Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A54 5G vs Google Pixel 7a
If you’re in the market for a budget Android phone in 2023, two options stand out: the $450 Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and the upcoming Google Pixel 7a, which is expected to be priced similarly. But which one is the better choice? Let’s take a closer look.
Design and Display Quality
The Galaxy A54 5G has a refined design with a glass back and a screen with a discreet punch-hole selfie camera. The Pixel 7a has its own signature look with a camera bar on the back and a more compact design. Both phones have an optical type fingerprint scanner embedded in the display. The Galaxy has a slightly better screen quality, but the Pixel is expected to have a 90Hz display, addressing the biggest issue in the budget A series so far.
Performance and Software
The Galaxy A54 5G comes with a Samsung-made Exynos 1380 processor, while the Pixel 7a is expected to have a Google-made Tensor G2 chip, a flagship-grade chip. The Galaxy has 6GB/8GB of RAM and 128GB/258GB of storage, while the Pixel is expected to come in one model with 6/128GB configuration. The Galaxy runs on Samsung’s One UI 5.1 interface on top of Android 13, while the Pixel runs on a clean version of Android 13. Samsung promises 4 years of major updates compared to just 3 years on the Pixel, but the Pixel will get those updates on day one.
Camera
The Galaxy A54 5G comes with a triple camera system, while the Pixel 7a only features two rear cameras. Samsung has improved the camera system on the Galaxy, but it is unlikely to beat the typically outstanding Google Pixel in the camera game.
Audio Quality and Haptics
Both phones rely on a main bottom firing speaker and a secondary speaker located in the earpiece for audio output. We have not yet tested the audio quality coming out of those loudspeakers.
Battery Life and Charging
The Galaxy A54 5G has a 5,000 mAh battery, while the Pixel 7a is expected to have a smaller battery. The Galaxy supports 25W charging speeds, while the Pixel is expected to max out at 18W.
Specs Comparison
| Specs | Galaxy A54 5G | Pixel 7a |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and Weight | 158.2 x 76.7 x 8.2 mm, 202 g | unknown |
| Screen | 6.4″ OLED, 1080p resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass 5 | 6.1″ OLED, 1080p resolution, 90Hz refresh rate |
| Processor | Samsung Exynos 1380 (5nm) | Google Tensor G2 (5nm) |
| RAM, Storage and Prices | US: 6/128GB for $450, 8/256GB available in UK, RoW | 6/128GB, unknown price |
| Cameras | 50MP main cam (f/1.8), 12MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 5MP macro cam (f/2.4), 32MP front cam (f/2.2) | 64MP main cam, 12MP ultra-wide, -, 13MP front cam |
| Battery Size | 5,000 mAh | unknown |
| Charging Speeds | 25W wired charging, no wireless charging | unknown |
Summary
Both the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G and the Google Pixel 7a are among the best budget phones to buy in 2023. The Galaxy has a better screen quality, longer battery life, faster charging speeds, and longer software updates. The Pixel is expected to have an advantage in performance power and the camera, and it runs on a clean version of Android. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities.
*This article relies on preliminary information from leaks and rumors about the yet unreleased Pixel 7a.
