EDITOR'S NOTE:
Since their release dates in 2019 and 2020, the Google Pixel 4 and 4a have been replaced by newer Pixel models. The phones were discontinued in 2022, and the Pixel 4 series no longer receives the latest Android software updates, discontinuing support in 2023.
The information below reflects the data and pricing at the time of the devices' releases, and availability will differ from when we first reviewed them. You can upgrade to a newer Pixel phone phone, or you may still be able to find refurbished models of these devices through retailers such as Amazon or eBay.
In August of 2020 Google unveiled their latest addition to the Pixel lineup, the Google Pixel 4a. This is a big deal, not only because it was delayed for months but because it's much cheaper than the flagship Pixel 4. The 4a's modest price tag arrives just in time, as our lackluster economic climate causes people to look for cheaper smartphone alternatives.
Clearly, the more expensive Google Pixel 4 is the better phone, but are the slightly better specs really worth the higher price? We’ll compare the Pixel 4a to the Pixel 4 to help you choose which device to get.
Compare Google Pixel 4a and 4 Specs
| Specs | Google Pixel 4a | Google Pixel 4a |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 5.8” OLED | 5.7” Flexible OLED |
| Measurements | 144x69.5x8.2mm | 147.1x68.8x8.2mm |
| Camera | Rear–12.2 MP Front—8MP |
Rear–12.MP 16MP (telephoto) Front–8MP |
| Internal Storage | 128GB | 64GB,128GB |
| Battery | 3140 mAh All-day |
2800 mAh All-day Wireless charging |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G | Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 |
| Operating System | Android 10 | Android 10 |
| Colors | Black | Black, White |
| Debut Price | $349 | $799 |
Google Pixel 4a vs. Pixel 4: Price
The main purpose of the Pixel "a" series of devices is to provide a more affordable yet sophisticated midrange smartphone to consumers. Originally priced at just $349, the Pixel 4a definitely meets that goal. On the other hand, the Pixel 4 is Google’s flagship smartphone with a high $799 price tag to match.
There’s really no contest here. If you’re considering the Pixel 4a, it’s probably mostly for the price than anything else. The Pixel 4 isn’t cheap by anybody’s definition.
Winner: Google Pixel 4a
Google Pixel 4a vs. Pixel 4: Camera
Google Pixels are known for their cameras. While there are some compromises in the camera system of the Pixel 4a, Google isn’t too keen on ruining their reputation for providing a great camera experience, which means you’ll still get to take great photos on the 4a.
The Pixel 4 and 4a share the same 12.1MP rear-facing camera; however, the higher-end Pixel 4 also comes with an additional 16MP telephoto lens for better optical zoom. Its more powerful processor also allows it to take better advantage of the full camera system software, giving it the slight edge in the battle of the photo shoots between the two devices. That said, the Pixel 4a is still a worthy opponent, producing sharp, vibrant images that most smartphone users will be quite happy with.
Winner: Google Pixel 4
Google Pixel 4a vs. Pixel 4: Processor
Unsurprisingly, the Google Pixel 4 comes with the more powerful processor (Qualcomm Snapdragon 855). Part of what makes the Pixel 4a cheaper is that it comes with the mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G.
What does that mean for you? The Pixel 4 is faster and more efficient than the Pixel 4a, able to open up apps in a snap, and support a better gaming experience. The Pixel 4a isn’t necessarily slow, but if you put the phones side-by-side, you’re sure to see the difference.
Winner: Google Pixel 4
Google Pixel 4 vs. Google Pixel 4a: Battery
Google claims that the Pixel 4a and Pixel 4 both have all-day batteries, but the Pixel 4a's battery is actually slightly bigger than the one in the Pixel 4. The difference in true battery life between both devices is likely small. We could call this a wash; however, the Pixel 4a is missing the wireless charging option that adds another layer of convenience to the Pixel 4. This is a pretty negative mark for the Pixel 4a, especially considering many other mid-range devices are also capable of wireless charging.
Winner: Google Pixel 4
Google Pixel 4a vs. Google Pixel 4: Design
One of the biggest design differences you’ll find between the low-cost Pixel 4a and the flagship Pixel 4 is in the material used to make each device. The Google Pixel 4 is made up of a glass back and metal frame. The Pixel 4a is made of plastic. While the polycarbonate body of the Pixel 4a isn’t flimsy, it certainly doesn’t have the solid feel of the Pixel 4.
The Pixel 4a is slightly smaller than the 4, but because of its reduced bezel, its 5.8” display is actually slightly bigger than 5.7” display on the Pixel 4. This is where the advantages end, though. The 4a features an OLED display protected by Gorilla Glass 3, where the Pixel 4 features flexible-OLED with Gorilla Glass 5… which is a bunch of fancy ways to say that while both devices can show crisp and sharp images, the Pixel 4 is built to be more resilient than the Pixel 4a.
Continuing on the subject of size, unlike its predecessor (Pixel 3a) and the Pixel 4, the Pixel 4a does not have a bigger XL version. It’s likely that Google has forgone a Google Pixel 4XL to make room for the Pixel 4a 5G, which is expected later this year.
As for colors, the Pixel 4a is available in black only. The Pixel 4 is available in both black and white.
Winner: Google Pixel 4
Google Pixel 4 vs. Pixel 4a: Overall
Factoring out price completely, it’s easy to see which phone wins here. The Google Pixel 4 is clearly the better device—but then again, it’s supposed to be. If you want complete flagship quality, you get the flagship device. But when you’re considering a phone like the 4a, price is very much one of the largest determining factors. The Pixel 4a is a bang-for-your-buck type of phone, offering very capable functionality at a very reasonable price. Sure, there are going to be some compromises in quality, but overall, you’re paying less for a smartphone still packed with desirable features. Choosing which phone is right for you comes down to deciding what’s more important to you: saving money or getting the absolute best.
Winner:
- Google Pixel 4 for overall quality
- Google Pixel 4a for value
Angelo Ilumba
Senior Writer
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