Galaxy S25 VS Pixel 9a
Galaxy S25
6.2-inch AMOLED 120Hz · Snapdragon 8 Elite · 4000mAh · 50MP · IP68
MSRP
Pixel 9a
6.3-inch OLED 120Hz · Tensor G4 · 5100mAh · 48MP · IP68
MSRP
Our verdict
The Galaxy S25 takes the performance lead, 6% ahead overall, driven by its Snapdragon 8 Elite and an AnTuTu score of 2,920,032.
On value the Pixel 9a stands out at $499, pairing a 48MP main camera with a 5100mAh battery.
For most buyers the Pixel 9a is the smarter choice.
Performance winner
Galaxy S25
6% faster overall
Best value for money
Pixel 9a
15% better value per dollar
Galaxy S25 best for
Raw performance
6% faster overall
Overview
The Galaxy S25 comes out ahead overall, scoring 87 to the Pixel 9a's 82. Priced at $799 against $499, the choice between them is as much about budget as specs, and each phone leans toward a slightly different buyer.
Performance
For raw speed the Galaxy S25 takes the lead, with an AnTuTu score of 2,920,032 against 1,150,000, driven by its Snapdragon 8 Elite. Both feel quick in everyday use, but the gap shows up in demanding games and heavy multitasking where the faster chip pulls ahead.
Cameras
The Galaxy S25 pairs a 50MP main camera with optical zoom and a 12MP front sensor. The Pixel 9a answers with 48MP, zoom and a 13MP selfie camera.
Battery and charging
Battery favours the Pixel 9a, with a 5100mAh cell against 4000mAh. For refills the Galaxy S25 is quickest at 25W, spending less time tied to a charger.
Display
Both use high refresh rate OLED screens. The Galaxy S25 measures 6.2" and peaks at 2600 nits, while the Pixel 9a is 6.3" and reaches 2700 nits. Screen size and outright brightness are where they separate most.
Which should you buy
Overall the Pixel 9a is the one we would steer most buyers toward. Consider the Galaxy S25 instead if camera versatility matters more to you.
battery
camera
display
Performance
Physical
software
Synthetic & compute benchmarks
Frequently asked questions
Is the Galaxy S25 better than the Pixel 9a?
Overall the Galaxy S25 scores 87 out of 100 against the Pixel 9a's 82, so it edges ahead on our combined rating. Even so, the two are close enough that price, size and your preferred ecosystem should also guide the decision.
Which has the better camera, the Galaxy S25 or the Pixel 9a?
The Galaxy S25 has the stronger camera on paper, leading with a 50MP main sensor and optical zoom. Both take excellent photos, but the Galaxy S25 offers more reach and flexibility.
Which has better battery life, the Galaxy S25 or the Pixel 9a?
The Pixel 9a carries the larger 5100mAh battery against 4000mAh, and the Galaxy S25 charges fastest at 25W. For heavy all-day use the Pixel 9a is the safer bet.
Which is faster, the Galaxy S25 or the Pixel 9a?
In benchmarks the Galaxy S25 is quicker, posting an AnTuTu score of 2,920,032 against 1,150,000 thanks to its Snapdragon 8 Elite. Both handle everyday tasks smoothly, but the Galaxy S25 pulls ahead in demanding games.
Should I buy the Galaxy S25 or the Pixel 9a?
For most buyers the Pixel 9a is the smarter pick, balancing performance, features and price. Choose the Galaxy S25 if camera versatility is your priority.
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