Google Pixel 9a scores higher on the OH Rank (59 vs 58), winning 3 of 10 categories including Screen and IP Protection. Google Pixel 9a is 1.6mm wider than (Oppo) OnePlus 13s. (Oppo) OnePlus 13s is the more recent release, from Jun 12, 2025.
EDITORIAL: Google's budget option always comes with the fastest Tensor chip and this year it has a new main camera for excellent 1x, 2x and macro photos, portraits and videos. Other two lenses are carried over from 8a and leave a lot to be desired. They also bring down main camera's excellent scores... There is a fast USB-C 3.2 port on board with a proper video out and it allows for some limited desktop replacement functionality. The battery got a meaningful 600mAh upgrade, endurance is under 30hr. Screen is excellent: high brightness, good pixel density and HDR10+ too but it may bother some users with a relatively low PWM dimming frequency. Like other Pixel phones, the software is the star of the show: packed with smarts (AI and otherwise) and up to 7 years of OS updates but one has to wonder if Tensor G4 will allow for that.
EDITORIAL: (this is a pre-release and pre-test listing based on reasonable expectations of battery endurance and camera performance) This year, OnePlus joins other Chinese makers in adding a mini-flagship. The 13s could be a bulls eye with top processing and battery endurance, very good screen, AF selfie and 4 years of OS updates. Tests should confirm the charging speed (sub-60min expected) and the main + tele lens performance. Unfortunately, this phone is only IP65 (can't be submerged) and the awesome hardware ring-slider is now replaced with a programmable button.
Both phones here were scored by me, using the same ten categories, with no ads, sponsorships, or manufacturer relationships — this comparison is as objective and honest as it gets.