Shopping for a budget phone in 2025? Google’s Pixel phones are still making waves. But with options like the Pixel 5a and the Pixel 7a, it’s easy to feel a little lost. Don’t worry — we’re here to break it all down for you. Let’s find out which one wins the budget crown!
Design and Display
The Pixel 5a has a clean and classic look. It has a 6.34-inch OLED screen and a metal body. It feels sturdy and simple.
The Pixel 7a? It comes in with a bolder design. A 6.1-inch OLED display, but yep — it’s smaller. But don’t let that fool you. It’s brighter, smoother, and snappier with a 90Hz refresh rate.
Winner: Pixel 7a — because smoother scrolling just feels nicer, and it looks cooler too.
Performance and Speed
Under the hood, the difference grows. The Pixel 5a uses the Snapdragon 765G. Not bad, but not the flashiest chip on the block.
The Pixel 7a zooms ahead with the Google Tensor G2 chip — yep, the same brain that powers the Pixel 7! It’s faster, smarter, and handles AI features better.
- Pixel 5a: Good enough for everyday tasks.
- Pixel 7a: Great for multitasking, games, and photo editing.
Winner: Pixel 7a — this one’s the speed champ.
Camera Showdown
Both phones have solid cameras. Because, well, they’re Pixels — and Google just knows how to do cameras right!
The Pixel 5a has a good 12.2MP rear camera and a 16MP ultrawide. It takes crisp photos and does very well in daylight.
The Pixel 7a brings upgraded sensors and new camera smarts powered by Tensor. Low-light shots, portraits, and even video look better here.
Bonus feature: It even has Face Unlock. Handy!
Winner: Pixel 7a — more tools for your TikTok and Instagram game.
Battery Life and Charging
This is where things get interesting. The Pixel 5a has great battery life. It often lasts a full day, and that’s with heavy use. It’s got a bigger battery too.
The Pixel 7a has more power-hungry features. So while it charges faster and supports wireless charging (finally!), it might dip before the day ends if you push it hard.
- Pixel 5a: Slower charging but very solid battery life.
- Pixel 7a: Faster charging, wireless, but shorter life under stress.
Winner: Tie! — Longer life vs. faster charging. Pick your fighter!
Software and Support
Both phones run on Android 14 in 2025 (with updates). But the Pixel 7a will get updates for longer. It also supports newer AI tricks and better Google Assistant features, thanks to the Tensor chip.
Winner: Pixel 7a — this one’s future-proofed.
Price and Value
The Pixel 5a is cheaper now. Being older, it’s easier on your wallet. A great pick if all you need is calls, texts, and casual browsing.
The Pixel 7a costs more, but it packs nearly flagship-level power in a compact body.
- Pixel 5a: Budget-friendly for students or first phones.
- Pixel 7a: Better for long-term use and more features.
Winner: Depends on your wallet — but dollar for dollar, the Pixel 7a gives more.
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for basic use, solid battery life, and a low price — go for the Pixel 5a. It’s still great.
But if you want faster performance, better photos, and features that feel fresh in 2025, the Pixel 7a is worth the upgrade.
Our Pick: Pixel 7a — it’s the budget king in 2025!
