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2026 comparison
Updated Jan 7, 2026
|Sources: Amazon, ManufacturerGoogle Pixel 8a vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Get the Google Pixel 8a unless you want to save cash. It packs a stunning 6.1" OLED display with a blazing 120Hz refresh rate, while the iPhone SE (3rd Gen) sticks to a dated 4.7" LCD that just doesn't pop like OLED. The Pixel 8a is a mid-range powerhouse with features that truly elevate the experience. The 64MP camera on the Pixel takes impressive shots, especially in low light, while the iPhone's 12MP camera falls short in comparison. If you're looking for a budget option, the SE is appealing, but its limitations are hard to ignore.
📱 Display: 6.1" vs 4.7"⚡ Refresh: 120 Hz vs 60 Hz🔋 Battery: 4492 mAh vs 2018 mAh
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Google Pixel 8a
★4.4
(1,570)•Amazon
Operating System:Android
Software Support:7 years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates
Processor:Google Tensor G3
Graphics:Arm Immortalis-G715s MC10
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Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
★4.5
(225)•Best Buy
Operating System:iOS
Software Support:Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Processor:Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Graphics:Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
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Key spec differences
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
Winner= clear advantage
Spec
Google Pixel 8a
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Display2 specs
Display SizeKey
Google Pixel 8a
6.1" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less)Winner
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
4.7"
Refresh Rate
Google Pixel 8a
60–120Hz (Smooth Display)Winner
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
60Hz
Performance3 specs
ProcessorKey
Google Pixel 8a
Google Tensor G3
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
RAMKey
Google Pixel 8a
8GB LPDDR5XWinner
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
4GB
Storage
Google Pixel 8a
128GB / 256GB (UFS 3.1)Winner
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe
Camera2 specs
Main CameraKey
Google Pixel 8a
64MP Wide (f/1.89, 80° FOV, 1/1.73"), Quad PD AF, OISWinner
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x
Ultra-Wide Camera
Google Pixel 8a
13MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2, 120° FOV)
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
No (Not supported)
Battery2 specs
Battery CapacityKey
Google Pixel 8a
4,492 mAh (Typical)Winner
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
2,018mAh (Approximate)
Wireless Charging
Google Pixel 8a
Qi Wireless Charging (7.5W)
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment)
Design2 specs
Weight
Google Pixel 8a
6.6 oz (188 g)
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
5.09 oz (144 g)Winner
Dimensions
Google Pixel 8a
6.0" x 2.9" x 0.4" (152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm)
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm)
Software1 specs
Operating System
Google Pixel 8a
Android
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
iOS
Connectivity1 specs
Connectivity
Google Pixel 8a
5G (Sub6/mmWave varies by model); Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax); Bluetooth 5.3; NFC
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Expand
Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Google Pixel 8a vs Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Google Pixel 8a
★4.4(1,570)Amazon
Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
★4.5(225)Best Buy
| Criterion | Google Pixel 8a | Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.4(1,570)Amazon | ★4.5(225)Best Buy |
Operating System | Android | iOS |
Software Support | 7 years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates | Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022) |
Processor | Google Tensor G3 | Apple A15 Bionic (5nm) |
Graphics | Arm Immortalis-G715s MC10 | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) |
RAM | 8GB LPDDR5X | 4GB |
Storage | 128GB / 256GB (UFS 3.1) | 64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe |
Display Size | 6.1" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less) | 4.7" |
Screen Type | Actua OLED Display | Retina HD LCD (IPS) |
Resolution | 1080 x 2400 pixels (FHD+), 430 ppi | 1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi) |
Refresh Rate | 60–120Hz (Smooth Display) | 60Hz |
Peak Brightness | 1,400 nits (HDR) / 2,000 nits (Peak) | 625 nits (Typical) |
Main Camera | 64MP Wide (f/1.89, 80° FOV, 1/1.73"), Quad PD AF, OIS | 12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 13MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2, 120° FOV) | No (Not supported) |
Telephoto Camera | N/A (No dedicated telephoto lens) | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | N/A (Optical quality at 0.5x and 1x via sensor crop) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 8x Super Res Zoom | Up to 5x |
Video Recording | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60fps | 4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps |
Front Camera | 13MP Front (f/2.2, 96.5° FOV), Fixed Focus | 7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps |
Battery | 4,492 mAh (Typical) | 2,018mAh (Approximate) |
Wired Charging | Up to 18W (Adapter sold separately) | 20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning |
Wireless Charging | Qi Wireless Charging (7.5W) | 7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub6/mmWave varies by model); Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax); Bluetooth 5.3; NFC | 5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC |
USB | USB Type-C 3.2 | Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds) |
Durability | IP67 (Dust and water resistant up to 1m); Gorilla Glass 3 (front); Matte composite back; Aluminum frame | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass |
Dimensions | 6.0" x 2.9" x 0.4" (152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm) | 5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm) |
Weight | 6.6 oz (188 g) | 5.09 oz (144 g) |
Biometrics | Under-display Fingerprint Sensor; Face Unlock | Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button) |
Extras | VPN by Google One; Titan M2 security; Gemini AI integrated; Audio Magic Eraser | Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support |
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Google Pixel 8a
Rating:★4.4(1,570)Amazon
Operating System:Android
Software Support:7 years of OS, security, and Feature Drop updates
Processor:Google Tensor G3
Graphics:Arm Immortalis-G715s MC10
RAM:8GB LPDDR5X
Storage:128GB / 256GB (UFS 3.1)
Display Size:6.1" (measured diagonally; actual viewable area is less)
Screen Type:Actua OLED Display
Resolution:1080 x 2400 pixels (FHD+), 430 ppi
Refresh Rate:60–120Hz (Smooth Display)
Peak Brightness:1,400 nits (HDR) / 2,000 nits (Peak)
Main Camera:64MP Wide (f/1.89, 80° FOV, 1/1.73"), Quad PD AF, OIS
Ultra-Wide Camera:13MP Ultra-Wide (f/2.2, 120° FOV)
Telephoto Camera:N/A (No dedicated telephoto lens)
Optical Zoom:N/A (Optical quality at 0.5x and 1x via sensor crop)
Digital Zoom:Up to 8x Super Res Zoom
Video Recording:4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60fps
Front Camera:13MP Front (f/2.2, 96.5° FOV), Fixed Focus
Battery:4,492 mAh (Typical)
Wired Charging:Up to 18W (Adapter sold separately)
Wireless Charging:Qi Wireless Charging (7.5W)
Connectivity:5G (Sub6/mmWave varies by model); Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax); Bluetooth 5.3; NFC
USB:USB Type-C 3.2
Durability:IP67 (Dust and water resistant up to 1m); Gorilla Glass 3 (front); Matte composite back; Aluminum frame
Dimensions:6.0" x 2.9" x 0.4" (152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm)
Weight:6.6 oz (188 g)
Biometrics:Under-display Fingerprint Sensor; Face Unlock
Extras:VPN by Google One; Titan M2 security; Gemini AI integrated; Audio Magic Eraser
✓ Pros:
- • Unmatched 7-year software support commitment in the mid-range segment
- • Bright 120Hz Actua OLED display (2,000 nits peak)
- • Flagship-grade Tensor G3 processor brings premium AI features (Magic Editor, Audio Magic Eraser)
- • Compact and comfortable design with a durable matte finish
- • Includes wireless charging (rare at this price point)
✗ Cons:
- • Charging is slow (18W wired / 7.5W wireless) compared to competitors
- • Large bezels surround the display, looking dated compared to the Pixel 8
- • Uses older Gorilla Glass 3 for screen protection
- • Optical fingerprint sensor can be slower than ultrasonic alternatives
- • Gets warm under heavy load due to Tensor G3 efficiency
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen)
Rating:★4.5(225)Best Buy
Operating System:iOS
Software Support:Typically 6+ years of OS updates from release (2022)
Processor:Apple A15 Bionic (5nm)
Graphics:Apple GPU (4-core graphics)
RAM:4GB
Storage:64GB / 128GB / 256GB NVMe
Display Size:4.7"
Screen Type:Retina HD LCD (IPS)
Resolution:1334 x 750 pixels (326 ppi)
Refresh Rate:60Hz
Peak Brightness:625 nits (Typical)
Main Camera:12MP Wide, f/1.8, OIS, Digital Zoom up to 5x
Ultra-Wide Camera:No (Not supported)
Telephoto Camera:No (Not supported)
Optical Zoom:No (Not supported)
Digital Zoom:Up to 5x
Video Recording:4K @ 60fps; 1080p @ 60fps; Slo-mo 1080p @ 240fps
Front Camera:7MP FaceTime HD, f/2.2, 1080p @ 30fps
Battery:2,018mAh (Approximate)
Wired Charging:20W Fast Charging (50% in 30 min) via Lightning
Wireless Charging:7.5W Qi Wireless (No MagSafe magnetic alignment)
Connectivity:5G (Sub-6 GHz only - No mmWave), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC
USB:Lightning Connector (USB 2.0 speeds)
Durability:IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Ion-strengthened glass
Dimensions:5.45 x 2.65 x 0.29 in (138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mm)
Weight:5.09 oz (144 g)
Biometrics:Touch ID (Fingerprint sensor in Home button)
Extras:Stereo speakers, Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), Dual eSIM support
✓ Pros:
- • Most affordable entry point into the new iPhone ecosystem
- • Compact and lightweight design is easy to use with one hand
- • A15 Bionic chip provides flagship-level performance for the price
- • Retains the classic Touch ID Home button (preferred by some users)
- • IP67 water resistance rating is rare in the budget category
✗ Cons:
- • Dated design with thick top and bottom bezels
- • Small 4.7-inch LCD screen lacks the vibrancy of OLED competitors
- • Base storage starts at a low 64GB
- • No Night Mode for the camera (struggles in low light)
- • Lacks 5G mmWave support (Sub-6 GHz only) unlike main iPhone models
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Which one is better?
Key specs: Display: 6.1" vs 4.7" and Refresh: 120 Hz vs 60 Hz.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Google Pixel 8a if: you need a vibrant display for streaming, want a powerful camera for photography, or rely on long battery life for daily use. (6.1" display, 120 Hz refresh)
Choose the Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) if: you prefer a compact phone for one-handed use, are on a tight budget, or want a reliable entry into the iPhone ecosystem. (4.7" display, 60 Hz refresh)
Conclusion
Google Pixel 8a and Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
Google Pixel 8a excels if you value unmatched 7-year software support commitment in the mid-range segment. Apple iPhone SE (3rd Gen) is better if you prioritize most affordable entry point into the new iphone ecosystem. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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