Google has officially launched the Pixel 9a, and it comes with some exciting changes in the camera department compared to the Pixel 9. Both phones share the powerful Tensor G4 chipset and a 6.3-inch Actua display with a 120Hz refresh rate. However, the Pixel 9a brings brand-new camera sensors and a few feature differences. Let’s take a closer look at what’s changed.
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 9: Camera Differences
The Pixel 9a introduces two new camera sensors:
- 48MP primary sensor (wide) with Super Res Zoom up to 8x
- 13MP ultra-wide sensor with a smaller field of view and aperture
In comparison, the Pixel 9 features:
- 50MP primary sensor (Octa PD wide) with an f/1.7 aperture and 82-degree field of view
- 48MP ultra-wide sensor with a wider 123-degree field of view
For selfies, the Pixel 9a has a 13MP front camera, while the Pixel 9 comes with a 10.5MP selfie shooter with autofocus. Both phones support 4K video recording at 60fps, but the Pixel 9a lacks the Dual Exposure feature found on the Pixel 9.
Feature Additions and Omissions
Both phones come with Night Sight, astrophotography mode, portrait mode, Top Shot, and Real Tone. However, there are some differences:
- The Pixel 9a misses out on Action Pan, Cinematic Blur, and 10-bit HDR video recording.
- The Pixel 9 lacks Auto Frame and Reimagine—two new editing features present in the Pixel 9a.
- The Pixel 9a also does not support spatial audio and noise suppression.
While both phones deliver excellent camera performance, these differences may influence which one is right for you. The Pixel 9a provides a fresh camera setup at a lower price, while the Pixel 9 retains some advanced imaging features.
Would you prefer better hardware or software-driven camera features?
