- By Prateek Levi
- Thu, 20 Mar 2025 05:32 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Google and Apple both the tech giants have dropped their smartphones lately catering specifically to the mid-tier affordable segment. Now we have already put up an article about the first impressions of the latest iPhone 16e so do check that out, but here we will discuss what will be the best option to choose from if you are in the market searching for something that comes at a cheaper price but does not compromise on flagship features.
This new entry by Google will definitely create some friction in the market as there are many contenders out there, with smartphones offering somewhat the same features at a lower price point. What sets Google apart is the availability of OS updates for a longer period of time that is 7 Years.
So let's dive in and take a look at what each of the devices has to offer and which one fits best for you!
Pixel 9a Vs iPhone 16e: Design And Display
In the display department, the screen on the Pixel 9a is a bit bigger than the iPhone 16e at 6.3 inches and 6.1 inches respectively. The Pixel 9a sports an Actua pOLED display with a resolution of 1,080 x 2,424 pixels and can support a refresh rate of 60Hz-120Hz and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3 Support.
Now for display even though it has a smaller display we all are aware of its quality and the 16e comes with a Super Retina XDR OLED display, and is protected by the iconic ceramic shield, it has a display resolution of 1,170 x 2,532 pixels.
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My disappointment here with Apple's display is the missing Dynamic Island, as all Apple smartphones in the 16 series have it. While Google just has a simple punch-hole design nothing over the top.
Pixel 9a vs iPhone 16e: What’s Under the Hood?
The Pixel 9a is powered by the Tensor G4 Chipset which is coupled with the Titan M2 security co-processor. The latest entry has 8GBs of RAM and comes in two storage options 128 and 256 GB. The Pixel 9a also runs on the latest Android 15, but a later release of the device could mean that it would have come with Android 16 out of the box, but it still comes with 7 years of OS updates so Google has got that covered.
The iPhone 16e runs on Apple's latest A18 chip, which is 80 percent faster than the A13 chip present in iPhone 11. The chip has a 4-core GPU which gives enhanced graphical performance, coupled with a 16-core Neural Engine to take on Apple's AI suit with ease. It comes with iOS out of the box with Apple Intelligence in it, and this is a selling point that the phone brings with it as AI capabilities gain popularity.
The iPhone 16e on benchmark tests performed well and showcased the following results, AnTuTu: 1401105 (v10), GeekBench: 8224 (v6).
Which One Has A Better Camera Setup?
Well here the opinions are divided 50-50 and both phones are known to offer great camera experience so let's take a look at what both the devices bring so that it's easier to make a choice.
The Google Pixel 9a features a dual-camera setup, headlined by a 48MP primary sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS) for sharper and more stable shots. Accompanying it is a 13MP ultra-wide camera, enhancing versatility. Google has packed in its signature AI-powered camera features, including Night Sight for low-light photography, Magic Eraser for removing unwanted objects, Best Take for improved group shots, and Photo Unblur for refining images. On the front, the device sports a 13MP selfie camera.
On the other hand, the iPhone 16e opts for a single 48MP Fusion camera, delivering high-quality images with Apple’s computational photography enhancements. For selfies and video calls, it houses a 12MP TrueDepth front camera with autofocus. When it comes to video recording, the iPhone 16e supports 4K resolution at 60fps with Dolby Vision, ensuring cinematic video quality. It also features advanced noise reduction technology for clearer audio during recordings.
Battery, Which One Can Last Longer
Here again, looking at just the numbers the Pixel 9a has a 5,100 mAh Li-Po battery which supports 23W wired charging and 7.5 W wireless. On the flip side, the iPhone comes with a 4005 mAh Li-Ion battery and claims are that while using the wired charger it can recharge 50% of the battery in 30 mins and also supports 7.5 W wireless charging.
How Much Do They Cost?
This is the thing that is the most important and is usually a deal breaker for many. The Pixel 9a starts at Rs 49,999 and it will be up for sale from the next month. While the iPhone 16e costs 10K more at Rs 59,999 and is currently on sale.
Which One To Buy?
Now this should be your own personal decision and some fans will stick to their brands no matter what. But in my opinion here I feel Google would be the better option as it is cheaper and still comes with some AI features and seven years of updates. On the flip side, Apple has the A18 chip that is powerful and provides a seamless and smooth user experience that we all know of but is much more expensive and has to offer only a few upgrades like the Apple Intelligence that comes with it. At this price point, you might find a device that actually offers all of it, maybe cheaper. Another letdown in Apple is its refresh rate at a time when we have much cheaper devices that offer up to 144Hz.
With all that said both the devices face each other in fierce competition and have definitely generated some friction in the market, if stock Android is your thing then the cheaper Pixel 9a would be the one to go and if you don't care much about Apple intelligence. But if you are someone who wants to experience the whole Apple ecosystem and a seamless user experience then Apple might look good to you. So here is a brief breakdown of both the phones so that you can compare and choose the best fit for yourself.