Breaking News: Google Pixel 9a vs Samsung Galaxy S24 – Which Compact Smartphone Reigns Supreme?
Design: Between Classicism and Discreet Originality
The Samsung Galaxy S24 sticks to a proven design formula, offering comfortable handling with dimensions of 147 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm and 167g. Its classy aesthetics and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection ensure a solid feel. The three rear cameras are the main visual elements, maintaining a cleaner, rounded look. On the other hand, the Google Pixel 9a impresses with its nearly flat back, eliminating the camera bump, and scoring comfort over premium materials. Despite its plastic back, it’s a notch below the S24, making Samsung’s offering win the design round.
Connectors: Unmatched Audio and Connectivity Options
Both smartphones boast modern connectivity features including 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, and NFC. Equipped with USB-C 3.2 ports, they ensure rapid data transfer speeds.While neither device supports microSD card extensions, their storage capacities are designed to meet contemporary demands without compromise. This feature is part of the trend seen across many high-end models today, making it an essential point of reference for tech enthusiasts.
Performance: The Power Showdown
The Samsung Galaxy S24 features the Exynos 2400 SoC supported by 8 GB of RAM, offering smooth day-to-day performance with impressive responsiveness. The Pixel 9a, powered by the Tensor G4 chipset, also with 8 GB of RAM, is renowned for excellent AI and computational photography capabilities. However, benchmarks confirm that the Galaxy S24 edges out in pure power, providing a superior experience for heavy users and gamers.
Screen: Visibility Max
The Galaxy S24 sports an AMOLED Full HD+ 120 Hz screen, boasting a peak brightness of 1,411 cd/m²—ideal for outside readability, enhancing viewing comfort with rich colors and high contrast. The Pixel 9a steps up with its 6.3-inch screen, featuring an unprecedented brightness peak of 2,314 cd/m², ensuring crystal-clear visuals even in bright environments. Both screens exhibit exceptional color reproduction, but the Pixel 9a’s brightness makes it a standout choice in this aspect.
Autonomy: Marathons of Power
The Galaxy S24, with its 4,000 mAh battery, offers impressive endurance, clocking in at over 11+ hours of video playback. It’s an excellent performer for intense use but recharges comparatively slowly. The Pixel 9a sweetens the deal with its 5,100 mAh battery, holding about 18 hours under the same conditions—a testament to mid-range efficiency, albeit below the S24. The durability of both devices is evident, but the Google Pixel 9a’s endurance showcases its strengths in securing longer use during the day.
Camera Capabilities: Duo vs. Trio
The Samsung Galaxy S24 features three rear sensors—a 50 MP main, an ultra-wide, and a telephoto—excelled in bright conditions. Its ultra-wide-angle performs well during the day, though some persist. Google’s Pixel 9a nets the photography award with its duo setup, combining a 50 MP main and an ultra-wide-angle lens. Google’s AI-driven software excels, producing well-balanced, detailed images even in near-dark conditions, giving the Pixel 9a an edge in the photography department.
For more on camera comparisons, check out our guide on best camera smartphones of 2023.
Value for Money: Compact Excellence
The Samsung Galaxy S24’s pricing at €649 offers a compelling high-end experience. Meanwhile, the Google Pixel 9a, priced at €549, offers efficiency and advanced features, outshining in both performance and price. Its cost-effectiveness and exceptional features make it a standout choice in the mid-range segment.
You might also want to see our comprehensive look at the future of smartphones to find out more about upcoming tech.
The Google Pixel 9a stands out as the compact smartphone winner, despite the robust performance of the Samsung Galaxy S24. The Pixel 9a’s impressive screen, controlled performance, good software optimization, and competitive price make it an evident winner. The decision for tech enthusiasts who favor compact and efficient devices is clear: the Pixel 9a.
