The Google Pixel 8a has arrived, aiming to be the king of the budget-friendly smartphone market. But does it live up to the Pixel reputation for quality at an affordable price?
We took a deep dive into the Pixel 8a to find out.
Packing a Punch: Performance Beyond Expectations
One of the biggest surprises of the Pixel 8a is its processor. Google equipped it with the same Tensor G3 chip found in the higher-end Pixel 8. This translates to smooth performance for everyday tasks, snappy app loading, and even capable handling of moderate gaming.
Benchmark tests show the Pixel 8a exceeding expectations, even outscoring the Pixel 8 in some instances. While it might not be the absolute strongest in the $500 range (with competitors like the OnePlus 12r boasting a lead), it holds its own admirably.
A Familiar Face with a Few Tweaks: Design and Display
The Pixel 8a borrows the design aesthetic from its predecessors, offering a clean and comfortable form factor. While some might find it uninspired, it remains a solid and practical design.
The display is a highlight, boasting a smooth 120Hz refresh rate for a butter-like scrolling experience. It shares the same resolution and peak brightness as the Pixel 8, making for sharp visuals and excellent outdoor readability.
However, it uses Gorilla Glass 3 instead of the stronger Victus glass found on the Pixel 8, so extra care might be needed to avoid scratches.
The Pixel Camera Reigns Supreme (Mostly):
Pixel phones are renowned for their exceptional cameras, and the 8a is no exception. It features a dual camera system – a 64MP main sensor and an ultrawide lens. Google’s computational photography shines here, delivering stunning photos with excellent color reproduction and impressive low-light performance thanks to Night Sight. However, the lack of a dedicated telephoto lens means zooming capabilities are limited compared to some competitors.
Battery Life and Extras: A Dependable Companion
The Pixel 8a boasts a battery that can easily last a full day on a single charge, even with moderate usage. Google’s software optimization plays a big role here. The phone supports fast charging, but wireless charging is noticeably absent. The Pixel 8a comes with the cleanest version of Android available, free from bloatware, and with Google promising 7 years of software updates – a major selling point for future-proofing your purchase.
The Verdict: A Strong Mid-Range Contender with Caveats
The Google Pixel 8a is a compelling option in the mid-range smartphone market. Its powerful processor, exceptional camera (for the price), and long battery life make it a great choice for everyday users. However, the lack of a telephoto lens and the omission of wireless charging might be dealbreakers for some. The price tag might also be a point of contention, with some reviewers suggesting it pushes the upper limit of the mid-range category.
Ultimately, the Pixel 8a is a phone that excels in core functionalities and delivers exceptional value for users who prioritize camera quality, clean software, and a smooth user experience. If you can live without the bells and whistles of some competitors and prioritize the Pixel experience, the 8a is a phone worth considering.
