Google Pixel 7a Review: A Mid-Range Marvel with Minor Flaws
The Google Pixel 7a stands tall as one of the most compelling mid-range smartphones on the market, offering flagship-level features at a fraction of the price. With its exceptional camera system, polished software, and thoughtful upgrades over its predecessor, the Pixel 7a is a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers. However, its middling battery life and slow charging speeds may give pause to heavy users. Let’s dive deeper into what makes the Pixel 7a a standout in its category.
Design: Familiar Yet Functional
Key Features
- Four Colour Options: Charcoal, Sea, Coral, and Snow
- IP67 Dust and Water Resistance
- Compact Form Factor
At first glance, the Pixel 7a bears a striking resemblance to its pricier sibling, the Pixel 7. From the flat screen to the curved back and the iconic camera visor, the design is nearly identical. While the phone's plastic back and aluminum sides feel sturdy and premium, the darker Charcoal version tends to attract fingerprints. For those who prefer a more vibrant aesthetic, the Coral and Sea options are far more appealing.
Its compact 6.1-inch size makes it easy to handle with one hand and slip into a pocket, though it isn’t quite “compact” by traditional standards. The IP67 rating ensures durability against dust and water, a welcome addition for a mid-range device.
Display: A Smooth Upgrade
Key Features
- 6.1-inch OLED Display
- 90Hz Refresh Rate
- Decent HDR Performance
The Pixel 7a sports a 6.1-inch OLED screen with a 1080p resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate—an upgrade over the Pixel 6a's 60Hz display. While it doesn’t match the 120Hz refresh rate of the newer Pixel 8, the 90Hz option makes scrolling and navigating the interface feel smoother and more responsive.
HDR support adds vibrancy to streaming content from apps like Netflix, though the lack of Dolby Vision may be a downside for some. The in-display fingerprint sensor is functional but inconsistent, often requiring precise placement to work effectively. For quicker access, the Face Unlock feature is a more reliable alternative.
Performance: Power Meets AI
Key Features
- Tensor G2 Chipset
- 8GB RAM
- 5G and WiFi 6E Support
Powered by Google’s Tensor G2 chipset, the Pixel 7a delivers solid performance for everyday tasks and AI-driven features. While it doesn’t rival the raw speed of Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or Apple’s A16 Bionic, the Tensor G2 excels in optimizing camera processing and running AI tools like Live Translate and Call Assist.
With 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, the Pixel 7a handles multitasking and gaming with ease. Whether you’re playing graphically demanding games like Call of Duty Mobile or using productivity apps, the phone performs reliably without noticeable lag.
Software: The Google Advantage
Key Features
- Android 13 Out of the Box
- Three OS Upgrades and Five Years of Security Updates
- AI-Powered Features
The Pixel 7a shines in the software department, offering a clean Android experience with exclusive Google features. The Recorder app, Live Translate, and Call Assist are standout tools that elevate the user experience beyond what most competitors offer. Additionally, the promise of three major OS updates and five years of security patches ensures long-term value.
Camera: Best in Class for the Price
Key Features
- 64MP Main Camera
- 13MP Ultrawide Camera
- 4K Video Recording
The Pixel 7a’s camera system is nothing short of spectacular for its price. The 64MP main sensor captures stunningly detailed and vibrant images, while the 13MP ultrawide lens ensures consistency across different shooting modes. Night Sight is faster and more reliable than ever, delivering noise-free images even in low-light conditions.
For selfies, the 13MP front camera excels at capturing natural skin tones, making it a favorite for social media enthusiasts. Video recording is equally impressive, with stable 4K footage at up to 60fps.
Battery Life: A Mixed Bag
Key Features
- 4385mAh Battery
- Wireless Charging Support
- Slow Charging Speeds
Battery life is one of the Pixel 7a’s weaker points. While it can comfortably last a full day with moderate use, heavy users may find themselves reaching for a charger by evening. The lack of fast charging is particularly noticeable, with the phone taking around 110 minutes to reach 100% capacity. On the bright side, the addition of wireless charging is a welcome convenience.
Should You Buy the Pixel 7a?
Buy It If:
- You want a feature-packed phone at a mid-range price.
- You value camera performance and clean software.
- You appreciate extras like wireless charging and an IP rating.
Skip It If:
- You need a phone with multi-day battery life.
- Fast charging is a priority for you.
Where to Buy the Google Pixel 7a
If you’re ready to purchase the Pixel 7a, you can find it on Amazon at a competitive price. Click the link below to check the latest deals:
Final Thoughts
The Google Pixel 7a is an exceptional mid-range smartphone that punches well above its weight. With its stellar camera, polished software, and thoughtful upgrades, it delivers a premium experience at a fraction of the cost of flagship devices. While its battery life and charging speeds leave room for improvement, the Pixel 7a remains a top choice for anyone looking for a feature-rich phone without breaking the bank.
