Is The Google Pixel 7a Still Worth It Or Should You Wait For The Pixel 8

The smartphone market moves fast, and nowhere is that more evident than with Google’s Pixel lineup. With the Pixel 8 series already on shelves and generating buzz, many consumers are left wondering: Is the Google Pixel 7a still a smart buy, or does waiting for the Pixel 8 make more sense? The answer isn’t as straightforward as “newer is better.” It depends on your priorities—budget, software longevity, camera quality, and future-proofing.

The Pixel 7a launched in May 2023 as Google’s mid-tier contender, offering flagship-level features at a more accessible price point. Now, over a year later, it faces stiff competition from its successor, the Pixel 8, which brings improved hardware, AI capabilities, and longer software support. But that doesn’t automatically render the 7a obsolete. In fact, for many users, it remains an excellent choice.

Performance and Hardware: A Closer Look

At the heart of any smartphone decision is performance. The Pixel 7a runs on Google’s Tensor G2 chip, paired with 8GB of RAM. This combination delivers smooth multitasking, reliable app launches, and strong AI-powered photography processing. For everyday tasks—browsing, social media, streaming, and even light gaming—the 7a performs admirably.

The Pixel 8, by contrast, upgrades to the Tensor G3. While benchmarks show only moderate improvements in raw speed, the G3 excels in machine learning tasks, enabling features like Magic Eraser enhancements, real-time translation, and more responsive voice commands. It also includes better thermal management, reducing throttling during extended use.

Both phones feature similar build quality—IP67 water and dust resistance, aluminum frames, and recycled materials—but the Pixel 8 has a slightly more refined design with flatter edges and a brighter display. The 7a uses a 6.1-inch OLED panel with a 90Hz refresh rate, while the 8 bumps it up to 120Hz, offering smoother scrolling and animations.

Tip: If you're sensitive to screen smoothness, the 120Hz display on the Pixel 8 is noticeable in daily use, especially when swiping through apps or reading long articles.

Camera Comparison: More Than Just Megapixels

Google has long been known for its computational photography, and both the Pixel 7a and 8 continue this tradition. The 7a features a dual-camera setup: a 64MP main sensor and a 13MP ultrawide lens. It captures excellent dynamic range, accurate colors, and impressive low-light performance thanks to Night Sight and HDR+.

The Pixel 8 retains the same 50MP main sensor as the Pixel 8 Pro (upgraded from the 7a’s 64MP), but pairs it with a higher-quality 12MP ultrawide lens. More importantly, it introduces new AI-driven features such as Best Take (swap faces in group photos), Audio Magic Eraser (remove background noise from videos), and enhanced Photo Unblur. These tools refine the post-capture experience significantly.

In real-world conditions, the differences are subtle but meaningful. The Pixel 8 produces slightly sharper details, better skin tones, and superior shadow recovery. However, for casual photographers who share photos on social media or text them to friends, the 7a’s output is more than sufficient.

“Google’s camera software does more with less hardware. The Pixel 7a still takes some of the best smartphone photos under $500.” — David Imel, Senior Mobile Reviewer at Android Authority

Software Support and Future-Proofing

One of the most critical factors in deciding between these two models is software longevity. Google guarantees five years of OS and security updates for both devices—a major advantage over most competitors. However, there's a key difference in timing.

The Pixel 7a, released in 2023, will receive updates until 2028. The Pixel 8, released in 2023 as well, follows the same timeline. But here’s the catch: if you buy a Pixel 7a today, you’re starting one year closer to the end of its lifecycle. That means less time benefiting from new Android versions, AI features, and security patches.

Moreover, future AI integrations—especially those tied to Google’s ecosystem like Gemini—are expected to roll out first (or exclusively) on newer devices. While the Tensor G2 can handle basic AI functions, it may struggle with heavier workloads down the line.

If you plan to keep your phone for four or more years, the Pixel 8 offers greater peace of mind. Its newer architecture ensures compatibility with upcoming software innovations, making it a safer long-term investment.

Price and Value Analysis

This is where the Pixel 7a shines. Originally priced at $499, it now sells for as low as $399 during promotions—a significant discount. At that price, it competes directly with mid-range phones from Samsung, OnePlus, and Apple’s older models.

The Pixel 8 starts at $699, placing it firmly in premium territory. You’re paying a $200–$300 premium for incremental upgrades: a faster chip, better display, improved cameras, and longer relevance. Whether that’s justified depends on how much you value cutting-edge tech and future readiness.

To help clarify the trade-offs, here’s a side-by-side comparison:

Feature	Pixel 7a	Pixel 8
Launch Price	$499	$699
Processor	Tensor G2	Tensor G3
RAM	8GB	8GB
Display	6.1” OLED, 90Hz	6.2” OLED, 120Hz
Main Camera	64MP	50MP (larger pixels)
Ultrawide Camera	13MP	12MP (improved optics)
Battery Capacity	4385 mAh	4575 mAh
Charging	Wired only (up to 18W)	Wired + Wireless (up to 20W wired, 15W wireless)
Software Support Until	2028	2028
Fingerprint Sensor	Sidesensor (power button)	Under-display

As the table shows, the Pixel 8 improves across the board, but not all upgrades are equally impactful. The addition of wireless charging and an under-display fingerprint sensor adds convenience, but they don’t redefine the user experience. Meanwhile, the 7a remains remarkably well-equipped for its class.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah, a freelance graphic designer based in Portland, needed a new phone after her iPhone SE (2020) started lagging. She wanted great photos for client meetings, reliable performance for design apps, and clean software without bloatware. Her budget was capped at $550.

She considered waiting for the Pixel 8 but realized she couldn’t stretch to $699 without compromising other expenses. After testing both devices in-store, she found the Pixel 7a’s camera met her needs, and the 90Hz screen felt smooth enough. She bought the 7a on sale for $429, freeing up funds for a backup drive and stylus.

Nine months later, she reports no regrets. The phone handles Adobe Express and Canva smoothly, battery lasts a full workday, and she loves the clean Android experience. “I might upgrade to a Pixel 8a next year,” she says, “but right now, this does everything I need.”

Sarah’s story illustrates a common reality: for many users, the marginal gains of a newer model aren’t worth doubling the cost. Practicality often wins over novelty.

When to Buy the Pixel 7a

The Pixel 7a makes the most sense if:

• You’re on a tight budget and want flagship-level software and camera performance.
• You don’t care about ultra-high refresh rates or wireless charging.
• You plan to upgrade again within 2–3 years.
• You find it heavily discounted ($400 or less).
• You prioritize clean Android, timely updates, and Google Assistant integration.

It’s also a solid option for secondary devices, travel phones, or parents looking for a reliable, secure phone for teens.

When to Wait for the Pixel 8

The Pixel 8 is worth the extra cost if:

• You want the latest AI features and plan to use them regularly.
• You intend to keep your phone for four or more years.
• You appreciate small refinements like smoother scrolling, better haptics, and wireless charging.
• You rely on high-quality video recording or advanced photo editing.
• You frequently adopt new Google services and want full compatibility.

Additionally, if you’re upgrading from a much older phone (pre-2020), the leap to the Pixel 8 will feel substantial in speed, screen quality, and overall responsiveness.

Step-by-Step Decision Guide

Follow this simple process to determine which phone suits you best:

1. Evaluate your current phone. Is it slow, insecure, or missing critical features? If yes, an upgrade is justified.
2. Set your budget. Decide the maximum you’re willing to spend. Stick to it unless compelling reasons emerge.
3. List your must-have features. Camera quality? Battery life? Software updates? Make a priority list.
4. Compare real-world reviews. Watch hands-on videos, read expert opinions, and check user feedback on forums like Reddit.
5. Test in person if possible. Visit a store to feel the size, weight, and screen quality of both models.
6. Check availability and deals. The 7a may be deeply discounted; the 8 might come with trade-in bonuses.
7. Make your choice. Don’t overthink it. Both are excellent phones—your needs should guide the final call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Pixel 7a get all the same software updates as the Pixel 8?

Yes, both phones are guaranteed five years of OS and security updates from their launch date. However, some AI-powered features introduced later may be limited to Tensor G3 or newer chips, meaning the 7a could miss out on select innovations.

Is the camera difference noticeable in everyday use?

For most users, no. The Pixel 7a takes outstanding photos in daylight and good ones in low light. The Pixel 8 refines the experience with better detail, color accuracy, and AI tools, but the gap isn’t drastic unless you’re a photography enthusiast.

Can the Pixel 7a run demanding apps and games?

Absolutely. The Tensor G2 handles modern apps, multitasking, and games like Genshin Impact at medium settings without issue. Heavy gamers may notice occasional heating, but performance remains stable for typical usage.

Final Verdict: Balancing Value and Longevity

The Google Pixel 7a remains a compelling device in 2024. It delivers core Pixel strengths—excellent cameras, clean Android, and timely updates—at a price that undercuts the competition. If you’re budget-conscious and don’t need the latest bells and whistles, it’s still very much worth buying.

However, the Pixel 8 justifies its higher price with meaningful upgrades: a more capable processor, smoother display, wireless charging, and stronger future-proofing. If you can afford the extra cost and plan to keep your phone for several years, waiting for the Pixel 8—or buying one now—is the smarter long-term move.

Ultimately, neither choice is wrong. The Pixel 7a offers exceptional value today. The Pixel 8 promises greater relevance tomorrow. Your decision should reflect not just what the phones can do now, but how long you expect them to serve you well.

💬 Have you made the switch from the Pixel 7a to the 8—or decided to stick with the 7a? Share your experience and help others make an informed choice!