pixel 8a?
The Google Pixel 4a has been a beloved device since its release, thanks to its combination of affordability, solid performance, and excellent camera capabilities. However, with the launch of the Google Pixel 8a, many users are contemplating whether an upgrade is worth it. In this article, we’ll compare the key specifications and features of both phones to help you make an informed decision.
#### Design and Build Quality
**Pixel 4a:**
- **Dimensions:** 144 x 69.4 x 8.2 mm
- **Weight:** 143 grams
- **Material:** Polycarbonate body
- **Colors:** Just Black
**Pixel 8a:**
- **Dimensions:** 150.1 x 71.8 x 8.5 mm
- **Weight:** 160 grams
- **Material:** Aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass front and back
- **Colors:** Sea Blue, Charcoal, Snow
The Pixel 8a features a more premium build with a combination of an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass, providing better durability and a more refined look compared to the polycarbonate body of the Pixel 4a. The slightly larger size and weight also give it a more substantial feel.
#### Display
**Pixel 4a:**
- **Size:** 5.81 inches
- **Resolution:** 1080 x 2340 pixels
- **Panel:** OLED
- **Refresh Rate:** 60Hz
**Pixel 8a:**
- **Size:** 6.2 inches
- **Resolution:** 1080 x 2400 pixels
- **Panel:** OLED
- **Refresh Rate:** 90Hz
The Pixel 8a offers a larger and slightly sharper display with a higher refresh rate of 90Hz, which results in smoother animations and scrolling. This is a significant upgrade for those who consume a lot of media or play games on their phone.
#### Performance
**Pixel 4a:**
- **Processor:** Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G
- **RAM:** 6GB
- **Storage:** 128GB
- **OS:** Android 10, upgradable to Android 13
**Pixel 8a:**
- **Processor:** Google Tensor G3
- **RAM:** 8GB
- **Storage:** 128GB
- **OS:** Android 14
The Pixel 8a is equipped with Google’s own Tensor G3 chipset, which significantly outperforms the Snapdragon 730G found in the Pixel 4a. This upgrade translates to better overall performance, improved AI capabilities, and more efficient power consumption. The increase in RAM from 6GB to 8GB also ensures smoother multitasking.
#### Camera
**Pixel 4a:**
- **Rear Camera:** 12.2 MP, f/1.7, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
- **Front Camera:** 8 MP, f/2.0
**Pixel 8a:**
- **Rear Camera:** 50 MP, f/1.9, PDAF, OIS
- **Front Camera:** 12 MP, f/2.2
The Pixel 8a boasts a substantial upgrade in the camera department with a 50 MP main sensor, providing enhanced detail and better low-light performance. The front camera also sees an improvement, which will be appreciated by selfie enthusiasts and those who frequently use video calls.
#### Battery Life
**Pixel 4a:**
- **Battery:** 3140 mAh
- **Charging:** 18W fast charging
- **Wireless Charging:** No
**Pixel 8a:**
- **Battery:** 4500 mAh
- **Charging:** 30W fast charging
- **Wireless Charging:** Yes, 15W
The Pixel 8a comes with a larger battery, faster charging speeds, and the added convenience of wireless charging. These enhancements ensure that the device can last longer and charge more quickly, meeting the demands of modern usage.
#### Additional Features
**Pixel 4a:**
- **Fingerprint Sensor:** Rear-mounted
- **Connectivity:** 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0
- **Audio:** 3.5mm headphone jack
**Pixel 8a:**
- **Fingerprint Sensor:** Under-display
- **Connectivity:** 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
- **Audio:** No headphone jack
The Pixel 8a embraces newer technologies such as 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, and a more advanced under-display fingerprint sensor. However, it does drop the 3.5mm headphone jack, which might be a consideration for some users.
#### Software and Support
Both devices run on Google’s clean version of Android, but the Pixel 8a will come with a longer support window for updates, ensuring it remains secure and feature-rich for a longer period.
### Conclusion
Upgrading from the Google Pixel 4a to the Pixel 8a comes with several significant benefits, including a more premium design, improved display, superior performance, enhanced camera capabilities, better battery life, and support for the latest connectivity options. However, if you are satisfied with your current device and do not require the latest features or performance improvements, the Pixel 4a remains a capable and reliable phone.
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade will depend on your personal needs and how much you value the advancements offered by the Pixel 8a.