Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A32 5G vs. Google Pixel 8a
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 8a | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 164.2 × 76.1 × 9.1 mm | 152.1 × 72.7 × 8.9 mm | A32 5G is larger and may be less comfortable for small hands or one-handed use; Pixel 8a is more compact and easier to pocket. |
| Weight | 205g | 188g | Pixel 8a is lighter and more comfortable for extended use or carrying in a pocket. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 8a | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.1" | A32 5G offers a larger viewing area for media consumption, while Pixel 8a is more compact; consider preference. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Pixel 8a provides a significantly sharper and clearer display with more detail for text, images, and videos. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 430 | Pixel 8a’s higher PPI means sharper text, images, and reduced pixelation. |
| Technology | TFT LCD | OLED | Pixel 8a has superior color accuracy, deeper blacks, and higher contrast, resulting in more vibrant visuals. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 8a provides smoother scrolling, animations, and a more responsive user experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical brightness, although practical maximum brightness is not provided and might differ. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 8a | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 720 (7 nm) | Google Tensor G3 (4 nm) | Pixel 8a is significantly faster, enabling smoother performance in demanding apps and games; more future-proof. |
| AnTuTu Score | 249,720 | 876,512 | Pixel 8a demonstrates significantly better overall performance, with noticeable improvements in responsiveness. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 (ARM Mali-G57) | Immortalis-G715s MC10 (Immortalis-G715s MC10) | Pixel 8a has a more powerful GPU, resulting in better gaming performance and graphics-intensive tasks. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 8a | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2" sensor (Samsung S5KGM2) | 64MP, f/1.89, 1/1.72" sensor (Sony IMX787) | Pixel 8a captures more detailed images with its higher resolution and larger sensor. May have better low-light performance. |
| Front Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2, (Unknown sensor model) | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" sensor (Sony IMX712), 1.12 µm pixel size | Comparable selfie cameras. Pixel 8a likely has better low-light performance with its larger pixel size. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, (Unknown sensor model), 1.12 µm pixel size | None | A32 5G offers a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing broader scenes; Pixel 8a lacks this option. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4, (Unknown sensor model) | None | A32 5G includes a dedicated depth sensor to help with portrait mode. The lack on Pixel 8a might rely on software processing. |
| Macro lens | 5MP, f/2.4, (Unknown sensor model) | None | A32 5G has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots; Pixel 8a lacks this option. |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" sensor (Sony IMX712) | Pixel 8a uses its wide-angle lens for macro shots, offering a versatile option. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps, No Stabilization | Up to 4K@60fps with OIS, 1080p@240fps with OIS | Pixel 8a records higher quality and smoother videos with better stabilization and higher slow-motion frame rates; Better video quality in all conditions. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Available | Mobile: 136, Photo: 141, Video: 128 | Pixel 8a has a tested and ranked camera, indicating a superior camera system. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, Digital Image Stabilization. | Dual Camera, OIS, PDAF, LAF, NPU AI Engine, RAW, Night Mode. | Pixel 8a offers significantly more features, including advanced autofocus, AI processing, optical image stabilization, and more software processing options. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 8a | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | A32 5G has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 15W fast charging | 18W fast charging | Pixel 8a charges faster, reducing charging times. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Pixel 8a has reverse charging that allows it to charge other wireless devices. |
Other
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 8a | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 (upgradable to 21) | Pixel 8a has a newer Android version with more features, updates and longer software support. |
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual band, Hotspot | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/6E, Dual band, Hotspot | Pixel 8a offers faster Wi-Fi speeds and better performance in crowded environments. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 LE, APT-x, LDAC, SBC, AAC | Pixel 8a has a newer version of Bluetooth with better performance and higher quality audio codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1) | Pixel 8a provides more accurate GPS with more supported satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Pixel 8a offers the flexibility of using eSIM for easier carrier switching. |
| Internal Storage | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Pixel 8a has higher storage options for users with large collections of apps and media. |
| RAM | 4 GB, 6 GB or 8 GB | 8 GB | Pixel 8a is better for multitasking and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage, users are limited to the internal storage options. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones, Noise cancellation microphone | Pixel 8a has better call quality and audio output, while A32 5G provides enhanced audio from Dolby. |
| Security | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | A32 5G's fingerprint sensor is side mounted and might be faster, while Pixel 8a's sensor is basic and might not be as secure and fast. |
| Build Quality | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Pixel 8a offers better screen protection from scratches. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Pixel 8a has more comprehensive sensors, enhancing gaming and other functionalities. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G Advantages:
- Larger Display: The 6.5" screen is beneficial for media consumption and users who prefer a larger viewing area.
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery may provide slightly longer battery life.
- Dedicated Camera Lenses: Offers a dedicated wide-angle lens, macro lens, and depth sensor for more creative photography options.
Google Pixel 8a Advantages:
- Superior Display: OLED, higher resolution, 120Hz refresh rate offer a much better visual experience.
- Much Faster Performance: The Tensor G3 chipset is far more powerful, ensuring smoother performance.
- Better Camera Quality: Higher resolution main sensor, better video capabilities, optical image stabilization, and advanced software features.
- Longer Software Support: Guaranteed software and security updates for many years, enhancing the phone's longevity.
- Newer Technology: Supports newer WiFi standards, Bluetooth versions, and additional GPS satellite systems.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Allows the phone to wirelessly charge other compatible devices.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: Sacrifices performance, display quality, and camera capabilities for a larger screen and dedicated camera lenses; likely has inferior software support.
- Google Pixel 8a: Is more expensive, has a smaller screen, and lacks dedicated wide angle, macro and depth cameras.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize a larger screen for media viewing and content consumption, and also want some basic camera features.
- Use Cases:
- Watching movies and videos on a larger display
- Basic photography and social media sharing
- Long battery life for moderate use
- Everyday apps and basic usage
- Users who prefer side mounted fingerprint scanner.
- Price-to-Value: Good value for users on a tight budget, but compromises in performance and display quality.
Google Pixel 8a:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and long-term software support; users who prefer a more compact device.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming and resource-intensive applications
- High-quality photography and videography
- Long-term usage with continuous software updates
- Users who want excellent call quality
- Users who want higher audio quality
- Price-to-Value: A higher-priced option, but justified by significantly better performance, display, camera, and software support.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? (A32 5G is cheaper, 8a is more expensive)
- Which do I prioritize - screen size or display quality and performance? (A32 5G has a larger screen but the Pixel 8a has a much better display and performance)
- How important is the camera and software updates? (Pixel 8a has a better camera and receives longer updates)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget-Conscious User): If budget is the primary concern, the Samsung Galaxy A32 5G is an adequate option with its larger screen and decent battery.
- Scenario 2 (Performance and Camera Focused User): If smooth performance, high quality photos and videos, and excellent display are essential, the Google Pixel 8a is the superior choice.
- Scenario 3 (Balanced User): If you want a balance of features at a slightly lower cost than the Pixel 8a, you'll need to look into other devices as both phones reviewed lean towards one extreme of the spectrum.
My Choice
I would choose the Google Pixel 8a. While the Samsung Galaxy A32 5G has a larger screen, the Pixel 8a offers a drastically superior experience in almost every other aspect. The significantly faster performance with the Google Tensor G3, the much better OLED display with its higher resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, and the vastly improved camera capabilities make it a worthwhile investment. The longer software support ensures that the Pixel 8a will remain a capable and secure device for a long time. I value smooth performance and image quality highly, and the Pixel 8a excels in these areas, making it the better option for my personal preferences and needs.
