Google Pixel 7a: compact mid-range smartphone in review

With the Google Pixel 7a, Google recently introduced the third and cheapest device in the Pixel 7 series. We tested the smartphone extensively in everyday use.

Google Pixel 7a: design and finish

The design of the Google Pixel 7a fits seamlessly into the Pixel series. The now iconic metal strip on the back, in which the cameras are located, now also comes in the “Pixel 7 design”. The back is now made of Gorilla Glass 3, which enables wireless charging – but only very slowly.

At 193.5 grams, that’s it smartphone comparatively light and fits well in the hand. The device has an aluminum frame with a high-quality finish. It’s still a bit slippery though. A case is therefore recommended. In addition to a classic black and white, there is also a light blue and orange to choose from as colors – the latter only in the Google Store.

the display

At 6.1 inches, the Google Pixel 7a has the smallest display in the Pixel 7 series. The OLED display has a resolution of Full HD Plus (1080 × 2400) and achieves a maximum sharpness of 429 ppi. A maximum refresh rate of 90 Hertz is new, but this must first be activated in the settings and also consumes more battery.

The display gets sufficiently bright, but does not come close to a flagship display. Especially in extreme lighting situations, you need another hand to read individual texts. The small display makes it much easier to use the device.

The hardware of the Google Pixel 7a

Inside the device sits Google’s latest processor, the Tensor G2. This ensures fast performance and no problems with games or apps. It is supported by 128 gigabytes of internal memory and eight gigabytes of RAM. This is also the only selectable save option. The memory cannot be expanded.

What Google has also done well is the vibration motor. I like a firm feel when typing so you’re not just touching a piece of glass. The fingerprint sensor is an optical one that sits under the display. This unlocks rather slowly, but much more reliably than the predecessor. Unlocking by face is also new, but this is not so secure and is only recommended as a backup.

the sound

The Pixel 7a has stereo speakers that provide a smooth, smooth sound. Telephoning is therefore possible without any problems, and it is also pleasant to watch videos or films. However, compared to flagships such as the Pixel 7 Pro or Galaxy S23 Ultra, the volume is significantly smaller. Thus, the sound in the bass is not as strong and loud.

The cameras

The Google Pixel 7a has two new cameras: a 64-megapixel main camera and a 13-megapixel camera for ultra-wide-angle photos. The front camera has a resolution of 13 megapixels.

The device thus produces good images that radiate the typical pixel look. Bright, colorful but not oversaturated. The wide-angle lens also produces good photos, but it doesn’t come close to the Pixel 7’s wide-angle camera. The lack of autofocus in particular makes for poorer macro shots and washed-out night photos.

We took some test photos with the Google Pixel 7a again and put you in this Gallery provided.

The selfie camera produces good photos, albeit a little worse than the Pixel 7. Especially in less good lighting conditions, for example in a bar in the evening, details become less precise and the images blur a little.

Overall, the Google Pixel 7a does not have to shy away from the competition. Because Google’s image processing is still one of the best on the market – and this also applies to the photos of the Pixel 7a.

Google Pixel 7a software

The latest Android 13 runs on the Goole Pixel 7a. Google promises customers software updates for three years and security updates for five years. The software is clear, lean and modern. Only a few apps are pre-installed, none from a third party.

Google has given its Pixel smartphones a number of additional functions. Text can be copied directly from images, or music can be automatically recognized and saved in the background. Updates are also made available right on the release date, unlike other manufacturers.

However, there was a problem with my test device that has probably not occurred with any other Pixel 7a so far. As soon as the front camera is activated, all apps crash. Be it Instagram, Snapchat, BeReal or Google’s original camera app.

This error has not yet been fixed in the latest software version and so far I have not been able to fix the problem myself. Since the error has not occurred with anyone else so far, it may also be due to my test device. I’ll at least keep an eye on the situation.

The battery of the Google Pixel 7a: experiences

The Google Pixel 7a has a small 4385 mAh battery that charges with a maximum of 18 watts via cable or, more recently, with five watts via wireless connection. These charging speeds are quite slow for a smartphone, but overnight charging will not have a problem.

The battery life itself is also good. You will get through a day and an evening with the device well. If you use the Pixel 7a with maximum brightness, lots of photos and changing cell phone masts, you have to plug it in beforehand. However, the Tensor G2 does a good job of adapting the use to the battery, because the device did not get warm.

Verdict: Google Pixel 7a

With the Google Pixel 7a, the Californians have catapulted themselves into a dilemma. The device is really good, but too expensive for the RRP of 509 euros. Because the Pixel 7 is available on the open market for only ten euros more, which is a bit better in many respects.

So who should buy the 7a? At most customers who consciously want a compact device. But if you get the Pixel 7a for around 450 – 400 euros, you’re making a good deal with it.

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