If you‘re considering Google‘s latest Pixel phones, two models likely on your list are the Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 6A. As Google‘s high-end flagship and affordable midrange options respectively, how do these two smartphones compare? This comprehensive guide will contrast the Pixel 7 Pro and 6A across all key categories – from display to performance to cameras and more. Read on for a detailed feature-by-feature comparison to help decide which Pixel phone best fits your needs and budget!
Pixel 7 Pro‘s Vibrant 6.7" QHD+ Display vs Pixel 6A‘s Sharp 6.1" FHD+ Screen
One of the most striking differences between the Pixel 7 Pro and Pixel 6A is right up front: the display. Side by side, the Pixel 7 Pro‘s screen is immediately noticeable with its expansive 6.7" size compared to the Pixel 6A‘s more compact 6.1" display.
Resolution is another big differentiator. The Pixel 7 Pro achieves an ultra sharp picture quality with a dense 3120 x 1440 QHD+ resolution and 512 pixels per inch (PPI) in its LTPO OLED panel. Meanwhile, the Pixel 6A also looks great with its 2400 x 1080 FHD+ AMOLED screen that tops out at 429 PPI.
Brightness levels tilt in favor of the Pro as well. With a peak brightness of 1000 nits, the Pixel 7 Pro screen far outshines the Pixel 6A display‘s peak of just 800 nits. This gives the Pro better visibility in sunlight.
The Pixel 7 Pro also takes advantage of its LTPO screen technology to enable a variable 10-120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. The 6A maxes out at 60Hz with no LTPO.
Lastly, with dual curved edges and a centralized hole-punch front camera, the Pixel 7 Pro minimizes bezels for a truly immersive viewing experience. The Pixel 6A has slightly thicker forehead and chin.
Overall, the Pixel 7 Pro offers best-in-class display quality with its vibrant colors and buttery smooth refresh rate. But the Pixel 6A still impresses with its own sharp, vivid AMOLED panel at a more affordable price.
Premium Glass & Metal Build vs Durable Plastic Design
Google maintains a consistent aesthetic between the Pixel 7 Pro and 6A, but uses different materials to fit their respective price points.
Thanks to its machined aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus back, the Pixel 7 Pro looks and feels ultra premium at 162.9 x 76.6 x 8.9mm and 212g. The Pixel 6A opts for a polycarbonate unibody construction at 152.2 x 71.8 x 8.9mm and 178g weight.
Yet while lighter on metal and glass, the matte texture finish on the Pixel 6A still feels great in hand. Both phones carry IP67 or IP68 dust/water resistance and omit the 3.5mm headphone jack.
So if you want the most luxurious build, the Pixel 7 Pro really shines with its glass and aluminum design. But the Pixel 6A remains sturdy and comfortable to use despite its plastic exterior.
Blazing Fast Tensor G2 vs Capable Original Tensor Chips
Speed and performance draw another clear dividing line between the Pixel 7 Pro and 6A – the processor powering each phone.
As Google‘s latest flagship, the Pixel 7 Pro runs on the brand new Google Tensor G2 chip manufactured using an ultra-efficient 4nm process. The refreshed Tensor CPU, GPU, and Tensor Processing Unit work together for blazing fast speeds.
In fact, benchmarks show the Tensor G2 easily outperforming last year‘s Tensor chip and even the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 in both single and multi-core tests:
- AnTuTu Benchmark overall score: Pixel 7 Pro – 508203 vs Pixel 6A – 351645
- Geekbench 5 single-core: Pixel 7 Pro – 1047 vs Pixel 6A – 1027
- Geekbench 5 multi-core: Pixel 7 Pro – 3357 vs Pixel 6A – 2760
The Pixel 7 Pro also packs a hefty 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage for super fluid multitasking and lightening quick load times. It‘s a true processing powerhouse.
While not quite as cutting-edge, the Pixel 6A and its original Google Tensor silicon still deliver a responsive mid-range experience. Apps open swiftly, everyday tasks feel snappy, and gaming performance holds up fine. The 6GB RAM easily handles moderate usage too.
So power users and productivity maximizers will appreciate the Pixel 7 Pro‘s bleeding edge speeds. But the Pixel 6A remains no slouch for most people‘s daily needs.
Pixel 7 Pro‘s Pro-Level Camera System vs Pixel 6A‘s Impressive Dual Rear Shooters
One area where Pixel phones shine brightest is cameras – and the Pixel 7 Pro represents the pinnacle. Its advanced triple lens rear setup truly rivals more expensive pro-grade camera gear.
The main 50MP sensor combined with an extra bright f/1.85 lens and both OIS + EIS makes for stunningly detailed, crisp shots even in low light. The 12MP ultrawide lens provides a wider 125° field of view. While the 48MP telephoto enables outstanding 5x optical zoom and 30x "Super Res Zoom" through computational photography.
The Pixel 7 Pro camera specs don‘t just look great on paper either. Real world image quality lives up to the hype:
Sample low light photo on the Pixel 7 Pro via Android Authority
5x zoom sample on the Pixel 7 Pro via The Verge
With its dual 12.2MP wide and 12MP ultrawide lenses, the Pixel 6A certainly makes some camera compromises versus the 7 Pro. But thanks to Google‘s advanced image processing, the 6A still punches above its weight for the mid-range category:
Pixel 6A Night Sight sample via CNET
Pixel 6A Magic Eraser editing via Engadget
So the Pixel 7 Pro brings an expert-level camera experience few other phones can match. Yet the Pixel 6A proves you don‘t need the most megapixels to take outstanding photos.
All Day Battery + Blazing Fast Charging on Both Models
One area where the Pixel 7 Pro and 6A stay evenly matched is battery life and charging. Both deliver excellent performance by the numbers:
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Pixel 7 Pro: 5000mAh battery capacity, up to 31 hours estimated life, 30W fast charging giving 50% charge in 30 minutes. Plus wireless charging support.
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Pixel 6A: 4410mAh battery capacity, up to 24 hours estimated life, 18W fast charging giving 50% charge in 30 minutes. No wireless charging.
In real world usage, both phones easily last through a full day on a charge with juice left over. The Pixel 7 Pro benefits from its higher capacity battery and wattage fast charging. But even still, the Pixel 6A impresses with its battery endurance given the price.
Whether you opt for the Pro or 6A, you can rest easy when it comes to daily battery life and charging convenience.
Flagship-Level Software Experience with Android 13 and Exclusive Features
Software is another area where the Pixel 7 Pro and 6A stand on even ground. Both phones ship with the latest Android 13 operating system direct from Google. That means you‘ll enjoy the same great user experience:
- Customizable lock screen with wallpaper theming, fonts, colors, and more
- Enhanced privacy controls like runtime app permissions and private photo access
- Improved accessibility including live captions and audio detectors
- New media controls, redesigned apps like Camera, improved voice typing
- And much more with Android 13‘s thoughtful feature upgrades
Plus, Pixel phones gain some exclusive capabilities thanks to Google‘s in-house Tensor chip integration:
- Live Translate for conversations in over 50 languages
- AI-enhanced photography tools like Real Tone and Magic Eraser
- New Assistant capabilities powered by Google‘s AI leadership
- Extreme battery saver mode extending your phone up to 72 hours
- VPN by Google One for full data encryption & internet privacy
The Pixel 7 Pro does gain a few bonuses like an LTPO high refresh rate display and wireless charging support. But for software, the experience feels equally fast, responsive, and full of clever AI-driven features on both handsets.
Pixel 7 Pro Justifies Its Higher Cost for Power Users
With its state-of-the-art display, blazing processor, pro-caliber cameras and premium build, the Pixel 7 Pro clearly delivers cutting-edge performance worthy of a flagship. But that excellence comes at a cost – literally.
The Pixel 7 Pro starts at $899 for the 128GB model and goes up to $999 for 256GB or $1099 for 512GB configurations.
In contrast, the Pixel 6A comes in a single 128GB SKU priced at an affordable $449.
That‘s more than double the cost for the Pixel 7 Pro. Yet for power users who want the very best Google has to offer, the Pixel 7 Pro justifies its higher price tag. Extra features like the QHD+ 120Hz screen, Tensor G2 power, telephoto lens, 12GB RAM, wireless charging, and IP68 rating add up to a true no-compromise experience.
On the flip side, buyers on a budget will find the Pixel 6A extremely capable at its low $449 pricing. And remember, both phones run the same Android 13 software and offer a slick Pixel design.
Ultimately, weigh how much those premium Pro-level upgrades are worth to you vs saving $450+ and still getting a dependable mid-range phone in the 6A. There‘s no universally "right" choice – go with the Pixel option that best aligns with your individual needs and finances.
The Final Verdict: A Flagship Pixel 7 Pro Worth the Splurge or Affordable 6A?
When comparing the Pixel 7 Pro vs Pixel 6A, Google essentially offers two visions of the ideal Android phone:
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The Pixel 7 Pro as a state-of-the-art flagship with all the bells & whistles – perfect for uncompromising power users.
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The Pixel 6A as a budget-friendly midranger packing impressive core features – ideal for casual users who prioritize value.
Which phone suits you best depends on your priorities:
For photography buffs, gamers, multitaskers, and other demanding users who want leading specs, the Pixel 7 Pro is absolutely worth spending extra. With its brilliant display, untouchable performance, phenomenal cameras and premium design, it‘s a dream Android phone through and through.
But if you just need a reliable phone that nails the fundamentals without breaking the bank, the Pixel 6A shines. You‘ll still get the helpful Google software experience, long battery life, smooth everyday performance, and decent camera quality in an attractive package. All for hundreds less than the Pro.
So choose the flagship Pixel 7 Pro if you‘re all about maxing out power and visuals. Or save big with the Pixel 6A if you want great basics at a bargain. Either way, with Google‘s phones you‘ll enjoy industry-leading software and AI capabilities. Whichever model you pick, you can have confidence in getting one of the very best Android experiences out there. Let your budget and needs guide you to the ideal Pixel for you.