Google Pixel 6a vs Pixel 7a: Is Google's latest mid-ranger worth the extra ₹12,000?

• The Pixel 7a has a refined design with a new Tensor G2 processor, offering faster performance than the Pixel 6a.
• The Pixel 7a boasts a 64MP main camera and 13MP ultrawide lens, while both phones have a 6.1-inch OLED display
• The Pixel 7a is priced at ₹12,000 more than the Pixel 6a, but offers a faster processor, more RAM, and better camera. The decision to upgrade depends on individual needs and budget.

The Pixel 7a doesn't deviate much from its predecessor in terms of design, featuring the same plastic body and aluminium frame with a refined finish. It's an iterative improvement, with the main upgrade being the new Tensor G2, which builds upon last year's Tensor processor that outperformed other mid-range phones. While there are some technical changes, users can expect a slightly faster experience with improved machine learning compared to the first-gen.

Both Pixels have 128GB storage, but the Pixel 7a offers an upgrade to 8GB of RAM from the Pixel 6a's 6GB. Both phones have a 6.1-inch OLED display, but the Pixel 7a has a 90Hz refresh rate that can be turned on in settings, compared to the locked 60Hz on the Pixel 6a. This is a big improvement, though less impressive than the 120Hz rate on the Galaxy A54 5G.

The Pixel 7a offers an updated camera and charging capabilities compared to the Pixel 6a, but the software is almost identical, with both phones running Android 13. The Pixel 6a is a year older and will receive two more years of OS updates and four more years of security patches, while the Pixel 7a is brand new and promises three years of updates and five years of security patches. The higher price tag of the Pixel 7a may not be worth it for some, but it's worth considering.

Google Pixel 6a vs Pixel 7a: Camera & battery

The Pixel 7a features a beefier primary camera than the 6a's 12MP Sony IMX363, boasting a 64MP Sony IMX787 shooter. The ultrawide lens has also been upgraded from 12MP to 13MP, offering a wider 120-degree field of view. While the newer shooter has smaller 0.8μm pixels than the 1.4μm pixels on the 12.2MP Pixel 6a camera, the increased pixel count and pixel binning result in better image quality.

However, if you were expecting a larger battery on the Pixel 7a, you might be disappointed as it comes with a 4,385mAh battery, which is actually slightly smaller than its predecessor. On the bright side, the Tensor G2 SoC offers better power efficiency, so this might not significantly impact the overall battery life.

Google Pixel 6a vs Pixel 7a: Price

The Google Pixel 6a is currently available for just ₹31,999 on Flipkart. The new Pixel 7a, on the other hand, is actually ₹12,000 more expensive than its predecessor. However, the Pixel 6a is not going anywhere. Different e-commerce platforms will continue to sell the 6a as their ultra-budget option, with a massive price drop. Meanwhile, you can buy the Pixel 7a at the lowest price of ₹39,999.

Should you upgrade?

The main differences between the two phones are the processor, RAM, and camera. The Pixel 7a has a faster processor, more RAM, and a better camera than the Pixel 6a. However, it also costs ₹12,000 more. But if you can wait, the Pixel 6A might get some discounts in the near future, bringing the price even lower to make it a better deal. Just yesterday, Flipkart was selling the phone for ₹27,999. So it’s possible that it might drop the price again.

Ultimately, deciding which phone to buy depends on your needs and budget. If you want a budget-friendly phone with a great camera, the Pixel 6a is a superb value option. If you are looking for the latest technology, the Pixel 7a is worth considering.

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