Google Pixel 7 Pro Vs Google Pixel 7A

Google Pixel 7 Pro
Google Pixel 7 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:201.00

Versus €640.98 new

See options
Google Pixel 7A
Google Pixel 7A
Starting at

Refurbished price:172.00

Versus €649.99 new

See options

Ratings

The Google Pixel 7 Pro, released in October 2022, and the Google Pixel 7A, launched in May 2023, are both Android smartphones from Google's Pixel line. While sharing the same core processor and operating system, the 7 Pro is positioned as a more premium device with advanced display and camera features, whereas the 7A offers a more compact form factor and a slightly different camera configuration. Both devices run on the Android operating system, providing a consistent software experience with Google's unique features and regular updates.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release timelines, software support, and physical durability.

  • Release Timeline: The Pixel 7 Pro was released in October 2022, while the Pixel 7A followed in May 2023. This means the Pixel 7A benefits from a slightly newer launch, potentially extending its software support by a few months compared to the 7 Pro.
  • Software Longevity: Both devices are powered by the same generation of Google's processor and launched with Android 13, ensuring a similar duration of major Android version updates and security patches. Google typically provides several years of software support for its Pixel devices, meaning both models are expected to receive updates for a considerable period.
  • Physical Durability: The Pixel 7 Pro features Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for enhanced screen protection and boasts an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating it can withstand immersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. The Pixel 7A, on the other hand, uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 and has an IP67 rating, offering protection against dust and immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.

Year of Release

2022

2023

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the Google Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 7A are equipped with the same generation of Google's custom-designed processor, which influences their overall responsiveness and handling of applications.

  • Everyday Responsiveness: Both devices handle daily tasks, app loading, and general navigation smoothly. Users can expect a fluid experience when browsing, using social media, and managing emails, with the processor efficiently managing background processes.
  • Multitasking and Demanding Apps: The Pixel 7 Pro comes with 12GB of RAM, allowing for more intensive multitasking and smoother transitions between numerous open applications. The Pixel 7A, with 8GB of RAM, also manages multitasking effectively for most users, though it might show slight differences when running a very high number of demanding applications simultaneously.
  • Storage Options: The Pixel 7 Pro offers more storage flexibility with options up to 512GB, catering to users who require significant space for media, apps, and files. The Pixel 7A is available with 128GB of internal storage. Neither device supports expandable storage via a microSD card.
  • Battery Behavior: The Pixel 7 Pro houses a 5000 mAh battery, while the Pixel 7A has a 4385 mAh battery. In real-world usage, the Pixel 7A has shown improved battery efficiency compared to its predecessors, often lasting a full day for average users. The Pixel 7 Pro's larger battery can be impacted by its higher-resolution, faster display, leading to varied battery life depending on usage patterns, particularly with heavy camera use or continuous 5G connectivity.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on these two Pixel phones presents notable differences, primarily in display technology, size, and refresh rate.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Pixel 7 Pro features a 6.7-inch LTPO OLED display with a QHD+ resolution (1440 x 3120 pixels), resulting in a high pixel density for exceptionally sharp and detailed visuals. The Pixel 7A has a 6.1-inch OLED display with an FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2400 pixels), which still provides clear and vibrant images, though with a slightly lower pixel density.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The Pixel 7 Pro offers an adaptive refresh rate that can scale from 10Hz to 120Hz, providing very smooth scrolling and animations while optimizing power consumption. The Pixel 7A features a 90Hz refresh rate, which is a significant upgrade for smoother interactions compared to older models, though not as fluid as the 7 Pro's 120Hz.
  • Brightness Levels: The Pixel 7 Pro's display can reach higher peak brightness levels, making it more easily viewable in bright outdoor conditions. While the Pixel 7A's display is also capable of good brightness, the 7 Pro offers a more comfortable viewing experience under direct sunlight.
  • Viewing Experience: The larger screen of the Pixel 7 Pro provides a more immersive viewing experience for media consumption and gaming, while the Pixel 7A's more compact size makes it easier for one-handed use and pocketability.

Resolution

1440 x 3120

1080 x 2400

Screen type

LTPO AMOLED

OLED

Audiovisual

Both Pixel phones are known for their strong camera performance, leveraging Google's computational photography, but they differ in hardware and versatility.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Pixel 7 Pro boasts a triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens with autofocus, and a 48MP telephoto lens offering 5x optical zoom and up to 30x Super Res Zoom. This telephoto lens is a key differentiator, providing greater flexibility for distant subjects. The Pixel 7A features a dual-camera system with a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide lens. While the 7A's main sensor has a higher megapixel count, the 7 Pro's larger sensor and dedicated telephoto lens often result in more detailed and versatile images, especially at zoom.
  • Low-Light and Everyday Photography: Both devices excel in everyday and low-light conditions, thanks to Google's advanced image processing. The Pixel 7 Pro's larger main sensor can capture more light, potentially offering slightly better performance in very challenging low-light scenarios. The Pixel 7A also delivers impressive low-light shots, with users reporting good clarity and color.
  • Video Recording: Both models support 4K video recording at 30 and 60 frames per second with their main cameras. The Pixel 7 Pro extends this capability to all its rear cameras, including the ultrawide and telephoto, and offers features like Cinematic Blur and improved stabilization. The Pixel 7A's front camera also supports 4K video at 30fps.
  • Front Camera: The Pixel 7 Pro has a 10.8MP front camera, while the Pixel 7A features a 13MP front camera. Both are capable of taking detailed selfies and support features like Real Tone for accurate skin representation.

Main camera

50 megapixels

64 megapixels

Front camera

10.8 megapixels

13 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core specifications, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these Pixel smartphones.

  • Connectivity: Both the Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 7A support 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E for faster wireless internet, and Bluetooth 5.2 (7 Pro) or 5.3 (7A) for connecting accessories. They also include NFC for contactless payments.
  • Ports and Biometrics: Both devices utilize a USB-C 3.2 port for charging and data transfer and lack a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack. For security, both feature an under-display optical fingerprint scanner and support face recognition for unlocking.
  • Build Materials and Handling: The Pixel 7 Pro has a more premium build with polished aluminum frames and Gorilla Glass Victus on both the front and back. It weighs 212g and measures 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9 mm. The Pixel 7A features a more modest build with a composite back and Gorilla Glass 3 on the front. It is lighter at 193.5g and more compact at 152 x 72.9 x 9 mm, making it easier to handle for some users.
  • Audio Experience: Both phones feature stereo speakers, providing a decent audio experience for media consumption. However, some users have noted that the Pixel 7A's speakers can be mediocre.

Weight

212 g

193 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Google Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 7A offer distinct experiences within the Pixel ecosystem, each catering to different user priorities. User feedback often highlights the Pixel 7 Pro's advanced camera system, particularly its telephoto lens, and its expansive, high-resolution display as significant advantages. Some users, however, have noted that the 7 Pro's battery life can be inconsistent, especially with heavy use of its more demanding features.

The Pixel 7A is frequently praised for delivering a strong overall Pixel experience in a more compact and accessible package. Its camera performance is highly regarded, often compared favorably to the Pixel 7, and its improved battery life is a common positive point. Criticisms sometimes point to its slightly thicker bezels and the absence of a dedicated telephoto lens.

Users prioritizing a larger, more immersive display with the highest resolution and a versatile camera system including optical zoom will find the Pixel 7 Pro well-suited to their needs. This device is ideal for those who frequently capture distant subjects or consume a lot of high-quality media. Conversely, users who prefer a more compact phone that is easier to handle, while still offering excellent photography capabilities and reliable everyday performance, may lean toward the Pixel 7A. It's a strong choice for individuals seeking a balanced smartphone experience without the need for a telephoto lens or the absolute highest display specifications.

Both models represent solid choices for those seeking a pure Android experience with Google's signature software features. Opting for a quality-assured refurbished option for either the Pixel 7 Pro or Pixel 7A can be an eco-friendly alternative, allowing users to make a sustainable choice while still enjoying premium technology.

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