The Google Pixel 7a, a mid-range smartphone released at Google’s I/O event, promises impressive features and performance. But how does it stand up to real-world usage? YouTuber Zack Nelson from JerryRigEverything put the Pixel 7a through his notorious durability tests, pushing it to its limits to see how it fares against scratches, burns, and bending. While the Pixel 7a impressed with its overall resilience, some aspects like the fingerprint sensor raised concerns. Let’s dive into the details of this comprehensive durability test, exploring both its strengths and weaknesses, and comparing it to its predecessor, the Pixel 6a.
The Pixel 7a’s Durability Test: Scratching, Burning, and Bending
Known for his meticulous testing procedures, Zack Nelson starts by assessing the Pixel 7a’s display, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3. As expected, the screen exhibits scratches at level 6 of the Mohs hardness scale and shows deeper grooves at level 7. This is consistent with most other smartphone displays.
Next, Nelson tests the phone’s sides and camera unit, made of metal. The razor blade easily scrapes the volume and power buttons, as well as the camera unit’s metal coating. However, the Pixel 7a’s rear panel, unlike the Pixel 7 Pro’s glass panel, is made of plastic. This plastic back, while more resilient to scratches, is likely to be susceptible to scuffs and scratches over time. Notably, the fingerprint sensor’s functionality was compromised after being scratched, which might be a concern for users who rely on this feature.
The Pixel 7a’s 6.1-inch Full HD+ OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate is subjected to a flame test. The display held strong, remaining stable for 25 seconds before pixels turned white. The OLED panel recovered completely after the flame was removed, indicating a resilient display even under intense heat.
The final and most crucial test involved bending the Pixel 7a. Surprisingly, the phone exhibited remarkable strength, resisting significant bending when pressure was applied from both the back and front. "There is almost no flex at all when bent from the back and again almost no flex when bent from the front," says Nelson. This impressive result signifies that the Pixel 7a is more robust than the premium Pixel 7 Pro in terms of bending resistance. In fact, Nelson claims the Pixel 7a outperforms the Asus Rog Ultimate 7 in this aspect, highlighting its exceptional durability.
Comparing the Pixel 7a to its Predecessor: A Significant Leap Forward
The Pixel 7a’s durability test results reveal a notable improvement over its predecessor, the Pixel 6a. While the Pixel 6a suffered some damage in similar tests, the Pixel 7a’s sturdy frame and plastic back contribute to its enhanced resilience against daily wear and tear.
The most striking difference is the Pixel 7a’s superior performance in the bend test, showcasing a significant leap forward in terms of overall strength.
However, the vulnerability of the fingerprint sensor to scratches remains a concern. While this may not be a major issue for everyone, it raises questions about the long-term reliability of the sensor for fingerprint authentication.
Beyond the Test: A Look at the Pixel 7a’s Overall Appeal
The JerryRigEverything durability test provides valuable insights into the Pixel 7a’s physical strength and resilience. While some areas like the fingerprint sensor need improvement, the phone’s ability to withstand scratches, burns, and bending highlights its robust construction.
However, durability isn’t the only determining factor in a smartphone’s success. The Pixel 7a boasts several other compelling features, including its in-house Tensor G2 processor, a 64MP dual camera setup, IP67 water and dust resistance, and an updated design. Combined with its competitive price point, the Pixel 7a presents a compelling package for users seeking a reliable and feature-rich mid-range smartphone.
Concluding Thoughts: A Durable and Capable Mid-Ranger
Zack Nelson’s durability test reveals the Pixel 7a to be a surprisingly tough phone. It holds up well against scratches, burning, and bending, exceeding expectations for a mid-range device. While the fingerprint sensor’s vulnerability to scratches raises some concerns, the overall resilience of the Pixel 7a speaks volumes about its build quality.
With its impressive durability, powerful performance, and attractive price tag, the Pixel 7a establishes itself as a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone market. It’s a phone that not only offers a satisfying user experience but also promises to withstand the rigors of daily use for years to come.
