Pixel 9a vs AQUOS sense9 Comparison: Features, Performance, and More Differences

The Google Pixel 9a, released in the spring of 2025, and the SHARP AQUOS sense9, released in the winter of 2024, are both well-regarded and popular Android smartphones. Choosing between them can be a tough decision. This time, let's compare these two devices.

Compare the body designs of Pixel 9a vs AQUOS sense9 side by side.

Pixel 9a

AQUOS sense9

Unlike other Pixel 9 series models, the Pixel 9a has almost no camera bump and features a familiar, understated design that seems somewhat inspired by the iPhone. The back is made of plastic, which lacks a premium feel, but its simple and minimalistic appearance gives it a clean look. While not particularly distinctive, its timeless design ensures long-term usability.

It comes in a wide range of colors: Peony, Iris, Porcelain, and Obsidian. In addition to classic black and white tones, it also offers pink and blue options, allowing users to choose a color that suits their preference.

In contrast, the AQUOS sense9 features a unique and innovative design. Supervised by miyake design, it incorporates a simple form with free-flowing curves and a distinctive camera layout. The body is made of aluminum and is available in six colors: Blue, Greige, Coral, Green, White, and Black, offering plenty of options for self-expression. Additionally, the Blue and Greige variants have a different color accent on the camera bump, adding a touch of uniqueness to the device.

Compare the Pixel 9a vs AQUOS sense9 Body and Display at Actual Size

I want to compare the actual sizes of the devices and displays side by side.

It is clear that the Pixel 9a is larger. However, since the width difference is only 0.7mm, the feel when holding it in one hand remains similar. Essentially, the Pixel 9a is an elongated version of the sense9, about 6mm taller. While both can be held in one hand, the sense9 is easier to reach with fingers. This site displays the devices at near-actual size, so placing your hand over them makes the differences easier to see.

The Pixel 9a has a 6.3-inch display, while the sense9 has a 6.1-inch display, making the Pixel 9a larger and easier to view. However, in terms of weight, the Pixel 9a is 187g, whereas the sense9 is 166g, making the sense9 21g lighter. This makes the sense9 the more lightweight and compact option.

Both devices have similar resolutions, meaning the smaller display of the sense9 results in a slightly higher pixel density. The maximum refresh rate differs significantly: the Pixel 9a supports 120Hz, while the sense9 goes up to 240Hz, providing a smoother display experience. However, the maximum brightness is 2,700 nits for the Pixel 9a and 2,000 nits for the sense9, making the Pixel 9a's screen brighter. This makes it difficult to determine a clear winner in terms of display quality.

Both devices have thick bezels. While not the most stylish, this design improves usability. Additionally, both feature a punch-hole cutout for the front camera.

Overall, the displays of these two devices look quite similar, with the main difference being their size. Using this site, I want to carefully compare them with other smartphones as well.

Compare Pixel 9a vs AQUOS sense9 in a Specifications Chart

Let's compare the cameras. Both devices feature a dual-camera setup with a main and ultra-wide camera, but the pixel count is worth noting. The sense9 has 50.3MP sensors for both its main and ultra-wide cameras, and its main sensor is larger. This helps maintain image quality even when switching between different angles. The front camera also has a higher resolution on the sense9, making it better for selfies.

However, the Pixel 9a comes with Google's advanced AI-powered photography features, making it a more exciting option for next-generation smartphone camera capabilities.

In terms of processors, the Pixel 9a uses Google's Tensor G4, the same chip found in the Pixel 9 series. This makes it faster and better optimized for AI tasks. If you're planning to do gaming, video editing, or other demanding tasks, the Pixel 9a would be the better choice.

Battery capacity is similar for both devices, but SHARP’s AQUOS series is known for its power efficiency. SHARP claims that under an estimated daily usage of 4 hours of video playback, 3 hours of music streaming, 2 hours of social media browsing, and 1 hour of gaming (a total of 10 hours), the sense9 can last two full days.

Both devices support IP68-rated water and dust resistance, eSIM, and mobile payment compatibility.

	Pixel 9a	AQUOS sense9
Manufacturer	Google	SHARP
Release Date
Screen Size	6.3 inch	6.1 inch
Resolution	1,080 x 2,424	1,080 x 2,340
Display Details	pOLED	Pro IGZO OLED
Max Refresh Rate	120 Hz	240 Hz
Max Brightness	2700 nits	2000 nits
Body Size	73.7mm x 154.9mm x 10.16mm	73mm x 149mm x 8.9mm
Weight	187 g	166 g
Processor	Google Tensor G4	Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 2.4GHz + 1.95GHz octa core
OS	Android 15	Android 14
Main camera 1	48-megapixel(f/1.7)	50-megapixel(f/1.9)
Main camera 1 details	82° field of view, 1/2", OIS	84°, OIS, 1/1.55", 23mm
Main camera 2	13-megapixel(f/2.2)	50-megapixel(f/2.2)
Main camera 2 details	Ultra-wide angle 120°, 1/3.1"	super wide angle 122°, 1/2.5", 13mm
Main camera 3
Main camera 3 details
Main camera 4
Main camera 4 details
Main camera 5
Main camera 5 details
Sub camera 1	13-megapixel(f/2.2)	32-megapixel(f/2.2)
Sub camera 1 details	96.1° field of view	78°, 25mm
Sub camera 2
Sub camera 2 details
Battery	5,100 mAh	5,000 mAh
Video playback time
RAM(GB)	8 G	6 G
ROM(GB)	128/256 G	128 G
Antutu	1,012,000 ver10(estimated)	601,000 ver10
Water resistance	IPX8	IPX5/IPX8
Dust resistance	IP6X	IP6X
SIM	dual SIM(nanoSIM + eSIM)	DSDV nanoSIM/eSIM
NFC	Felica	Felica

In the end, which is better, Pixel 9a vs AQUOS sense9?

The Google Pixel 9a can be considered a quintessential Google smartphone. Among the Pixel 9 series, it offers an affordable way to fully experience Google's AI features. While its design is simple, it provides the same user experience as other Pixel 9 models, which is a major advantage. With AI-powered photography and productivity features, it allows users to experience the next generation of AI smartphones ahead of time.

On the other hand, the SHARP AQUOS sense9 stands out for its lightweight and compact design. It can also be seen as the culmination of traditional smartphones. While many smartphones boast high specifications, the sense9 strikes a great balance when considering price, compactness, display, camera, power efficiency, and its unique design. However, while its design, supervised by Miyake Design, is well-thought-out and warm, it may not appeal to everyone. If you prefer a more conventional design, the Pixel 9a would be the better choice.

Ultimately, if you want to enjoy Google's cutting-edge AI smartphone, go for the Pixel 9a. If you prefer a well-balanced, cost-effective smartphone that feels more familiar, the sense9 is a solid choice. Alternatively, both devices offer a unique appeal, making them great choices based on personal style and preference.

Let's Compare Pixel 9a vs AQUOS sense9 in More Detail

We recommend comparing the Pixel 9a vs AQUOS sense9 in more detail through the following link and making an informed purchase decision.