Pixel 9a vs iPhone 16e: Google has unveiled the Pixel 9a, its new mid-range phone that marks an entry point into the Pixel experience, a month after Apple launched the iPhone 16e as its new entry point into the Apple ecosystem by discontinuing the SE lineup. Both the Pixel 9a and iPhone 16e aim to deliver premium features at more accessible price points. Let’s check how these two phones compare based on their on-paper specifications and features.
The Pixel 9a features a 6.3-inch display housed in an aluminium frame, and a plastic back measuring 8.9 mm thick and weighing 186g. Meanwhile, the iPhone 16e is notably more compact and lighter measuring 7.8 mm and 167g, with glass on both front and back and an aluminium frame.
Both devices offer IP68 water and dust resistance, though the iPhone 16e provides superior water protection (immersible up to 6m for 30 minutes versus the Pixel’s 1.5m).
Also Read: Google Pixel 9a vs Pixel 8a: What’s new?
The Pixel 9a features a 6.3-inch OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1800 nits high brightness mode (HBM), and 2700 nits peak brightness. It offers a Full HD+ (2424×1080 pixels) resolution at 422 ppi. It is protected by Gorilla Glass 3 on the front.
The iPhone 16e features a slightly smaller 6.1-inch OLED with 800 nits (HBM) and 1200 nits peak brightness. While it has a higher pixel density at 457 ppi, it lacks the high refresh rate of the Pixel 9a. The display is protected by Apple’s Ceramic Shield glass.
Google’s Tensor G4 (4nm) powers the Pixel 9a with an octa-core CPU, while Apple equips the iPhone 16e with its A18 chip (3nm) featuring a hexa-core CPU and custom 4-core GPU.
While both devices offer 8GB RAM paired with 128GB or 256GB storage options, the iPhone 16e also provides a 512GB variant. The Pixel 9a uses UFS 3.1 storage, while the iPhone employs faster NVMe storage.
The Pixel 9a features a dual rear camera system with a 48MP main sensor (f/1.7, OIS) and a 13MP ultrawide lens. It offers Pixel-exclusive features like Pixel Shift, Ultra HDR, and Best Take.
The iPhone 16e sports a single 48MP main camera (f/1.6, OIS) without an ultrawide option. However, it can record Dolby Vision 4K videos at upto 60FPS.
For selfies, the Pixel 9a uses a 13MP ultrawide front camera, while the iPhone 16e offers a 12MP front camera complemented by the Face ID sensor that’s housed in the notch upfront.
Battery capacity is a clear advantage for the Pixel 9a with its 5100mAh battery compared to the iPhone 16e. The Pixel 9a supports 23W wired charging and both phones support 7.5W wireless charging.
The Pixel 9a launches with Android 15 and promises seven major Android upgrades.
The iPhone 16e runs iOS 18.3.2 and features Apple’s ecosystem benefits, including Emergency SOS, Messages, and Find My via satellite connectivity.
The Pixel 9a is priced more competitively, starting at Rs 49,999 for the 128GB model and Rs 56,999 for 256GB. The iPhone 16e commands a premium of Rs 59,900 (128GB), Rs 69,900 (256GB), and Rs 79,900 (512GB).
The Pixel 9a offers better value with its higher refresh rate display, larger battery, versatile camera system, and lower price point. It’s ideal for photography enthusiasts, Android fans, and those seeking the best bang for their buck.
The iPhone 16e, while more expensive, excels with its premium build quality, superior water resistance, ecosystem integration, and potentially longer-lasting software support through Apple’s track record of long-term updates. It’s the better choice for those invested in the Apple ecosystem and those who prioritize a compact, premium-feeling device.
