Google Pixel 7a Review: Mid-range Smartphone with Enhanced Camera Features

June 06, 2023, 08:38 AM
by Nafiz Tahmid

UNB News
Publish- June 06, 2023, 08:38 AM
Nafiz Tahmid
Update- June 06, 2023, 09:05 AM

Google Pixel 7a

The Google Pixel 7a is the latest addition to the Pixel lineup, released in May 2023; it is already available in the Bangladeshi market from the beginning of June. This mid-range smartphone comes with impressive features, including a 6.1-inch OLED display, a powerful Google Tensor G2 processor, and a 64-megapixel camera.

With its high-end specs, the Pixel 7a is a strong contender in the competitive smartphone market. In this review, we will take a closer look at the device's design, performance, camera capabilities, and overall user experience to help you decide if it's the right choice for you.

Key Features of Google Pixel 7a

Design

In a world where all Android phones look similar, you can easily identify a Pixel handset. The Pixel 7a resembles its predecessor, the Pixel 6a. It has a sturdy and durable feel, featuring a metal camera bar and a scratch-resistant display made of "Gorilla Glass 3."

Weighing about 193.5g the device has dimensions of 5.98 inches by 2.87 inches by 0.35 inches. Pixel 7a is built with an aluminum frame, glass front and plastic back. It also offers IP67 dust/water resistance.

The Pixel 7a is available in various colors: Charcoal, Sea, Snow (white), and Coral (exclusive to the Google Store). These shades are appealing and give off a colorful, futuristic, and refined vibe without appearing flashy or inexpensive.

However, similar to previous Pixel models like the Pixel 6, this new model is somewhat slippery in terms of its design. Therefore, we suggest using a case with a better grip to enhance its handling.

Display

The 6.1-inches OLED display on the Pixel 7a doesn't bring a significant change compared to the Pixel 6a. Its resolutions are 1080p by 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio and about 429 ppi density.

However, it does offer an important upgrade with a 90Hz refresh rate option in the settings. This aligns it with the refresh rates found on the Pixel 7 and breaks the pattern of Pixel A phones being limited to 60Hz. While this option is disabled by default, enabling it enhances the smoothness of the screen and provides a noticeable improvement, especially for those familiar with high refresh-rate displays. It is a worthwhile upgrade.

Apart from the Pixel 7a having a more prominent black border, there isn't a significant distinction in terms of the screen when compared to the Pixel 7. Both screens perform exceptionally well in bright outdoor conditions, delivering sharp detail and vibrant colors. So, most users should not encounter any major problems with this aspect of the phone.

Cameras

Google has introduced a new camera module for both front and rear cameras. The Pixel 7a introduces a new 64-megapixel primary camera equipped with a Sony IMX787 sensor. This is the first time an A series phone incorporates a Quad Bayer Type 1/1.73 sensor with a pixel size of 0.8µm. The main camera also features an f/1.9 aperture and optical image stabilization.

Additionally, the phone includes a 13-megapixel ultrawide camera with a 120° field of view and an f/2.2 aperture, utilizing a Sony IMX712 sensor.

As for the front camera, there is a new 13-megapixel sensor with an ultra-wide focal length equivalent to 20mm, which is a fresh addition to the Pixel line.

Similar to previous Pixel A series phones, the Pixel 7a does not include a telephoto lens. Instead, it relies on Google's Super Res Zoom technology to enhance cropped photos and prevent pixelation. With Super Res Zoom, you can zoom up to 8x, and there is a convenient 2x shortcut available in the camera app. This is noteworthy because previous Pixel A series phones did not have access to Google's hybrid zoom features.

Google Pixel 7a

Regarding video capabilities, there aren't any major changes with the Pixel 7a. You can still capture videos in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps), but when using the ultra-wide lens, the frame rate needs to be reduced to 30 fps.

If you require both a wider angle and a higher frame rate, you can shoot at 1080p resolution with 60fps. However, the dynamic range in videos doesn't exhibit the same balanced quality, often leaning toward contrasting tones that may not always appear true to life.

Performance and Storage

The Pixel 7a is equipped with the newer Tensor G2 5 nm chip, which is an improvement over the first-generation Tensor found in the Pixel 6a. As a result, the Pixel 7a offers greater speed and power compared to mid-range competitors and high-end smartphones. The processor has been combined with the Mali-G710 MP7 GPU.

Additionally, it comes with 8GB of RAM, an upgrade from the 6GB RAM in the Pixel 6a. As for storage, the only option available is 128GB.

Software

The Pixel 7a comes with Android 13 pre-installed, just like the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro. It also shares the same software support as the standard Pixel 7 lineup, receiving three years of operating system upgrades and five years of security patches.

Android 13 is now a well-established version, with Android 14 coming soon at any time. Exploring Android 13 should be a pleasant experience, particularly on the Pixel 7a, as it offers a pure Android experience without additional manufacturer skins or overlays.

Further, the presence of Google's Tensor chip enhances the appeal of AI features on the Pixel 7a, making it a fascinating reason to consider this phone, as well as other Pixel devices. One standout feature is the Magic Eraser, which works remarkably well. Additionally, you have access to features like Google Assistant on phone calls, which can hold your place in line and offer other useful functionalities.

Battery

Regrettably, battery life is the weakest aspect of the Pixel 7a. As the smallest member of the Pixel lineup, the Pixel A-series typically features a smaller battery to match its physical size. The Pixel 7a is equipped with a 4,385mAh battery, which is slightly smaller than its predecessor's 4,410mAh battery but comparable to the Pixel 7's 4,355mAh battery.

Google claims that the Pixel 7a is a 24-hour smartphone, but by utilizing the Extreme Battery Saver setting, you can extend its usage to 72 hours.

Google has introduced wireless charging to the A series with the Pixel 7a, but it only supports 7.5W charging power, which is slower compared to the average charger. It also provides an 18W wired charging unit.

Pros and Cons of Google Pixel 7a

Pros

- It offers a full HD OLED display with a refresh rate of 90Hz, providing a high-quality visual experience.
- The device supports 7.5W wireless charging, allowing for convenient and cable-free charging.
It is a 5G and NFC-enabled smartphone, ensuring fast connectivity and enabling contactless payments.
- The phone is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, offering durability and safeguarding against scratches and impacts.
- It comes with dust and water-resistant support.
- Stereo speakers are integrated into the device.

Cons

-It lacks optical zoom camera support.
-The device does not support custom user interface (UI).
-The battery capacity is relatively low.
-It is available in a single RAM and storage option, limiting the choices for users who prefer different configurations.
-Gyro-EIS support for video recording is not available.

Price of Google Pixel 7a

Google Pixel 7a starts from Rs. 43,999 or BDT 57,498 (Rs. 1 = BDT 1.31). However, the official price of Google Pixel 7a in the Bangladeshi market may vary due to tax and other issues.

Final Words

The Pixel 7a offers cameras, battery life, performance, and charging specifications that are similar to more "expensive" Pixel phones such as the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro. If you are enticed by the concept of a stunning 6.1-inch OLED screen, ample battery life, a compact design, and impressive camera capabilities, then the Google Pixel 7a is for you.