Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G60 and the Google Pixel 8a. I've taken a good look at the specs and am ready to break down what all of this means for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table to give us a structured look at the key differences and what they mean:
| Feature | Nokia G60 | Google Pixel 8a | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 166 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm | 152.1 × 72.7 × 8.9 mm | The Nokia is larger and might feel less comfortable in smaller hands and pockets. The Pixel 8a is more compact. |
| Weight | 190g | 188g | Both are nearly identical in weight, neither feels much heavier than the other |
| Build Quality | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass 3 | The Nokia G60's screen is more resistant to scratches and breakage compared to the Pixel 8a's screen. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.58" | 6.1" | Nokia G60 has a larger screen, great for media consumption. Pixel 8a is more portable and has a better pixel density. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2400 | Practically identical; both offer sharp image quality for most uses. |
| Pixel Density | 401 PPI | 430 PPI | Pixel 8a's sharper display is better for text and detailed graphics, making the screen appear slightly more vibrant. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | OLED | The Pixel 8a's OLED display has much richer contrast, deeper blacks, and more vivid colors compared to the Nokia's LCD panel. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both devices. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness will be similar, although the OLED screen might offer better visibility in direct sunlight compared to the IPS screen of the Nokia. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G | Tensor G3 | The Pixel 8a’s Tensor G3 is significantly faster, resulting in better app performance, gaming, and smoother multitasking compared to the Nokia’s Snapdragon chip. |
| AnTuTu Score | 410,072 | 876,512 | The Pixel 8a offers a notably smoother experience, especially for intensive tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Immortalis-G715s MC10 | The Pixel 8a's GPU enables better graphics rendering for games and demanding applications, which is far superior. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 64MP, f/1.89 | Pixel 8a has a slight edge in detail and clarity with its higher megapixel count. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.2 | Pixel 8a provides sharper and more detailed selfies due to higher resolution and a larger pixel size. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.2 (Wide Angle+Macro) | Nokia G60 has a dedicated wide-angle lens. Pixel 8a combines Wide Angle and Macro lens which can be beneficial and can replace the need for a macro lens |
| Portrait (Depth) Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | - | Nokia G60 has a dedicated depth sensor, while Pixel 8a doesn't, but it utilizes software to create portrait mode, and in some cases, software can be better than a dedicated sensor. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps | The Pixel 8a can capture much more detailed video at 4K resolution and higher frame rates, with optical image stabilization, offering vastly superior video quality. |
| DxoMark Score | - | 136 | Pixel 8a camera performs exceptionally well, while the Nokia G60 has no tests done to compare the cameras |
| Features | Limited | Extensive (OIS, PDAF) | The Pixel 8a’s camera has more advanced features and AI processing, with superior results. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4500mAh | Both phones have similar battery sizes, so battery life would likely be comparable, depending on usage patterns. |
| Charging | 20W Fast | 18W Fast | The Nokia G60 recharges slightly faster, but this difference won't be too significant |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | The Pixel 8a can charge other devices wirelessly. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14, up to 21 | The Pixel 8a has a newer version of Android with more features and is guaranteed to get new updates for many years, while Nokia G60’s software is dated and may not receive many updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6E | Pixel 8a supports Wi-Fi 6E, which is faster and more stable compared to the Nokia's Wi-Fi 6. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 LE | The Pixel 8a offers newer Bluetooth technology with faster, more energy efficient connections |
| GPS | Comprehensive | Comprehensive + GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 8a has better location accuracy for navigation and location-based services |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128GB | 128/256GB | Pixel 8a has twice as much storage available compared to the base Nokia G60 model. |
| RAM | 4/6GB | 8GB | Pixel 8a has more RAM which makes the phone better for multitasking and app performance, especially when using demanding apps. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone allows for additional storage via an SD card. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic Audio Features | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Pixel 8a provides better audio for calls and listening through the speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | The Nokia G60 may be slightly more convenient due to a side mounted fingerprint scanner. |
| Sensors | Comprehensive | Comprehensive + Barometer, Thermometer, Magnetometer | The Pixel 8a offers a broader range of sensors useful for gaming, mapping, and environmental monitoring, which can be beneficial for more intensive usage |
2. Key Insights
Nokia G60:
- Strengths: Larger display, better screen protection (Gorilla Glass 5), slightly faster charging, and a slightly more convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Competitive Advantages: It's an affordable phone with a focus on basic, reliable functionality.
- Trade-offs: Slower performance, less impressive camera, outdated software, and average display quality and inferior video.
Google Pixel 8a:
- Strengths: Superior processor, outstanding camera performance, better video capabilities, an impressive OLED display, and a much more up-to-date software, better audio features, and better connectivity.
- Competitive Advantages: Offers flagship-level features at a mid-range price.
- Trade-offs: The Pixel 8a is a bit more expensive.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Nokia G60 is best for:
- Budget-conscious users who need a large screen for basic media consumption and web browsing.
- Individuals who value battery life and the durability of Gorilla Glass 5.
- Users who don't need high-performance gaming or advanced camera features.
Google Pixel 8a is best for:
- Photography enthusiasts who want great image quality and video capabilities.
- Power users who want smooth, fast performance for multitasking and gaming.
- Users who want a high-quality display with rich contrast and vibrant colors.
- Anyone seeking a phone with the latest Android software with guaranteed long-term updates.
- Users who want advanced features like noise canceling microphones and reverse wireless charging.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Three Key Questions:
- How much emphasis do I place on camera quality? If it's a top priority, the Pixel 8a is a clear winner with its advanced features.
- How important is raw performance and long-term software support? The Pixel 8a’s Tensor G3 chip and long-term OS support make it a better long-term investment.
- Do I need a large display or is portability more crucial? The Nokia G60 offers a larger screen, while the Pixel 8a is more compact and portable.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Casual User
- Recommendation: If your priority is a phone for basic daily tasks, calls, and some light media consumption, the Nokia G60 may fit your needs, as it's less expensive. However, the Pixel 8a will also perform well with better software support and a better camera.
- Scenario 2: The Content Creator/Enthusiast
- Recommendation: The Google Pixel 8a is the superior choice due to its excellent camera and superior video recording capabilities. Its better display also enhances the content creation experience.
- Scenario 3: The Mobile Gamer
- Recommendation: The Google Pixel 8a is much better with its superior processing power, better GPU, and higher RAM, leading to a smoother gaming experience. The Nokia is simply not powerful enough for more demanding gaming.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would go with the Google Pixel 8a. While the Nokia G60 is an adequate option for very basic tasks, the Pixel 8a outshines it in almost every aspect that matters to me as a tech enthusiast. The Pixel 8a's superior performance, camera, display, software, and long-term support simply make it a far better device in almost all aspects, more than justifying the price difference. The experience it offers is far more premium, while the Nokia G60 is simply too outdated and lacks the features necessary to make a good device today. The Pixel 8a is a phone that I would be excited to use and depend on every day.
