In 2024, Google launched the Pixel 7a at a price of ₹45,000 (approximately $550). However, by January 2025, the same smartphone was available for around ₹28,000 (approximately $370). Why did Google slash the price by ₹17,000? Does the Pixel 7a still justify its reduced price? Here’s why the Pixel 7a is simply not worth your money.
Design and Display
Design
Google Pixel 7A is part of the Google Pixel 7 series, so it has the same design pattern as the Pixel 7 series, with a metal body and a plastic back. When it comes to the camera module, it is typically a full strip on the back side, with two camera lenses and one flash, but unlike the Pixel 6 series, these are visible, so some users prefer this type, while others do not.
Display
The Google Pixel A series is generally known for its compact-sized phones, and the Pixel 7a follows the same trend. It features a 6.1-inch OLED display, offering vibrant color output that enhances the media consumption experience. While Google has not revealed the exact brightness (in nits), you won’t experience any issues with low brightness in daily usage. Additionally, the Pixel 7a comes with a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and Gorilla Glass 3 protection for added durability.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Google Pixel 7a is powered by the Tensor G2 chip. While it is not a high-end gaming processor, it is designed for efficient day-to-day tasks. Along with the Tensor G2, the Pixel 7a features LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage, ensuring faster performance and smooth multitasking. The device has an AnTuTu score of 725,631, which indicates solid overall performance.
Google Pixel phones have their own dedicated fan base, and one of the key reasons for this is their simple and clean UI. Much like the iPhone, Pixel devices offer a stock Android experience, which many users prefer for its smooth and bloatware-free interface. This is why Pixel phones have gained popularity in India.
As for the software experience, the Pixel 7a runs on clean stock Android, free from unnecessary bloatware, providing a seamless and clutter-free experience. The phone offers 3 years of Android updates and 5 years of security updates, ensuring long-term software support. Additionally, Google has integrated the Titan M2 security chip for an extra layer of protection, making the device more secure.
Camera
The camera and Google Pixel share a unique love story because when it comes to cameras on Android phones, everyone thinks of Pixel, Pixel, Pixel! Google has consistently delivered an exceptional camera experience, setting the standard in smartphone photography. So, what does the Pixel 7a offer in terms of its rear camera?
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64 MP, f/1.9 (Wide Angle) |
| Lens Details | 26mm, 1/1.73″, 0.8µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS |
| Ultra-Wide Camera | 13 MP, f/2.2 (Ultra Wide) |
| Lens Details | 120˚ field of view, 1.12µm pixel size |
| Camera Features | Pixel Shift, Auto-HDR, Panorama |
| Video Recording | 4K @ 30 fps (UHD), 1080p @ 30 fps (FHD) |
However, portrait photos on the Pixel 7a are not as impressive compared to some other flagship devices. While the edge detection and background blur are decent, the subject detailing and skin tones may sometimes appear less natural. Google’s software processing does a good job, but it’s not the best in the industry when it comes to portrait photography.
The Pixel 7a features a 13 MP f/2.2 ultra-wide selfie camera with a 20mm lens and 1.12µm pixel size, housed in a punch-hole design. It supports 4K @ 30 fps UHD and 1080p @ 30 fps FHD video recording, making it great for high-quality selfies and video calls.
Battery
One of the biggest downsides of the Google Pixel 7a is its battery and charging speed. The phone comes with a 4,385mAh battery, which is quite low compared to modern standards. As a result, it barely lasts a full day, meaning you’ll often need to carry a power bank or find a charging point within 10 to 12 hours of use.
Another major disappointment is the charging speed. In an era where fast charging is common, the Pixel 7a still supports only 18W charging, which feels outdated. This slow charging speed makes it a significant drawback for users who need quick top-ups throughout the day.
Pricing and Variants
| RAM / ROM | Color Options | Buy Link |
|---|---|---|
| 8GB / 128GB | Charcoal, Sea, Snow, Coral | Buy Here |
Conclusion
In 2025, the Pixel 7a is available for ₹28,000. If you’re a Pixel fan, you probably don’t need a reason to buy it. But what about everyone else?
The Pixel 7a has three major drawbacks: battery life, portrait mode in the camera, and a 90Hz refresh rate (which feels a bit outdated). However, the strong points are its camera quality and clean Pixel experience.
If these three drawbacks don’t matter much to you, then go for it, because at this price range, you won’t find another Pixel device. But if the price goes above ₹30,000, it’s not worth it not because it’s a bad phone, but because it doesn’t justify the price, and you might find better alternatives.
Today, I went to the beachfront with my children. I found a sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She put the shell to her ear and screamed. There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear. She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is totally off topic but I had to tell someone!