The Google Pixel 4a 5G and LG K71 represent different approaches to the mid-range smartphone market. The Pixel 4a 5G, leveraging Google’s software prowess and a capable Snapdragon chipset, aims for a balanced experience. The LG K71, on the other hand, prioritizes affordability, relying on a Mediatek Helio P35 to deliver basic functionality. This comparison dissects their key differences to help you determine which device best suits your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user, the Google Pixel 4a 5G is the clear winner. Its Snapdragon 765G chipset provides significantly better performance, 5G connectivity, and a superior camera experience. While the LG K71 offers a lower price point, the compromises in processing power and features are substantial.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 32, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 46, 48, 66, 71 |
| 5G bands | - | 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 12, 28, 41, 66, 71, 77, 78 Sub6, mmWave (market dependant) |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE, 5G |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, September 21. Released 2020, September 21 | 2020, September 30 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2020, November 05 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 171.4 x 77.7 x 8.7 mm (6.75 x 3.06 x 0.34 in) | 153.9 x 74 x 8.2 mm (Sub-6) or 8.5 mm (Sub-6 and mmWave) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + eSIM |
| Weight | 220 g (7.76 oz) | 168 g (5G Sub-6); 171 g ( 5G Sub-6 and mmWave) (5.93 oz) |
| | Stylus | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~413 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.2 inches, 95.7 cm2 (~84.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | OLED, HDR |
| | - | Always-on display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (1x2.4 GHz Kryo 475 Prime & 1x2.2 GHz Kryo 475 Gold & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 475 Silver) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Qualcomm SM7250 Snapdragon 765G 5G (7 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Adreno 620 |
| OS | Android 10 | Android 11, upgradable to Android 14 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | No |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 128GB 6GB RAM |
| | - | UFS 2.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS
16 MP, f/2.2, 107˚ (ultrawide), 1.0µm |
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, Pixel Shift, Auto-HDR, panorama |
| Triple | 48 MP, (wide), 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF
5 MP, 120˚, (ultrawide)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps; gyro-EIS |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | HDR |
| Single | 32 MP, (wide), 1/2.8", 0.8µm | 8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes, with stereo speakers |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX HD |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS, BDS |
| Radio | No | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 3.1 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 18W wired, PD2.0 |
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 3885 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | White | Just Black, Clearly White |
| Models | LMQ730HA, LM-Q730HA | GD1YQ, G025I, G025E, G025H, G6QU3 |
| Price | - | About 140 EUR |
LG K71
- Significantly faster performance with Snapdragon 765G
- 5G connectivity for faster data speeds
- Superior camera quality thanks to Google’s software
- Faster charging with 18W PD2.0
- Higher price point than the LG K71
- LCD display isn't as vibrant as OLED alternatives
Google Pixel 4a 5G
- More affordable price
- Potentially larger battery capacity (spec not confirmed)
- Simple and straightforward user experience
- Acceptable for basic smartphone tasks
- Slow performance with Helio P35 chipset
- Limited gaming capabilities
- Inferior camera quality
- No 5G connectivity
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a particularly standout display. While specific panel technologies aren't provided for the LG K71, its market positioning suggests an LCD panel. The Pixel 4a 5G also utilizes an LCD. The key difference lies in processing power impacting display responsiveness. The Helio P35 in the K71 will struggle with smooth animations compared to the Pixel's Snapdragon 765G. Both likely feature similar resolutions, but the 765G's superior GPU will contribute to better graphics rendering.
Camera Comparison
While detailed camera specs are limited, the Pixel 4a 5G is expected to deliver superior image quality thanks to Google’s renowned computational photography. The Snapdragon 765G’s image signal processor (ISP) is significantly more capable than the Helio P35’s. The Pixel’s software algorithms excel at dynamic range, noise reduction, and detail preservation, even in challenging lighting conditions. While the LG K71 may have a higher megapixel count on some sensors, the Pixel’s superior processing and potentially larger main sensor (based on Pixel tradition) will likely result in more pleasing and detailed photos. The K71's camera is likely geared towards basic snapshots, while the Pixel aims for consistently good results.
Performance
The performance gap between these two devices is substantial. The Google Pixel 4a 5G’s Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G (7nm) is a far more advanced chipset than the LG K71’s Mediatek Helio P35 (12nm). The 7nm process node of the Snapdragon allows for greater transistor density and improved power efficiency, resulting in significantly better performance and less heat generation. The Snapdragon 765G’s octa-core CPU, with its Kryo 475 cores, offers a more sophisticated architecture than the K71’s Cortex-A53 cores. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive overall experience. The 765G also includes a more powerful Adreno GPU, crucial for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. The K71 will struggle with demanding games and applications.
Battery Life
Battery life is a complex equation. While the LG K71 may have a larger battery capacity (spec not provided, but likely), the Pixel 4a 5G’s more efficient Snapdragon 765G chipset and 18W PD2.0 charging offer a compelling advantage. The 7nm process node of the Snapdragon contributes to lower power consumption. The K71’s Helio P35, being a 12nm chip, will consume more power for the same tasks. Furthermore, the Pixel 4a 5G’s 18W fast charging will significantly reduce charging times compared to the K71’s likely slower charging speed. The Pixel’s optimized software also plays a role in managing battery usage effectively.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG K71 if you need a very affordable smartphone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media use, and 5G connectivity isn't a priority. Buy the Google Pixel 4a 5G if you prioritize performance, a good camera, 5G access, and a smoother, more responsive user experience, even if it means spending a bit more.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the LG K71 struggle with popular apps like Facebook and Instagram?
The Helio P35 in the LG K71 is a relatively weak chipset. While it can run basic apps like Facebook and Instagram, you may experience noticeable lag and slowdowns, especially when multitasking or using the apps for extended periods. The Pixel 4a 5G will handle these apps with ease.
❓ Is the 5G connectivity on the Pixel 4a 5G worth the extra cost if I don't have 5G coverage in my area?
Even without immediate 5G coverage, the Pixel 4a 5G's 5G modem future-proofs the device. It also generally offers improved 4G LTE performance compared to the LG K71. The Snapdragon 765G's modem is more advanced, providing better signal reception and data speeds on 4G networks as well.
❓ Can the LG K71 handle mobile gaming?
The LG K71 is not well-suited for mobile gaming. The Helio P35 chipset and its integrated GPU lack the power to run demanding games smoothly. You may be limited to playing older or less graphically intensive games at low settings, and even then, you may experience frame rate drops and lag.
