Google Pixel 6a vs Pixel 6 vs Pixel 6 Pro | Camera Test, Gaming, Battery & Beyond!

Comparing Google's Pixel 6a vs the Pixel 6 and Pro smartphones, to see which offers the best value. I've tested the camera tech, gaming performance, battery life and more, using the Pixel 6a and its expensive siblings as my full-time phone. Check out my unboxing for a closer look at one of the best mid-range mobiles of 2022, and my long term reviews of the 6 and 6 Pro for more on those handsets.

The Pixel 6a actually has a lot in common with the flagships, including a feature-dense stock Android 12 experience with five years plus software support. That camera may be old tech but Google's Tensor chipset means the photo and video results are closer than you'd think, except for the Pro's telephoto lens. Certainly the mid-range smartphone is the best camera phone at this UK price.

Gaming sadly isn't as hot on the Pixel 6a, unless you're playing less intensive titles such as PubG or CODM. Battery life is a winner however, despite the compact finish. All three of these phones will see you through a full day on a (not particularly fast) charge, although the 6a lacks wireless charging.

In-depth review of the Pixel 6a is coming soon and my full camera test video is also live right now. What do you reckon, tempted by this affordable alternative to the flagships?

Google Pixel 6a vs 6 vs 6 Pro Chapters:
0:00 - Pricing and general waffle
0:54 - Design
3:45 - Software & features
5:45 - Display & audio
7:41 - Performance & gaming
9:21 - Battery tech
10:39 - Camera comparison
13:25 - Verdict

[NizarNoor]

If only Pixel 6 Pro came out in 6a size, I would’ve gotten it immediately.

[cannaboy.]

I don't see what's the big deal with wireless charging, I feel its the most inconvenient charging method as u cant comfortably use your phone while its charging wirelessly. Plus whats the point when u need a wire anyways to charge wirelessly?

[friendlysupporter]

I would pick the 6a because it's more compact and the photos seem to be almost identical, don't care much about the zoom. ✌️

[BackTo]

This video is refreshing. NO pink and purple background, NO backwards baseball cap. NO talking excessively with hands like a rapper. Thumbs up from me.

[Kavanini]

I was going to buy the 6 when the price dropped the other week but noticed it's now gone back up. 6a also gives free buds so it's a decent deal especially once you trade in your old phone. I'm coming from a 3a XL so I'm sure the 6a is a good upgrade.

[DanielAngel]

Just went with the 6a coming from the Pixel 4. Mostly due to size as I have human sized hands, a bit bummed about the wireless charging but I'll be getting a case anyway so not a huge deal to get an adapter.

Manufacturers if you're reading this, I'm willing to pay for flagship specs in a smaller size if you're willing to make them. (There are dozens of us)

[TaureanSmoke]

Coming from a pixel 6 user, I wish all of the newly Pixel 6A purchasers well and all the best to you. I know you will have the best experience because the Pixel 6 is the best phone on the market regardless of what somebody says online. Enjoy your phone! Welcome to team Pixel 👍🏾

[michal]

I got my Pixel 6 since release and I am super happy with it!
Got pixel buds and I loved the Chromebooks idea. I would like to get a Pixelbook Go but it is too hard to get in my country...

[puddle_puddle]

I went for the 6a because... size. Why are all phones so bloody massive now? My pockets aren't getting bigger, or thumbs for that matter.

[borinvlogs]

Bought a Pixel 6 Pro 2 weeks ago (previous phone was S9+) and i have been very impressed with this Google phone, so bought this recently launched Pixel 6a for my missus to replace her iPhone 7 and we are both very happy with these products. This is her first ever android phone and she said that she will never go back to Apple again.

[memorialfrog]

If you're going to go for a Pixel, get the normal 6, it's not too much more expensive and it has a vastly better screen and of course better camera's. I own the standard 6 and love it despite the horrible fingerprint sensor. It's a really great phone. For future proofing it's the smart choice.

[xmuninu]

I've owned the Pixel 6 for a few months now and have never had any problem with the fingerprint sensor. I especially love the convenience of having this sensor also on the lock screen.
The only annoying problem I've encountered is that my phone calls my business partner even if I'm not touching the phone, sometimes even in the middle of the night! - I can't figure out why it does this, and it only seems to call his number! - I'm sure he thinks I do it on purpose 🤣🤣
All in all it's another great phone from Google.

[skultunadesignofsweden]

How fascinating how everyone who compares phones talks about what back or frame the phone has. How it feels to hold and if it leaves fingerprints on the back.

😊 I've never met a single person who doesn't have their phone in a case and doesn't give a damn about that stuff.
You can't even tell what colour your phone is.

[arnautical_]

I was reviewing this video in order to decide which Pixel 6 I would like to purchase. I have loyalty to anything with the “Google” brand name simply because of their specialities in cloud service and versatility. This guide was excellent!

I think that your words about the Pixel 6 Pro regarding travelling in camera settings was also spot on, and I would like to upgrade to the 6 Pro in the future. As of right now, however, the standard Pixel 6 will do quite nicely!

Keep it up!

With Regards,
~Kyle

[nottsoserious]

As someone who doesn't wireless charge and has never had a phone over 60Hz, I'm sold on the 6a!

[sbatty]

I went for the standard 6 because it was roughly the same size or thereabouts as the Pixel 4XL. Haven't really had any problems with it apart from the fingerprint sensor, which I think is as much to do with the type of glass as it is the sensor.

[GrayWolf]

I really like the look of the 6a and it's smaller size. But everything else is such a done grade from the 6. Idk why they refuse to make a flagship that isn't bigger than 6in. The Xperia compact z2 was the last phone I had that was small and had flagship specs

[brainactivity]

We want a flagship phone that's 6 inches or smaller! I skipped the pixel 6 and the pro version because they are large and hefty compared to the pixel 5. So, the 6a is the one for me but it's a shame that it doesn't come with full features. I like the Sony Xperia 5 range but their cameras aren't as remarkable as the pixels unfortunately.

[GK-qcry]

Mmm non expandable memory is a bit of an issue but 128gb is a decent amount. It's either the 6a or A52s or maybe A53. I'd be happy if the 5a was sold globally.

[StreetfighterBrah]

I don't see why the heck anyone needs wireless charging?
Used it once and never thought of using again.
Its just a feature that adds the phone to the category of premium smartphones and helps some guys to boast about it.