Google Pixel 6a vs. Sharp Aquos zero6: A Detailed Comparison

The Google Pixel 6a and the Sharp Aquos zero6 represent distinct approaches to the mid-range smartphone market. The Pixel 6a brings Google’s custom Tensor chip and renowned camera software to a more accessible price point, while the Aquos zero6 focuses on a lightweight design and a more conventional Qualcomm chipset. This comparison dives deep into the specifications and performance of both devices to determine which one best suits your needs.
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🏆 Quick Verdict

For most users, the Google Pixel 6a is the superior choice. Its Google Tensor chip delivers significantly better performance, and its camera capabilities are in a different league. While the Aquos zero6 offers a lighter build, the performance trade-offs aren't worth it for the average user.

PHONES
Phone Names Sharp Aquos zero6 Google Pixel 6a
Network
2G bandsGSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
3G bandsHSDPA 900 / 2100HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands1, 3, 7, 8, 28, 38, 411, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 48, 66, 71 - GX7AS, GB62Z (USA/Canada)
5G bands1, 3, 28, 78, 257 SA/NSA/mmWave1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 12, 20, 25, 28, 30, 38, 40, 41, 48, 66, 71, 77, 78 SA/NSA/Sub6 - GX7AS (USA/Canada)
SpeedHSPA, LTE, 5GHSPA, LTE, 5G
TechnologyGSM / HSPA / LTE / 5GGSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G
 -1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, 12, 20, 25, 28, 30, 40, 48, 66, 71, 77, 78 SA/NSA/Sub6 - G1AZG (International)
Launch
Announced2021, October 14. Released 2021, October 142022, May 11
StatusDiscontinuedAvailable. Released 2022, July 21
Body
Build-Glass front (Gorilla Glass 3), aluminum frame, plastic back
Dimensions158 x 73 x 7.9 mm (6.22 x 2.87 x 0.31 in)152.2 x 71.8 x 8.9 mm (5.99 x 2.83 x 0.35 in)
SIMNano-SIM + eSIMNano-SIM + eSIM
Weight146 g (5.15 oz)178 g (6.28 oz)
 IPX5/IP6X/IPX8 water/dust resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min)IP67 dust/water resistant (up to 1m for 30 min)
Display
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass VictusCorning Gorilla Glass 3
Resolution1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~403 ppi density)1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~429 ppi density)
Size6.4 inches, 100.5 cm2 (~87.2% screen-to-body ratio)6.1 inches, 90.7 cm2 (~83.0% screen-to-body ratio)
TypeOLED, 1B colors, 240HzOLED, HDR
 -Always-on display
Platform
CPUOcta-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 570)Octa-core (2x2.80 GHz Cortex-X1 & 2x2.25 GHz Cortex-A76 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55)
ChipsetQualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm)Google Tensor (5 nm)
GPUAdreno 619Mali-G78 MP20
OSAndroid 11Android 12, upgradable to Android 15, up to 5 major Android upgrades
Memory
Card slotmicroSDXCNo
Internal128GB 8GB RAM128GB 6GB RAM
 -UFS 3.1
Main Camera
Dual-12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm, (wide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS 12 MP, f/2.2, 17mm, 114˚ (ultrawide), 1.25µm
FeaturesLED flash, HDR, panoramaDual-LED flash, Pixel Shift, Auto-HDR, panorama
Single-8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1.12µm
Triple48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF 8 MP, f/2.4, (telephoto), AF, 2x optical zoom 8 MP, f/2.4, 120˚ (ultrawide) TOF 3D (depth)-
Video1080p@30fps4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps; gyro-EIS, OIS
Selfie camera
Features-HDR, panorama
Single12.6 MP8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1.12µm
Video1080p@30fps1080p@30fps
Sound
3.5mm jack YesNo
35mm jackYesNo
Loudspeaker YesYes, with stereo speakers
Comms
Bluetooth5.1, A2DP, LE5.2, A2DP, LE
NFCYesYes
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO, QZSSGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS
RadioNoNo
USBUSB Type-CUSB Type-C 3.1
WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi DirectWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6e, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Features
SensorsFingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometerFingerprint (under display, optical), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer
Battery
Charging-18W wired, PD3.0
TypeLi-Ion 4010 mAhLi-Po 4410 mAh
Misc
ColorsSwan BlackChalk, Charcoal, Sage
Models-GX7AS, GB62Z, G1AZG, GB17L
PriceAbout 400 EUR$ 138.99 / C$ 228.74 / ₹ 23,999
Tests
Battery life- Endurance rating 94h
Display- Contrast ratio: Infinite (nominal)

Sharp Aquos zero6

  • Superior performance with Google Tensor chip
  • Exceptional camera quality and image processing
  • Faster charging with PD3.0 support

  • Slightly heavier than the Aquos zero6
  • May experience some software bugs (common with new Pixel releases)

Google Pixel 6a

  • Lightweight and compact design
  • Potentially lower price point
  • Decent battery life (94h endurance)

  • Significantly weaker performance compared to Pixel 6a
  • Inferior camera quality
  • Charging specifications unknown

Display Comparison

The Pixel 6a boasts a measured peak brightness of 876 nits, providing excellent visibility even in direct sunlight. While the Aquos zero6’s display specifications are not provided, it’s likely to be dimmer. The Pixel 6a’s display also benefits from an infinite (nominal) contrast ratio, delivering deep blacks and vibrant colors. The lack of LTPO technology on either device means refresh rates are likely fixed, impacting smoothness compared to higher-end phones. The Pixel 6a’s superior brightness and contrast make it the clear winner for media consumption and outdoor use.

Camera Comparison

The Pixel 6a’s camera system, powered by Google’s computational photography expertise, is a major advantage. While specific sensor details aren’t provided for either phone, the Pixel 6a’s image processing algorithms consistently deliver exceptional image quality, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The Aquos zero6 likely relies more heavily on hardware, and without details on sensor size or OIS, it’s difficult to assess its capabilities. The Pixel 6a’s software-driven approach to image processing provides a more consistent and reliable experience, making it the preferred choice for photography enthusiasts.

Performance

The core difference lies in the chipsets. The Google Pixel 6a’s Google Tensor (5nm) is a significant leap ahead of the Aquos zero6’s Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G (8nm). The Tensor’s octa-core configuration, featuring 2x2.80 GHz Cortex-X1 cores, provides substantially more processing power than the Snapdragon 750G’s 2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 cores. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive overall experience on the Pixel 6a. The 5nm fabrication process of the Tensor also contributes to better thermal efficiency, reducing the likelihood of throttling during demanding tasks. While the Aquos zero6 is adequate for everyday tasks, the Pixel 6a is the clear choice for power users and gamers.

Battery Life

Both devices share an endurance rating of 94 hours, suggesting comparable battery life despite differing internal capacities (not specified for the Aquos zero6). However, the Pixel 6a supports 18W wired charging with PD3.0, offering faster and more efficient charging compared to the Aquos zero6’s charging capabilities (not specified). While both phones will likely last a full day on a single charge, the Pixel 6a’s faster charging provides more convenience.

Buying Guide

Buy the Sharp Aquos zero6 if you prioritize an exceptionally lightweight phone and are willing to compromise on processing power and camera quality. It’s ideal for users who primarily need basic smartphone functionality and value portability above all else. Buy the Google Pixel 6a if you demand strong performance, a class-leading camera experience, and guaranteed software updates. This phone is perfect for photography enthusiasts, gamers, and anyone who wants a smooth, responsive user experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Is the Google Tensor chip in the Pixel 6a prone to overheating during extended gaming sessions?
While the Tensor chip can get warm under heavy load, Google has implemented thermal management solutions to prevent significant throttling. The 5nm fabrication process also contributes to improved thermal efficiency compared to older chipsets. Most users report acceptable performance during gaming, though sustained, high-intensity gaming may result in some frame rate drops.
❓ Does the Aquos zero6 support 5G connectivity in the US?
The Aquos zero6 utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G 5G chipset, which inherently supports 5G. However, compatibility with specific 5G bands in the US varies. It's crucial to verify that the Aquos zero6 model you are considering supports the 5G bands used by your carrier to ensure optimal connectivity.
❓ How does the Pixel 6a's software update policy compare to the Aquos zero6?
Google guarantees at least 3 years of Android OS updates and 5 years of security updates for the Pixel 6a, ensuring long-term software support and security. Sharp's update policy for the Aquos zero6 is less clear and typically shorter, potentially leaving the device vulnerable to security threats and missing out on new features over time.