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In a decision that’s sure to rock the mid-range smartphone market, Google’s Pixel 9a has unexpectedly surpassed Apple’s iPhone 16e, not in terms of processing power or camera capability, but in something more central to the daily user experience: the screen. Previously perceived as one segment where Apple tends to have a stranglehold, now Google’s the one making waves with a screen that not just competes but overtakes its counterpart in crucial points such as brightness and refresh rate.
As both technology behemoths woo consumers who want flagship-level capabilities without the premium cost, display quality is an essential differentiator. And according to recent hands-on reviews and lab testing, the Pixel 9a is raising the bar for what a mid-range display can do.
Refresh rate: The Pixel 9a has a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, a feature previously the exclusive domain of high-end flagships. It makes scrolling silky, animations more fluid, and games more immersive. Apple still restricts its base models such as the iPhone 16e to 60Hz, giving them a somewhat dated feel in an era of high-refresh screens.
Brightness: Google’s Pixel 9a scores an impressive 2,700 nits of maximum brightness, over twice the iPhone 16e’s 1,200 nits. This isn’t merely a number, it translates to sharper viewing in direct sunlight, richer HDR playback, and overall a more pleasant viewing experience in different lighting conditions.
Colour and contrast: Where Apple retains a bit of an edge is in contrast and HDR playback. With Dolby Vision and a better contrast ratio, the iPhone 16e delivers darker blacks and more vivid dynamic range, especially apparent while streaming high-end content from services like Netflix or Apple TV+.
When it comes to smartphone screens, Apple has long been the industry leader, but the Pixel 9a is upending that. No doubt, Google stopped playing security games with the iPhone 16e, with the little one performing just when needed (especially in terms of contrast and HDR rendering). The Pixel 9a, however, surpasses this by creating a whole new standard in providing the highest brightness in the industry and top-tier display properties such as 120Hz refresh, all for the price.
Buyers in search of the most vivid picture in a sub-premium device may be taken aback at which phone is actually the one leading the pack. This round, it’s Google who gets to hold the brighter screen and the higher ground.
