Pixel 7a vs Pixel 7: which phone is right for you?

May 26, 2023

Google Pixel 7 front view of display and Google Pixel 7a front view of display.

The Google Pixel 7 is a mid-range smartphone with all the brilliance of Google built in. But with the recent launch of the affordable new Google Pixel 7a, you might be wondering which model in the Pixel 7 series you should you go for?

Here we compare the Google Pixel 7a specs with the original Google Pixel 7 features, so you can see which one is right for you.

Pixel 7 vs 7a: Size Differences

The new Google Pixel 7a is 15.2cm high, 7.3cm wide and 9mm slim. The Google Pixel 7 is slightly taller at 15.5cm, but it’s the same width and slightly slimmer at 8.7mm. The Pixel 7 weighs a little more than the 7a at 197g, compared with 193.5 g.  So, the new Google 7a is a more lightweight phone.

Pixel 7 vs 7a: Display

Released in October 2022, the Pixel 7 has a 6.3in OLED display with 90Hz refresh rate and 1080x2400 FHD resolution. The Pixel 7 screen is clear and bright with 1,400 nits to give a visibility boost when you’re using it outside in the sunshine.

The Pixel 7a screen is a Full HD 6.1in OLED display, so it’s slightly smaller than the Google 7. But it also the 1080x2400 FHD resolution and same 90Hz refresh rate for smooth viewing and gaming. 

Pixel 7 vs 7a: Battery life

The Google Pixel 7 has a 4355mAh battery, but the Pixel 7a comes with a slightly larger 4,385mAh. You get over 24 hours of battery life and up to 72 hours with the Extreme Battery Saver mode that’s available in both models.

Both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a support wireless charging too (a feature previously not available on the A series). So, you can forget about wires and get a quick boost of power wherever you go.

Pixel 7 vs 7a: Camera

With advanced image processing, the Google Pixel 7a 64MP rear camera lets you create stunning photos every time. It's easy to take amazing pictures in low light, fix your blurry photos, or remove distractions with a few taps in Google Photos. And it comes with a 13MP ultra-wide selfie camera.

In comparison, the Google Pixel 7 also has incredible photo quality, but you get a 50MP rear camera, 12MP ultrawide and 10.8MP front camera.

Pixel 7 vs 7a: Processor and performance

Both the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a have the Google Tensor G2 processor, which gives high performance and power for multi-tasking. The processor powers Google's intuitive AI for improved audio on phone calls, great battery life, and amazing photo and video quality.

Both devices also support 5G, so you can get a super-fast connection for lag-free streaming and gaming if you’re in a 5G area.

Google Pixel 7 and Pixel 7a deals

You can get yourself a great Google Pixel deal on Three – whether you go for the Pixel 7 or the all-new Pixel 7a. Check out all our latest offers to find a deal that suits you.

We also offer a range of flexible phone contracts with our new Three Your Way plans. You can choose how much to pay upfront, and whether you spread the cost over 12, 24 or 36 months. This means you can get the best of Google at a price that suits your budget.

If you need a little more help deciding between the 2 devices, come instore and speak to the team. And there are more Google phones to choose from if you want to compare the whole range.