Google’s Pixel 7a: A Mid-Range Phone With Decisions to Make
Google's Pixel 7a is the latest addition to the Pixel lineup, and it's in an interesting position when compared to its counterparts. It's priced at $499, making it $100 less than the Pixel 7, which has a better camera system, a larger display, and longer battery life, and $150 more than the Pixel 6a, which offers a similar Android experience but without the fancier display and charging tech. The 7a could be the ideal phone for you if you're unsure about choosing between either end of that spectrum.[0]
However, with the $150 price increase, it's harder to recommend the Pixel 7a as a true budget-friendly Pixel. It's also in a weird place since the Pixel 7 is just $100 more than the Pixel 7a and is a better overall buy unless you prefer to stick with smaller phones. While Google has made improvements with the Pixel 7a, such as the 90Hz refresh rate, 64MP main camera, and even wireless charging, it's hard to justify buying one instead of even a Pixel 7.
That said, the Pixel 7a performs a little bit more consistently, even if it tends to favor dark coloring in its photos.[0] While that can mar some shots, a lot of the times, it helps call out details, and you don't get the over-exposure that is found in some Galaxy A54 photos.[0] The display size of the Pixel 7a remains unchanged from the Pixel 6a, with a 6.1-inch OLED panel, but the refresh rate has been improved to 90Hz, allowing for smoother animations.[0] The Pixel 7a is also powered by the same Tensor G2 chip found in the Pixel 7 series, which ensures it does not suffer from the same overheating issues that plagued the G1 model.[0] It includes a stronger CPU and GPU to enhance its performance.[0]
One of the biggest changes Google made to the Pixel 7a's screen is its ability to switch the refresh rate between 60Hz and 90Hz depending on what's on the screen. With this setting turned on, navigating the operating system and scrolling through apps feels smooth and slick.[0] The Pixel 7a also gains wireless charging, which is a welcome addition, but unfortunately, the wireless charging speed is pretty slow at only 7.5W.[0]
The Pixel 7a's camera bar is where the most notable changes come.[0]
0. “Google Pixel 7a review: Meet the new best sub-$500 Android phone” ZDNet, 10 May. 2023, https://www.zdnet.com/article/google-pixel-7a-review/