Google Pixel 6avsSamsung Galaxy M54

Google Pixel 6a

Samsung Galaxy M54

Google Pixel 6a

The Google Pixel 6a is a mid-range smartphone that takes core elements of the Pixel 6 and repackages them into something more affordable while maintaining the look and vibe of Google's flagships. The device features a compact size, making it ideal for one-handed use, with a 6.1-inch OLED display offering full HD+ resolution and HDR content support. The Pixel 6a is powered by the first-generation Google Tensor chipset, which provides fast and powerful performance comparable to the Snapdragon 888. Despite initial reservations about gaming performance on the tensor chip, thermal management has improved significantly, resulting in a smooth gaming experience without throttling issues. Camera-wise, the Pixel 6a boasts dual 12.2-megapixel sensors for its main and ultrawide cameras, utilizing the same camera hardware seen in previous Google Pixels with incremental updates to the software. The results are consistently good daytime shots with excellent sharpness, accurate colors, and a wide dynamic range. The front-facing eight-megapixel selfie camera takes nice shots that are both sharp and flattering, while the Pixel 6a can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second. However, the device loses out on the headphone jack and does not include a charger in the box. Despite some shortcomings, the Pixel 6a is a solid all-around smartphone with consistently good cameras, improved performance, and security updates from Google through 2027. At $449, it's a great value, making it a worthy recommendation for those seeking a well-equipped Pixel phone at an affordable price.

Samsung Galaxy M54

The Samsung Galaxy M54 is a solid mid-range smartphone that offers a great balance between features and price. The device features a large 6.7-inch AMOLED display, a quad-camera setup with a 108MP primary sensor, and a long-lasting 5000mAh battery. Performance-wise, the phone is powered by a mid-tier Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, which while not the most powerful, still manages to handle everyday tasks and gaming with ease. The device runs on Android 13 out of the box and comes with Samsung's One UI 5.1 skin. The camera setup on the M54 is impressive, capturing detailed images and videos in various lighting conditions. However, low-light performance could be improved. The phone also supports 8K video recording and has a dedicated Night mode for better low-light shots. Gaming on the M54 is acceptable, with good fluidity in less demanding titles like Call of Duty and SpongeBob. However, more graphics-intensive games may struggle to maintain high frame rates or experience stability issues. In terms of battery life, the phone easily lasts a day and a half with moderate use, and fast charging support makes it easy to top up quickly when needed. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy M54 is a great option for those looking for a reliable mid-range smartphone with excellent cameras, a large display, and long battery life. While gaming performance may not be the best, it's still a great device that won't break the bank.