Google Pixel 8a vs Samsung Galaxy A55 Comparison

Choosing the right mid-range phone can be tricky, but two strong contenders have emerged: the Google Pixel 8a and the Samsung Galaxy A55. Here's a breakdown of their key features to help you decide which one reigns supreme for your needs.

Display:

• Pixel 8a: 6.1-inch OLED FHD+ display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate and a super bright 2,000 nits peak brightness.
• Galaxy A55: Slightly larger 6.6-inch Super AMOLED FHD+ display, also boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, but with a peak brightness of 1650 nits.

Performance:

• Pixel 8a: Google's custom Tensor G3 chip promises efficient performance, paired with 8GB of LPDDR5x RAM for smooth multitasking.
• Galaxy A55: Samsung's Exynos 1480 SoC goes head-to-head with the Tensor G3, with RAM options of 8GB or 12GB for potentially heavier users.

Storage:

• Pixel 8a: Starts with 128GB of UFS 3.1 storage, with a 256GB option available. No expandable storage here.
• Galaxy A55: Offers the same storage options (128GB/256GB) but with the added benefit of a microSD card slot for expandable storage up to 1TB.

Cameras:

• Pixel 8a: Focuses on quality over quantity with a 64MP Sony IMX787 main sensor and a 13MP IMX712 ultrawide sensor. Google's software processing is known for its exceptional results.
• Galaxy A55: Sports a triple camera system: a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide sensor, and a 5MP macro sensor, offering more versatility but potentially lower overall image quality. The front camera on the A55 boasts a higher resolution at 32MP compared to the Pixel 8a's 13MP.

Battery & Charging:

• Pixel 8a: Packs a 4492mAh battery with support for 18W fast charging and Qi wireless charging.
• Galaxy A55: Outshines the Pixel here with a larger 5000mAh battery and faster 25W wired charging. However, it lacks wireless charging.

Software & Updates:

• Pixel 8a: Runs stock Android 14 with the promise of 7 years of OS updates, security patches, and feature drops directly from Google.
• Galaxy A55: Also runs Android 14 with Samsung's One UI 6.1 on top. Samsung offers 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security updates.

Other Features:

• Pixel 8a: Exclusive features like Circle to Search, Pixel Call Assist, Live Translate with Google Assistant, and the large language model Gemini set it apart. In-display fingerprint sensor and Titan M2 chip for security. Gorilla Glass 3 and IP67 water resistance.
• Galaxy A55: Offers a microSD card slot for expandable storage and a slightly more durable Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection. Fingerprint sensor present, along with IP67 water resistance.

Price:

• Pixel 8a: Starts at $499.
• Galaxy A55: Slightly cheaper at $449.

The Verdict:

This is a close call. The Pixel 8a boasts a superior camera system, cleaner software experience with longer update support, and the innovative features from Google. However, the Galaxy A55 counters with a larger display, expandable storage, a bigger battery with faster wired charging, and a slightly lower price tag.

Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities. If camera quality, clean software, and future updates are paramount, the Pixel 8a shines. If you prioritize a larger display, expandable storage, a bigger battery with faster charging, and a slightly lower price, the Galaxy A55 might be the better fit.