When it comes to smartphones, the choices can be overwhelming. Google’s Pixel line has garnered attention for its exceptional camera capabilities and clean Android experience. In this article, we will compare the Google Pixel 4a and the Pixel 4 in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to Pixel 4a and Pixel 4
Launched in August 2020, the Google Pixel 4a is a budget-friendly model designed to deliver an excellent user experience without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the Pixel 4, released in October 2019, boasts more premium specifications and features but comes with a higher price tag. Both phones come equipped with Google’s renowned software and AI capabilities, but understanding the differences can help you choose the right device for your lifestyle.
Design and Build Quality
Pixel 4a Design
The Pixel 4a features a minimalist design that is both sleek and practical. With a plastic chassis, it feels lightweight in hand. The small hole-punch display houses the front-facing camera, allowing for a good screen-to-body ratio. The back is dominated by a single lens camera placed in a square module, giving it a unique look among its competitors.
Pixel 4 Design
In contrast, the Pixel 4 has a more premium feel thanks to its glass back and aluminum frame. Although it is slightly heavier, holding the device feels rewarding. The design shows more sophistication, especially with contrast colors available for the frame, providing an eye-catching aesthetic.
Dimensions Comparison
The following table summarizes the dimensions of the two models:
| Specification | Pixel 4a | Pixel 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (mm) | 144 x 69.4 x 8.2 | 147.1 x 68.8 x 8.2 |
| Weight (g) | 143 | 162 |
As we can see, the Pixel 4a is slightly more compact and lighter, making it more comfortable for extended usage.
Display and Performance
Display Features
Both phones come equipped with impressive OLED displays, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- The Pixel 4a sports a 5.81-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2400) display with a pixel density of 443 ppi.
- The Pixel 4 features a 5.7-inch FHD+ display with HDR support, ensuring a brighter and more dynamic viewing experience.
While both displays are exceptional for everyday tasks, the Pixel 4 has the edge in handling HDR content due to its enhanced capabilities.
Processor and Performance
When it comes to performance, both devices are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G for the Pixel 4a and the Snapdragon 855 for the Pixel 4.
- Pixel 4a:
- 6GB RAM
- Runs smoothly for everyday tasks
Great for casual gaming but may lag with graphically intensive applications
Pixel 4:
- Available in 6GB or 8GB RAM configurations
- Handles multitasking effortlessly
- Superior performance in demanding applications and gaming
Overall, if you need a phone primarily for standard operations, the 4a suffices, but for power users and gamers, the Pixel 4 is the winning choice.
Camera Capabilities
Photography Features
One of the standout features of both phones is their camera prowess. Google’s software optimization elevates both devices’ camera settings.
- Pixel 4a Camera:
- Single rear camera: 12.2 MP (f/1.7)
- Night Sight mode available
Capable of taking beautiful shots with great color accuracy
Pixel 4 Camera:
- Dual rear camera setup: 12.2 MP main sensor and 16 MP telephoto lens
- Enhanced Night Sight and Motion Sense for advanced photography
- Better performance in low light due to the second lens
If photography is your primary focus, the extra features and dual-lens setup of the Pixel 4 will likely serve you better. However, the Pixel 4a’s camera still offers great capabilities for casual photography.
Software Experience
Both the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4a operate on pure Android, offering a clean interface without bloatware.
- Pixel 4a will receive software updates for three years, ensuring that you have access to the latest features and security patches.
- Pixel 4, launched a year earlier, already had Android 10 and continues to receive updates, providing a smooth and reliable software experience.
What sets these devices apart is the exclusive Pixel features. From Call Screen to the impressive Google Assistant features, users will find the same level of intuitive functionality on both devices.
Battery Life
Battery Specifications
- Pixel 4a:
- Comes with a modest 3140 mAh battery
Generally can last a full day with moderate usage
Pixel 4:
- Slightly larger 2800 mAh battery
- Battery optimization is impressive, often lasting through heavy usage scenarios
While the specifications might imply that the Pixel 4a has a longer-lasting battery, in real-world usage, it’s safer to assume both will provide a day’s worth of power but under different usage conditions.
Storage Options
Both devices come with different storage options and pricing structures:
- Pixel 4a offers a single storage option of 128GB, but it does not support expandable storage.
- Pixel 4 offers two options—64GB and 128GB—with the same limitation regarding expandable storage.
If storage is a consideration, both phones lack microSD card support, which might necessitate careful management or reliance on cloud storage solutions.
Pricing and Value
When it comes to price, the Pixel 4a is significantly more affordable than the Pixel 4, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious consumers.
- Pixel 4a Price: Typically around $349 at launch
- Pixel 4 Price: Launch pricing started at $799, with varying deals available post-launch
The value proposition shifts considerably with your personal needs. If you want a functional smartphone with an exceptional camera at an economical price, the Pixel 4a stands out. If you desire premium features, superior performance, and additional camera capabilities, investing in the Pixel 4 makes more sense.
Conclusion: Which Should You Choose?
In summary, choosing between the Google Pixel 4a and the Pixel 4 boils down to personal preferences and usage scenarios.
- Opt for the Pixel 4a if:
- You are looking for an economical choice.
- You appreciate a lightweight, compact design.
You only require a capable camera for casual photography.
Choose the Pixel 4 if:
- You need superior performance for gaming or heavy multitasking.
- You are passionate about photography and want to utilize a dual-lens camera.
- You prefer a more premium build with additional design features.
Both smartphones come with Google’s robust software ecosystem, and regardless of your choice, you can rest assured that you’re getting a device that excels at the essential tasks expected from a modern smartphone. Ultimately, the decision hinges on what features you value most and how you plan to use your smartphone.
What are the main differences in camera capabilities between the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4?
The Pixel 4 boasts a dual-camera setup, featuring a 12.2 MP wide-angle lens and a 16 MP telephoto lens, allowing for greater flexibility in photography with 2x optical zoom. The Pixel 4a, on the other hand, retains the impressive 12.2 MP wide-angle camera but lacks the telephoto lens. This means that while both phones can capture stunning images with the same primary lens, the Pixel 4 offers more versatility for zoom shots and portrait photography.
Despite the differences in hardware, both phones benefit from Google’s acclaimed computational photography software. This means the Pixel 4a still delivers excellent image quality, particularly in well-lit conditions. However, the Pixel 4 might edge out in low-light scenarios, thanks to additional software features that leverage its dual-camera system effectively. If photography is a priority for you, consider how often you would utilize the telephoto lens when making your choice.
Which phone has better performance, the Pixel 4a or Pixel 4?
The Pixel 4 is equipped with a Snapdragon 855 processor, which is more powerful and designed for high-intensity gaming and multitasking. This means users of the Pixel 4 can expect faster app launches, smoother gameplay, and overall better performance in handling demanding tasks compared to the Pixel 4a, which comes with the Snapdragon 730G. The difference in processors can be quite noticeable, especially in heavy usage scenarios.
However, for most everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, and light gaming, the Pixel 4a provides more than adequate performance. It is optimized efficiently to deliver a smooth experience for most users. Additionally, the Pixel 4a features 6 GB of RAM, which is sufficient for multitasking, while the Pixel 4 has the same memory capacity. If you’re into gaming or require high performance for apps, you might lean towards the Pixel 4, but the Pixel 4a will satisfy casual users effectively.
Is there a significant difference in battery life between the two devices?
Yes, there is a noteworthy difference in battery performance between the two devices. The Pixel 4 is equipped with a smaller 2,800 mAh battery which, although capable, can struggle to last a full day with heavy use, especially when paired with its higher resolution display and demanding processor. In contrast, the Pixel 4a boasts a larger 3,140 mAh battery, contributing to better longevity and often allowing users to get through the day without needing to recharge.
In everyday usage, most users find that the Pixel 4a offers a more reliable battery life, thanks to its efficient internals and slightly lower display resolution. This means fewer battery anxiety moments throughout the day. If battery longevity is crucial for your day-to-day activities, the Pixel 4a might be the superior choice. However, if you frequently need power on the go, carrying a portable charger can help mitigate the Pixel 4’s shorter battery life.
How do the displays compare between the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4?
The Pixel 4 features a 5.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2280 x 1080 pixels, delivering vibrant colors and sharp images. It also supports a 90Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother scrolling experience, making it ideal for gamers or anyone who appreciates fluid visual transitions. On the other hand, the Pixel 4a comes with a slightly larger 5.81-inch OLED display, but with a resolution of 2400 x 1080 pixels, yielding a slightly higher pixel density.
Despite these differences, both displays offer excellent quality, but the Pixel 4’s advantage lies in its higher refresh rate for smoother animations and scrolling. However, if you’re mainly using your phone for casual consumption like browsing and social media, the Pixel 4a’s display holds up excellently and provides great visuals. If having the latest screen technology is important to you, go for the Pixel 4, but both displays perform well for general use.
Which device provides better software support and updates?
Both the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4a offer excellent software support, as they are part of Google’s Pixel lineup, which is known for receiving timely updates. Both devices come with Android’s latest features and security patches directly from Google, ensuring they stay up-to-date with the software ecosystem. However, the Pixel 4, being an older device, may not receive updates for as long as the Pixel 4a, which may benefit from a longer support lifecycle.
In general, Google provides three years of major OS updates and three years of security updates for its Pixel devices. As such, the Pixel 4a might have a minor advantage in longevity when it comes to software support. If having the latest version of Android and the most current features for an extended period is important to you, the Pixel 4a could be the better option in this aspect.
Which phone offers better value for money, the Pixel 4a or Pixel 4?
In terms of value for money, the Pixel 4a typically stands out as the more budget-friendly option without compromising on core features. Priced lower than the Pixel 4, it offers a near-identical camera experience and software support, thus representing an excellent deal for users looking for an affordable yet high-quality smartphone. The cost savings with the Pixel 4a are significant, making it a perfect choice for those who prioritize budget without sacrificing too much in performance.
Conversely, the Pixel 4 brings higher-end features such as a better camera setup, a more powerful processor, and an enhanced display but at a higher cost. If the additional features justify the price increase for you—particularly if you value photography or gaming—then the Pixel 4 might be worth the investment. Overall, for those on a budget who still want a fantastic smartphone experience, the Pixel 4a provides impressive value for its price.