Google Pixel 7a - Smartphone Battery Performance

SMARTPHONE TIER: MID

Battery Capacity mAh: 4385

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The Google Pixel 7a - High Specifications At An Affordable Price!

Smartphone Battery Performance Overall

Score: 40//100

Overall Battery Performance Score:

Ranking #95

Mid Tier Ranking: #20

Credit image: Google

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All you need to know about the Google Pixel 7a smartphone.

Overview

Google revealed the Google Pixel 7 series in October 2022. The Google Pixel 7 Pro and the Google Pixel 7 were joined by the Google Pixel 7a. All devices offered a refreshed design, new features and hardware updates, succeeding their predecessors. We have already tested the Google Pixel 7 Pro and the Google Pixel 7, and the full reviews are now available.

The Google Pixel series was priced to fit a range of smartphone tiers, each offering various specifications. The Google Pixel 7a is a Mid Tier smartphone priced between €200-€499 that upgrades the Google Pixel 6a. With many of the same features as the Google Pixel 7, it has a slightly different camera setup, looks more expensive yet remains almost half the price of the Google Pixel 7 Pro.

The Google Pixel 7a, the smallest in the range, weighs the least at 193.5g, heavier than some other Mid Tier smartphones, but can easily fit in a pocket or purse. This phone features Corning Gorilla Glass to protect its display. Additionally, it's designed with various recycled materials such as aluminium, glass, and plastic.

Also, it is IP67 rated for water and dust resistance, slightly lower than the IP68 rating for the Google Pixel 7 and Google Pixel 7 Pro, but more than capable of surviving 1m underwater for up to 30 mins. The Google Pixel 7a is available in the following colours: Charcoal, Snow, Sea and Coral. However, the Coral version is only available through the Google Store.

What's it like to Use?

The display of the Google Pixel 7a is 6.1 inches, smaller than the Google Pixel 7 and Google Pixel 7 Pro. With an OLED screen, it still has HDR resolution at 1080 x 2400, delivering a pixel density of 429ppi.

The Flagship/Pro and High Tier Google Pixel 7 series of smartphones come with fast display refresh rates. The Google Pixel 7a, in particular, now boasts a 90Hz display for smoother scrolling, a significant upgrade from the Google Pixel 6a's 60Hz refresh rate.

The camera system in the new phone has been improved. The Google Pixel 7a now features a 64MP Quad Bayer main camera instead of the basic 12.2MP one in the Google Pixel 6a. This means that even though the sensor is smaller, it has more pixels than the Google Pixel 7 (which has 50MP). Additionally, the 13MP ultrawide camera has a higher resolution than the one on the Google Pixel 6a and the Google Pixel 7, although it has a smaller sensor and doesn't have autofocus. However, this is not a disadvantage, as only the Google Pixel 7 Pro has an autofocusing ultrawide camera. The front camera on the Google Pixel 7a is also an improved 13MP camera, making it superior to similar setups.

How does it perform?

All Google Pixel 7 devices are powered by the Google Tensor chip, a set of system-on-chip (SoC) processors created specifically for Pixel smartphones. Tensor is derived from Google's Tensor Processing Unit, an AI-focused chip used in data centres. The initial Tensor was introduced with the Pixel 6 series in 2021, while the second-generation Tensor was launched with the Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro and the Google Pixel 7a in 2022.

By getting the Google Pixel 7a, you can be a part of the unique Pixel UI experience, thanks to the Tensor G2 chipset that ensures the software runs smoothly and enjoy exclusive features that set Google devices apart. It runs on the latest Android 13 and is guaranteed to receive updates for at least three years, including major Android updates, as well as security patches for up to five years. There are some limitations regarding storage for the Google Pixel 7a, as it only comes with 128GB and 8GB RAM as an option.

What's in the box?

• Mobile Phone

• USB-Type-C

• USB-C male to USB-A female adapter

• No charger included (Google's 30W adapter included in deals and 3rd-party bundles)

A Quick Summary

From the outset, the Google Pixel 7a shows all the high specifications expected from a High or Flagship/Pro Tier smartphone and offers a better upgrade than the Google Pixel 6a with 5G support and WiFi 6E. However, although the 90Hz refresh rate is an improvement, it falls behind some of the other Mid Tier contenders, with an average processor, storage limitations, and charging is slow.

The Google Pixel 7a has the Google Tensor G2 chipset, enabling AI capabilities and delivering reliable performance. However, if you frequently engage in video streaming and gaming, you may experience some difficulties with throttling. Finally, the Google Pixel 7a device comes with Android 13 and Google guarantees three years of OS updates and five years of security updates.

Product - Good Points

The Google Pixel 7a has the following features:

• Small and compact design

• Good camera setup, high-quality images

• Improved 90Hz refresh display

• IP67 rated for water and dust resistance

• Wireless charging

• Adequate battery performance

Product - Be Aware of Points

The Google Pixel 7a lacks in performance in the following ways:

• 90Hz refresh rate is not as high as some competitors

• Lack of storage available

• Shipped with no charger

• Charging is slow

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Smartphone Battery Performance Score

and Battery Performance Results

ViserMark brings you a Smartphone Performance Score based on different criteria and benchmarks for evaluating a smartphone's performance. Our tests are performed with the strictest protocol in a controlled environment to ensure repetition and consistency powered by SmartViser's test automation solution viSer.

Using various testing criteria, including different user actions, from calls to social media and periods of standby times, ViserMark measures using real-life scenarios and live networks. All results are obtained and evaluated with calculations for smartphone Battery Life, Power Efficiency, Charging Time, Power Efficiency and Annual Energy Consumption.

ViserMark wants to help you find and compare the right smartphone, ensuring it fits your requirements and budget. Our smartphone battery performance reviews and helpful ratings have all the necessary battery information. Smartphone Performance Scores can also provide a reference point for performance benchmarks and smartphone comparisons.

The battery performance of the Pixel 7a is focused on critical areas and precise criteria. These results have been translated into various ViserMark Labels, and an overall Smartphone Performance Score is awarded.

Google Pixel 7a Battery Performance is translated into ViserMark Labels detailed here.

ViserMark Labels for the Google Pixel 7a Smartphone

Our experts are asked to test more than 100 Smartphones every year. As an independent mobile phone testing environment, SmartViser measures key areas of user experience.

More details can be found on how we perform our smartphone testing here.

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The Google Pixel 7a Battery Performance review by ViserMark is based on the smartphone battery performance results obtained during testing.

Reading this review, you can find a full breakdown of our battery performance results.

Smartphone Battery Performance Overall Score:

Using repeatable and rigorous testing criteria, ViserMark measures battery performance using real-life scenarios and live networks.

The test results are collated with calculations from smartphone Battery Life and Power Efficiency results that total a score between 0 and 100. This is the number displayed on the Battery Performance ViserMark Label shown below.

ViserMark Labels for the Google Pixel 7a Smartphone

The results of our testing showed the Google Pixel 7a scored 40 out of 100 as a smartphone Battery Performance score. Being classified as a ViserMark Mid Tier (€200-€499) smartphone, we can see other comparable devices with similar Battery Performance Scores within this tier, as shown below.

A chart showing Smartphone Battery Performance Score for the Mid Tier

The Mid Tier (€200-€499) for smartphones is very competitive, and it is becoming harder to be the "stand-out" smartphone. The Google Pixel 7a sits alongside other Google Pixel 7 devices that can offer more or may offer a better alternative, although at a price.

The Samsung Galaxy A54 and the Xiaomi 13 Lite are interesting contenders to the Google Pixel 7a, and all launched during the first part of 2023.

Being powered by the new and slightly more powerful Exynos 1380 chipset, the Samsung Galaxy A54 brings performance improvements compared to its predecessor. Samsung claims it provides a 20% boost in CPU and a 26% boost in GPU, therefore more than adequate power for daily usage and general apps.

The Xiaomi 13 Lite is powered by a newer chip, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. Being the latest smartphone using this advanced technology, it is more power efficient than the Xiaomi 12 Lite. It provides a smooth user experience, using MIUI 14 and is shipped with the older Android 12 rather than the newer version, Android 13.

When looking at the smartphone Battery Performance scores in the Mid Tier, both the Samsung Galaxy A54 and the Xiaomi 13 Lite were recently tested in our labs and battery performance results, and full reviews are available.

Let us discover if our battery performance testing results can highlight key improvements for the Google Pixel 7a compared to similar smartphones.

Other smartphone Battery Performance Scores can be viewed as ViserMark Labels in the Smartphone Ranking Table.

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Battery Life

Smartphone battery life performance can vary significantly depending on several factors, including device hardware, software optimisation, battery capacity, usage patterns, and individual settings.

When contemplating smartphone battery life, focus on these areas:

• The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh), determines how much charge a battery can store.

• The Battery Life ViserMark Label displays the "Days-of-Use" in both actual days and provides accurate information in hours. It reflects the usage of a smartphone from a full charge.

How long will the Google Pixel 7a battery last?

ViserMark understands that this is a key factor when considering any smartphone, and we are pleased to announce that the Google Pixel 7a delivered an average battery performance -with 1.5 days of use, translating into 38 hours between charges.

ViserMark Label showing Smartphone Battery Life for the Google Pixel 7a

The Google Pixel 7a has a 4,355mAh battery capacity, smaller than the 4,600mAh battery than its predecessor. Interestingly, the Google Pixel 6a, when tested in 2021, achieved 1.5 Days of Use, translated into 39 hours.

Google Pixel 7 has the same battery capacity as the Google Pixel 7a, and the Google Pixel 7 Pro is slightly larger with 5,000mAh. In our recent smartphone battery performance testing, these devices obtained 1.5 days of usage with lower actual hours. Full reviews are available.

With the introduction of hours added to the ViserMark Battery Life Label, it is even easier to see just how competitive the smartphones are regarding battery life performance.

Competitors like the Xiaomi 13 Lite are showing very similar results and have a 4,500mAh battery capacity, while the Samsung Galaxy A54 is running a larger 5,000mAh and manages to gain just a few more hours of battery life. See the chart below.

A chart showing Smartphone Battery Life Ratings for the Mid Tier

It is worth noting that the Samsung Galaxy M51, released in 2020, still holds the top spot for having one of the longest-lasting smartphone batteries, in the Mid Tier, with a smartphone Battery Life of an impressive 3.5 days of use or translated into hours an amazing 82 hours.

Other smartphone Battery Life results can be viewed as ViserMark Labels in the Smartphone Ranking Table.

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Power Efficiency

Smartphone Power Efficiency is crucial for smartphone users as it directly impacts battery life and overall device usage. It refers to the ability of a smartphone to maximise its performance while minimising power consumption.

Calculated using Battery Life and Battery Capacity and expressed in "Leaves", it reflects a rating between 1 being the least and 5 being the most power efficient.

ViserMark Label showing Smartphone Battery Efficiency for the Google Pixel 7a

How power efficient is the Google Pixel 7a?

The Google Pixel 7a was awarded 1 out of 5 as a smartphone battery efficiency score, the same ratings as both the Xiaomi 13 Lite and the Samsung Galaxy A54. As seen below.

A chart showing the Smartphone Battery Efficiency Ratings in the Mid Tier

All smartphone chipsets are designed to deliver high performance while consuming minimal power to optimise system resources for improved efficiency. Manufacturers are continuously making minor improvements to balance smartphone performance and energy efficiency. These include the management of background processes and improved app organisation, which enhance resource allocation so power consumption can be minimised.

Other smartphone Battery Efficiency results can be viewed as ViserMark Labels in the Smartphone Ranking Table.

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Annual Energy Consumption

ViserMark is pleased to offer a new label providing a smartphone's Annual Energy Consumption. The calculation is typically based on several factors, including the smartphone model, battery capacity, usage patterns, and charging habits. Although challenging, specific testing criteria are measured using real-life scenarios and live networks to reflect usage accurately.

How much energy does the Google Pixel 7a use?

The ViserMark calculations show the Google Pixel 7a would use 3.7 kWh per Annum.

ViserMark label showing Smartphone Annual Energy Consumption for the Google Pixel 7a

The chart shows that the Google Pixel 7a has the lowest Annual Energy Consumption, closely followed by the Xiaomi 13 Lite and the Samsung Galaxy A54.

The Google Pixel 7a is expected to perform better, with the smallest battery capacity and display. It shows greater battery efficiency and the lowest Annual Energy Consumption.

The Xiaomi 13 Lite also has a similar duo of smaller display and lower battery capacity, except it has an adaptive refresh rate of 120Hz. The Samsung Galaxy A54 has adopted the same adaptive refresh rate but has a much larger display and 5,000mAh battery capacity.

A chart showing the Smartphone Annual Energy Consumption in the Mid Tier

Daily activities greatly influence energy consumption. For instance, frequent use of power-intensive apps, heavy gaming, or prolonged video streaming can drain the battery faster, resulting in higher energy consumption. Conversely, conservative usage and enabling power-saving features can reduce energy consumption. ViserMark's battery performance testing protocol ensures end-users can see an objective benchmark across all smartphones' expected annual electricity consumption.

Other smartphones' Annual Energy Consumption results can be viewed as ViserMark Labels in the Smartphone Ranking Table.

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Should I buy it?

The Google Pixel 7a has made notable improvements in areas where the Google Pixel 6a fell short. One of the most significant upgrades is the new 90Hz display, a significant improvement over the Google Pixel 6a outdated 60Hz unit. While competitors are already at 120Hz, the jump from 60Hz to 90Hz is the most noticeable from a usability standpoint, so the Google Pixel 7a is still worth considering.

The Google Pixel 7a has a dual rear camera setup with a 64MP main lens, the largest ever seen on a Google Pixel A series device and a 13MP ultra-wide lens. With Super Res Zoom, you can capture clear close-up portraits from a distance, while Long Exposure, a first for the Google Pixel 7a, enables you to take good-quality photos in low light. The front-facing 13MP camera supports Face Unlock, the latest Google Pixel 7a smartphone upgrade from the Google Pixel 6a.

The Google Pixel 7a now includes wireless charging, with a 7.5W throughput. While some may doubt its speed, it's perfect for charging overnight. The Google Pixel 7a also comes with the same Tensor G2 chipset as Google Pixel 7 Pro and the Google Pixel 7, which may not be as powerful as other chipsets but is more than enough.

The battery capacity for Google Pixel 7a has a good battery life due to its smaller display and higher 90Hz refresh rate. Like many other Mid Tier smartphones, the Google Pixel 7a has an IP67 rating for accidental water and dust exposure, including the Xiaomi 13 Lite and the Samsung Galaxy A54. However, the lack of storage options other than 128GB is a disadvantage for the Google Pixel 7a as the alternative smartphones have larger 256GB. This may be a main selling point for many users when considering the Mid Tier range.

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Product Features and Specification

Release Date May 2023

Display	6.1 inches, OLED, 90Hz with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels
Processor	Android 13 Google Tensor G2
Memory	128GB 8GB RAM
Protection	Gorilla Glass 3 with IP67 rating, dust and splash resistant
Main Camera	​64 MP, f/1.9, 26mm (wide), 1/1.73", 0.8µm, Dual Pixel PDAF, OIS 13 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ (ultrawide), 1.12µm Video: 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps, OIS,
Front Camera	13 MP, f/2.2, (ultrawide), and Video 4K@30 1080p@30fps
Battery	4385 mAh, non-removable 18W fast charging, 7.5W wireless charging
Communications/Audio	Stereo Speakers: Yes. Headphone jack: No. NFC: Yes. Radio: No
Dimensions and Weight	152 x 72.9 x 9 mm and 193.5g
Colours Available	Charcoal, Snow, Sea, Coral

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Extra Insights

Q: Does the Google Pixel 7a support 5G?

A: Yes, it does

Q: Does the Google Pixel 7a have a headphone jack?

Q: Does the Google Pixel 7a support wireless charging?

Q: Does the Google Pixel 7a have dual-SIM capabilities?

Q: What storage and RAM variants is the Google Pixel 7a available?

Q: Does the Google Pixel 7a have stereo speakers?

Q: Does the Google Pixel 7a have a microSD card slot?

Q: Is the Google Pixel 7a VoLTE enabled?

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ViserMark tests are performed with the strictest protocol in a controlled environment to ensure repetition and consistency powered and automated by SmartViser's test automation solution viSer. The automation on devices includes a variety of user actions, from calls to social media and periods of standby times.

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VCX (Valued Camera eXperience)

The VCX Forum has been working with its members on the system and infrastructure as a non-profit organisation. We strive to improve our technology to develop and exchange accurate and objective quality and performance indicators that are our ultimate goal. We will also serve as a compass for the smartphone camera industry. We appreciate your interest in VCX-Forum.

No VCX reviews are available for this smartphone.

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Background

Google is a multinational American technology company specialising in Internet-related services and products. It was founded in September 1998 by Larry Page and Sergey Brin while they were PhD students at Stanford University in California.

The company has its headquarters in Mountain View, California. Google’s mission statement is "to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful". The company offers various products and services, including search engines, online advertising technologies, cloud computing, software, and hardware. Google is one of the most widely known and used search engines on the internet today.

Google has a range of smartphones called Pixel phones. The company has released several models of Pixel phones over the years, including the Pixel 6A, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel Fold. The latest model is the Pixel 7a. The phones run on the Android operating system and are known for their high-quality cameras

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