Compare Google Pixel 8a vs Google Pixel 9 Pro XL
Which one is best for you?
The Google Pixel 8a and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL were both released in 2024. The 8a is specifically designed to be at a lower price point, so understandably it lacks some of the features of the 9 Pro XL, which is a premium device. An example is the significant difference in the battery life, with the 8a housing a 4,492 mAh battery and the 9 Pro XL's 5,060 mAh battery¹. This difference becomes apparent when you compare the fact that the 8a can last up to 72 hours with Extreme Battery Saver, whereas the 9 Pro XL can last up to 100 hours² and comes with fast wireless charging³ and Battery Share⁴ abilities so it can charge other devices wirelessly. What's more the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL offers more memory with 16GB RAM and up to 1TB storage - this is significantly more substantial than the 8a's 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage⁵.
When you're comparing the Google Pixel 8a and Google Pixel 9 Pro XL, their size difference is immediately obvious. The 9 Pro XL is a larger device with a display measuring 6.8 inches, whereas the 8a's display is 6.1 inches⁶. However, a smaller phone isn't a bad thing as the 8a's pocket sized nature means it's more convenient to hold and travel with. The 9 Pro XL's camera system is more superior as it includes a pro triple rear camera, consisting of a 50MP wide lens, 48MP Ultrawide lens with Macro Focus, 48MP telephoto lens, and Super Res Zoom up to 30x⁶. In contrast, the Google Pixel 8a includes a dual rear camera system, featuring a Super Res Zoom up to 8x⁷. To top it off, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL comes with AI phone features such as Gemini - Google's AI assistant - and Pixel Studio⁸ that allows you to create your own images with AI.
Although the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL significantly outperforms the Google Pixel 8a, it still meets the average smartphone user's basic needs and is at a much lower price point. Therefore, if you're looking for a functional smartphone at a reasonable price, then it's worth considering the 8a. However, if you're looking for a phone with the latest technology, a larger screen, and a fantastic camera and battery life, then the 9 Pro XL could be the phone for you.