Google Pixel Cases: A Sizing & Compatibility Guide

You want to get the latest Google Pixel 7, but you aren’t sure if you’ll also need to buy a new case. Surely, you can just use your old one, right? It’s not that simple – Google has produced almost 20 different Pixel models, with the latest generation being released in early 2023. And though the core design hasn’t changed all that much since the first model, the size, compatibility, operating systems, and features have changed quite a bit. So to make sure you can get the most out of your new Google phone, we’ll show you exactly which size case you need, how to pick the perfect one, and why the right case is almost as important as the phone itself. 

Can you use the same phone case for different Google Pixel phones?

No, you cannot use the same phone case for different Google Pixel phones. Unfortunately, each Pixel model has its own distinct dimensions, even those within the same generation. Each phone also has unique characteristics such as edge shapes, screen sizes, thickness, camera lens configurations, and button placements. You’ll need to also pick up a new phone case when you get your new Google Pixel, even if you’re upgrading from the previous series.  

However, there's more to think about than just case size & compatibility when you're in the market for a new Google Pixel phone case. If you try to squeeze a phone into a case meant for another model, you immediately increase the risk of cracks, scratches, and other forms of damage. These can all easily be prevented with a correctly-sized case. Even if you manage to fit it into a different case, it’s likely that parts of the camera will be blocked, some buttons may be constantly pressed, and certain accessories like wireless chargers & phone wallets may no longer be compatible. 

Google Pixel Case Size & Compatibility Guide for Every Generation

Google has been dominating the tech space for decades, but they didn’t debut their first Pixel until October 2016. Since the first generation models, the Pixel and Pixel XL, their smartphones have come a long way. Earlier in 2023, they debuted the Pixel 7a, which vary in dimensions, operating systems, storage, and other features from not only the previous series, but from each other. If you’ve already purchased the latest Pixel, you clearly decided which was the right one for you. But now it’s time to get a case, and you need one that fits and works with your existing accessories. 

Which Google Pixel phones are the same size? 

Unlike iPhone sizes, there are no Pixel phones that are the same size. Galaxy & Pixel phones are alike in that way, as there are no Samsung phones that share the same dimensions either. However, there are a few that are close in size, with only a few millimeters separating the two. 

• Pixel 7 and 5a (5G) - The phones share the same width but the Pixel 7 is 0.02 inches (0.06 mm) longer and 0.01 inches (0.01 mm) thicker than the 5a (5G).
  

• Pixel 7 and 6a - The body of the newer Pixel 7 is just 0.14 inches longer and 0.05 inches wider, but 0.01 inches thinner than the 6a.

• Pixel 4a and 4 - The 4 is slightly longer, wider, and thicker than the 4a, but only by a slim margin of 0.09 inches, 0.01 inches, and 0.02 inches, respectively. 

Even though there’s no clear difference to the naked eye, you should still select a case that’s designed for your specific model. For example, just because the 5a (5G) can technically fit into a Pixel 7 case, does not mean you should.

Even within the newest generation of Google phones, the devices vary in size. Let’s take a look at the dimensions of each of the 7th generation Pixels: 

 Size Chart for Google Pixel 7 Series

So even if you wish to upgrade from the 7 (released in 2022) to the 7a (released in 2023), you’ll need to find a case that’s 0.1 inches shorter & wider, but also 0.1 inches thicker.  

What size is my Google Pixel phone?

If you’re wondering to yourself: “Do I need to get a new case when I get my new Google Pixel?,” the answer is yes. Because all of the models are different sizes, only one case size will fit your new device – they’re not transferable between phones, even within the same generation. 

Below you’ll find the size dimensions for all Pixel models that have been released by Google. Note: These dimensions do not include the added case size. 

Size Chart for All Google Pixel Models

How do I know which size Google Pixel phone I have?

There’s a quick way to find out which size phone you have: 

1. Open Settings
2. Click Systems (If running Android 10, go to step 3)
3. Select About phone
4. Click Regulatory labels

Your Device/Model will be listed

How to Choose the Right Google Pixel Case

Some say that it’s easier to pick a new phone than it is to choose the right phone case. There are only a handful of new smartphone models released each year, but there are millions of phone cases produced every month. There are plenty of options, so how do you decide which is right for you? 

Make sure it fits your Pixel

Size is the most important factor to consider when buying a new phone case. Even if it’s the best-looking and most protective case ever made, it won’t matter if it doesn’t fit your device. It should firmly wrap around your phone, protecting it from wear & tear while also enabling you to use all of the buttons & features. If you try to squeeze your Pixel 5a (5G) into a 7, it’s likely that your camera will be covered and you’ll have to remove the case just to use some of the external buttons & ports. 

Pick a protective, durable case

If you weren’t worried about breaking your Pixel, you probably wouldn’t be shopping for a phone case. Second only to the right fit is protection; the best phone cases should protect your device from frequent drops and reduce the possibility of cracked screens & water damage. Most people buy a case for this reason, but your phone still endures daily wear & tear that can reduce its lifespan. A protective case can protect your phone for years to come.

Choose a case made from high-quality, durable materials like wood, polycarbonate, or silicone. These will limit both internal & external damage from regular drops. You may also look for a case that has ridges along the side, which are meant to improve your grip and reduce the likelihood of dropping your phone at all. But in the event that you drop your Google phone or it falls off an elevated surface, you’ll want to make sure that the screen is protected by the case’s raised corners. 

Match your unique style

Our phones are a part of who we are, especially if it’s a Pixel. With early access to Android updates & the highest quality smartphone camera on the market, you get to see the latest app technology and take the best pictures long before any of your friends. So you don’t just want a case that fits and protects your Pixel; it needs to protect your access. At Carved, we design totally unique Pixel 7 and Pixel 7 Pro cases that are 1 of One and made from wood burl & colorful resin. They’ll protect your phone from regular drops and keep you on the front edge of Google’s technological advances.

Check for compatibility

Even with the right model size, full protection, and unique design, your Google Pixel case still may have some limitations, especially if you purchase one from cheap manufacturers. All cases add a few extra millimeters to the edges of your device, meaning that the length, width, and thickness will be slightly greater than the manufacturer’s specifications. You might need to  upgrade your car or tripod mount if you want to leave your phone in the case, unless it’s a universal accessory. Many Pixel cases also have uneven surfaces or textures, which renders them useless if you want to add phone wallets, pop sockets, or ring holders to the back of your case. And if you plan to use a MagSafe wireless charger, you’ll also need to consider that the Pixel 7 is not MagSafe compatible, meaning you'll need to opt for a Qi charger instead. 

If your new phone case doesn’t fit or simply isn’t compatible with your new Google Pixel, you’ll be incredibly frustrated. And the longer you wait to purchase a right case, the greater your odds will be that you have to replace a cracked or broken phone. Those few millimeters make a huge difference, and you’re better off outfitting your phone with a case that’s meant just for it. And once you’ve determined the size & compatibility, you can play around with different colors, designs, and materials. 

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