Recently I have missed the delivery of my Google Pixel 7a review unit in the first attempt and it has made me very sad. I was very excited because this is Google’s entry-level Pixel phone that was announced at Google I/O 2023. I had to get a chance to see if this is the best affordable phone of 2023. Creating excitement in budget phones is very unique in itself, so it was sad. My favorite handset is still the Google Pixel 7 Pro, which has been firmly in place for the past eight months with a ‘Lite’ version available.
Apart from this, I also had a desire to open the box with the new color options. I tried to make an unboxing video but I just couldn’t. I was very curious to see if I could get the new coral finish (which was already present on the cool Pixel 6a). but it was not a coral finish, but It was the baby-blue ‘C’ one, although it also looked very attractive.
A week later, I am deeply in ownership of the Google Pixel 7a and am now happy to use it. This new Pixel phone has some cool new features and is very cheap for an Android phone. Based on my review, I think it’s going to be hard to beat. It is truly a flagship achievement that shines a light on affordable Android phones.
GOOGLE PIXEL 7A: PRICE & RELEASE DATE
Immediately after the announcement of Google Pixel 7a, its sale has started. It costs £449/$499, which makes it £/$50 more expensive than the previous Pixel 6a. But the new model has several new features to justify the increase in price.
It has to be said that the earlier Pixel 6a is no longer even near its original starting price of £399/$449. So, if you’re looking for more deals, an older Pixel handset could be a good option – as you can see from the real-time shopping widget below. You can compare both.
GOOGLE PIXEL 7A REVIEW: WHAT’S NEW?
If we want to do an in-depth comparison of the Pixel 7a with the Pixel 6a, we should look at the key differences between the two handsets. I am going to briefly explain it here.
The Pixel 7a sports an updated design that brings a bit of freshness than before. It has a camera ‘bar’ at the back which looks similar to the Pixel 7. This is because the Pixel 7a has a new and improved camera system that is a step forward from the previous model, and requires more space in the design, hence the ‘bar’. However, this means there is some reduction in battery capacity, which is my biggest concern (more on that later).
I’ve already mentioned the color options above, but the Pixel 7a includes options in Ca (blue), Snow (white), Coral (pink) and Charcoal (black) that bring a fresh take on the 2023 handset’s look. Pixel 6a has subdued chalk, charcoal and
The R SEZ options were not as colourful.
The Pixel 7a is expected to feature Google’s Tensor G2 hardware, while the Pixel 6a has Tensor G1, and the 2023 handset bumps up the RAM from 2GB to 8GB for better performance. It comes with Android 14, as Google Pixel phones always get the latest Google software first.
The last significant change on the Pixel 7a is that its display is OLED and offers a 6.1-inch screen and 90Hz refresh rate compared to the previous model. It was only 60Hz in the Pixel 6a, due to which there was some loss in the visuals.
GOOGLE PIXEL 7A REVIEW: DESIGN & DISPLAY
The Google Pixel 7a is a great looking phone and has a sleek and lightness about it. This phone can be an option for you if you are looking for a great small phone, especially compared to the big flagship phones these days. If you are not interested in big size phones, then Google’s latest Pixel 7a can easily fit in your pocket.
The display of Pixel 7a is a smooth OLED panel and it sports a 6.1-inch screen that is packed with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. The display is good for looking sharp and clear. It also has a 90Hz refresh rate which further adds to the convenience. It can be said closely that this display meets Google’s standards. However, this means that the edges can look chunky, as the black bezel is very dominant. This may be a minor issue, but it is considered a standard bezel-less Pixel.
The phone weighs 193 grams, which is slightly heavier than the previous Pixel 6a, but it’s something you need to keep in mind if you use the Pixel 6a. The phone sits comfortably in the hand and is lightweight, so you won’t have any trouble keeping it in your pocket.
The good thing about the Pixel 7a is that it is very clear and light finish. Its plastic rear coating is also nice and smooth. There is no harm in the body of the phone, but note that it does not have the latest Gorilla Glass.
GOOGLE PIXEL 7A REVIEW: PERFORMANCE & BATTERY
When we talk about longevity, I think Google has a good way of handling battery life. Take the Google Pixel 7 Pro, for example, whose battery life per charge was weak initially, but improved over time. However, there was a bit of instability after an update, but that was eventually rectified – and it’s still a great device, and I’m happy to use it.
I fully expect the Google Pixel 7a to offer a similar experience: I’ve tested it’s battery life to some extent, and it can last me about 14 hours of use without a charge. However, it fluctuates a bit and my usage is also heavy (Bluetooth, GPS tracking, Zwift companion, keeping the screen on for gaming and more). luckily, i’m now spending a week with 7a.
GOOGLE PIXEL 7A REVIEW: CAMERAS
- Main camera:64MP, 1/1.37in size, f/1.9 aperture, optical stabilisation (OIS)
- Wide-angle: 13MP, f/2.2, 120-degrees field of view
- Selfie:13MP, f/2.2
One of the great features of the Pixel 7a is its camera. The main camera, located in the rear bar, is a unique feature, which has been updated. Its sensor size has now become much bigger than before. In addition, its resolution has also increased, now it is 64 megapixels. This camera offers better sampling for dynamic range and color accuracy. Its large sensor is also very useful for low-light photography.
Also, the main camera has Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), which helps in making photography stable and great. This ensures sharpness even when holding it steady in the hands. It is easy to use and the quality is good.
However, the strength of its wide-angle camera is less than that of the previous camera. But it is a very stable camera and has good quality. It is ity. If you want a better wide-angle camera, you’ll need to shell out more money.
Overall, I like the camera system of the Pixel 7a. Its simplicity and usefulness make me happy. Its quality is better with the price it is available in. This phone is one of Google’s key strengths and therefore there is good reason to consider it. I love this phone.
GOOGLE PIXEL 7A REVIEW: VERDICT
When my battery starts to run low, I’ve come to regard the Google Pixel 7a as a champion as a budget Android phone. When I bought it recently, I was happy with its performance and quality. The phone comes with powerful features in a budget range such as strong processor, excellent camera, variety of color options and it is very cost effective when compared to other Android devices.
Yes, the bezels around the screen are a bit thick and the battery life is average. Its charging might be slower and it costs more than its predecessor, but these are all minor issues as this new device packs a number of upgrades that make it better.
I believe that the Google Pixel 7a is the best affordable phone available to you. Buy it now and enjoy it.
ALSO CONCULUTION
The Pixel 7a is priced extremely competitively and it definitely meets the criteria. Already we had guessed that another Google option Pixel 6a is available. The phone comes with a new price tag and has cameras that may not be as great (but still good) and can be big savings options.
The iPhone SE is a commercial alternative if you’re not a fan of Android, but it may seem a bit out of date now. And if Google isn’t your thing, I’d suggest the Samsung Galaxy A54 could be a worthwhile idea too – but both Apple and Samsung’s will cost you a lot more.
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