Pixel 9a vs iPhone 16e: I know which one I’d get

The Google Pixel 9a is now official, offering a respectable — if not groundbreaking — follow-up to the Pixel 8a. Google’s budget flagship faces several competitors, but the recently introduced iPhone 16e is easily the most well-known alternative.

Although I haven’t had hands-on time with either device yet, I wanted to compare them and share my honest opinion on which I think is the better product. Obviously, a lot depends on whether you prefer iOS or Android. But if I were choosing purely based on personal preference, the Pixel 9a would be the clear winner. However, in terms of overall value and long-term potential, the iPhone 16e appears to be the more impressive device.

When it comes to hardware improvements, the Google Tensor G4 is only a minor upgrade over the G3. That’s notable considering the G3 was already lagging behind Qualcomm and Apple chips in 2023. The good news? That doesn’t necessarily mean the G4 is slow — it’s simply purpose-built. That’s great if you primarily use your phone for social media, browsing, photography, and casual gaming. Just don’t expect Tensor to hold up as well in raw processing power. This makes it less future-proof and more prone to overheating or performance bottlenecks when handling intensive tasks. Meanwhile, Apple’s chip has no such limitations.

The Apple A18 processor features a six-core CPU, four-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine for AI tasks. While it may not be as purpose-built as Google’s solution, it performs well across the board. In contrast, the Pixel series excels in certain areas but delivers a more mid-tier experience elsewhere.

As someone who values future-proofing and wants a phone powerful enough for emulators and high-end mobile games, I find a stronger processor more compelling than a device primarily focused on AI, photography, and videography.

Right now, Gemini AI on the Pixel 9a offers a more robust experience than Apple Intelligence on the iPhone 16e. While Apple’s AI has potential, its rollout has been rough. Many of its most exciting features were delayed, and the ones available at launch felt underwhelming — especially if you’re already familiar with Gemini AI or Galaxy AI.

I’ll admit Apple’s solutions feel a bit more polished in some cases, but they lack depth and refinement. The company has also faced constant delays for key features like the upgraded Siri assistant, and even hyped-up additions like smart notifications don’t work as flawlessly as many had hoped.

If you care deeply about AI integration, the Pixel 9a has a clear advantage — but for me, it’s mostly an on-paper benefit. While I appreciate some of the AI features I’ve used on recent Pixel phones and my Galaxy S24, most of the AI tools I actually use are available through the Gemini app on both Android and iOS. I also understand that Apple has a lot to lose if it doesn’t get Apple Intelligence right, so I have some confidence that the service will eventually improve and (at least mostly) catch up with its competitors.

I recommend that you check out Pixel 9a’s Gemini AI features and ask yourself if there’s anything here you truly need that you couldn’t do with the iOS Gemini app. If the answer is “I mostly use AI for quick answers and simple tasks,” you might find the Pixel 9a’s advantages don’t really matter to you either.

The Pixel 9a introduces a unique design for the A-series while still maintaining the core Pixel identity. It’s definitely a big change, but Apple’s design change is far more significant. Why? Because it modernizes a phone that was previously held back by outdated aesthetics, making it more appealing to a broader audience.

While the Pixel 9a may have ditched the iconic Pixel camera bar, its size and overall footprint remain consistent with past A-series models. In contrast, the iPhone 16e is a complete overhaul of the iPhone SE, which clung to Apple’s outdated Touch ID design and a tiny 4.7-inch display. Now, the iPhone 16e embraces a modern Face ID design with a large screen, making it a much stronger competitor in the budget flagship market.

At $600, it’s now priced much closer to other popular options like the $500 Pixel 9a and the $650 Galaxy S24 FE.

The iPhone 16e will likely age better than the Pixel 9a

As you can see so far, it’s the processor and the upgraded design that have won me over. This is true, but more crucially, I think the iPhone 16e will likely stand the test of time better. While the Pixel 9a is set to receive seven years of OS updates with regular feature drops, the bigger question is whether you’ll still want to use a Tensor G4 in 2032.

Apple doesn’t provide a specific OS support timeline like most Android device makers, but history suggests the iPhone 16e will receive updates for at least five to six years — or possibly as long as the Pixel 9a even. Regardless of how long it’s supported, the Apple A18 chip is better equipped to handle future OS demands.

When the iPhone 16e eventually starts to slow down and you’re ready to upgrade, you’ll also benefit from Apple’s typically higher resale values. While Pixel phones retain their value better than most Android devices, the iPhone 16e is a major step up from its predecessor, making it almost certain to hold its relevance longer.

The iPhone 16e is likely the better long-term investment due to its more powerful processor and higher resale value. However, the Pixel 9a still holds its own. Earlier this year, I argued that the Galaxy S25 was more impressive than the iPhone 16 because I personally favor powerhouse devices. Ironically, in this case, the iPhone 16e is the more power-user-focused option.

For those who prioritize a phone that’s simple and just works out of the box, both devices deliver — after all, that’s what Apple and Pixel phones are known for. That said, the Pixel 9a arguably does this better while saving you $100, offering a superior AI experience, and boasting an unbeatable camera.

While the iPhone 16e features a single rear camera, the Pixel 9a includes a 48MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide camera. Not only does it offer an additional lens, but it also introduces Pixel A firsts, such as Macro Focus and an improved Night Sight mode that allows Astrophotography mode for capturing short clips of stars. Google’s AI-driven editing tools also make it easier than ever to enhance photos and add new effects.

It depends on what you’re looking for, although I’d personally go with the iPhone 16e.

The Pixel 9a excels in automation and photography above all else, and if those features matter to you, it’s a fantastic choice. If you prefer a more well-rounded phone with greater raw performance under the hood, the iPhone 16e is the better pick. It’s a game-changer for Apple, finally offering a budget device that competes with Google in modern aesthetics while delivering significantly more power.

For those seeking a more powerful alternative to the Pixel 9a but are unwilling to switch to iOS, the similarly priced Galaxy S24 FE ($552.54 at Amazon) is a solid option.