Pixel 8a Vs Galaxy A35 Is Googles Camera Really Worth The Extra Cost

Choosing between the Google Pixel 8a and the Samsung Galaxy A35 isn’t just about brand loyalty or design preferences—it’s a decision rooted in value. Both phones sit comfortably in the mid-range segment, but they approach performance, software, and especially photography from different angles. The Pixel 8a carries Google’s signature computational photography magic, while the Galaxy A35 counters with solid hardware and long-term support. But does Google’s camera tech justify its higher price tag? Let’s break it down.

Camera Performance: Hardware vs. Software

The most compelling argument for the Pixel 8a is its camera system. On paper, it features a 64MP main sensor—similar to the A35—but where it diverges is in processing. Google doesn’t rely on megapixels alone; instead, it leverages advanced AI and machine learning models trained across millions of images. This results in photos that often look more natural, better exposed, and truer to what your eyes see.

Samsung, meanwhile, equips the Galaxy A35 with a capable 48MP main sensor (OIS included), an ultrawide, and a macro lens. While the hardware is respectable, Samsung’s image processing tends to oversaturate colors and over-sharpen details, particularly in daylight. In low light, the A35 struggles with noise and dynamic range compared to the Pixel’s cleaner, brighter shots.

Tip: For consistent photo quality across lighting conditions, prioritize software-driven cameras like the Pixel over hardware-heavy alternatives.

Benchmarking Real-World Photo Quality

In practical use, the Pixel 8a consistently delivers superior results in challenging environments. Backlit scenes, indoor settings with mixed lighting, and night photography are where Google’s HDR+ and Night Sight truly shine. Skin tones remain accurate, shadows retain detail, and highlights don’t blow out—even without manual adjustments.

The Galaxy A35 produces decent photos in good lighting but falters when conditions aren’t ideal. Its Night Mode activates frequently, but even then, images can appear grainy or overly processed. The ultrawide lens on the A35 also suffers from distortion at the edges, whereas the Pixel maintains edge-to-edge clarity.

“Google’s decade-long investment in computational photography gives them a clear edge in consistency, especially in mid-tier devices.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechVision Labs

Performance and Software Experience

Beyond the camera, both phones offer reliable day-to-day performance. The Pixel 8a runs on Google’s Tensor G3 chip, which, while not the fastest on the market, is optimized for AI tasks and seamless integration with Android. It boots quickly, handles multitasking smoothly, and supports seven years of OS and security updates—a rarity in this price range.

The Galaxy A35 uses the Exynos 1380, a competent mid-range processor that handles apps and games well but doesn’t match the Tensor’s efficiency in AI-driven features. However, Samsung promises four major Android upgrades and five years of security patches, which is still strong, though not as future-proof as Google’s commitment.

Software experience differs too. The Pixel ships with stock Android, offering a clean, bloat-free interface and immediate access to new features like Call Screen, Magic Eraser, and Best Take. Samsung’s One UI adds customization and multitasking tools but comes with pre-installed apps and a steeper learning curve.

Detailed Comparison Table

Feature	Pixel 8a	Galaxy A35
Main Camera	64MP (f/1.9, OIS)	48MP (f/1.8, OIS)
Ultrawide Camera	13MP (f/2.2)	12MP (f/2.2)
Front Camera	13MP (f/2.0)	13MP (f/2.2)
Processor	Google Tensor G3	Exynos 1380
RAM / Storage	8GB / 128GB	6GB or 8GB / 128GB
OS & Updates	Android 14, 7 years of updates	One UI 6 (Android 14), 4 OS + 5 security
Battery	4,400 mAh	5,000 mAh
Display	6.1” FHD+ OLED, 120Hz	6.6” FHD+ AMOLED, 120Hz
Price (Launch)	$499	$449

Real-World Example: Travel Photography Test

Consider a weekend trip to a coastal town. You’re capturing sunsets over the water, dimly lit cafes, and fast-moving kids on the beach. With the Pixel 8a, sunset shots retain vibrant but realistic skies, balanced exposure between foreground and background, and minimal noise in twilight scenes. Action shots benefit from faster shutter response and superior subject tracking.

The Galaxy A35 captures usable images, but you’ll notice blown-out skies in backlit situations and less detail in shadowed areas. Indoor cafe photos may require multiple attempts to get proper exposure, and motion blur is more common when shooting handheld. While editing can help, the Pixel’s out-of-the-box results reduce post-processing time significantly.

Is the Pixel 8a Worth the Extra $50?

The price difference—$50 at launch—might seem minor, but it raises a valid question: does Google’s camera advantage justify the cost? For casual users who take occasional photos and mostly use their phone for calls, messaging, and streaming, the Galaxy A35 offers excellent value. Its larger battery, bigger screen, and solid build make it a comfortable daily driver.

However, for photography enthusiasts, parents, travelers, or anyone who relies on their phone to document life accurately, the Pixel 8a delivers tangible benefits. The combination of superior low-light performance, consistent color science, and Google’s exclusive photo editing tools (like Magic Editor and Audio Eraser) adds up to a noticeably better user experience over time.

Tip: If you edit photos often, the Pixel’s native integration with Google Photos gives you powerful AI tools at no extra cost.

Checklist: Choosing Between Pixel 8a and Galaxy A35

• Evaluate your photo needs: Do you shoot in varied lighting? Prioritize the Pixel.
• Assess battery priorities: The A35 has a 5,000mAh battery vs. 4,400mAh—better for heavy users.
• Consider long-term use: Pixel offers 7 years of updates; A35 offers 4 OS updates.
• Test display preference: OLED on Pixel is sharper; A35 has a larger, more media-friendly screen.
• Budget sensitivity: If $50 makes a difference, the A35 is the more economical pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Pixel 8a have better video quality than the Galaxy A35?

Yes. The Pixel 8a supports 4K recording at 60fps with excellent stabilization and audio zoom. The A35 maxes out at 4K/30fps and lacks advanced stabilization features, making the Pixel the better choice for vloggers or content creators.

Is the Galaxy A35’s screen better for media consumption?

Absolutely. At 6.6 inches, it’s significantly larger than the Pixel’s 6.1-inch display. Combined with its 120Hz refresh rate and bright AMOLED panel, the A35 is ideal for watching videos, reading, or browsing.

Can the Galaxy A35 compete with the Pixel in portrait mode?

It tries, but depth estimation is less accurate. The Pixel’s AI-powered segmentation creates more natural bokeh and better edge detection, especially around hair and complex shapes. The A35 often blurs parts of the background unevenly or misses fine details.

Final Verdict: Value Meets Vision

The Galaxy A35 is a well-rounded device with strong battery life, a large modern display, and dependable performance. It’s an excellent choice for users who want a durable, feature-rich phone without spending premium prices.

But if photography is a priority—if you want a phone that consistently captures moments as you remember them, with minimal effort—the Pixel 8a earns its premium. Google’s camera software isn’t just marketing hype; it’s the result of years of refinement and AI innovation that translates into real-world advantages. That extra $50 buys more than hardware; it buys confidence in every shot.

Ultimately, the answer depends on how you use your phone. For those who value lasting software support, intelligent features, and camera excellence, the Pixel 8a isn’t just worth the cost—it might be the smartest mid-range investment available.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Try side-by-side photo tests in your daily routine. See which camera keeps you reaching for your phone—not just to capture moments, but to enjoy them.