Google G1AZG Pixel 6a – Unlocked Android 5G Smartphone with 12 megapixel camera and 24-hour battery – Chalk, 128GB

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So is it worth scrounging up the additional money to buy Google's more expensive — and more recent — smartphone? Our Google Pixel 7 vs. Pixel 6a comparisons looks at the phones side by side. While there a number of differences between the two devices, it boils down to a Pixel 7 vs. Pixel 6a camera face-off— and the Pixel 7 does take better photos than the 6a on average, particularly when it comes to night shots as you can see below. With Live Translate, you can chat in 11 languages, interpret face-to-face conversations and translate signs with the camera. (See g.co/pixel/livetranslate for more information) I didn't notice many differences in performance between the Pixel 6a and the Pixel 6, when it came to switching between apps or even playing demanding games like PUBG Mobile. If I have one complaint about Pixel 6a performance, it's that on-screen buttons near the corners of the phone didn't feel as responsive as other areas of the screen, often requiring very precise touches. It's not a huge issue, but it is a noticeable one. Google Pixel 6a review: Battery life and charging The slipperiness we encountered on the Pixel 6 isn't as much of an issue, as the 6a can be held with one hand, but we've found a case to be useful in adding grip.

The secret sauce, as always, is Google's machine learning, powered by its in-house Tensor chip. As in the Pixel 6, here, it powers a handful of impressive computational photography and video modes. Our favourite is 'Magic Eraser', which instantly removes unwanted subjects from images — perfect if you're taking pictures of busier city landmarks on holiday or you want to remove household items from your latest baby photo.The slow 18W charging is a bit of a bummer, too. The regular Pixel 6 supported a maximum power delivery of 30W (with wireless and reverse wireless charging) so it’s a bit disappointing not to see that here. Google Pixel 6a review: Software

Software is one of those big areas where Pixel devices really come into their own. These phones are usually the first Android handsets to receive core updates, and you can even beta test new versions as part of Google’s preview program, with Android 13 doing the rounds as we speak. With Magic Eraser and Google Photos, you can easily remove distractions like photobombers. Or change the colour and brightness so an object blends right in. The new Pixel 7a boasts the latest 2nd-gen version of this chip, but our long-term use hasn't changed our opinion on its performance: It's smooth and speedy to use, and we haven't encountered crashes or shuttering when taking snaps.

We like that the 6a is thin and less chunky than the 6 or 7 Pro, sitting flush when on flat surfaces. Even after months of use, we're continually impressed with the sleek design. FDD 2100, FDD 1900 PCS, FDD 1800+, FDD 1700 - 2110 AWS, FDD 850, FDD 2600, FDD 900, FDD 700a, FDD 700c, FDD 700 PS, FDD 700b, FDD 800 lower, FDD 800 upper, FDD 800 DD, FDD 1900+, FDD 850+, FDD 700 APT, FDD 700d, FDD 2300 WCS, FDD 1500 L, TDD 2600, TDD 1900, TDD 2300, TDD 2500, TDD 3500, TDD 3600, FDD 1700 - 2110 AWS-3, FDD 600 Some might be disappointed by the camera specs on the Pixel 6a, considering how Google beefed up the hardware on the Pixel 6 lineup. That phone uses a 50MP sensor for its main camera and the similarly priced Galaxy A53 turns to a 64MP shooter. The Pixel 6a’s ultra-wide camera isn’t quite as impressive, but there’s still a lot to like. With a wide 114-degree field of view, you can squeeze plenty of stuff into the frame, and I preferred the quality of the Pixel’s images compared to the Galaxy S22 Plus, but the caveat here is that there is a slight loss in detail over the primary camera.

The Android software you get out of the box is simple to use and easy to navigate. There are neat customisation options, like the ability to match the colour of your icons to your wallpaper, plus the return of live translation that helps you converse in 11 languages or read text you don't understand from photos — perfect for your next jaunt abroad. On the flip side, there’s not a lot that’s new in terms of camera hardware. The Pixel 6a’s primary camera is the same 12.2MP (f/1.7) sensor previously used by the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5, while the 12MP (f/2.2) wide-angle unit is identical to the one found in the Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro. An 8MP (f/2) selfie camera sits inside a central hole punch notch on the front of the phone.

The Pixel 6a is back to reclaim Google's budget phone crown

Sure enough, the Pixel 6a’s cameras continue the trend set by Google in providing high-end smartphone photography at reasonable prices. The main camera captures a sense of depth and detail that’s simply unmatched by its competitors, with impressive capabilities in low lighting conditions as well. Some Pixel-exclusive features are a wonderful addition. The new voice typing is almost revolutionary. The Pixel Camera can unblur a face to make it sharper. So a great photo isn't ruined because of a little movement.