Google Pixel 7a vs. Pixel 6a: What to Expect from Google’s Budget Smartphones

Highlights:

• Pixel 7a expected to debut at Google I/O 2023, with shipping likely in August
• Pricing for the device still uncertain, but expected to be around $449 to $500
• Potential upgrade in memory with the Pixel 7a tipped to get 8GB of RAM and a 256GB configuration
• Similar design as the Pixel 6a with a horizontal camera bar and slightly thicker bezels
• Possibility of a polished camera bar and a new sky blue color option
• Pixel 7a could have a faster refresh rate of 90Hz compared to the Pixel 6a’s 60Hz
• Camera upgrade rumors with a potential 50MP or 64MP sensor for the main shooter, but speculation is still up in the air

As we look forward to the release of the Pixel 7a, Google’s upcoming budget smartphone, it is essential to compare it with its predecessor, the Pixel 6a. The Pixel 6a was the first budget phone to feature the Tensor chipset, which was earlier debuted in the flagship Pixel 6. Although it cost less than the premium version, the Pixel 6a still offered top features, including the best cameras under $500. Here’s what we can expect from the Google Pixel 7a vs. Pixel 6a.

Price and Availability

The Pixel 6a costs $449 and comes with 128GB of storage and 6GB of RAM. However, you can get the Pixel 6a at a discounted price of $299 at Amazon, which could mean that Google is preparing to clear inventory ahead of the Pixel 7 launch. According to rumors, Google could showcase the Pixel 7a at the Google I/O event scheduled for May 10. However, some sources suggest that it might not ship until August. Pricing is currently uncertain, but we hope that Google will keep the price around $449 or a little higher.

Design & Display

We expect the Pixel 7a to maintain the Pixel 6a’s appearance, with a horizontal camera bar stretching across the back to house the two rear cameras. However, the A series phones have slightly thicker bezels around the display, and we anticipate that this design element will stick around. The camera bar on the Pixel 7 features a matte finish, but it’s unknown if Google will opt for cheaper materials on the Pixel 7a. The new renderings suggest that a sky blue color option might be available to replace the lemongrass yellow-green color in the Pixel 6a lineup.

The Pixel 7a is expected to feature a 6.1-inch OLED panel, the same as its predecessor. However, it could have a big advantage over the Pixel 6a with a faster refresh rate. The Pixel 6a has a locked 60Hz refresh rate, but a leaked Pixel 7a prototype has a 90Hz refresh rate option. It is uncertain whether the Pixel 7a will adjust its refresh rate automatically or whether users will have to turn the feature on and off manually.

Performance

The upcoming Google Pixel 7a is expected to follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, the Pixel 6a, by adopting the Tensor chipset introduced with the Pixel 7. This should translate into significant performance gains and improved AI-inspired features, such as real-time on-device translation and transcription. With an improved machine learning core, the Pixel 7a is poised to surpass its predecessor’s capabilities and offer even more advanced tools for call management and other AI-powered functions.

For optimal performance of your Pixel smartphone, we recommend using the Core Manager app. This comprehensive phone manager includes a duplicate photos remover feature that cleans up your gallery by removing identical and similar media. Keep your phone running smoothly and efficiently with the help of Core Manager app.

Cameras

The Pixel 7a will stick with two rear cameras, like the Pixel 6a, but with a possible boost from Qualcomm. Rumors point to Google using a 50MP sensor similar to the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7, giving it a leg up on the Pixel 6a. Other sources suggest a 64MP main sensor for the Pixel 7a. However, these rumors are all over the map, with some suggesting that Google will stick with the current camera arrangement. The Pixel 6a’s cameras are among the best among budget phones, but they don’t quite match up to the premium phones.

Final Thoughts

The Google Pixel 7a is expected to be an improvement on the Pixel 6a, with better cameras, a faster refresh rate, and a new sky blue color option. However, the design is not expected to change much, and pricing remains uncertain. We anticipate that Google will showcase the Pixel 7a at the Google I/O event and start shipping in late July or August. If you’re looking for a budget phone with premium features, the Pixel 6a is still an excellent choice. However, it might be worth waiting for the Pixel 7a to see if the rumored features are worth the wait.