Photo credit: www.androidauthority.com
Recently, Apple and Google unveiled their budget smartphones for 2025, namely the iPhone 16e and Pixel 9a. At first glance, these devices may appear quite similar; they both serve as the more affordable options compared to their flagship counterparts, emphasize AI capabilities, and carry comparable pricing.
For those entrenched in the Apple ecosystem who are reluctant to pay $799 or $999 for an iPhone 16 or 16 Pro, the iPhone 16e offers essential features alongside enhanced Apple Intelligence at a price of $599. Similarly, the Google Pixel 9a serves as a cost-effective alternative for Android enthusiasts, boasting impressive specifications and AI functionalities for just $499.
While these smartphones share a common purpose, the comparison of their specifications reveals significant differences. A close examination of the offerings from both manufacturers illustrates that the Pixel 9a may provide better value than the iPhone 16e.
Google Pixel 9a vs. iPhone 16e: which would you rather buy?
29 votes
Google Pixel 9a
83%
iPhone 16e
17%
How the Google Pixel 9a bests the iPhone 16e
Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority
From the hardware perspective, both the Pixel 9a and iPhone 16e share a few features—both feature aluminum bodies, hold an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, and each is equipped with a 48MP primary camera. Wireless charging and approximately 20W wired charging capabilities are also present in both devices. However, when diving deeper into their specifications, the iPhone begins to fall short.
Let’s start with the displays. The iPhone 16e comes with a 6.1-inch OLED screen, which many will appreciate for its compactness. However, it is limited by an outdated 60Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of only 1200 nits. On the other hand, the Pixel 9a provides an OLED display paired with a 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of up to 2700 nits, resulting in smoother animations and improved visibility in bright conditions—an initial advantage for the Pixel device.
Camera capabilities also display a clear distinction. Both smartphones feature a 48MP main sensor, yet the Pixel’s sensor is larger, allowing for better light capture and detail. Moreover, while the iPhone 16e is equipped with a single rear camera, the Pixel 9a includes an additional 13MP ultrawide camera with a 120-degree field of view, offering more versatility for photography, even if it’s not the top-tier ultrawide sensor available.
Regarding battery performance, the iPhone 16e is powered by a battery just above 3,900mAh, while the Pixel 9a houses a significantly larger 5,100mAh battery. Although real-world battery life tests are necessary, the specifications suggest a notable edge for Google’s device.
Additional quality-of-life features further differentiate the Pixel 9a from Apple’s offering. The Pixel includes a USB-C 3.2 port and Wi-Fi 6E support, along with an under-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock functionality for added convenience. In contrast, the iPhone 16e utilizes a slower USB-C 2.0 port and supports only the earlier Wi-Fi 6 standard, relying solely on Face ID for security.
The AI of it all
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
There’s a valid perspective to consider, however: the iPhone 16e was not necessarily designed to compete fiercely on specifications. Rather, it aims to deliver Apple’s suite of intelligence features in a more affordable package. In this aspect, it succeeds by providing users with access to various Apple Intelligence tools, including innovative features like Writing Tools and improved Siri functionalities.
Yet, it’s essential to recognize that the Pixel 9a boasts similar capabilities, supporting a range of exclusive features that are hallmarks of Google’s smartphones, such as the Pixel Recorder and several AI-assisted photography functions.
Both devices can thus be categorized as “AI phones,” but the Pixel 9a emerges as a stronger competitor with comparable AI offerings while also excelling in hardware specifications—all for a lower price.
Two similar (but very different) phones
Lanh Nguyen / Android Authority
Some users may find that the highlighted specifications may not be significant enough to sway their choice. One might prioritize a higher refresh rate, while another might find the existing refresh rate sufficient. However, the core concern surrounding the iPhone 16e resides not in a few individual drawbacks but in the accumulation of shortcomings compared to the Pixel 9a, especially given the latter’s lower price point.
For individuals deeply involved with Apple’s ecosystem, features like iMessage, compatibility with Apple Watch, and AirDrop create compelling reasons to consider the iPhone 16e. Nevertheless, it remains crucial to explore alternatives like the Pixel 9a.
In summary, the Pixel 9a generally presents a more favorable value proposition than the iPhone 16e across numerous aspects. While the iPhone may initially appeal to those focused exclusively on Apple products, the Pixel 9a illustrates that it is indeed possible to combine AI capabilities with robust hardware and contemporary specifications without surpassing the $500 mark. Given these comparisons, for anyone seeking a smartphone in the $500-$600 range today, the Pixel stands out as the top choice.
Apple iPhone 16e
Great update support
Solid performance
Simple, straightforward design
Source
www.androidauthority.com