The Google Pixel 8a occupies a curious space in the smartphone market. It boasts some of the best camera tech you can find, thanks to Google’s Tensor G3 chip and software smarts, but holds back in other areas to hit a specific price point. Let’s dive into what the Pixel 8a offers and see if it’s the right phone for you.
Design: Familiar Yet Refined
The Pixel 8a retains the signature Pixel look, with the horizontal camera bar dominating the back. This year, however, the corners are more rounded, echoing the design of the pricier Pixel 8 series. The phone feels good in hand, thanks to the frosted finish on the back that prevents smudges. While it’s plastic, it doesn’t feel cheap. However, the bezels around the display are thick, making the phone feel a tad dated compared to some competitors.
Display: A Good Panel, But Not Top-Tier
The Pixel 8a features a 6.1-inch OLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate (although it’s off by default). The colors are vibrant, and the content looks sharp. However, the bezels we mentioned earlier eat into valuable screen real estate. Brightness is good enough for most situations, but some reviewers noted slight struggles under direct sunlight.
Performance: Handles Daily Tasks Well But Can Struggle Under Pressure
The Pixel 8a utilizes Google’s Tensor G3 processor, which delivers capable performance for everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light gaming. However, the phone can get hot during extended gaming sessions or demanding apps. This thermal throttling can lead to a slight performance dip.
Camera: The Pixel Magic Continues
This is where the Pixel 8a truly shines. It retains the same excellent camera setup as the Pixel 7a, so you get one of the best camera experiences in this price range. Google’s computational photography prowess is on full display, with stunning photos in all lighting conditions. Night Sight continues to impress, capturing clear and detailed images even in low-light environments. The ultrawide sensor is a welcome addition, offering more versatility for capturing expansive shots.
Software: Clean Android with Pixel Goodies
The Pixel 8a runs stock Android, free from bloatware and unnecessary customizations. This translates to a smooth and responsive user experience. Plus, you’re guaranteed three years of major OS updates and five years of security updates, ensuring your phone stays protected and up-to-date for a long time. Pixel-exclusive features like Magic Eraser, Live Translate, and Direct Call are also present, adding further value.
Battery Life and Charging: Average at Best
Battery life on the Pixel 8a is decent but not class-leading. With moderate usage, you can expect a full day’s use, but heavy users might need to top up before the end of the day. The more significant disappointment here is the slow wired charging. While many competitors offer fast charging solutions, the Pixel 8a takes a frustratingly long time to juice up.
Verdict: A Capable Contender with a Questionable Price Tag
The Google Pixel 8a is a solid mid-range phone with a fantastic camera, clean software, and a comfortable design. However, the thick bezels, average battery life, and slow charging prevent it from being a slam-dunk recommendation. The launch price also sits awkwardly, hovering close to the Pixel 8, which offers a better overall package.
If you prioritize camera quality and a clean software experience, the Pixel 8a is a compelling option. But if raw performance, fast charging, or a more prominent display are higher on your list, you might be better served looking elsewhere.
