What you need to know

• Google announced that its Certified Refurbished Pixel program has accepted a newcomer: the Pixel 8a.
• The device is available for $160 off, meaning consumers will see it for $339, instead of $499.
• Once again, Google highlights its refurbished program's work to replace any parts with authentic materials, alongside a complete OS upgrade.

Google runs a refurbished program like many other OEMs, and there's a new (old?) model joining its ranks this week.

Google's global head of strategic initiatives and partnerships, Prem Pandian, posted the details about its Certified Refurbished program expansion. The company states it's launching the "biggest expansion yet," as it brings the Pixel 8a to the program for consumers. Google highlights that its refurbished phones are repackaged in a "100% plastic-free" box with its Relove icon. More than that, phones in the program are brought back into Google's kitchen and repaired with authentic parts.

Additionally, any Pixel phones in the program are equipped with the latest Android software. Consumers aren't met with the same price tag for these Pixels as they would if they were brand-new. Instead, Google says its fixed up Pixels offer savings up to 45% off the original price point. However, in the Pixel 8a's case, Google has only dropped its price by $160 to $339.

This Certified Refurbished program expansion doesn't end with the Pixel 8a, as Google is expanding its availability to Amazon.

Starting this week, Google says users can head to Amazon Renewed to find "an assortment" of Pixel phones. While this is through another party, Google reassures users about the quality of the refurbished phones. The Pixel 8a will be present, alongside Google's pre-existing selection, involving the Pixel 8, 8 Pro, Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a.

Cleaned up; looking good

"Affordable and sustainable" choices were the name of the game when Google's Certified Refurbished program launched in 2024. The program first made the Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 6, 6 Pro, or 6a available for consumers. Since then, the Pixel 6 series has been discontinued, as it's no longer available on the official Google Store page. Google made remarks about similar aspects of its program that it did with this Pixel 8a announcement.

It mentions that it will inspect a Pixel's battery, screen, and "housing," and swap in any necessary parts to make the phone feel new. Of course, Google likely stepped into this realm since Samsung and Apple pretty much led the charge. However, it seems that, for some, Google could do better with its "affordable" statement, as the price drops for some devices could be better.

Android Central's Take

We have a selection of phones to choose from. There are flagships, which usually carry beefy specs, speedy internals, and great materialistic qualities. Mid-ranges are there, but those are a step down with affordability in mind and lowered specs to keep that sentiment going. Refurbished phones are a funny thing because companies try to lower that price down to, I guess, a mid-range's level, but that might not happen when it's a flagship getting fixed up. I sort of see where my colleague was going in saying Google "should get serious" about refurbished Pixels because of the pricing.

With the release of the upcoming Google Pixel 10a, fans of Google's midrange lineup might need to tone down their expectations. The company set quite a precedent over the last few years, introducing smartphone redesigns with the Pixel 7a, Pixel 8a, and Pixel 8a. This year, we're not expecting a major redesign for the Google Pixel 10a. Since the mainline Pixel 10's design didn't depart much from the Pixel 9 series either, that shouldn't be much of a surprise.

So, what is changing with the Pixel 10a? Based on the rumors and leaks available now, not much. That might make the Pixel 10a a challenging upgrade to justify for Pixel 9a users, but it'll be an easier sell to Pixel 8a owners. The upgrades compound over the course of two years, although it's still far from a slam-dunk purchase. Here's how we expect the Pixel 10a to compare to the Pixel 8a.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 8a: Pricing and availability

Keeping in line with recent Google hardware launches, the Pixel 10a will likely debut earlier in 2026 than prior launches. According to reliable leaker Evan Blass on X (formerly Twitter), pre-orders will open for the Pixel 10a on Feb. 18, 2026. However, official retail availability of the device won't arrive until March 5, 2026, according to the rumor. This tracks with the broader trend of Google pushing the A-series Pixel release date further ahead of its Google I/O developer conference.

Although we haven't seen any concrete leaks regarding price, the thought is that Google will keep Pixel 9a prices intact. Last year's phone cost $500 in the U.S. and €549 in Europe. The configurations are expected to remain the same, with Google offering 8GB/128GB and 8GB/256GB variants.

Google first announced the Pixel 8a on March 7, 2024. The phone retailed for $500 and was available in 8GB/128GB or 8GB/256GB storage variants. However, the only 256GB configuration was in the Obsidian (black) colorway. The base model got Aloe (green), Bay (blue), and Porcelain (white) colorways in addition to Obsidian.

It's hard to find the Pixel 8a new these days, with refurbished prices hovering around $250 on Amazon. The Google Pixel 9a is regularly available in new condition for $400, for context.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 8a: Design and display

In the photo above, you'll see how the Pixel 9a (left), Pixel 8a (middle), and Pixel 7a (right) differ in terms of design language. For three straight generations, we've seen Google revamp the A-series Pixel design. This year, we're not expecting that trend to continue. The Google Pixel 10a will likely look identical to the Pixel 9a from the outside, making it easy for interested buyers to consider whether they like the design beforehand.

I'm not a huge fan of the Pixel 10a's rumored design, but that's just because of my personal taste. I love what it means for the Pixel 10a's identity overall, though. The Google Pixel 10a keeping the Pixel 9a's no-nonsense, durable build is yet another sign to me that the A-series Pixel is being positioned to the practical buyer. The large battery capacity and minimal camera bump are two more ticks in favor of that narrative.

But it's hard not to love the Google Pixel 8a's design. It's the pebble-shaped, curved, and rounded chassis of old, complete with a satisfying matte back and brushed aluminum side rails. The screen is smaller, too. It's a 6.1-inch pOLED panel compared to the 6.3-inch screen you'll get on the Pixel 10a. I enjoy the compact feel of the Pixel 8a, but the Pixel 10a's larger screen makes it more competitive with modern flagships.

Notably, the Pixel 8a only supports IP67 certification for protection against dust and water ingress. The newer Pixel 10a, like the current Pixel 9a, will support IP68 certification against deeper submersion in water. Both the Pixel 10a and Pixel 8a are expected to be 8.9mm thick, though the latter model will likely be heavier.

As for the displays, both models will be able to hit 120Hz refresh rates for smoothness. The Pixel 8a is technically sharper, at 430 pixels-per-inch (ppi), but the Pixel 10a isn't far behind at 422ppi. The Pixel 10a will probably be brighter, at least offering 2,700 nits of peak brightness and possibly more, compared to the Pixel 8a's 2,000-nit maximum.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 8a: Hardware and specs

The Google Pixel 8a includes the Tensor G3 processor, which mostly solved the overheating woes we saw affect Tensor G2 phones. It critically offers 8GB of memory, and this is crucial for longevity. I still don't think this is enough RAM in 2026, but if the rumors are true, Google won't upgrade this key spec on the Pixel 10a. That means you won't be missing out if you hold onto the Pixel 8a for another year.

Meanwhile, the Pixel 10a is expected to keep the Tensor G4 chip from the Pixel 9a, but could receive a "boosted" variant. This would be a bummer, as the latest Tensor G5 chip was a big upgrade on the Pixel 10 series. It's unclear whether we'd see Google upgrade the Wi-Fi 6E or Bluetooth 5.3 support we saw on the Pixel 9a and Pixel 8a. I'd think not, because the base Pixel 10 doesn't offer Wi-Fi 7, but only time will tell.

Another spec to watch for is battery and charging speeds. The rumors point to Google using the same 5,100mAh battery capacity as the Pixel 9a on the Pixel 10a, but that would still be a major upgrade over the 4,492mAh battery in the Pixel 9a. However, charging speed may prove to be the major difference.

Google's Pixel 8a charges incredibly slow, at just 18W over a cable or 5W wirelessly. The Pixel 9a is a bit better at 23W wired or 7.5W wirelessly. We're hoping to see the Pixel 10a support 15W Qi2 wireless charging, which would include onboard magnets. This would be a major upgrade, improving speed and expanding accessory compatibility with the Qi2, MagSafe, and Pixelsnap ecosystems.

Google could keep the Pixelsnap/Qi2 support exclusive to higher-priced models, though.

Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 8a: Which should you buy?

I've always enjoyed the Google Pixel 8a's design, and it's closer to the rumored Pixel 10a in specs and hardware than you may think. If Google is indeed keeping the Tensor G4 processor and RAM/storage configurations intact on the Pixel 10a, there will be few reasons for Pixel 8a users to upgrade. I see the 8GB RAM of older Pixel phones as a limiting factor in 2026, but the Pixel 10a might unfortunately do little to address that.

The bigger battery and lack of a noticeable camera bump on the Pixel 10a may be appealing to some, but not everyone. I personally prefer the Pixel 8a look, especially considering its much smaller frame. I like the Pixel 9a's camera processing, which the Pixel 10a is expected to retain, but the Pixel 8a's camera is no slouch either.

Personally, I'm holding out hope that the Pixel 10a's official unveiling includes something we weren't expecting. As the rumors currently stand, there's little reason to upgrade to the Pixel 10a from the Pixel 8a. The better buy would be to buy the discounted Pixel 9a if you feel the Pixel 8a isn't meeting your needs.

What you need to know

• Some Pixel users report a bug where photos disappear after background processing and never show up in Google Photos.
• The issue appears after rapid photo capture, possibly when the camera app fails to finish post-processing properly.
• Affected devices reportedly include Pixel 8a, Pixel 9 series, and even the latest Pixel 10 models.

Some Google Pixel owners are reporting a strange bug on their devices that is preventing certain photos from being saved properly.

Google Pixel owners report bugs with their devices quite frequently. Recently, Pixel users on the Android 16 QPR3 beta reported a jittery camera issue, while many Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 users have also complained about speakerphone problems.

Now, another issue affecting some Google Pixel owners has surfaced, and this time it is stopping certain photos from being saved on the device.

Many users on Reddit have started reporting that pictures they took using their phones went "missing" and are not appearing in the Photos app (via Android Authority). A user named Blazgamer initially reported that their photos disappeared after receiving a notification saying that a few photos were being processed in the background.

Similarly, another user, portmafia9719, reported a related issue where their device got stuck in a backup and processing loop, after which some photos were gone and could not be found. The user reported that these missing files didn't show up in the gallery, trash, or anywhere else on the device, and instead seem to have gotten "lost" during processing.

This Pixel bug can cause photos to vanish entirely

Some users theorize that the issue occurs when you take a large number of photos in a very short period of time. One explanation suggests that when the camera app gets stuck and does not complete post-processing, it eventually clears everything from memory and fails to write the files to storage.

However, there is currently no way to verify this. The bug appears to be affecting not just one, but multiple Pixel models, ranging from the Pixel 8a to the latest Pixel 10 Pro.

It isn't yet clear how widespread the issue is, but there are quite a few reports on Reddit, suggesting that at least a small portion of users may be affected. I personally have not faced this issue on my Pixel 10 Pro so far, but several users claim they have lost photos due to this bug.

We have reached out to Google for a comment on the issue. If more users continue to report this problem, the company may take action and release a fix. But for now, there is no fix for this issue out there. We will update this story if (and when) we hear back from Google.

What you need to know

• Google is discontinuing the Pixel 7a, no longer selling the 2023 model on the Google Store.
• The Google Pixel 8a remains available, but is not seeing official discounts as of publication.
• The cheapest Google Pixel 8a is currently $487 at Amazon, which is hardly a steal compared to the $499 price of the newer Pixel 9a.

Now that the Pixel 9a is finally available for purchase, Google is tweaking its lineup of A-series Pixels on the Google Store. For starters, the Pixel 7a is no longer available for purchase in any region, which was expected. The Google Pixel 8a is sticking around on the Google Store, but is still being sold at its full $499 retail price in the U.S. — the same price as the newer Pixel 9a (via 9to5Google).

Google's Pixel phones usually remain available for purchase for a year after they've been replaced, so the Pixel 8a's availability isn't exactly a surprise. The same was true of the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a in years prior, but those models received discounts to make their value more competitive. So far, that hasn't been the case with the Pixel 8a following its replacement for the Pixel 9a.

The Google Pixel 8a is priced at $499 by Google, and third-party retailers aren't heavily discounting the older model either. Best Buy still lists new Pixel 8a devices at $499, whereas Amazon gives it a very slight discount at $487.

The U.S. market appears to be the only region in which the Pixel 8a hasn't been officially discounted by Google. The smartphone now costs £399 (an £100 discount) in the U.K., and €449 in the E.U. (an €100 discount). It's possible the lack of a discount in the U.S. could be used to drive Pixel 9a sales, so that the Pixel 9a isn't competing with a discounted Pixel 8a.

As for the Pixel 7a, its stock will likely dwindle now that it is no longer sold directly from Google. Currently, Best Buy does not appear to have any new Pixel 7a units available for purchase. Amazon is selling new Pixel 7a phones for $329, but it's unclear how long stock will last.

The Google Pixel 9a is here, and it packs a new primary rear camera for the first time in two generations. Google ditched the 64MP primary sensor on the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a for a 48MP wide camera on the Pixel 9a. By now, you might be wondering why Google went with a smaller primary camera sensor with fewer megapixels and how it performs compared to previous-generation Pixels.

As it turns out, Google switched to a different main camera in part to make the Pixel 9's almost-flush camera system possible. "Pixel 9a has an all-new rear main camera that enables the new industrial design and new Macro Focus," the company told Android Central.

After two weeks of testing the Pixel 9a, Pixel 8a, and Pixel 7a side-by-side, I can confidently say that the latest camera hardware isn't a noticeable downgrade from the older models. You might notice a slight dip in detail in certain situations, specifically in unfavorable lighting conditions. But you'd need to zoom in to notice, and it's a minuscule drop compared to all the other Pixel 9a camera improvements.

Notably, the Google Pixel 9a appears to reverse a recent trend with Pixel cameras that oversaturated colors at the expense of accuracy. The Pixel 9a is the most color-accurate Google phone I've tested in at least a few generations, and that should be the main takeaway here. Let's dive in and explore how the Pixel 9a, Pixel 8a, and Pixel 7a fare in head-to-head rear camera tests.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a vs. 7a: Main camera

First, let's start out with some specs. The Google Pixel 9a is equipped with a 48MP, f/1.7 primary camera with a 1/2-inch image sensor size. By comparison, both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a have a 64MP, f/1.89 primary camera with a 1/1.73-inch image sensor size. The change in megapixel count shouldn't concern you at all (the Pixel 9 has a 50MP camera, for reference), but the smaller image sensor size on the Pixel 9a was initially concerning.

Image sensor size directly correlates to image quality because bigger sensors can take in more light and color information, leading to more detailed shots. However, it isn't the only thing that leads to great smartphone photos — other things like computational photography, color science, and image processing also play a huge role.

In the image gallery of camera sample comparisons below, you'll see that there isn't a noticeable drop-off in detail between the Pixel 9a, Pixel 8a, and Pixel 7a in daylight.

In terms of detail and quality, the Pixel 9a matches or beats the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a in every test. What really caught my eye was the differences in HDR and color science in photos captured with the Pixel 9a. Whether it's related to the camera sensor itself, upgraded Tensor G4 chip, or software, it leads to photos that more accurately represent the landscape you're trying to capture.

I live in the Arizona desert, an environment that Google Pixel cameras of all price points have struggled to capture accurately. Google's preference for vibrant and colorful photos has often oversaturated these kinds of shots. For instance, in some examples above captured with the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a, the sky is too deep of a blue, or the sand is too deep of an orange.

Meanwhile, the Pixel 9a accurately depicts the sand in the photos above as a tan color rather than a clay color. The sky and water are often less vibrant when captured with the Pixel 9a as opposed to older models, but that's for the best. It is the more accurate representation of the environment and could mark a breakthrough for Google.

I came away incredibly pleased with the fresh take on color science with the Pixel 9a. It's improved not only compared to the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a but also compared to the regular Pixel 9.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a vs. 7a: Ultrawide & macro photography

The Pixel 9a's main camera shares specifications with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold's main camera, which could mean it's the exact same sensor. Regardless, this leads to the Pixel 9a getting the same Macro Focus feature as the Pixel 9 series (first added to the Pixel 7 Pro). It intelligently tries to identify and isolate objects that are close to the camera lens, around five centimeters away, using a mix of hardware and software.

Google has a handful of excellent camera features, like Add Me and Best Take, but Macro Focus on the Pixel 9a might be my favorite one yet, and that's a high compliment. The feature isn't perfect—it occasionally blurs a small part of the intended object or not enough of the background. That being said, Macro Focus produces the best macro shots on a phone without a dedicated macro lens.

As you can see in the photos above, the Pixel 9a does a better job at blurring the background than both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a. It also provides much more detail than older A-series Pixel phones. My favorite Macro Focus shot captured the individual hairs (technically called trichomes) on a tomato plant, as you can see below.

The ultrawide camera on the Pixel 9a is the exact same one featured on both the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 7a. It's a 13MP ultrawide lens with an f/2.2 aperture and a 120-degree field of view. Naturally, the Pixel 9a, Pixel 8a, and Pixel 7a produce ultrawide shots with similar levels of detail.

Once again, the Pixel 9a's improved color science creates a photo that's drastically more accurate than the Pixel 8a despite using the same hardware.

With the primary and ultrawide lenses, you can take photos at optical quality at both 0.5x and 1x zoom. Any further zoom than that will be using digital zoom, with Super Res Zoom available at up to 8x. By contrast, the Pixel 9, which also has two lenses, is able to capture optical quality images at 2x zoom.

Although its omission is understandable, given the Pixel 9a's price point, it's hard to live without optical-quality zoom at higher levels.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a vs. 7a: Low-light capture

It's relatively unsurprising that the Pixel 9a turns in good photos with favorable lighting conditions, but how does it fare when the sun starts to set? This is the area where the Pixel 9a's smaller sensor might start to hurt it compared to the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a. The results do confirm that the Pixel 9a has ever-so-slightly less detail in night shots than the prior two generations, but not enough to be meaningful.

Specifically, you start to notice the small dip in detail when looking at something far off in a photo. In the first example photo, you can see the yellow pedestrian crossing sign looks a bit more blurry than the equivalent shots captured by the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a.

A similar situation occurs with the barbecue restaurant's lighted sign in the fifth photo. These signs aren't as crisp and clear when captured by the Pixel 9a, but you have to zoom in to notice.

Night shots were the most hit-or-miss aspect of the Pixel 9a camera system, with some photos turning out perfect and others looking grainy or over-smoothened in processing. Still, you can say that of almost every budget phone's camera system, so this isn't a huge knock on the Pixel 9a.

If all you care about is raw detail, I could see the argument for preferring the Pixel 8a's main camera sensor. Personally, I think the Pixel 9a's improved color science and Macro Focus mode more than make up for any tiny loss in clarity you might notice.

How good is the Pixel 9a camera?

I was very skeptical of the Google Pixel 9a's camera performance, as the lower megapixel count and smaller sensor size could've led to a drastic drop in detail compared to previous A-series Pixels. However, that didn't turn out to be the case. I've criticized recent Google Pixel cameras for being too vibrant and inaccurate in terms of color science in the past, so it's a big deal to me that this is improved with the Pixel 9a.

As you can see in the final gallery below, the Pixel 9a can take great shots in a number of situations, performing better the more light there is available.

So, if you're in the market for a Pixel 9a and get spooked by the seemingly-worse camera system, there isn't any reason to panic. The Google Pixel 9a produces photos that are better holistically than both the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 7a. Due to the Pixel 8a's extremely poor color accuracy, the Pixel 9a's camera will be a noticeable improvement year-over-year.

The tech world moves at lightning speed, with new smartphones launching seemingly every other week. It's easy to get caught up in the hype of the latest and greatest, but sometimes, the real value lies in a slightly older, yet still incredibly capable, device. Enter the Google Pixel 8a.

While the Pixel 9a will soon be the budget Android champ, the 8a continues to be a compelling option for anyone seeking a great Android experience without spending too much money.

I'm not talking about whether or not you should upgrade. I'm saying that if I needed a new phone, I'd buy a Pixel 8a as soon as the price drops with the release of the 9a.

Software support keeps the Pixel 8a like new

One of the most significant selling points of the Pixel 8a was its long-term software support, and that's what makes it the phone I would buy today. Google has pledged a remarkable seven years of OS and security updates for the 8a, mirroring the flagship Pixel 8 series. This means your device will remain secure and up-to-date with the latest Android features well into the 2030s.

This changes things. In the past, buying an older model of Android meant you would probably see the manufacturer drop support for it before you were ready to stop using it. Seven years means you'll be using something else before Google says goodbye to the Pixel 8a.

In a market where many mid-range phones receive only a couple of years of support, this extended lifespan is a major advantage. It ensures your investment is protected, and you won't be forced to upgrade prematurely due to software obsolescence.

This extended support isn't just about security patches, but it doesn't mean the 8a will be updated to do nearly everything Google dreams up in the future. The Pixel series is renowned for its AI-powered capabilities, from the Magic Editor for photos to the Call Assist features that make communication smoother.

With seven years of updates, the Pixel 8a will see some feature improvements here and there, but you shouldn't count on anything new. You can, however, know that the phone's software should work as well or better at the end of seven years as it did on day one. That's a big deal.

Long software support is just part of the picture

Beyond the software, the Pixel 8a boasts impressive hardware for the price. The Google Tensor G3 chip, mostly the same processor found in the flagship Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, enables decent performance, fast app loading, and exceptional AI processing. The 8a handles everything I want a phone to do with ease.

The camera system is another highlight. The Pixel series has consistently delivered outstanding photography, and the 8a is no exception. Its dual rear camera setup isn't anything particularly special, but Google's computational photography prowess shines through, producing stunning images with accurate colors, excellent dynamic range, and impressive low-light performance.

Features like Magic Eraser and Photo Unblur further enhance the photography experience, allowing you to easily edit and improve your photos.

The Pixel 8a also features a great display. The OLED panel delivers rich colors and deep blacks, while the 120Hz refresh rate ensures fluid scrolling and animations. The device's compact size and comfortable design make it easy to hold and use, even for extended periods.

The Pixel 9a makes the Pixel 8a better

Now, let's address the elephant in the room: the Pixel 9a. As with any new smartphone release, the arrival of the 9a will likely lead to a price drop for the Pixel 8a. This makes it an even more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The 8a already offers excellent value at its current price, but a further reduction would make it an absolute steal.

Everything you've read and heard about the 8a still stands. It's still the same phone it was in 2024, and it will stay that way for seven years. The Google Pixel 8a is far from being outdated. Its long-term software support, capable hardware, excellent camera, and potential price drop make it a compelling choice for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone without breaking the bank.

The Google Pixel 9a is official, and that means it's time to consider if it makes sense to upgrade from your existing phone.

More specifically, I want to take a look at 2024's Google Pixel 8a and see if it's worth doing an annual upgrade or if it makes the most sense to wait at least another year. After all, Google now supports Pixel phones for seven years, meaning it makes a lot of sense to hold on to your existing Pixel even if it's a bit older.

But sometimes, hardware upgrades are hard to ignore. The Pixel A-series has seen some of the best upgrades in the Pixel line over the past three years, with massively improved display refresh rates, bigger batteries, IP water and dust resistance, and powerhouse cameras in addition to the same Tensor processor as the more expensive models.

So, how has the Google Pixel 8a held up over the last year, and is it worth upgrading to the Google Pixel 9a? Let's take a look.

Design, display, and camera

It's hard to ignore the biggest difference between the Pixel 8a and Pixel 9a: the design. In my Google Pixel 8a review, I lauded the Pixel 8a for its rounded corners and matte finish on the back. "This is a phone that's built for human hands," I said, and I meant it. The Pixel 8a's curves and overall design are a masterwork in Pixel design, and none of the Pixel 9 series phones can match it.

That includes the incredibly bland and square Google Pixel 9a's design, which is now completely flat all around except for the rounded corners. It's a travesty, in my estimation, and I'm supremely disappointed in Google's decision to ruin what was so great about the Pixel 8a. If you love the design like I do, stick with the Pixel 8a.

The trademark camera bar is also gone, now replaced with a pill-shaped camera cutout. I still don't get why Google decided the camera bar had to go, but it's another terrible decision that takes away from the joy of using a Pixel.

The camera bar was more than just a trademark symbol of the Pixel. It also gave the phone a slight lift when set on a table, making it easier to pick up. Now that the Pixel 9a is completely flat, not only is it harder to pick up from a table but it's less comfortable to hold because the edges are also flat. The slightly curved edges to the back of the Pixel 8a were so much better for ergonomics.

The only real advantage you'll find with the Pixel 9a's design is that it's now IP68 water and dust-resistant, a slight bump up from the IP67 of the Pixel 8a. Realistically, this doesn't change much for most people. IP67 is more than enough even for taking your phone in the pool or washing it on occasion to keep it clean. IP68 is nice, for sure, but it's not worth upgrading for.

Google also upgraded the Actua display this year, increasing the brightness from 1400 nits on the Pixel 8a to 2,700 nits on the Pixel 9a. That sounds nice on paper, and it can be great when viewing the display outdoors and in sunlight, but Google continues to ignore those of us who are PWM-sensitive. With a super slow 240Hz PWM rate and an extreme brightness of 2700 nits, this display will cause real pain for PWM-sensitive individuals.

The display supports 120Hz and is not LTPO, just as it wasn't on the Pixel 8a. The only real upgrade here is brightness, which may or may not make a difference for you. I never thought the Pixel 8a's display was difficult to see outside, and more brightness isn't necessarily a good thing for human eyes (although the opposite can be true, too).

Google swapped out the 64MP main rear camera on the Pixel 8a with a 48MP camera on the Pixel 9a. More megapixels aren't always better, so while this sounds like a downgrade on paper, it likely means Google made the choice for a specific reason. We haven't put the Pixel 9a's camera through the review process yet, so I can't speak on specifics, but I doubt the change in sensor will be enough to upgrade.

The Pixel 9a still has a 13MP ultrawide camera on the back next to the main sensor, as well as a 13MP front-facing camera. In other words, there's no reason to change your Pixel 8a out for a 9a just for the camera.

Performance and battery life

It's been a long time since Pixels were known for cutting-edge performance, but the Pixel A-series typically packs a punch because of its price tag. For $100 more, the OnePlus 13R will get you substantially better performance, and just $350 will upgrade you to a OnePlus 12R which also offers substantially better performance and faster charging than either of these phones.

The Tensor G4 in the Pixel 9a is also kind of a weird upgrade over the Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8a. It's slower for a lot of tasks — particularly gaming — but sees a big boost in battery life and doesn't get hot the way the Tensor G3 did. If you ever had a problem with your Pixel 8a overheating, this might be reason enough to switch.

But if performance matters to you, sticking with the Pixel 8a might be the best bet. Tensor G4 achieves better battery life and cooler performance by throttling harder when the going gets tough. That means the phone will slow down more often to keep itself cool, but it's still faster than the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 in the Nothing Phone 3a, for instance.

The Pixel 9a's real advantage is the battery life. The Pixel 9a upgrades the battery to a 5,100mAh cell, up from 4,492mAh in the Pixel 8a. Since Tensor G4 is already a slightly more battery-efficient chip, this 13% increase in battery size equates to a few hours of additional usage over the Pixel 8a.

The Pixel 8a was the first Pixel A-series in recent years with decent battery life — the Pixel 6a and 7a were downright terrible in that regard — but the Pixel 9a is the first time that we should be able to call the battery life "good" since the Pixel 5a. Considering the Pixel 5a "only existed to prove Pixels can actually do battery right," according to our Pixel 5a reviewer, that's a compliment for this year's Pixel 9a.

No matter if you decide to upgrade to the Pixel 9a or stick with your Pixel 8a, charging speeds are still pretty slow. At 23W, this Pixel 9a barely charges any faster than the original Google Pixel that launched in 2016.

Should you upgrade?

Upgrading from the Pixel 8a to the Pixel 9a doesn't make much sense unless you've had serious problems with battery life or the phone overheating. While the Pixel 9a offers some nice upgrades — a bigger battery, brighter display, slight ingress protection upgrade, and a cooler processor — it does so at the expense of several other things.

It loses the ergonomic design of the Pixel 8a and ditches the camera bar for a wholly generic "modern" design, as Google called it. Tensor G4 is slower than Tensor G3, meaning gamers won't be happy with the upgrade. It's also worth noting that any new software features that some with the Pixel 9a are already on the Pixel 8a thanks to the March Pixel Feature Drop.

The Pixel 9a is definitely a great buy for anyone coming from an older or slower phone, but for Pixel 8a owners, it just makes sense to hold on to your Pixel 8a until something truly better comes along.

Weighing the Google Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 8a, it's clear that Google put plenty of thought into making its 2025 budget phone a better option. Plenty of people might prefer the 8a's aesthetic, but the Pixel 9a's upgraded display, battery life, and camera tricks outweigh this surface-level complaint.

As much as we loved the Pixel 8a, it's the Pixel 9a that's claimed the top spot for best cheap Android phone, not merely because it's newer with a better Tensor chip, but because it addresses several of the 8a's small flaws.

You may end up leaning toward the new Pixel 10 flagship for its powerful Tensor G5 chip and better cameras, but both the Pixel 9a and 8a are excellent options that'll cost you hundreds less. We're here to help you choose which budget model to buy, or if Pixel 8a owners should upgrade now or wait for the Pixel 10a instead.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a: Design

The biggest Pixel 9a change stems from Google's decision to remove the camera bar and give the newer model a flat back and "streamlined camera design." Google said that it was "inspired by water droplets" when making the new camera cutout, similar to what you see on the Pixel Watch 3.

The Pixel 8a has a more traditional Pixel look, matching its Pixel 8 predecessor with sensors embedded into a flat camera bar across the phone's width; the newer Pixel 9 and 10 use a more rounded, isolated camera bar that juts out slightly further.

Both phones have the same official 8.9mm thickness. The 8a has slightly softer edges, though you can feel the border between its aluminum sides and matte polycarbonate back. With the Pixel 9a, you get the harder, machine-cut edges that you typically see on iPhones or recent Galaxy phones; maybe you're used to that, but I think you'll want a case with a softer grip.

Generally speaking, the Pixel 9a is only 0.6mm wider than the 8a and weighs a few grams less thanks to the missing camera bar. By removing it, Google could bump up the battery and make the 9a easier to slide into pockets without catching.

Both phones come in Obsidian (black) and Porcelain (near-white). The Pixel 8a came in a subtle Bay blue and vibrant Aloe green; the Pixel 9a, similarly, has a quieter Iris purple shade and a much more vivid Peony red-pink.

While the Pixel 8a had a respectable IP67 dust and water resistance rating, the Pixel 9a hits the IP68 standard common on most flagships. That means the Pixel 8a does fine for "temporary immersion" in shallow water for about 30 minutes, while the Pixel 9a should last slightly longer at shallow depths.

Google didn't upgrade the display protection rating: either phone gives you Gorilla Glass 3, well below the protective rating of the Pixel 10's Victus 2. You may want to buy a screen protector.

You also won't notice any changes in terms of the optical fingerprint sensor, power button, and volume rocker, USB-C 3.2 port, stereo speakers, or dual mics.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a: Display

One of the biggest Pixel 9a vs. 8a changes is the larger, brighter display. Fans of smaller phones may not like that the 9a jumps from a 6.1- to 6.3-inch display, but anyone used to larger 6.7- or 6.8-inch displays will find this compromise easier to accept.

The Pixel 9a uses a pOLED in place of the 8a's traditional OLED, swapping a glass substrate for a thinner plastic material, which helps the 9a stay the same thickness despite its larger battery.

Otherwise, the 9a and 8a have the same 120Hz refresh rate — though no Pro-level LTPO tech — and 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, half as good as the mainline Pixel 9 and 9 Pro. The Pixel 8a display is slightly more pixel-dense, but not significantly so (430 vs. 422 PPI).

More importantly, the Pixel 9a has an extra 400 nits of brightness in HDR mode and 700 nits in peak brightness mode. Your Pixel 8a might look respectable indoors and readable outdoors, but the Pixel 9a makes colors much more vivid in bright sunlight. Only 300 nits short of the Pixel 10, the Pixel 9a beats any other cheap- or mid-range Android phone for outdoor visibility.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a: Hardware and battery life

The Google Pixel 9a has the latest Tensor G4 chip found in last year's Pixel 9 series, one generation past the Pixel 8a's Tensor G3 with a slightly higher-clocked prime Cortex core (3.1GHz vs. 2.9GHz). Both phones have the same RAM and storage options.

Practically speaking, the Pixel 9a hit Geekbench 6 benchmarks of 1,702 / 4,310 for single- and multi-core performance, on par with the mainline Pixel 9s, while the Pixel 8a scores 1,648 / 4,136. There isn't a huge generational gap, even if the 9a is better. The Pixel 10's new 3nm, TSMC-made Tensor G5 chip is supposed to be 34% faster than the 9a's G4, if you're concerned about performance.

Neither does especially well for demanding Android games with only 8GB of RAM, and Google has intentionally restricted some on-device Gemini tricks like Pixel Screenshots or Call Notes from A-series phones because of their limited memory.

The Pixel 9a's most impressive performance boost, however, is in battery life. It's rated to last six hours longer than the Pixel 8a (30 vs. 24). In practice, three Android Central writers with Pixel 9a units found it could easily be stretched to last two days with light use, while lasting about 1.5 days with heavier use. One said it was the "best battery longevity of any Pixel I've used in the last nine years."

For comparison, the Pixel 8a's battery life is much more "normal" for the series, and its painfully slow charging makes it harder to get juice back quickly. The Pixel 9a isn't that much faster for charging (23W vs. 18W), but it takes 105 minutes to hit 100% while the Pixel 8a takes over two hours.

Wireless charging remains at the same 7.5W speed as last year, with no Qi2 support just yet and well short of the Pixel 9 (15W) or Pixel 9 Pro XL (23W) when using the Pixel Stand.

As for other hardware concerns, the Pixel 9a remains at Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, with no Wi-Fi 7 like the Pixel 9 or Ultra Wideband like the 9 Pro. But the 9a does add dual-band GNSS for the first time, which will help pinpoint your Google Maps location or track workouts more easily in places with signal blockage, like tall buildings.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a: Cameras

The Pixel 8a has a larger image sensor than the Pixel 9a (1/1.73" vs. 1/2") and more megapixels (64MP vs. 48MP). But the Pixel 9a has a larger aperture for better light, a slightly wider FoV, a Dual Pixel system with improved autofocus for action shots, an improved Macro Focus tool for better close-up shots, and better color correction via the Tensor G4.

Google didn't change the ultrawide or selfie cameras between the Pixel 8a and 9a, so the main difference is with the main camera and the new AI-backed post-processing tools. So in our Pixel 9a camera review, we pitted its main sensor against the Pixel 8a and Pixel 7a.

We found that the Pixel 9a didn't have a noticeable drop-off in capturing detail despite the smaller sensor, except for night photography where the 8a slightly outperforms it. Generally speaking, the Pixel 9a's color accuracy is far closer to real life than the Pixel 8a, which tends to oversaturate colors until they look artificial.

The Pixel 9a truly shines for close-up photography despite the lack of a macro lens. It's much better at putting an entire subject into clear focus, where the 8a tends to blur parts of your subject arbitrarily. Otherwise, they're both quite similar in areas like ultrawide and action shots.

Neither will match your mainline Pixel 10 for capturing detail, and especially the Pixel 10 Pro with its telephoto lens and optical zoom. But the Pixel 9a is a better compromise option for thrifty photographers.

The newer Tensor G4 chip unlocks a couple new tricks like Astrophotography and Add Me, but the Pixel 8a already has a strong lineup of AI-backed tools: Magic Editor, Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, Real Tone, Frequent Faces, and so on.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a: Software and AI

The Pixel 8a was the first A-series phone to offer seven years of software updates. So, while it's impressive that the $500 Pixel 9a will get seven OS updates and seven years of monthly Pixel Drops, the Pixel 8a did it first.

The Pixel 9a launched with Android 15, but both the 9a and 8a quickly received Android 16 in June and should stay in sync with other Pixels over the next six years.

In other words, upgrading to the Pixel 9a from the 8a won't feel especially different from a software perspective. It's the same stock, bloatware-free UI, close integration with Google apps, and Gemini features that Pixel owners are used to — except for on-device Gemini Nano tools that require a mainline Pixel with more RAM.

Google Pixel 9a vs. 8a: Should you upgrade?

There's no doubt that the Pixel 9a is a superior phone to the 8a in both distinct and subtle ways. But anyone who bought the Pixel 8a might not want to spend another $500 so soon, unless you get a good trade-in deal.

Having tested both phones, I find the Pixel 9a to be the much more compelling option because of its brighter display, fantastic battery life, slightly quicker charging, and more true-to-life colors in my photos. Even if you spot the Pixel 8a for cheap, I'd still recommend the 9a, since its battery life should stay strong even after years of use.

Otherwise, I'd look closely at the Pixel 10 series if the 9a doesn't feel like enough of an upgrade.

If you’re in the market for an affordable, entry-level Android phone with premium features, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a are two good options. Both come in at under $500 but have impressive specs that suggest they cost much more. Both employ beautiful designs and software and security support for years. But they are very different phones in terms of the look and what they have to offer that makes them stand out. So, let’s dive deeper into how they compare.

Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a: The design and basic features

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro, which launched in early March 2025, looks like no other phone you have come across with a cool, transparent exterior design that is inspired by Japanese iconography. This includes clean, geometric shapes on a flat surface with straight sides. Nothing (pun intended) on the market looks like this phone, Nicholas Sutrich enthuses in his Nothing Phone 3a Pro review.

Made of high-grade tempered glass with machined aluminum accents and a 6.77-inch 2,392 x 1,080 FHD+ AMOLED, you’ll get a decent 120Hz refresh rate for keeping up with everything from multitasking to gaming. There’s also an impressive up to 3,000 nits brightness, so the phone is viewable in just about any scenario, even direct sunlight.

The Glyph interface sets it apart. The purpose of this unique design is to help you avoid distractions by using light and sound patterns to indicate notifications and ringtones. Rather than constantly looking at your phone, a unique color and pattern of light will tell you who’s calling, for example, or what type of notification you’re getting. You can also leverage the Glyph interface for things like music playback, a camera timer, and volume.

Finished in black or grey, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro has a 91.4% screen-to-body ratio and an Essential key on its side for taking screenshots, long pressing to record your voice, or double pressing to open Essential Space. This is a spot that organizes your content, like screenshots, voice notes, and text notes, into neat and logical categories for easy retrieval and action prompts. You can customize the look of widgets and use the smart drawer to automatically organize apps by category.

Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, the Nothing Phone 3a can last all day: Sutrich says it even easily lasts beyond a day, up to two for light users. It supports 50W fast charging as well as 7.5W reverse wireless charging. It comes with either 128GB or 256GB non-expandable storage.

The phone boasts an IP64 rating, so it’s not quite as rugged as others, but Sutrich says it feels durable with a nice, grippy texture, even with the sides being made of plastic. Additional features include Bluetooth 5.4, NFC, fingerprint sensor, face unlock, stereo speakers, and a 360° antenna. It comes with three years of Android OS updates and six years of security updates.

Launched in May 2024, the Google Pixel 8a comes in Aloe, Bay, Porcelain, or Obsidian. With a matte composite back, matte aluminum frame, and Corning Gorilla Glass 3, it has a smaller 6.1-inch Actua 2,400 x 1,080 OLED display with an adaptive refresh rate that can go from 60-120Hz, depending on the task at hand, and up to 2,000 nits peak brightness.

Sutrich says in his Pixel 8a review that the Google Pixel 8a is his favorite in terms of Pixel designs with a unique camera bar, rounded corners, and a “heavenly” feeling matte finish. Even though the back is plastic, he says it doesn’t feel as such, looking and feeling like a more premium device than it is.

The phone boasts an all-day 4,492mAh battery that can extend to 72 hours using Extreme Battery Saver mode. It supports both 7.5W wireless charging via Qi and 18W fast charging, but Sutrich says it charges very slowly, reaching only 33% after half an hour. Get it with 128GB or 256GB storage.

Google throws in some nice add-ons with purchases, including three months of Google One with 100GB cloud storage, three months of YouTube Premium, and six months of Fitbit Premium. There are also useful features like Family Link with parental controls if you’re getting this device for a child.

With an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, the Google Pixel 8a has Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, fingerprint sensor, face unlock, stereo speakers, and two mics with noise suppression. You’ll get support for even longer with seven years of Feature Drops and as long for security support along with built-in Google VPN, Titan M2 security, anti-malware, anti-phishing, and an auto security and privacy hub.

Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a: The specs

Let’s look at the specs of these two phones in a side-by-side comparison.

Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a: What can these phones do?

Now, let’s dive into what makes these two phones stand out when it comes to usability and features.

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro runs on Nothing OS 3.1, which is based on Android 15. It has a Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor with an AI engine and up to 20GB RAM Booster and a Hexagon Tensor Accelerator (HTA) that boosts AI performance. It comes with 8GB or 12GB RAM to keep up with all your daily needs.

The Essential Space really stands out on this phone, making it simple to organize and catalog all your contents. Soon, the phone will also be able to transcribe on the fly, condense meeting notes, and even pull together to-dos based on your information. Now, it can do things like generate personalized suggestions, summaries, or action points, all leveraging integrated AI.

Sutrich says Essential Space, which is still in beta, is “very cool” though less useful than he had hoped. It’s basically a digital replacement for a daily planner, and it works well in accomplishing this. How useful you find it will be a personal thing.

The feature Sutrich really loves and calls a game-changer is the ability to take notes or voice memos on the fly by pressing a single key. As soon as he made a recording, like something he remembered while driving, the AI engine in the phone organized it neatly and provided a summary the next time he looked at his phone.

Gamers will appreciate the steel vapor chamber, which ensures reduced average versus 60-70FPS on the Nothing Phone 2a. However, he notes that the phone never got warm to the touch and he didn’t experience any performance issues. Nonetheless, his observations are worth keeping in mind if you plan to use the phone for gaming.

From a security standpoint, all content is stored locally on the phone, and any data sent to the cloud for processing is encrypted and then deleted once the task is done. There’s also built-in ChatGPT.

The Google Pixel 8a runs on the G3 chip and boasts less RAM at 8GB, but it’s still a pretty powerful phone. It has all the usual Google goodies, including Gemini access and the Gemini assistant, and features like live translate. You can also enjoy features like Circle to Search, call screen, clear calling, hold for me, wait times, and smart replies. Extra safety features include crisis alerts and car crash detection.

The Family Link area of the phone is useful for parents with teens and tweens who want to be able to monitor usage, set time limits, and ensure they are only accessing appropriate apps and information.

Performance of this phone varies, Sutrich notes, based on his experience compared to others on the team. While it’s better than the Google Pixel 7a in terms of benchmarks, even the Google Pixel 8 Pro, some Android Central testers find performance snappy while others found that apps constantly re-loaded when switching among them. Further, anything taxing will drain the battery faster than other phones in this class, like the OnePlus 12R.

Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a: Capturing and editing photos and videos

Everyone loves taking photos with their phones. How do these two stack up?

The Nothing Phone 3a Pro has a 50MP main camera with a Sony sensor combined with a 50MP periscope, 8MP ultra-wide, and an impressive 50MP front camera for selfies. The cameras are arranged with a horizontally stacked lens configuration with 3x optical zoom and up to 60x ultra zoom. The large, circular camera island on the back will be polarizing, notes Sutrich, giving off a dramatic and industrial feel that not everyone will like.

The 50MP front camera supports 4K video recording as well, with AI-powered stabilization and night capture enhancement. There’s also a useful portrait mode as well as Ultra XDR that can capture 8 RAW frames at varying exposures and merge them for photos with more detail. The TrueLens Engine 3 works in the background to ensure pro-grade images, says the company.

There are also specific camera controls, including Quick record for instantly recording video, burst shot mode, a zoom indicator, and portrait effects. There are personal presets for camera settings so you can save your favorite ones, with images stored in the native Nothing photo gallery.

Sutrich says the cameras are good, a massive step up from the Nothing Phone 2a, particularly when it comes to zoom detail. “Overall,” he says, “these are great cameras and help build confidence in the brand and its capabilities.”

The Google Pixel 8a has some pretty impressive cameras, too. This includes a 64MP quad PD wide main camera, 13MP ultra-wide, and 13MP front. The main difference here is the much lower-resolution front camera, which won’t yield shots as nice as with the Nothing Phone 3a Pro. But you’ll still get decent selfies.

Where Google excels is with its many popular photo editing and capture features, which appear in all the latest models, including the Google Pixel 8a. These include ones like Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser, Magic Editor, Night Sight, Real Tone, Photo Unblur, and Portrait Mode. There’s also super res zoom up to 8x.

Sutrich finds that while the Google Pixel 8a takes great photos, you’ll get the same camera performance on the Google Pixel 7a. He finds that the Google Pixel 8a get exposure right in most cases, pulling out plenty of detail. You will get high contrast and color accurate imagery as well, which is a good thing. This phone, however, doesn’t live up to others in the line in terms of capturing objects in motion. So, if you’re looking to take lots of pics of kids or pets, you might want to consider another Pixel model.

Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a: Which should you choose?

It’s decision time. Between the Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a, which should you choose? Both are wonderful phones for affordable prices. With the Nothing Phone 3a Pro, you get a cool, stand-out look that will turn heads and have people asking you what phone that is, where you got it, and if it’s any good. By comparison, the Google Pixel 8a looks plainer in comparison, but it’s one of the best cheap Android phones you can buy right now, providing tremendous value for dollar.

While the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is newer, the Google Pixel 8a offers more than two times the length of software support, through 2031 whereas software support for the Nothing Phone 3a Pro will end by 2028. That might not sound like a big deal, but even if you don’t plan to keep either phone that long, the Google Pixel 8a will have better resale or trade-in value since it has so much life left in it.

The Google Pixel 8a is slightly more durable but the Nothing Phone 3a Pro is more powerful if you opt for the 12GB RAM version. The Essential Space in the Nothing Phone 3a Pro, while still a work in progress, makes use of AI in a practical way that will only get better over time as well.

Keep in mind that if you love the Nothing Phone 3a Pro but want to save even more, you can step down to the Nothing Phone 3a, which is more affordable with marginal differences, including slightly less capable cameras without a periscope option. Comparatively, the Google Pixel 7a is still a great budget phone with plenty of years of support still left, and the same camera performance as the Google Pixel 8a. So, if you’re on a super tight budget, these are both solid alternatives that you can find for even less.

Otherwise, if you want something totally different in terms of look and feel, you might appreciate the Nothing Phone 3a Pro. For something simpler and more traditional in design that still packs a punch in performance, the Google Pixel 8a won’t disappoint.

Normally, I'd think twice before I told you to buy a year-old phone new. There's nothing wrong with using last year's model and it's a great way to save a few dollars, but if you want one buying used is usually a better bet. That changes when it's so cheap.

Google has already released the Pixel 9 with its various Pro and XL models, and everyone knows that a Pixel 9a is coming soon. Until we see it and its price tag, the Pixel 8a is still the phone to beat — especially at $379.

•  See all the Prime Day deals: USA | UK | Canada | India 

✅Recommended if: You don't demand to have the latest specs as long as everything runs well; you like to save money.

❌Skip this deal if: You're not a fan of Google's phones or software; you plan to play a lot of games.

Everyone in tech has an opinion and a lot of people would disagree with me saying the Pixel 8a is the best phone of 2024. You should always listen to more than one person before you spend your money.

It is the phone I spent my own money on, though. It's not hard for me to get just about any phone I want to use and I have looked at several of them. When it came to my money, I decided that the Pixel 8a was the best way to spend it. I'm not alone and Google's a series phones are always the company's best sellers because they offer insane value.

If you want to play games for hours you can get something better and there are phones with "better" cameras out there. None offer the same value as the unassuming little Pixel 8a, though. ProTip: Buy the Aloe (green) one. you'll thank me once you see it in person.

If you’re looking for an affordable smartphone with all the hottest AI features, both Samsung and Google have you covered. In this Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs. Google Pixel 8a comparison, we look at two of the most prominent “affordable premium” models on the market today.

You get high-end features typically found in more expensive phones with some concessions to bring the pricing down. What are those concessions, and which of these two phones will better meet your needs? That comes down to your priorities and what you value most in terms of features, design, cameras, and more. Here, we’ll compare and contrast these devices to help you make the right decision.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: Design and basics

First, let’s take a look at how these two phones compare in terms of design. The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, the newest addition to the Galaxy S24 line, falls into its “Fan Edition” line. It has a large 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 3x FHD+ 1,080 x 2,340 display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate that can go from 60 to 120Hz, depending on the application at hand. The display also features Vision Booster, which helps boost the brightness in outdoor environments along with 1,900 nits peak brightness. 

Available in fun colors like Blue, Graphite, Mint, or Yellow, it’s durable with an IP68 water- and dust-resistance rating. With an aluminum frame, the screen is also Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ for added durability. In his initial Galaxy S24 FE hands-on review, Android Central senior editor Andrew Myrick says the phone looks virtually identical to the previous generation Samsung Galaxy S23 FE and even to the Galaxy S24 Plus. 

It comes with 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB storage that isn’t expandable beyond cloud services. So, you’ll want to pay extra for the largest option if you tend to snap a lot of photos and videos, keep files, playing games, or download lots of apps. 

Running Android 14 with Samsung One UI 6.1, you get the latest OS along with seven years of OS and security updates. So, you can be confident that this phone will last and be usable and relevant for many years to come, beyond just its physical durability. 

In terms of battery life, the 4,700mAh battery promises “long-lasting” life of about up to 21 hours of Internet usage. It also includes fast charging that will get you back up to 50 percent after a half-hour charge using a separately purchased 25W adapter and 3A USB-C cable. It also boasts fast wireless charging with WPC chargers and Wireless PowerShare. 

Other basics include Bluetooth 5.3, which includes Bluetooth hearing aid support, Samsung Knox security, Samsung DeX support, SmartThings support, and, of course, 5G connectivity. The phone will be officially available for purchase at the beginning of October 2024.

How does the Google Pixel 8a compare? Announced in May 2024, the Google Pixel 8a is the affordable alternative in the Pixel 8 line, which has since been followed up with by the Google Pixel 9 line. It surprisingly has many of the same features you’ll find in the Google Pixel 8, but with a smaller 6.1-inch Actua OLED screen with 2,400 x 1,080 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and 1,400 nits brightness or 2,000 nits peak brightness. 

Its screen is made of Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which also has a fingerprint-resistant coating. However, it has a lesser IP67 water and dust-resistant rating, so it isn’t as durable as the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE in that respect. 

Pixel 8a color options include Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, or a limited-edition Aloe color, and the Google Pixel 8a is made of matte composite with a matte aluminum frame. Nicholas Sutrich said in his Pixel 8a review that he likes the rounded corners and finds the phone comfortable to hold.  

It comes loaded with Android 14 and the same seven years of OS and security updates along with Feature Drops that bring new functions to the phone on a consistent basis. So, both devices will hold their value. 

You get only 128GB or 256GB storage options and no expandable memory card slot, so keep this in mind if you think you’ll need more space. There are always cloud services, but Samsung offers a 512GB option for a bit more money, which might be more palatable. However, keep in mind that the Google Pixel 8a comes with a Google One trial, though you’ll still need a long-term solution if you’re a digital packrat. 

With a 4,492mAh battery, you get a rated more than a day per charge, though it’s still technically a smaller battery than what’s in the Samsung phone. You can also extend battery life to up to 72 hours using the Extreme Battery Saver mode, which limits functions if you just need to make sure it doesn’t die on your before you can get to a power outlet. It also supports both fast and wireless charging. 

There are also stereo speakers, Bluetooth 5.3, 5G connectivity, and all the other expected inclusions.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: Specifications

Before diving into the operation and cameras, let’s take an at-a-glance look at the specs.

There are some notable differences between these two phones, including in the processor, cameras, and overall size.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs. Google Pixel 8a: Power and processing

If you find the other Samsung Galaxy S24 series phones too rich for your blood, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE was launched at the end of September 2024 to help bring a premium experience to the masses on a budget. 

While the phone, which runs Android 14, includes all the AI goodies you would expect in a premium device, it’s also powered by the Exynos 2400 series chipset, which means it might not run as efficiently as the higher-end models in the line. The processor is Samsung’s own, designed to compete against rivals (like Google’s Tensor G3). It’s used in variants of many Samsung phones in other countries. Samsung claims it offers increased CPU performance and particularly a boost in AI performance.

In his brief hands-on tests of the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, Myrick found the processor fast and snappy. However, he notes that Samsung uses Snapdragon processors in the other Galaxy S24 devices, so the phone has a clear disadvantage with its underclocked Exynos chip.

Samsung says this processor enables a favorable gaming experience thanks to features like Ray Tracing and a larger vapor chamber to improve cooling. Features like the bigger battery and screen, refresh rate, and Vision Booster also presumably contribute to the mobile gaming experience. The phone has 8GB RAM, which is sufficient for multitasking, gaming, and more. 

In terms of AI, you can access all the same AI features you can on other Galaxy S24 devices. This includes Circle to Search for searching or scribbling over an item on a web page or in a video, for example, to learn more about it. There’s also Interpreter Mode for translating in-person conversations, lectures, presentations, and more. It’s even usable when offline. With Live Translate, you can translate phone calls in real time, including using popular third-party apps. 

For productivity, there’s also Composer that generates suggested text based on keywords in e-mails and supported social media apps. Note Assist, meanwhile, helps you while taking notes by automating formatting and translation, even transcribing and summarizing voice recordings. 

One thing Myrick wonders, however, is if the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE will be left behind when new, more powerful AI tools are launched that it can’t support. That’s something to think about if the AI experience is at the top of your mind. 

With Samsung Knox, you get multiple layers of security to protect your sensitive data and web surfing. This includes real-time threat detection.

The Google Pixel 8a is powered by the same Google Tensor G3 chip you’ll find in other Google Pixel phones launched in 2023, so there’s no step down in that respect. It also has 8GB RAM and the same AI features you’ll find in the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE and its Pixel siblings, like the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.  

Google adds some additional flavor through the built-in Gemini AI assistant, including Pixel Call Assist, Call Screen, Direct My Call, Hold for Me, Clear Calling, and more. With Audio Emoji, you can create your own soundtrack audio effects during a call, like applause or laughing. 

Sufficient for gaming, too, the Google Pixel 8a’s thermal management is one area that Sutrich highlights as being especially impressive. In his tests, it performed even better than the Pixel 8 Pro. So, if you’re a gamer, this phone will work for you, too. 

Protected by security features as well, the Google Pixel 8a comes with VPN by Google One, the Tensor security core, a Titan M2 security chip, and anti-malware and phishing protection. Use Family Link to manage privacy settings for kids, set screen time limits, and share location.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs. Google Pixel 8a: The cameras

Now, let’s look at the camera experience. The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE has a 50MP wide lens along with an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. Both are supported by optical image stabilization (OIS). There’s also a 12MP ultra-wide lens and a 10MP selfie camera. These are decent specs but nothing to write home about. 

What does stand out is Samsung’s ProVisual Engine, an AI-driven camera engine that the company says helps improve your photos and videos. AI image signal processing (ISP), for example, helps improve low light photography when in Nightography mode. AI zoom helps enhance image quality at distances between digital zoom lengths. 

There’s also an Object-Aware Engine that recognizes scenes and optimizes colors in Super High Dynamic Range (HDR) so you get more lifelike photos and videos, according to Samsung. 

There are neat photo editing tools as well through Photo Assist once you have captured images and want to make them better. Generative Edit can be used to move or remove objects in the background. Portrait Studio allows you to apply styles to photos, like cartoon, comics, watercolor painting, or sketch. With Edit Suggestion, remove flaws in photos like reflections. Instant Slow-mo, meanwhile, helps create more compelling videos.

Naturally, the Google Pixel 8a also has some compelling photo-taking and editing features that leverage AI. It has a larger 64MP quad PD wide camera with Super Res Zoom up to 8x. The ultra-wide camera is 13MP combined with a 13MP front camera. You don’t get a telephoto camera with this phone, though. 

Enjoy Google features like Magic Editor for moving or resizing objects and using preset backgrounds, and Best Take for taking the best elements of several photos of the same thing (think group photo) to create the best one. There’s also Magic Eraser for removing distracting elements from a photo, Photo Unblur for adding clarity to otherwise blurry photos, Real Tone for more accurate skin tones, Face Unblur, Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and more. For videos, there’s an Audio Magic Eraser feature that you can use to remove distracting background noise. 

After trying the Pixel 8a cameras, Sutrich says the results are fabulous, with good contrast, color accuracy, and capturing of subjects in motion. For now, we have not been able to extensively test the Galaxy S24 FE, but we plan to fully evaluate the camera in a full review.

Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs. Google Pixel 8a: Which should you buy?

Now comes the big decision between the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE vs. Google Pixel 8a. While the Google Pixel 8a is slightly older, it’s still a relatively new phone that offers seven years of OS and security updates. And it hasn’t even been a year since it came to market. Considering it's cheaper, has a more powerful processor, tons of AI features, and isn’t that big a step down from the Google Pixel 8, that phone offers tremendous value for money and is the better option of the two. It remains the best cheap Android phone you can buy. 

With the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, you’re dealing with a (potentially) pared-down processor, and while we haven’t tested it fully yet, it may not run as efficiently as you hope in the long run nor be able to support AI features coming down the pipe years from now. If you’re a casual user, you might not mind. However, considering that it’s still more expensive than the Google Pixel 8a, the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE might not make sense to many. Myrick agrees, noting the Galaxy S24 FE would be a much more compelling option if the pricing dropped by a hundred or more bucks. 

What are the reasons to go with the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE instead? If you want to stick within the Galaxy smartphone universe, it’s the most affordable model in the new line. It is more durable than the Google Pixel 8a with a higher water- and dust-resistance rating. It also has a much larger screen, so if you prefer bigger over compact and would make use of the extra screen real estate, it might suit your needs better. 

There’s also the bigger battery and the option for a 512GB variant that could sway your decision. Though considering the approximately $200 delta in price, when you look at the 512GB version, you could sign up for years of cloud storage with the savings. 

If you aren’t interested in getting all the AI goodies and just want a solid yet affordable Samsung Galaxy phone, another option to consider is a Samsung Galaxy A series phone. This mid-range line includes several popular models, including newly introduced ones, some of which sell for even under $200. If you go up the line, you can find a phone that’s comparable in price to the Google Pixel 8a that gets you into the Galaxy space without breaking the bank. Just note that many of these phones sport an Exynos processor as well and aren’t as feature-rich as the Galaxy S24 FE. 

The only real reason to go with the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE is if you are adamant about sticking with Samsung and don’t want to fork over $1000+ for a flagship. The Samsung Galaxy S24 FE offers the opportunity to get into the Samsung space for a mid-range price. We just wish it had kept the same Snapdragon processor and found another way to justify the price drop beyond swapping the processor.

If you take one look at Google's lineup of smartphones, it might be a bit overwhelming to some. At the time of this writing, there are a total of eight phones available for sale. I can't help but feel like it's a bit unnecessary.

I'm not saying Google should have stuck to releasing just one or two phones a year, but the lineup is more convoluted than ever. Not to mention that Google is expected to add one more phone into the mix, as last year's Pixel Fold should be back "soon."

Maybe, just maybe, Google might want to think about overhauling its lineup when it comes time for the Pixel 10. As it stands, the Pixel 7a and Pixel 8a are listed, both of which are priced at $499. This alone makes me wonder what's going on, as the 8a was released in May, and it's not like the 7a has seen a permanent price drop.

Then there are the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which are still listed on Google's online storefront. Presumably, these may eventually be replaced by the Pixel 9 and 9 Pro altogether, but that probably won't happen until some time down the road. But here's another idea — ditch the "Pro" moniker completely.

This delineation is something that all smartphone makers have taken to over the years, but it's becoming a nuisance. Instead, I suggest that Google should simplify things, and this is how it might look:

• Pixel 10a
• Pixel 10
• Pixel 10 XL
• Pixel 10 Fold

My reasoning for this shakeup goes beyond just naming conventions, which have always been pretty awful with smartphones (don't get me started on TV names).

There's already a clear difference in what's possible between the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro, but you won't be able to notice until you look at the rear camera bar. The Pixel 9 has less RAM (12GB vs. 16GB), one less camera, and a lower screen resolution. Almost everything else is the same, including the screen size, dimensions, and build quality.

Both of these phones are also powered by the same Tensor G4 chip, and the 12GB of RAM should be more than enough for most tasks. However, the $799 price tag is rather steep considering that the Pixel 9 lacks a few "defining" features.

The first of which is that while the other three Pro models include a year of Gemini Advanced for free, with the Pixel 9, you only get a six-month trial for the 2TB Google One plan without the Premium AI benefits. It's rather odd, especially considering that practically all of the Gemini Advanced features work with the non-Pro model, including Gemini Live.

Next up is the idea that Google wants you to pay $800 for a phone that lacks a telephoto camera, which is present on the similarly-priced Galaxy S24. This could be a superficial explanation as to why the Pixel 9 doesn't have the new Zoom Enhance feature. Ignoring that it was announced as a key Pixel 8 Pro feature, either Google is gate-keeping features, or there's some tangible reason that hasn't been shared.

Last but certainly not least, something that's left us scratching our heads is how close the Pixel 8 and 8a are in price. Sure, $150 isn't that close, but when comparing the features of the two, the Pixel 8 really doesn't seem like it offers $150 more in value.

Google is trying to prevent the same thing from happening again, but it is doing so by just raising the price. The Pixel 9 starts at $799, while the Pixel 8a comes in at $499. Sure, the cameras are better, and there's more RAM on board, but that's pretty much it. It really just feels like the Pixel 9 doesn't offer a whole lot of value when you look at the entire Pixel portfolio.

It's a corner that Google backed itself into by adding a third phone into the mix with this lineup. While it doesn't make much sense to get the Pixel 9 over the Pixel 8a, Google could rectify the situation by ditching the Pro moniker altogether.

Because the "A" series signifies a more budget-friendly offering, it's probably worth keeping around. Here's what I had in mind if Google were to make some kind of changes now:

• Pixel 9a: $649
• Pixel 9: $899
• Pixel 9 XL: $999
• Pixel 9 Fold: $1,799

And really, if Google wanted to, it could keep the Pixel 8a around for another year but drop the price to something like $399. That leaves enough of a price gap to warrant upgrading from one model to the next. Want a phone that's all that and a bag of chips? Get the Pixel 9. Need a bigger screen that doesn't fold? It's only $100 more.

Something else that this does is leave room for one more device to enter the fray. It's one that some of my counterparts here at Android Central have been hoping for. And now that Google has solved its design woes with the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, it opens the door for a Pixel Flip. 

But honestly, I'd rather see Google push the competition with Samsung and drop the price of its foldable phone down a few hundred dollars.

What to Know About The Pixel 9 Series Phones?

The Pixel 9 series phones, introduced at Google’s Made by Google event in mid-August 2024, boast tons of upgrades compared to the previous generation Pixel 8 series. From the new look with a camera bar to updated finishes with silky matte glass back and metal sides, they are also more durable.

Seven years of updates means that every time Google announces a new version of Android beyond the Android 14 version these devices come loaded with, you will be able to download it. The devices will support the OS and function as they should. While there’s no telling what features may arrive by 2031, even if the phones can’t run some of the more advanced features that could be coming down the pike more than five years from now, Google assures that the phones will continue to work. 

Arguably, most importantly, Google promises to continue to support the phones with security updates. Thus, even if they can’t support every exciting feature that comes by the end of this decade, they will be updated with all the safety and security necessities to ensure they run smoothly and, most importantly, safely. Chances are you’ll be ready to upgrade the phones before they reach end-of-life, which means they’ll have great resale, trade-in, or hand-me-down value as well.

What else should you know about the Pixel 9 series software?

The Pixel 9 Pro and Pixel 9 Pro XL differ only in size, with the former measuring 6.3 inches and the latter 6.8 inches for those who want more screen real estate. The Pixel 9 Pro XL also boasts slightly more power and faster charging speeds, but beyond that, all specs are the same as the Pixel 9 Pro. 

The entry Pixel 9 is still packed with tons of premium features, not far off from the specs found in the step-up devices. The most notable thing the Pixel 9 vs. Pixel 9 Pro is missing is a telephoto camera on the non-Pro model, and it has a much lower resolution front camera, down from 42MP in the Pixel 9 Pro to just 10.5MP in the Pixel 9. You won’t get an Ultra-Wideband chip, and there’s no temperature sensor. There are some camera features missing, too, including Video Boost, Zoom Enhance, Night Sight Video, and Super Res Zoom Video. So, if you shoot a lot of videos, it would make sense to upgrade to the Google Pixel 9 Pro or Pixel 9 Pro XL.

Nonetheless, all three phones come powered by the new Google Tensor G4, have tons of AI features included that the processor allows them to run, and include new Google Gemini features, like Gemini Live for conversational chats for Gemini Advanced subscribers. With features like Pixel Studio for unique image generation, Pixel Screenshots for analyzing the context of your screenshots so you can easily find them in a searchable database, and Add Me to add yourself to group photos while you take them, these phones take the cake in the line-up. 

Considering that the Google Pixel 9 series phones can last for seven years — that’s an entire middle and high school run and longer than you might even keep your computer — you’ll want to keep them well protected. Once you choose the model you want, opt for one of the best Google Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro cases and Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro screen protectors to further protect your investment. As long as you take care of the phone you choose, the Pixel 9 series devices will likely outlast your desire for them.

The big Google announcement event is just a few days away (August 13th), but why wait for the Pixel 9 series when this Best Buy deal has already dropped the Google Pixel 8a to its lowest price ever? Yep, the phone that I use every day because of its handy AI features and flagship-quality cameras has just scored a 20% discount, no strings attached, knocking the price down to only $399 for a limited time. Besides, the Pixel 8a has only been out since May, so it's not like it's an outdated device anyway. 

Need more power?

✅Recommended if: you simply want a great Pixel device with cutting-edge camera tech and years of software support for way less than the retail price.

❌Skip these deals if: you like using the latest devices that hit the market; you're looking for a trade-in deal.

Google has already confirmed that it will be announcing the Google Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, and Pixel 9 Pro Fold at the Made by Google event on August 13th, but many folks — Android Central included — have been wondering if the new launch is even necessary. After all, early reports indicate that the Tensor G4 chipset will only bring marginal improvements to the new flagship lineup, and while we're happy to see some upgrades to the cameras, it's not like the Pixel 8 series was a slouch in that department to start with. 

So if you're a Google enthusiast and you can get a good deal through your carrier, by all means wait for the Pixel 9 lineup to drop next week, but if you simply want a great phone that will stay supported for many years to come, these Best Buy deals are for you. 

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T 

Whether you're shopping for a teen or heading back to campus yourself, finding the right smartphone deal during the back-to-school season can be easier said than done. Fortunately, if you're looking for a new phone AND a new wireless plan, this Mint Mobile promo might be exactly what you're looking for. Pick up the new Google Pixel 8a alongside any six-month data plan at Mint and you'll score a straight $100 off the phone, plus six additional months of service for 100% free. 

In other words, this deal gives you 50% off an entire year of wireless service from the best MVNO carrier operating today, not to mention an extra $100 off our favorite phone for students. Do the math and compare those numbers to your current phone bill: you'll see why this is such a big deal. 

✅Recommended if: you have good T-Mobile coverage in your area; you don't mind committing to one wireless carrier for a year; you want an Android phone with AI software features and outstanding cameras.

❌Skip this deal if: you're happy with your current wireless carrier; you want to pay your phone bill on a monthly basis; you or the student in question is using a family plan. 

If you're buying for a college or high school-aged kid, the best way to handle this would probably be to make the purchase upfront and get the phone and wireless coverage handled in one fell swoop. That way you literally won't have to think about paying another phone bill for an entire year. Alternatively, you could sign up for Affirm and pay $25 per month for the phone and wireless combo. Either way, it's going to be considerably less than any phone deal from a mainstream phone company like AT&T or Verizon. 

There are a lot of great things to say about the Google Pixel 8a, but that's not to say that Mint Mobile is a slouch. As noted in our Mint review, this T-Mobile-owned carrier has a lot to offer with its "buy in bulk" plan system. To sign up for any of its four data plans, you need to pay for your wireless service in 3, 6, or 12-month increments of time, with discounts being added the more you buy upfront. This simple structure means you can easily change your plan or switch carriers when your time allotment is up without any hassle or pesky contracts to worry about. 

The plan options range from 5GB to Unlimited and all plans come with unlimited talk and text, free calls to Mexico and Canada, and a mobile hotspot, plus you're getting access to the world's largest 5G network through T-Mobile. If you're unsure, you can always explore the service through Mint Mobile's 7-day free trial, but once you're ready to commit, this Pixel 8a deal presents an awesome opportunity for any student looking for cheap wireless. 

• MVNO deals: Mint Mobile | Visible | Boost | Tello | Cricket 

Comparing the OnePlus Nord 4 vs. Google Pixel 8a entails examining both phones' specifications to determine which one is right for you. The OnePlus Nord 4 is not available in the United States, but it can still be purchased in Europe. If you're hell-bent on having one in the U.S., you can also import it but it will cost you more money and the phone won't work on CDMA carriers.

In contrast, the Google Pixel 8a is readily available in the United States and is a standout mid-range Android phone with great specs and software. Both phones have excellent specs, but only one can come out on top. Let's see what they have to offer and which specs are more appealing.

OnePlus Nord 4 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Design

Both phones have a unique look, but how different are they?

The OnePlus Nord 4 doesn't have the camera bar you find in its competitor; it features a metal body made of aluminum with a dual-tone finish like the one found on the Pixel 3 XL. It also has a laser-engraved texture and a compact antenna design. The three-position slider on the side makes it easy to control your notifications and not miss out on anything important. Its IP65 rating makes it dust-tight but not waterproof enough to resist dropping it into the tub.

The Nord 4 is available in Obsidian Midnight, Mercurial Silver, and Oasis Green and measures 162.6 x 75 x 8mm. It's intended to be the first 5G phone with a full metal body that is 8mm thick and weighs around 200 grams.

The Google Pixel 8a, on the other hand, can easily be identified with its recycled aluminum for the camera bar and side frame. You get a matte composite back; both camera sensors are to the left cutout, and the LED is to the right. The Pixel does have a higher IP67 rating, meaning you can submerge it in one meter of water for 30 minutes.

The chassis has rounded corners and you can choose from colors such as Aloe (green), Bay (blue), Obsidian (black), and Porcelain (white). It also has a matte-textured rear that is a great anti-smudge addition.

OnePlus Nord 4 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Display

There is a clear difference between the two phones when it comes to the display. The OnePlus Nord 4 has a bigger 6.7-inch 2772 x 1249 AMOLED display. It also has a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 2,150 nits, and the display supports HDR10+ and 10-bit color depth. The Nord 4 also has the Aqua Touch feature found on the OnePlus 12. The Aqua Touch feature lets you easily use your phone when your fingers or screen are wet.

The Google Pixel 8a has a smaller 6.1-inch OLED display with a 1080 x 2400 resolution, a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, HDR support, Now Playing, a 20:9 aspect ratio, an Always-on display (AOD), and a full 24-bit depth for 16 million colors. It also features 2,000 nits of brightness and scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

OnePlus Nord 4 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Hardware

The OnePlus Nord 4 vs. Google Pixel 8a comparison reveals that both devices have various hardware differences. The recently released OnePlus Nord 4 has a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 chipset with an Adreno 732 GPU and 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM. You can choose from storage options such as 128GB and 256GB with UFS 3.1 and UFS 4.0 storage speeds, respectively. If you live in the UK, you can also buy a variant with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The Nord 4 packs a massive 5,500mAh battery capacity and supports OnePlus' 100W SuperVOOC charging. Unfortunately, it does not come with wireless charging.

On the Nord 4, you also find a dual camera with a 50MP wide lens (Sony LYTIA) with an f/1.8 aperture alongside an 8MP ultra-wide angle lens with an f/2.2 aperture, which is also a Sony sensor. You can take all your selfies with the 16MP selfie camera and record videos in 1080p, but you can only use the rear camera to get 4K video. The OnePlus Nord 4 has a USB 2.0 Type-C port and dual stereo speakers.

The Google Pixel 8a, nevertheless, features a Google Tensor G3 chipset and a smaller 4,410mAh battery. The Pixel does pack more pixel power with a 64MP f/1.9 primary camera but falls short with the 13MP f/2.2 selfie camera with OIS. You also get stereo speakers and two microphones. The Pixel takes longer to charge since it only comes with 18W wired and 7.5W wireless charging, but you do get the newer USB 3.2 Type-C port.

It can also record in 4K, with the front camera recording at 30fps and the rear at 60fps. Unfortunately, the Pixel 8a has a slower UFS 3.1 and no expandable storage.

OnePlus Nord 4 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Software

The OnePlus Nord 4 features OxygenOS 14.1 and offers AI features such as AI Summary, AI Writer, AI Eraser, and AI Best Face, which lets you fix closed eyes in group pictures. The phone is guaranteed to receive four years of OS updates and six years of security updates.

In contrast, the Google Pixel 8a offers AI features you would find on flagship phones, like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, such as Circle to Search, Best Take, Magic Editor, Live Translate, Gemini Nano, and Audio Magic Eraser. With this Pixel, you get more updates since it's promised seven years of system and security updates and Android 14 out of the box. With Google's phone, you will get the updates first and for a more extended period.

OnePlus Nord 4 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Google or OnePlus?

Whether you get the OnePlus Nord 4 or the Google Pixel 8a depends on where you live since OnePlus is not selling the Nord 4 in the United States. But if you have access to both phones in your region, you'll have two phones with different strengths, such as one having more years in updates than the other and the other having more RAM and storage capacity.

The choice comes down to what specifications you need a phone to have. Both the OnePlus and the Google phones are good mid-range phones. The former wins in terms of battery and charging whereas the latter wins in the photography and software update arena. Make a wise decision based on your type of smartphone use and needs.

If you or your kids need a long-lasting Android phone with great cameras and blessedly simple software, this Prime Day deal lops 50 bucks off the Google Pixel 8a, our favorite mid-range phone.

We've been trained to always want the latest and greatest, but for years now, you haven't actually needed a flagship phone to get a flagship experience. The Pixel A-series always brought the bulk of a Pixel flagship's features and functions to a phone that was a fraction of the price, but from the Pixel 6a onward, it has featured the same exact Google Tensor processors and the same camera experience (give or take a lens). 

Of course, the price of the A-series has crept up in the last couple of years, too, leaving the Google Pixel 8a at a starting price of $500, $200 away from the Pixel 8. There are more Prime Day phone deals going on that you can shake a selfie stick at, but two of the best among them are the $450 Pixel 8a and the $500 Pixel 8. So, why would you pick the mid-range over the flagship with only a $50 difference? Well, the devil is in the details.

✅Recommended if: You want a Pixel experience for the lowest price, are after a mid-range phone with the best cameras possible, or need a phone that will get updates for the rest of the decade.

❌Skip this deal if: You want fast wireless charging, the bells and AI whistles of a flagship model, or are PWM-sensitive (sensitive to flickering lights).

This particular deal on the Pixel 8a kicks off its reign as the new best cheap Android phone on the market, taking over the mantle from its predecessor, the Google Pixel 7a. While some third-party retailers have knocked the Pixel 7a down to $400 today, you absolutely should not buy it. As mentioned in our Pixel 8a vs 7a breakdown, the 8a will get over twice as many years of software updates, a 120Hz panel instead of 90Hz, and at least some of the AI goodies that debuted on the Pixel 8. 

The decision becomes a teeny bit murkier when you pit the Pixel 8a against the Pixel 8: both have 120Hz, 2,000-nit Actua screens, the Tensor G3, and even the same RAM/storage options this year. The Pixel 8 gets brighter, newer camera sensors, with Astrophotography and Super Res Zoom, Wi-Fi 7, and faster wired and wireless charging. On a normal day, the $200 does not justify that small an upgrade, but for Amazon Prime Day, the difference is only $50.

I recommend the Pixel 8a because unless you absolutely, positively need the full camera toolbox of the Pixel 8 — and even then, the Pixel 8 has a smaller toolbox than the Pixel 8 Pro. Sure, the 8a has thicker bezels, but you're not missing out on anything. Being capped at 18W charging instead of 27W is a bit ridiculous, but it's not like the 25W vs 45W between a Samsung A-series and the Galaxy S24 Ultra. If you're addicted to wireless chargers or a serious shutterbug, save yourself the money and put it towards a better Pixel 8a case, so it'll last the full seven years until Android 21.

What you need to know

• Pixel phones receive the latest July system update following the Pixel Watch models.
• The update includes phones ranging from Pixel 5a (5G) to Pixel 8a, as well as Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet.
• Google has also addressed the recent factory reset issue on Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a.

After rolling out the July update to the Pixel Watch just a few days ago, Google is now bringing the monthly software update to Pixel phones powered by Android 14.

Pixel phones ranging from Pixel 5a (5G) to the latest Pixel 8a alongside the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet will receive the latest security patch from Google, the company notes in the accompanying support post. 

The July update carries bug fixes and improvements. Per the changelog, general improvements for camera stability "under certain conditions" can be seen on devices including Pixel 5a (5G), Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet.

Similarly, the flagship Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro models show general system stability and performance improvements in certain conditions. Lastly, a user interface bug fix is coming for Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 8a, which addresses the back gesture navigation issue that wasn't working in certain scenarios.

The system update bearing the AP2A.240705.004 version will be rolled out globally to Pixel 5a (5G) and Pixel Fold models. The other firmware, AP2A.240705.005, is exclusive to Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 8a models. The same handsets on the Telus carrier will receive the AP2A.240705.005.A1 firmware.

The latest update, however, doesn't address the factory reset issue that bricked some Pixel phones, including the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a. Meanwhile, in another community post, Google addressed the issue, indicating that the "team has identified the root cause of the issue and is working on developing the best possible solution."

Until then, to avoid the issue, Google recommends leaving the device untouched for at least 15 minutes after a system update. Following this, users can factory reset their devices or, alternatively, factory reset before performing the latest system update.

The update rollout began Tuesday (July 3) and should be available to the aforementioned Pixel owners in the upcoming weeks. It will be in phases and depend on the carrier and device.

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

Motorola Edge 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Design

Motorola hasn't changed the design of the Edge 2024 too much from last year, and the result is that the phone looks largely identical to its predecessor. The same is true of the Pixel 8a, but Google made a few tweaks to the design that make the device easier to hold and use. The Pixel 8a has rounded edges, and it now has an aluminum mid-frame that gives it much better rigidity. What hasn't changed is the size — the Pixel 8a is noticeably smaller than the Edge 2024, and it feels great in-hand.

I like the eco-leather back on the Edge 2024, and it allows the device to stand out a little bit. Although it is larger because of the 6.6-inch screen, it is 14g lighter than the Pixel 8a. There isn't much in the way of customizability as the device is sold in a single color, so if you need a phone that will turn heads, you should pick up the Pixel 8a in the new Bay variant — the pastel blue hue looks gorgeous, and the texture is delightful.

Both devices have ingress protection, but Motorola has an edge in this regard as it offers IP68 dust and water resistance — you get IP67 with the Pixel 8a instead. There isn't an outright winner in the design area, but I prefer the size of the Pixel 8a, so that gets my recommendation.

Motorola Edge 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Screen

Switching over to the screen, the Edge 2024 has a 6.6-inch P-OLED panel with 144Hz refresh and max brightness of 1300 nits in HDR content. If those numbers look familiar, it's because Motorola is reusing the same panel as last year; that said, it is still a good choice, and you get vibrant colors.

Google, thankfully, made much-needed tweaks to the panel on the Pixel 8a, and the phone finally goes up to 120Hz. The OLED panel is significantly brighter as well, going up to 2000 nits in HDR content. The smaller 6.1-inch size is ideal if you need a phone that's usable one-handed, and when it comes to color fidelity, the Pixel 8a does all the right things.

The only issue in this area is that Google didn't change the bezels, so the Pixel 8a has sizeable bezels that are bigger than just about any other mid-range device. The Edge 2024 is noticeably sleeker, and Motorola did a great job maximizing the real estate.

Motorola Edge 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Hardware

The Edge 2024 is powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, and Motorola should have ideally used MediaTek instead. The 7s Gen 2 uses the ancient A78 and A55 cores, and it just doesn't have the power to meet demanding workloads. If anything, there's noticeable stutter in daily use, and even mundane tasks like launching the camera and taking photos is often laggy.

The Edge 2024 is sold in a single 8GB/256GB configuration, but it uses older UFS 2.2 storage, so you will see some lag when saving photos to the gallery. Thankfully, the Pixel 8a doesn't have any such shortcomings; the phone is powered by the same Google Tensor G3 as the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, and it has 8GB of RAM and is available with 128GB and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage.

Where the Pixel 8a misses out is thermal management; the phone tends to throttle aggressively while gaming, and it overheats with extended gaming sessions. Continuous 4K video also tends to heat up the phone to a noticeable degree, and this is something that Google needs to address. Outside of that, I didn't see any issues with the Pixel 8a in daily use.

The one area where the Edge 2024 has a distinct edge is the battery life; the 5000mAh battery easily manages to last over a day with ease, and you get 68W charging and even 15W wireless charging as standard. The Pixel 8a has a smaller 4492mAh battery, and while it also lasts a day, you will need to plug it in by nighttime. Google still uses the 18W charging standard, so it takes considerably longer to charge the device.

Motorola Edge 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Cameras

Google has maintained a heady lead in the camera section, and that hasn't changed this year — the Pixel 8a is still the best mid-range phone if you take a lot of photos and videos. The phone has a 64MP main camera and a 13MP wide-angle lens, and it does an outstanding job in just about any scenario. Google also retained the camera features it introduced last year, so you get all the extras that are a mainstay on the Pixel 8.

You'll also find all the coolest new AI camera features in this device, like Magic Editor, Best Take, Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, Face Unblur, and more; plus features like Super Res Zoom and long exposure.

Motorola, meanwhile, hasn't done enough to differentiate the Edge 2024 in this regard. The main 50MP camera takes good photos in its own right, but it isn't consistent, and it just doesn't measure up in situations with little to no ambient lighting. While the camera is usable, you should pick up the Pixel 8a if this is a priority.

Motorola Edge 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Software

Google is once again in the lead when it comes to the software. Both phones run Android 14 out of the box, but the Edge 2024 will only get two guaranteed platform updates, one less than the industry standard. Google, meanwhile, is offering the same seven-year update guarantee as the Pixel 8 series, and that's unmatched in this segment — even the Galaxy A55 will pick up just four updates.

It remains to be seen what software features actually roll out to the device in seven years' time, but there's no question that the Pixel 8a is the phone to get if you want long-term updates. Then there's the software itself; while both phones have clean software, the Pixel 8a comes with all of Google's exclusive AI-assisted features, and they make a genuine difference in daily use. Most of these features are limited to Pixels, and the fact that you don't miss out on any features present in the standard Pixel 8 makes the 8a just that little bit more enticing.

Motorola also has a slate of unique features on its devices, but the brand really needs to do more with software updates. The brand isn't anywhere as good as Google, Samsung, or most Chinese manufacturers at rolling out platform updates on time, and the device is unlikely to switch to Android 15 before the end of the year.

Motorola Edge 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Which should you buy?

Motorola did a lot of the right things with the Edge 2024; the phone has stellar battery life, a good OLED panel, lightweight design with thin bezels, and clean software. But the hardware is underwhelming to say the least — as are the cameras — and it won't get as many software updates. It costs $549, so you are shelling out $50 more than the retail price of the Pixel 8a.

Ultimately, the Pixel 8a is still the definitive choice in this category. It has a better design, brighter panel, much better hardware, outstanding cameras, and will get seven Android updates. Google continues to thermally constrain its devices, and that limits the Pixel 8a's potential as a gaming phone, but it still outshines the Edge 2024 in this regard. If you want to get a new mid-range phone in 2024, the Pixel 8a is still the best overall choice.

The Google Pixel 8a is the affordable flagship killer Google has always wanted to make. While Apple might have coined the term "AI for the rest of us" at 2024's WWDC conference, it's Google who is actually delivering all of its big AI features in a phone that's affordable for most people while Apple reserves it only for its most expensive phone.

Google isn't just stopping with the democratization of AI features, though. This phone sports some seriously impressive hardware improvements over last year's Google Pixel 7a, including more rounded corners and a matte texture on the back, which makes this the most comfortable phone for one-handed use. It's absolutely the most comfortable phone I've held in a long time!

Impressively, though, that sleek design houses the same processor, display, RAM, storage speed, and water-and-dust resistance rating as the more expensive Pixel 8. Plus, it's even got the powerful new Gemini Nano AI features thanks to the June Pixel Feature Drop. It certainly makes you wonder why you would ever need a more expensive Pixel phone, doesn't it?

I've been using the Pixel 8a on and off over the last month, taking hundreds of pictures with it and testing out all the latest updates. I've been using the Pixel 8a on T-Mobile's 5G network in North Carolina, United States.

Google Pixel 8a: Price and availability

The Google Pixel 8a officially launched on May 14, 2024, with a starting retail price of $499 USD / $679 CAD / £499 / Rs 52,999 for the model with 128GB of internal storage. For the first time ever on a Pixel A-series phone, Google is also selling a 256GB storage model for an additional cost. The phone ships in your choice of Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Aloe colorways, and it also comes in completely plastic-free packaging.

As you might expect, the best Google Pixel 8a deals will get you the phone at a reduced price — maybe even free — especially if you have an older phone to trade in.

These are all the countries where the Google Pixel 8a is sold:

• U.S.
• Canada
• Austria
• Belgium
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Ireland
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Poland
• Portugal
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• UK
• Australia
• India
• Japan
• Singapore
• Taiwan

Google Pixel 8a: Display and design

Of all the Pixel phone designs over the years, the Google Pixel 8a is my new favorite. It melds the unique camera bar design from the more expensive Pixel 8 series with further rounded corners, and a matte finish back that feels heavenly.

This is a phone that's built for human hands and it feels wonderful to use it one-handed, even if the display is a bit too big to reach all the edges with one thumb without shifting the phone around. Round corners do a lot for long-term usability and comfort. Sharp corners on phones like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra are just plain uncomfortable, made even worse because it's a super heavy phone.

The Pixel 8a isn't shockingly light by any measure but it does come in at around 5 grams lighter than last year's Pixel 7a. At 188g, you'll feel it in your pocket but it's not heavy enough to cause finger fatigue if you find yourself holding it for a long time. As actor Chris Evans once pointed out, heavy phones often cause pinky finger fatigue.

Beyond the weight and shape, Google is using surprisingly premium materials for most of the phone. The back is still plastic, but it doesn't feel like any plastic phone I've ever used, thanks to a beautiful, fingerprint-resistant matte finish. I praised Google's use of a matte finish in my Pixel 8 Pro review, and this phone feels nearly identical to that.

If you tap the back, there's a slightly hollow feeling compared to a glass-backed phone like the more expensive Pixel 8 models, but it doesn't feel cheap.

Likewise, the "satin aluminum" frame looks extremely premium, particularly on the Bay blue model I have for review. This frame also has a matte finish that won't attract fingerprints, leaving your Pixel 8a looking clean and shiny even after using it for hours.

The display has been upgraded yet again this year, and while it looks good on paper, it has some hidden issues. Let's start with the positives, though.

The display is spec-for-spec identical to the Pixel 8 in all but one way: it's not LTPO. That means this 120Hz panel shifts between 60Hz and 120Hz depending on what's happening on screen, while the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro's displays can smoothly shift between 1Hz and 120Hz. In plain language, the Pixel 8a's display is slightly less battery-efficient.

But the rest of the panel is right on the money in most measurements. Google calls it the "Actua display" in reference to its color accuracy, which helps highlight the quality of the photos taken with the phone's camera when viewing them on the phone. It also gets incredibly bright, with a peak brightness of 2000 nits and a peak HDR brightness of 1400 nits.

The downside is that PWM-sensitive folks are going to find this display incredibly uncomfortable. Like the mainline Pixel series, this uses 240Hz PWM flickering at all brightness levels, quickly turning the display on and off to fool your eyes into thinking it's bright or dim instead of adjusting voltage like traditional displays and lights.

This PWM rate is the lowest of any major phone series and is truly awful for any flicker-sensitive person. Google doesn't offer an anti-flicker or flicker-reduction mode like the OnePlus 12R or any OLED-donning Motorola phone, which makes those phones much better options if you're PWM-sensitive.

Google Pixel 8a: Performance and battery life

The Google Pixel 8a sports the exact same Google Tensor G3 processor as the more expensive Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro phones. That means Google was able to pack in the same AI features as those more expensive phones.

A huge part of that capability is in the Tensor G3's upgraded NPU capabilities, which, according to benchmarks we ran, are nearly three times faster than the NPU in the Pixel 7a. That NPU, or Neural Processing Unit, is responsible for efficiently running AI routines on-device, ensuring that the phone quickly processes AI-based tasks, and keeping them from needing to be uploaded to a cloud server for privacy reasons.

Based on benchmarks, the phone's overall performance is also better than that of the Pixel 7a and even the more expensive Pixel 8 Pro. Google said it was able to concoct a new thermal management method, and while the phone still throttles heavily at around 40 degrees Celsius, it takes longer to hit that thermal limit.

However, while I found the performance to be generally good, some Android Central staff have found that multitasking isn't as snappy or reliable as the Pixel 8 or 8 Pro. Android and Chill author Jerry Hildenbrand noted that his apps would regularly reload when switching between them, something he didn't have a problem with on his older Pixel 6 Pro.

Everyone uses different types of apps, so your mileage may vary on this front. Some apps naturally consume more RAM or more processing power, which is also why battery life and phone overheating can vary wildly from person to person.

However, when compared to the OnePlus 12R, our current favorite mid-range phone, the Pixel 8a's performance is quite lacking. Not only that, but the Pixel 8a's performance-per-watt is substantially worse than the OnePlus 12R. In plain terms, your battery life is going to drain more quickly on a Pixel 8a than a OnePlus 12R when doing anything that taxes the processor.

Our parent company runs lab tests via the Future Labs department, and those test results show that the Pixel 8a gets one hour of better battery life than the Pixel 8 Pro in the battery rundown test at the default 60Hz refresh rate. In other words, if you're using default settings—60Hz display, auto brightness—then battery life will be quite excellent.

But running at 60Hz in 2024 is a crutch that I don't think should be relied upon. Predictably, the Pixel 8a's battery life is worse than the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro when using the "smooth display" option, which means it runs at 120Hz any time the phone feels the higher frame rate will result in a smoother experience.

Since the display isn't LTPO, it can only switch between 120Hz and 60Hz. More annoying than this is the Pixel 8a's slow charging speed. In a 30-minute charging test, the Pixel 8a went from 0% to a paltry 33%. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 was able to hit 60% in the same amount of time with the same 30W charger.

Google Pixel 8a: Software

Google's Pixel software has really come into its own over the years, particularly in the past six months, as Google has added Gemini features to the platform. The Pixel 8a sports all the same AI features as the regular Pixel 8, including Magic Eraser, Zoom Enhance, Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser, Circle to Search, and more.

The Pixel 8a is also set to receive seven years of Android updates, meaning it'll see Android 21 before the end of its shelf life. It also has a free VPN built-in, something only Pixel phones provide.

That's a huge value add for a phone in the $500 price range, as these devices normally don't have the processing capabilities to implement impressive AI features like this. It's a huge win for anyone who doesn't want to spend flagship money but still wants flagship features.

Of course, this means there's almost nothing new on the Pixel 8a when compared to the Pixel 8 series. The lone exceptions are the upgraded Guided Frame utility and the improved Family Link parental controls setup, but those have already made their way over to the rest of the Pixel 8 series.

When it made its debut on the Pixel 7, Guided Frame was just used as a way to help vision-impaired users take better photos and selfies. Now, Guided Frame can utilize both front and rear-facing cameras to describe what your phone's camera is seeing.

Google also improved Family Link by making the setup process easier and clearer, which goes nicely with the recent Pixel Watch update that adds School Time and other important parental control functions. Not only that, but the new Fitbit Ace would pair extremely well with a Pixel 8a for kids, giving parents lots of control all while giving kids devices they actually want—not scaled-down phones or watches with missing features.

But under the shiny exterior of AI features and update promises lingers an underlying distrust built up from years of screw-ups on Google's part. The Pixel series has become known for its buggy updates and weird problems, which begs the question: Should you buy a Pixel 8a?

Things have slightly improved since the Pixel 6 days, but over the past year alone, we've seen monthly updates cause battery drain issues, cellular connectivity issues, overheating issues, and even a crucial storage bug that made it impossible to use many apps.

These are just a handful of issues Pixel owners have had to deal with to some degree over the past few years, and it makes me wonder if monthly updates are really worth the issues they seem to create.

Of course, the flip side to all this is that Pixel phones nearly always get updates before any other phone on the market. There's certainly a value in that, and Google always updates its phones with cool new features throughout the year instead of just waiting for a new hardware release as Apple does.

Not only that, but Google is bringing all the hot new AI features from Gemini Nano to this $500 phone. Meanwhile, Apple Intelligence and Gemini Nano are only coming to the newest and most expensive iPhones, meaning Apple is gatekeeping the most interesting new features in a decade for folks with the most money.

Apple may have coined the phrase "AI for the rest of us," but it's Google that is actually bringing the best AI features to every user at every price point.

Google Pixel 8a: Cameras

Whenever I review a Pixel phone and compare it to other phones, my thoughts usually begin with, "I wonder how much worse this other phone's camera is compared to the Pixel."

Google Pixel phones have long been the pinnacle of mobile photography, and while some other phones sometimes beat it, Pixel's consistently excellent camera performance delivers a reliability factor that can be envied.

However, despite massive improvements in the Tensor G3's AI-processing capabilities, the Pixel 7a and 8a's cameras both produce identical results. In other words, if you just want a great budget phone with an equally great camera, I recommend buying the Pixel 7a at half the price of a Pixel 8a, instead.

Comparing the Pixel 8a to the OnePlus 12R—another excellent $499 phone—shows that there's not a huge gap between the two in most shots, but the Pixel 8a definitely wins more often than not. In many cases, the Pixel often gets the exposure mostly correct and ends up pulling out more detail, resulting in a better-looking picture because of it.

Photos taken on the Pixel 8a exhibit the classic high contrast, color-accurate imagery that Google's Pixel phones are known for, and that's a very good thing.

I've long recommended the Pixel series as the best phone for parents because of its ability to capture crisp pictures of kids or pets who won't sit still for a picture. Unfortunately, the Pixel 8a doesn't do as good a job capturing objects in motion as the rest of the Pixel 8 series.

To prove the point, I compared the Honor 200 Pro, Pixel 8a, and Pixel 8 Pro in a camera head-to-head review and the results were very surprising, challenging what I assumed about Pixel cameras from the get-go.

I also found that the front-facing camera could use some work in the color science department. Shots were regularly too cool and often made my skin look sickly pale because of it.

Plus, Google's portrait mode shots still have those messy edges around people where the phone "cuts out" the person so it can blur the background in an attempt to make the photo look like it came from an expensive camera.

However, while these negative points were certainly irritations, they may only bother a subset of users. Google can always fix these in an update and has been known to do such things in the past.

The rest of the camera experience is truly excellent, including the updated camera UI that launched with the Pixel 8 last Fall. The camera software launches lightning quick and is ready to take a photo or video within just a second or two of double-tapping that power button.

I've also found that few companies capture HDR photography like Google Pixel phones do, thanks to Google's Ultra HDR tech.

While this can brighten up dark spots to a fault sometimes, as I'd say happened in the ultrawide shot above, you'll notice that while the Pixel 8a brightened up the shadows a bit too much, it also toned down the ultra-bright lights enough so that they're actually readable. This extreme brightness range makes Pixel photos look incredible and often better than other phones because of it.

Google Pixel 8a: The competition

For the price, it's hard to turn down the Pixel 7a. The best Pixel 7a deals will get you the phone for $350. Considering that the Pixel 7a is still due for four more Android updates (up to Android 19), this one has quite a bit of life left in it. You'll also be getting a camera with identical quality capture as the Pixel 8a, although battery life and performance are worse than Google's latest can provide.

But if battery life and performance are your chief concern, the OnePlus 12R is the best buy at $500. It has a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, which is roughly twice as fast as the Tensor G3 in the Pixel 8a for gaming and other graphics-intensive applications. It also charges from 0-100% battery in less than 30 minutes, while the Pixel 8a will take over an hour and a half for the same task. However, OnePlus doesn't offer the same level of long-term support or some of the Pixel-exclusive AI features, and the camera is not as good as a Pixel.

Google Pixel 8a: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if...

• You plan to hold on to your phone for years.
• You want the best camera in its class.
• You love Google AI features and Pixel features.

You shouldn't buy this if...

• You're sensitive to flickering lights or PWM-dimmed displays.
• You need the best performance for the price.
• You need fast charging and/or more than 24-hour battery life.

As the price of the Pixel A-series continues to climb in many regions, its value continues to encroach on full flagship-tier phones. There's also something to be said when the best Pixel 8 deals can get you a better phone—that's the regular Pixel 8—for the same price as the 8a. Not only that, but the OnePlus 12R also retails for $499 and packs a significantly faster and more efficient processor onboard. Plus, OnePlus uses a better display that's also more eye-friendly.

Of course, there's no guarantee that you can snag a Pixel 8 for $499, making the Pixel 8a the best buy at the price if long-term updates and camera quality are your top features. Google's update quality has been a little shaky over the past few years, though, which hangs a cloud over an otherwise impeccable record of update speed.

For now, I'd personally pick a Pixel 7a over Google's latest because of the great Pixel 7a deals currently available. Sure, it's only got four more years of Android updates, but I'm not convinced that current Tensor processors will be fast enough to feel snappy for longer than that. At $350, the 7a is an unbeatable deal with camera quality that matches the 8a, even if it doesn't have as many AI features.

When it comes to smartphone cameras, Pixel phones are considered the cream of the crop. Google's AI expertise is used in full force in the Pixel camera software, ensuring that your photos not only look good but deliver the most reliable tools to capture the moment the way you remember it.

But Honor has been silently improving its own AI-powered camera stack, delivering one of the best camera experiences I've ever used earlier this year and even bringing those high-end features down to the more affordable Honor 200 series. It's effectively identical to what Google has been doing—offering cutting-edge software and processing on less expensive phones.

Honor also continues to focus on areas where it excels, including photo motion capture and portrait mode, both of which have seen substantial upgrades this year compared to last year's Honor 90. The partnership with Studio Harcourt Paris—the famous French photography company founded in 1933—proves that Honor is serious about portrait photos on the Honor 200 series. But can it beat the Pixel? Let's find out.

Motion capture

One of the Pixel's biggest strengths is motion capture, or the ability to take a crisp photograph of an object in motion. This is why I've long recommended it as the best phone for parents and pet owners. But Honor's latest AI-based software improvements are equally good at understanding what the phone is taking a picture of, ensuring your photo looks incredible every time.

I took the Honor 200 Pro, Google Pixel 8 Pro, and Google Pixel 8a to Dave & Buster's for a fun day out to capture the excitement of the moment while playing games. The Honor 200 Pro matches the motion capture quality of the Google Pixel 8 Pro and even the Honor Magic 6 Pro, which is impressive given the price gaps between these products.

The Honor 200 Pro's motion capture is right up to par with the Google Pixel 8 Pro and handily beats the Pixel 8a. Despite having the same chipset as the Pixel 8 Pro, the Pixel 8a's lesser quality camera sensors mean that it simply doesn't capture motion as well.

The shot of the spinning wheel was taken at the same time by holding the phones side by side, yet the wheel in the Pixel 8a's photo is blurry, while the Honor 200 Pro is completely crisp.

In the second series of photos, the boy playing air hockey was captured perfectly by both the Honor 200 Pro and Google Pixel 8 Pro, freezing the moment in crisp clarity on each phone. But the Honor 200 Pro's photo is significantly crisper all around, delivering better fine details and less noise.

In fact, the more you zoom in, the better things look for Honor. The Honor 200 Pro's photos look like they were captured from a phone with a substantially larger sensor. Dare I say it, like a DSLR.

Even during the day, the difference between the Honor 200 Pro and the Pixel 8a is almost comical. The Honor 200 Pro is around $100 more expensive, but it's clearly worth the money if you value motion capture quality in a smartphone camera.

I took pictures side-by-side of my rabbit with the Pixel 8 Pro, Honor 200 Pro, and Pixel 8a, and the results speak for themselves. Photos with the Pixel 8 Pro came out crisper than the Pixel 8a but still not as sharp as the Honor 200 Pro.

Likewise, taking pictures of my son playing on a Quest 3 was nice and sharp on an Honor 200 Pro, while they remained soft on the Pixel 8 phones tested. The Pixel still does a better job at capturing motion than most phones I test, but Honor's motion capture is on an entirely different level, regardless of how bright or dim the surrounding lighting is.

Portrait mode

Honor specifically advertises that the Honor 200 Pro features the best portrait mode you'll find on any phone, so let's put that to the test. As previously mentioned, Honor partnered with the famous French photography company Studio Harcourt Paris for the release of the Honor 200 Pro.

This partnership enables a trio of new portrait mode options, including Harcourt Vibrant, Harcourt Color, and Harcourt Classic. Classic is a black & white-only mode, while the other two options provide different levels of color and post-processing changes. Here's a quick illustration of the difference between the modes:

The benefit of having these modes built into the camera is that you don't have to edit them later. Harcourt Color is a classic color portrait style from Studio Harcourt Paris including vignetting and a specific color palette. Vibrant is a more "modern" portrait look without the vignette and with punchier colors, while black & white evokes the classic 1933 original style of Studio Harcourt Paris.

But Honor isn't just touting superfluous style that could be added with Instagram filters. It's also touting the quality of the photo, including fine details and the portrait "cut-out," as well. It's clear how clean and natural-looking Honor's portrait mode is when compared to both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro.

While all three phones did a good job of capturing the moment, the Honor 200 Pro sports better fine details, particularly in the bokeh effect cut-out that separates the foreground from the background.

Google's method is still super messy and has lots of errors along the edges of the person identified in the photo. Zoom into any of the photos, and you'll see exactly what I mean. Honor takes the cake here, and there's not much of a contest, either.

Ironically, given Google's penchant for getting skin tones right, I found that my own skin tone was often incorrect when using the portrait mode on either the Pixel 8a or Pixel 8 Pro. This extends to the front-facing camera, as well, which you can see below.

Not only did both Pixels regularly get my skin tone (and overall color balance) wrong, but they also don't do as good a job at separating the foreground from the background as the Honor 200 Pro. Just as we saw from the rear camera, the Honor 200 Pro's cutout bokeh effect looks more natural and doesn't exhibit the weird fringing edges, particularly around my face, that the Pixel has trouble with.

Plus, the Honor 200 Pro's front-facing camera is just plain sharper than either Pixel 8a or Pixel 8 Pro. Ironically enough, I thought the Pixel 8a's front-facing camera photos looked nicer overall than the Pixel 8 Pro, particularly when it comes to sharpness and resolution.

Main cameras

The Honor 200 Pro and Google Pixel 8 Pro both feature three rear cameras — one ultrawide, one wide, and one telephoto — while the Pixel 8a only sports an ultrawide and a wide camera. As you might expect, this means the Pixel 8a can't get away with zooming in too far without significant quality reduction.

The Honor 200 Pro features a maximum zoom distance of 50x but that number is mostly nonsense as it uses a similar 2.5x zoom lens that the Honor Magic 6 Pro uses. Meanwhile, the Pixel 8 Pro only allows up to 30x zoom yet sports a 5x zoom lens. Both phones feature a 50MP sensor behind the lens.

The images below give you an example of what to expect from both phones at 10x and beyond. The Pixel 8 Pro will likely win every time beyond 3x zoom.

Likewise, I found that the main and ultrawide cameras on the Honor 200 Pro often have issues with dynamic range. During bright days, the Honor 200 Pro's camera regularly fails to correct for overexposed parts of a photo.

Conversely, in dark lighting conditions, the camera tends to push too hard on the contrast, often crushing black levels in the process compared to the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro.

It's not always bad, though, as the Pixels often brighten up dark photos too much and the final picture doesn't accurately represent the scene as you saw it. If anything, Honor's solution here seems to more accurately represent what the human eye sees in these situations rather than what we expect from a camera. Take that for what you will.

The Honor 200 Pro is also a bit too vibrant for my tastes, especially in darker conditions. The neon-lit lights littering Dave & Busters were hyper-vibrant in the photos above, and even turning to change the default "vibrant" mode to "natural" didn't seem to help much.

But the punchier colors can come in handy in some situations. The incense burner above, for instance, just looks nicer in the Honor 200 Pro's shot because of the enhanced colors.

Software and video

The Honor 200 Pro's camera takes roughly 2 seconds longer to load than the Pixel 8 series' camera software. That could mean the difference between capturing the moment and missing it entirely.

While the launch speed is a bit lacking, Honor's software has a few more features than the Pixels. It sports a full Pro mode that the Pixel 8a is missing, and it also has better video recording capabilities.

The highlights include the ability to record video from multiple cameras at once—useful for reaction videos or other more personal clips, including your face and footage from the main rear camera—and even do a "solo cut," as Honor calls it, which means the phone can generate a single portrait mode video from a landscape video when tapping a subject.

Solo Cut works very well, as you can see from the video above. The wide video on the left side is the original clip, while the portrait video on the right was automatically generated using on-device processing.

I think Honor's intention is to keep this feature for events, like live music or something similar, where you'd record a wider version as the master copy but want a vertical version of a single subject for social media posts.

The downside to Solo cCt is that you have to start recording in this mode from the beginning, and you'll need to tap an identified subject while recording for it to generate the vertical clip. That's a lot of very intentional steps a user has to take and I seriously doubt many people will go through the steps. That's a shame, considering how well it works.

However, video capture quality on the Honor 200 Pro is lacking, particularly with dynamic range. The phone often struggles to get a good light balance even in well-lit scenes, often overcompensating for overexposed or underexposed areas by making the rest of the video too bright or too dark. Neither Pixel phone suffered from this issue.

Conclusion

At $500, the Google Pixel 8a is still a superb choice and an excellent mid-range camera that beats everything in its exact price range. Go up just a little bit in price, however, and you'll find that you can get quite a bit better quality depending on what you're looking for.

The Honor 200 Pro mostly sits somewhere between the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 Pro in terms of quality while offering better motion capture and better portrait mode quality than both phones. It also sports additional video recording modes like dual camera capture which might appeal to certain people.

However, Honor's latest struggles a bit with dynamic range and often overexposed or under exposed elements in areas where neither Pixel 8a or Pixel 8 Pro do. This is also the case with video recording quality which was regularly over or under exposed no matter the lighting conditions.

Honor's more contrast-heavy images better reflect what the human eye sees, though, especially in dark situations. This may be preferable if you're looking for a specific look rather than something more technically impressive, but it comes off as feeling like it needs to be tweaked in a software update.

Still, the Honor 200 Pro's camera regularly pulls out better fine details in shots—especially low-light photos and photos taken with the front-facing camera—than either Pixel phone can. I was also surprised at how poorly the Pixel 8a did capturing motion, something Pixels normally excel at.

In the end, choosing between these cameras mainly revolves around what types of photos or videos you capture as both the Pixel 8 Pro and Honor 200 Pro specialize in different things. As a whole the Pixel 8a is the worst of the bunch but it's also the cheapest phone of the trio.

Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

AT&T deals have been really growing on me lately, namely because the Big Three carrier keeps dropping offers that give you dirt cheap (or even free) devices without requiring a trade-in. As someone who writes about deals every day, that's music to my ears. Case in point: you can buy the brand new Google Pixel 8a for a mere $2.99 per month when you add a qualifying data plan to your AT&T wireless account. As if that wasn't good enough, if you add an additional service line for a smartwatch, you can get the Google Pixel Watch 2 for 100% free. I don't know how AT&T does it, but I'm certainly not complaining. 

• See more of the best Google Pixel 8a deals of the month

✅Recommended if: you're an AT&T customer or ready to switch; you want flagship-quality camera technology and fancy AI features for cheap. 

❌Skip this deal if: you're happy with your current phone plan or can afford to buy the Pixel 8a unlocked; you're looking for a trade-in deal. 

Of course, like most carrier deals, there's a lot of fine print to consider before hopping on board. Like I mentioned above, you'll need to sign up for one of AT&T's qualifying unlimited plans to get the huge discount on the Pixel 8a. These start at $75.99 for one line, although it's worth noting that you can stack discounts (like for multiple lines, AARP members, students, and more) without losing eligibility. Additionally, both new and existing AT&T customers can receive the savings, which is a pretty rare incentive when it comes to mainstream carrier deals. 

All things said and done, if you can meet the fairly flexible eligibility requirements, you'll end up with a sweet midrange device that boasts a gorgeous 120Hz display, loads of software support, and some of the best camera tech found on any Android phone to date — all for the price of a cup of coffee every month. And that's before you even consider the free Google Pixel Watch 2 that you'll get when you add another service line (starting at $10.99 per month).

AT&T deals like this don't come around very often, so if you're interested in the new Google Pixel 8a and ready to make a change to your wireless service, don't miss this opportunity. 

What you need to know

• Google originally said Gemini Nano wouldn't come to the Pixel 8 due to "hardware limitations, but reversed course in March. 
• Now, it is preparing to release Gemini Nano with the June update for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, and it has already appeared in an update to Android AICore.
• Although the company figured out a way to get Gemini Nano on the entire Pixel 8 series, it wasn't a smooth process. 

One thing that became clear at Google I/O is that Google wants to make AI one of Android's main focuses. There are a handful of Android features that are already available on existing phones with cloud processing, and more are coming with Android 15. However, on-device AI processing is the end goal, and Gemini Nano is the key. Moving crucial AI processes on-device can improve speed and security, among other benefits. That's why the Google Pixel 8 Pro and the entire Samsung Galaxy S24 shipped with at least a few on-device AI features. 

Google caused a stir when it explained that the Pixel 8 would not get Gemini Nano, the company's smallest AI model designed for mobile use. At the time, it said that there were "hardware limitations" that prevented the Pixel 8 from running Gemini Nano well. Since both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are powered by the Tensor G3 system-on-a-chip, that may have been perplexing to some. It also came on the heels of Google touting a seven-year software update promise for the Pixel 8 series. 

Eventually, Google reversed course, saying in March that Gemini Nano would come to the Pixel 8 as an opt-in feature. That's now right around the corner as Google prepares the June update for Pixels. This update could come as soon as next week and will bring Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a. However, ahead of this move, Google is updating Android AICore to add a toggle specifically for generative AI features on Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a. 

Originally, the AICore settings page for Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a had an option called Enable AICore Persistent, which allows "AICore to carve out memory and run persistently." This has been replaced by a new toggle, as one user running version 0.release.pixel8.636144055 of AICore told Mishaal Rahman. The updated toggle is Enable on-device GenAI Features, and will "enable GenAI features that will run through AICore, using Gemini."

The toggle is disabled by default, and this aligns with Google's prior comments that Gemini Nano would come to the remaining Pixel 8 devices as an optional setting. Although this AICore setting doesn't specifically mention Gemini Nano, it's a huge sign that the model is being readied for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a, as promised. Right now, it isn't clear whether the Enable on-device GenAI Features toggle is showing up for Pixel 8a users as well or if it's limited to the Pixel 8 for now. 

While it's great that Google seems to have figured out how to support Gemini Nano throughout the entire Pixel 8 series, the rocky road that led us here might foreshadow more troubles as smartphones age. 

Why didn't Google give Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a at launch?

Google didn't specifically elaborate on what "hardware limitation" prevented the Pixel 8 from running Gemini Nano, but it isn't hard to figure out the issue. Both the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro use the Tensor G3 SoC for processing, and the main hardware difference is the amount of RAM. The Pixel 8 Pro has 12GB of RAM, while the regular Pixel 8 (and later the budget Pixel 8a) only has 8GB. Since artificial intelligence features demand a lot of memory, this is likely the reason Google was wary of giving Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8. 

However, the base-model Galaxy S24 also has 8GB of RAM, and it still has on-device AI features. One of those is Magic Compose in Google Messages, which uses the Galaxy S24's on-device compute. Of course, the Galaxy S24 uses a different SoC, but it's still an example of a base-model flagship being able to make use of the latest AI features. Now that the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a are getting Gemini Nano, it'll make those phones more equivalent to the Pixel 8 Pro in AI performance. 

What it means for the future of Pixel 8 series updates

It's difficult to completely fault Google for the delay in bringing Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8. If the phone wasn't able to use Gemini Nano without inhibiting performance, letting these devices have it anyway would create a worse experience. Giving users the choice of whether to use Gemini Nano or not following the June update is the best of both scenarios. 

However, the drawn-out process of bringing Gemini Nano to the Pixel 8 once again brings up the central question of this year's launch: why would Google promise seven years of updates? Gemini Nano is the smallest Gemini model ever created, and it'll likely remain the smallest Gemini model forever. AI models are becoming bigger — not smaller — and it's almost a certainty that the next iteration of Gemini Nano will be larger. If the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a could barely run Gemini Nano, the hopes of these devices running newer AI models and gaining future on-device features seem slim.

That's the problem with the seven-year promise for software updates, especially on the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8. The viability of using a phone for seven years and still getting a great experience the entire way is still pretty unproven on Android. You could make the case that the Pixel 8 didn't get the entire experience in year one, so that doesn't bode well for what year seven might look like.

Looking for a decent, affordable phone that still boasts premium features? It sounds like a unicorn-type scenario, but thankfully, many manufacturers are coming out with solid devices for affordable prices that look, feel, and operate like more expensive variants, with a few concessions, of course. Among these are the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 and Google Pixel 8a. Both are relatively new entries in the company’s respective lines that won’t break the bank but will provide a pretty fabulous experience.

So how do they compare to each other, and which one is right for you? We’re here to help.

Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: Design and basics

First, let’s see how these two phones compare in terms of design, materials, and basic specs.

The Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 comes in Caramel Latte or Scarlet Wave and boasts a massive 6.7-inch 2,400 x 1,080 FHD+ pOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. However, it taps out at 1,200 nits peak brightness. In his review, Derrek Lee says the phone is “incredibly vibrant,” even when used in Natural color mode (there are also Radiant and Vivid color modes). He does, however, find that the panel offers a bit too much contrast, sometimes resulting in darker parts of images and videos being a little too dark. 

Covered in 2.5D glass with vegan leather (read: plastic) body, it has an IP52 water-repellent design, which means it isn’t quite as durable as the Google Pixel 8a. But with a protective case and some caution, you should be fine with light sprays in the rain: just no accidental dunks! Lee says the phone does a great job overall, not only in terms of its design but also performance, to “emulate the flagship experience while retaining its low price tag.” 

With standard 256GB built-in storage (or 128GB on certain models), this phone offers a rarity with devices of late: a microSD card slot so you can expand storage up to 2TB. If you plan to take lots of photos and videos and download apps, this could sway your decision. It runs Android 14 with a promise of only one major software update and three years of security updates. This could be the deciding factor between these two phones, especially when you consider how long Google supports its Pixels in comparison. 

Battery life is a crucial feature, and this phone has a sizeable 5,000mAh battery that affords up to 40 hours per charge. Plus, it supports 30W TurboPower charging (double that of last year’s model) and 15W wireless charging with a separately purchased charger (it works with any Qi-enabled wireless charger). There are also a few settings options for conserving battery life that are worth exploring if you find you need more in a pinch. 

In terms of other basics specs, you get dual stereo speakers with support for Dolby Atmos, a nice inclusion given that this is a mid-level priced phone; two mics, FM radio, and yes, it even has a 3.5mm headphone jack, so you can connect your old pair of wired earbuds or headphones. There’s also an in-display fingerprint sensor, a nice departure from the usual side-mounted sensor in other Motorola phones, along with face unlock. 

Of course, let’s not forget the phone's standout feature, which is noted in its name: the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 comes with a built-in stylus so you can perform certain tasks with more precision and give your finger a break. It’s thicker than previous-gen models but functions much the same. Lee says he doesn’t use the stylus enough to consider it a make-or-break feature. It’s a nice-to-have but not a need-to-have feature.

By comparison, the Google Pixel 8a is the new budget option in the Pixel line, with similar features to the more expensive Pixel 8 but with a lower price tag. It has a smaller 6.1-inch Actua OLED display with the same 2,400 x 1,080 resolution and 120Hz along with 1,400 nits brightness in HDR and up to 2,000 nits peak brightness, so you can confidently use it outdoors without worrying you won’t be able to see the screen. 

The screen is made of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 with a fingerprint-resistant coating, so you’ll find it more durable than the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024. This is also thanks to the higher IP67 water and dust-resistance rating. 

Made of matte composite with a matte aluminum frame, it comes in Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay (a first for an A-series phone), and the limited-edition Aloe finish. Nicholas Sutrich says in his initial Pixel 8a review that the phone is comfortable to hold and quite simply “looks nice” with its rounded corners. In fact, he says it’s his new favorite design of all the latest Pixel phones. 

The Google Pixel 8a also comes with either 128GB or 256GB storage, but the differentiator here is that you can’t add more via microSD card since there’s no expansion slot. You do get a trial for Google One cloud storage, though this is only temporary unless you’re willing to pay to continue to subscription once the free trial period is over. 

Running Android 14 as well, Google future-proofs your purchase by offering a whopping seven years of OS and security updates along with a consistent stream of Feature Drops. So, from the perspective of longevity, there’s more confidence that this phone won’t be outdated in a few years than the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024. Plus, the Pixel 8a will hold its value should you decide to upgrade and want to trade it in or resell it down the line. 

The battery is slightly smaller at 4,492mAh, and it is rated to last for more than a day as well. An Extreme Battery Saver mode can extend life up to 72 hours when in a pinch. It, too, supports both fast and wireless charging. 

Along with face and fingerprint unlock, you get stereo speakers with two mics and noise suppression but no Spatial Audio. There’s no headphone jack, so keep that in mind: for personal listening, you will need a pair of wireless headphones or a Type-C USB adapter.

Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: Specifications

Before diving into the operation and cameras, let’s take an at-a-glance look at the specs.

There are some notable differences between these two phones, but let’s dive deeper.

Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Power and processing

When it comes down to it, it’s what’s on the inside that counts, right? And both these phones have great specs to delight casual users. 

As noted, the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 runs on Android 14 out of the box. It also has a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, which isn’t the most powerful (it’s the same chip that was in the Moto G Stylus 5G 2023), but it will keep up with basic tasks like web surfing, streaming videos, and music, and even gaming. 

This pairs with the 8GB RAM, up from 6GB in last year’s model. This is expandable up to 16GB using the RAM Boost feature, which uses the phone’s internal storage as virtual memory when needed. The trade-off is you have less storage when you’re using it. Lee doesn’t see a point in using it and hasn’t run into issues with gaming leveraging the 8GB RAM and Snapdragon processor alone. It’s quite impressive in this respect. 

With Google being so heavily involved in AI technology, it’s no surprise that even its entry-level device gets plenty of AI features. You will not see anything of the sort with the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 beyond being able to access the Gemini app from the device and do cool things like create AI wallpapers. But it has some unique features of its own, typically relating to use of the built-in stylus. 

There’s Moto Note app, for example, for jotting down notes without having to unlock the phone. There’s also a cool feature that lets you make a drawing with the stylus and add an effect, then turn it into an animated illustration. But that’s pretty much all you find when it comes to frills in this phone. 

However, you do get secure protection through ThinkShield for mobile. Additionally, Ready For integration is upgraded to Smart Connect, so you can easily connect the phone to a PC or external display to mirror contents, use it as a second screen, move files, share peripherals, and more.

Also loaded with Android 14 (but, as noted, plenty of software and security support far beyond that), the Google Pixel 8a is powered by the Google Tensor G3 chip, the same as its bigger siblings. It offers 8GB RAM, enough to meet most users’ needs for a mid-range phone. 

Like its bigger sisters, the Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, the Google Pixel 8a has lots of AI features, including Circle to Search (search for images by circling them right from the app you’re in), the Gemini built-in AI assistant, Pixel Call Assist, Call Screen, Direct My Call, Hold for Me, Clear Calling, and other features. A fun new feature called Audio Emoji lets you create your own soundtrack audio effects during a call, like applause or laughing. 

As with other Pixel devices, the Google Pixel 8a is protected with plenty of security, including VPN by Google One, the Tensor security core, Titan M2 security chip, and anti-malware and phishing protection. With Family Link, you can manage privacy settings for kids and do things like establish screen time limits and share location. 

While it’s considered the “budget” option in the line, the Pixel 8a’s features and price suggest more mid-range. Sutrich says this phone reflects Google’s “best mid-range hardware yet, further blurring the line between the company’s flagship ‘premium’ offerings and this mid-range winner.” He singles out the thermal management as well, noting that the Pixel 8a performs better than even the Pixel 8 Pro in benchmarks, making it a good phone for intense activities like gaming, too.

Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: The cameras

How do the cameras in these two phones two stack up against one another? 

The Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 has a 50MP ultra-pixel main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) combined with a 13MP ultra-wide rear camera with macro vision. The front camera is a favorable 32MP for taking fabulous selfies and group shots, recording videos, and more. 

It has all the expected shooting modes, including portrait, pro (using a long exposure), panorama, night vision, live photo filters, and more. The cameras also have some AI features, including Google Auto Enhance, Auto Smile Capture, Google Lens, Shot Optimization, and Auto Night Vision. 

You can also do basic things like take burst shots, use a timer, assistive grid, add a watermark, shoot in RAW mode, scan barcodes, and more. 

Lee says the cameras do a “pretty good job,” producing images that are sharp, detailed, and vibrant with decent dynamic range. “The images won’t blow you away,” he says, “but they’re perfectly usable.” The phone also does a respectable job with low-light shots, resulting in images with not a lot of noise.

Comparatively, the Google Pixel 8a has a larger 64MP quad PD wide camera with Super Res Zoom up to 8x. It has a 13MP ultra-wide camera as well, but the front camera matches that at only 13MP, a significant drop compared to the higher-res front camera in the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024. It isn’t all about resolution, of course. The Google Pixel 8a’s front camera, for example, has an ultra-wide field-of-view, so you might be able to get more people or more of a background in your shots. 

Google’s bevy of AI features translate to the cameras in the Google Pixel 8a as well. Enjoy features like Magic Editor for repositioning and resizing objects as well as using preset backgrounds, Best Take for choosing the best facial expressions for each person in a photo to get the best one, Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, Real Tone, Face Unblur, Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and more. With Audio Magic Eraser for videos, you can even remove distracting background noises. 

Sutrich says the Pixel 8a’s cameras produce results almost identical to that of the Pixel 7a, both taking fabulous photos given their price. With good high contrast, color-accurate images, and solid performance when capturing subjects in motion (like pets or kids), you won’t run into any major issues with the cameras in this phone.

Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 vs. Google Pixel 8a: Which should you buy?

There are compelling reasons to buy both phones when looking at the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 and Google Pixel 8a. The Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 has the option for expanding storage, increasing RAM, Dolby Atmos support, and a headphone jack. Of course, there’s also the built-in stylus and all the fun and useful things you can do with it. You could also theoretically use a stylus with the Google Pixel 8a, but you’d have to buy one separately, and the experience wouldn’t be as seamless without the apps designed specifically for one. 

But overall, the Google Pixel 8a stands out for superior specs in many respects. From the Gemini AI integration to the more durable design, additional color options, and higher peak brightness, it won’t disappoint. Also, consider that it’s a smaller phone. If you prefer that, the Pixel 8a will be more suitable. If you’re looking for a phone with a larger screen, you might find yourself considering the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 instead. 

The biggest factor that could influence your decision between these two phones is the seven years of software and security support that Google offers. If you’re the type who buys a phone and hangs onto it for years, you’ll appreciate that the Pixel 8a won’t be outdated in two to three years. This will also be appreciated by those who are saving to upgrade. You can resell the Google Pixel 8a for a pretty penny to put towards a new one, even three, four, five, or more years down the line. 

By contrast, with Motorola only offering one major software update and three years of security updates, this phone will get really old really quickly. Thus, the Moto G Stylus 5G 2024 is more of an in-between phone while you save up for a year or two to buy something bigger and better or a phone you get on a contract that includes a trade-in upgrade in two to three years. 

Both these phones are great options for a killer price. If your budget is about $400 and you want to see what else is out there in this price range, check out our picks for the best Android phones under $400, including other models from both brands. If you’re willing to spend a bit more, the best Android phones under $500 include the Google Pixel 8a, along with other options from brands like Samsung, Nothing, and OnePlus. Once you have saved up or your needs change and you’re ready to upgrade to something more premium, the best Android phones don’t always have to be expensive ones, as our picks suggest.

The Google Pixel 8a is the most feature-rich mid-range Pixel phone yet, sporting the same great AI features and Tensor G3 processor as the more expensive Pixel 8. In a nutshell, that means there are a ton of amazing features that you've got to check out.

But which ones should you try first? We've got a list of all the first things you need to do with your Google Pixel 8a to get the best experience. From Audio Magic Eraser to VPN, Google's AI-based call screening, or even car crash detection, Pixels do so much more than you probably realized. There's a reason the Pixel A-series sits atop our list of best cheap Android phones!

Call screening

Everyone hates spam calls and robo calls, two things that seem to only get worse, not better. Thankfully, your Pixel has a built-in AI-driven feature that can identify spam calls and automatically filter them. That means Google Assistant can actually be your personal assistant, including asking callers why they've called and helping them leave a message if it is actually important.

Here's how to enable that.

1. Open the Phone app.
2. Tap the three dots on the top right and tap Settings.
3. Select Caller ID & spam from the list.
4. Click the toggle next to caller and spam ID to enable the feature.

While Google Assistant will automatically filter calls that have been deemed spam, there are times when you might want to manually filter them yourself even if it's not a spam call.

When a call comes in, you can tap the Screen call button between the "answer" and "decline" buttons. That'll have Google Assistant pick up for you and walk the caller through leaving a message. That's particularly good for when you're busy but don't want to miss a call from a friend, family member, or colleague.

Erase photo bombers

Mager Eraser does exactly what it says on the tin. The tool lets you "magically erase" anything you want in an image with just a tap or by circling it. Using the tool is easy, and it's free to use for all Pixel phone owners. Everyone else will need a Google One subscription to use it.

Our guide for how to use Magic Eraser gives you all the details, but here's a quick overview:

1. Open the Photos app and find a photo you want to edit.
2. Tap the Edit button on the bottom row of icons.
3. Scroll over to Tools and tap on Magic Eraser.
4. Tap or circle any object you want to erase in a photo.
5. When you're done, tap Done, then Save a copy.

Make any photo look better

Magic Editor launched with the Pixel 8 series in October 2023 and brought AI photo editing to the small screen. With Magic Editor, you can move and resize objects in a photo, fill in missing details, and even change how the sky looks to enhance any image.

The tool has seemingly unlimited potential that's mostly constrained to your imagination, although it's not expressly designed to be an AI image generation tool. Rather, it's designed to fix up photos and make them look the way you originally envisioned them.

1. Open the Photos app and find a photo you want to edit.
2. Tap the Edit button on the bottom row of icons.
3. Tap the multicolored icon on the bottom left to launch Magic Editor.
4. Tap or circle any object you want to chose, then long-press and slide to move it, or pinch to enlarge or shrink it.
5. To change the look of the sky, tap the magic wand icon at the bottom of the screen and choose your preferred look from the list.
6. When you're done, tap Done, then Save a copy.

Clean up noisy audio

Audio Magic Eraser is Google's first "magic" feature for videos, and it works by analyzing the sounds in a video and using AI to split them into channels. From here, you can adjust the volume of each channel in a way that truly feels magical, helping remove unwanted background noise or other distractions.

Better yet, you can use the feature on any video, not just ones you've recorded with your Pixel 8a. That means you can go back through all your old footage of your kids or family and take out traffic noises in family vacation videos, increase the volume of your kids voices to make them clearer, or even take out that distracting music playing in the background.

Here's an idea of what it can do and how to do it yourself:

1. Open the Photos app and find a video you want to edit.
2. Tap the Edit button on the bottom row of icons.
3. Select the Audio tab at the bottom, then tap Audio Magic Eraser.
4. After all the sounds are identified, they will appear as separate soundtracks with clear labels on the bottom, such as Nature or Noise.
5. Tap the sound you want to edit, then move the slider to adjust the volume of that sound.
6. When you're done, tap Done, then Save a copy.

Get it done faster with gestures

Like other Pixel phones before it, the Pixel 8a supports a number of gestures that can make common actions as simple as turning your phone over or double-tapping the back instead of searching through menus or opening apps.

I love the Tap to check phone gesture, which makes it easy to check your lockscreen notifications by just double-tapping the display. That's super handy for when the phone is on a table and you just want a quick glance.

I also love the Quick tap to start actions gesture, which lets you double-tap on the back of the phone to launch any app, or choose from a number of actions to launch instead.

To find these and all the gestures on the phone, follow these steps:

1. Open the Settings app or just swipe down twice on the phone's status bar, then click the settings icon.
2. Scroll down to and tap System.
3. Select Gestures from the list.

Let AI make your wallpaper better

Pixel AI-generated wallpapers are extremely cool and they offer a way to get a unique background for your phone based on a wide variety of options. Google lets you pick from several different themes and then assign colors, patterns, and other context-sensitive options for each theme to have AI create the perfect wallpaper.

1. Long-press on an empty area of your home screen.
2. Tap Wallpaper & style.
3. Tap More wallpapers.
4. Tap the AI wallpapers tile at the top.
5. Have fun experimenting with all the different types and options!

And that's not all AI wallpaper can do! You can take existing flat images and add some magical depth and movement to them with just a few seconds of processing time. This feature is called Cinematic Wallpaper and will automatically animate existing images with the power of AI.

This feature works best on images that have multiple visual layers, like a landscape scene or a more complex image that the AI can break into movable segments. Here's an example below and how to enable the feature:

1. Long-press on any blank space on your home screen and tap Wallpaper and style.
2. Tap More wallpapers.
3. Choose a photo that you have on your phone. Cinematic wallpaper won't work with most built-in wallpaper options.
4. Tap the three stars icon in the top right to analyze the image.
5. Download the Cinematic Wallpaper feature if this is your first time trying the option.
6. Once the image has been analyzed, click the slider to enable the cinematic version of your wallpaper, then hit Set wallpaper to apply.

Automatically identify music

Have you ever heard a song playing in a public place and wondered what it was? You can always open Google Assistant and have it identify a song, but I've had plenty of times where I wasn't fast enough and missed my opportunity. That's what makes Pixel's Now Playing feature so great!

Now Playing automatically identifies any music it hears all the time and will give you a quick way to find that song without needing to open an app and wait for it to listen. Plus, Now Playing has a song history list that makes it easy to scroll back and listen through any songs that might have been playing around you recently, making it super easy to identify what you've heard throughout the day.

Here's how to enable Now Playing:

1. Open your Settings app.
2. Go to Sound & Vibration.
3. Tap Now Playing.
4. Toggle Identify songs playing nearby on.

Now, when you hear a song playing and you want to identify it, all you need to do is look at your lockscreen. The song playing will appear at the bottom of the screen below the fingerprint sensor icon. If you want to find that song on your favorite music service, just tap the song name, unlock your phone, and Now Playing will give you several options for listening.

If you want to check on your Now Playing history, here's how to find all the songs your phone has recently heard:

1. Open your Settings app.
2. Go to Sound & Vibration.
3. Tap Now Playing.
4. Tap Now Playing history.
5. Find your song in the list.

Get help in an emergency

Google Pixel phones were the first phones to be able to detect car crashes and have been offering the option since 2019. This is a no-cost service that uses your phone's sensors to detect a potential car crash, then can automatically call emergency services if the need arises.

You'll need to accept a number of permissions in order to use the feature, however, so just be aware that the list of required permissions is quite lengthy. Here's how to enable car crash detection:

1. Open your Settings app.
2. Go to Safety & emergency.
3. Tap Car crash detection.
4. Sign in to Google Personal Safety with your Google account.
5. Accept any permissions required to use the Personal Safety app.
6. Click the banner up top for location permission, then select Allow all the time for location access.
7. Scroll down to the Actions if you need help after a crash section and enable any actions you want your phone to perform in the event of detecting a car crash.

Fancy up your lock screen

Do you find yourself checking your lock screen for notifications or the time throughout the day? Getting bored of the way it looks? Thankfully, the Pixel 8 series introduced brand new lock screen customization features, and they're very easy to use!

To customize your lock screen, just long-press on any blank space on the lock screen and then tap the Customize lock screen button at the bottom of the screen.

From here, you can change the font, color, size, and style of the clock, select a different wallpaper for your home and lock screen, and modify the two shortcuts in the bottom corners.

A word of note: some lock screen customizations are only visible when you have no notifications, so you may want to disable lock screen notifications if this bothers you. That can be done in the lock screen customization options.

Enable VPN by Google One

Every Pixel ships with a free VPN service by Google. While it used to be available to all Google One subscribers, the company has since rescinded the offer, making it a totally Pixel-exclusive feature. That means your Pixel's internet traffic can be secure no matter if you're using sketchy Wi-Fi at a cafe or even the spotty Wi-Fi on an airplane.

Google's VPN service isn't as full-featured as the best VPNs, so there's no way to change your location or customize other features, but it still keeps your internet traffic encrypted and secure. Plus, you can't beat free! Here's how to enable Pixel VPN:

1. Open your Settings app.
2. Tap Network & internet.
3. Tap VPN.
4. Select VPN by Google One from the list.
5. Click the toggle next to Use VPN to enable the feature.
6. You can also toggle VPN by Google One in the quick toggles area of your notification shade. Just pull down twice on the status bar at the top of the display.

Turn on Live Captions

Live Captions are a wonderful feature, particularly for folks who are deaf or hard of hearing. Live Captions enable an automated captioning service to present captions on your phone no matter what video you're watching or what audio you might be listening to.

Thanks to Google's impressive machine learning technologies, Live Captions isn't restricted on a per-app basis. That means you can even get Live Captions on phone calls, which could be a real game-changer for some folks! Here's how to enable Live Captions on a Pixel 8a:

1. Click one of the volume buttons on the right side of your Pixel to bring up the volume adjustment panel.
2. Tap the Live Captions button below the volume slider.
3. Accept the permission prompt if this is your first time enabling the feature.
4. To disable Live Captions, repeat steps one and two.

Track coughing and snoring

Sleep tracking can be a wonderful thing, especially if you're having trouble feeling like you're tired in the morning. Some of the worst sleep problems occur when people cough or snore in their sleep, and your Pixel 8a can help detect those exact problems when you enable this pivotal Digital Wellbeing feature.

Here's how to enable cough and snore detection on your Pixel 8a:

1. Open your Settings app.
2. Scroll down to and tap Digital Wellbeing & parental controls.
3. Select Continue on the Cough & snore detection dialog up top.
4. Tap Allow to give the phone access to your microphone during your regularly scheduled bedtime.
5. Make sure you either manually select Bedtime mode when sleeping or schedule it through the Digital Wellbeing settings panel.

The Google Pixel 8a is a wonderful phone filled with fantastic features that will change the way you use a smartphone, but they're no good unless you know how to use them. We hope this guide has been helpful and you get even more use out of your Pixel 8a because of it!

A comparison between Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 6a is necessary when two generations have passed. You want to know if the latest mid-range Pixel is worth the upgrade and the cash. Every new model offers something that the previous model doesn't, even more so with a two-model gap.

Both Android phones have a few specs in common, but the Pixel 8a has more to offer than the Pixel 6a. You may have skipped last year's model because there wasn't much of a difference, but that's not the case with these Pixels since the Tensor 3 processor brings some new features to the table. Let's see what the newer model offers and discover how much of a difference there is between them.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 6a: Design

In some cases, you can tell which Android phone is a Pixel and which is not by looking at the design. Even though these are two Pixel phones and keep the general aesthetic, you can still tell them apart by looking at the design. 

For example, the Pixel 8a has more rounded corners on the chassis, leaving behind that square look. In the Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 6a comparison, you'll also see you have more colors to choose from. The Google Pixel 8a comes in Aloe (Green), Bay (Blue), Obsidian (Black), and Porcelain (White). The Pixel 8a comes with a matte-textured rear, which is a great anti-smudge addition.

The Pixel 6a, on the other hand, has sharper edges, giving it that square look. You get one less color option with the older mid-range model since you can only choose from three: Black, White, and lighter green. Or like Google likes to call them Charcoal, Chalk, and Sage. Both phones share an IP67 rating and Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 6a: Display

Both Pixel phones share a 6.1-inch display with a 1080 x 2400 resolution, Now
Playing, HDR support, 20:9 aspect ratio, Full 24-bit depth for 16 million colors, Always-on, Refresh rate, and brightness. For instance, the Pixel 8a wins when it comes to its 120Hz adaptive (60Hz out of the box) refresh rate and 2,000 nits peak, thanks to the Actua display that the Pixel 8 also features. Both models may have Corning Gorilla Glass three, but the one on the Pixel 8a is scratch-resistant, while it's not on the older model.

The Google Pixel 6a lags with a 60Hz refresh rate and features 778 nits for brightness, making it a little more difficult to see outdoors. Don't let the 60Hz refresh rate make you discard this phone since, in his review of the Pixel 6a, Nicholas Sutrich mentions that this refresh rate is smoother than on other displays with the same refresh rate.    

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 6a: Hardware

Regarding the chipset, the Google Pixel 8a is the winner with a Tensor G3. It's not the fastest on the market but will give users more processing power. Both Pixel phones have almost the same battery size, the 8a having a 4410mAh battery and the 6a having a 4492mAh one. Our Nicholas Sutrich mentions in his review that the battery life is not very impressive when you must always put the display at 100% brightness. But if you use the Pixel 8a at a 60Hz refresh rate and auto-brightness, you can get more out of the battery. 

The camera you saw on the Pixel 7a makes a comeback in the 8a, with a 64MP primary camera and a 13MP selfie camera to capture all the fun. Both Pixel 8a and 6a phones share Stereo speakers and two microphones. The Pixel 8a has wireless charging, a feature you won't find on the 6a, but it will be on the slow side with 7.5W. Both phones share a USB Type-C port.

With the Google Pixel 6a, you get a chipset two generations behind with a Tensor G1. The battery on the 6a isn't all that bad since it can last all day and maybe not even dip below 30%, as Nicholas Sutrich said in his review of the older Pixel model. The peak brightness on the 6a is not as high as the latest model, coming in at 778 nits.

The Pixel 6a has two 12MP rear cameras, one main and the other ultrawide. However, it only has an 8MP camera for selfies.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 6a: Software

While both Pixel phones have AI features, since the Pixel 8a has a more powerful processor, it's clear that you'll get more on the Pixel 8a. For example, the latest mid-range Pixel model features Best Take, Magic Editor, Circle to Search, Gemini Nano, Live Translate, and Audio Magic eraser. Other helpful features let you screen calls, Photo Unblu, and navigate phone trees. 

There is a vast difference in the years users will get system and security updates. For example, the 8a gets seven years of system and security updates, and it does ship with Android 14 out of the box. And since Pixels always get the updates first, you'll enjoy the stable version of Android 15 when it becomes available later this year.

The Pixel 6a still has some AI features up its sleeve, such as the Magic Eraser tool and Live Translate. However, when it comes to updates, the 6a only gets three years of OS updates and five years of security updates. So, 6a fans could get the latest update, which brings the Android 15 version. 

The Pixel 6a shipped with Android 12 but can be upgraded to Android 14. Unfortunately, it looks like Android 15 will be the last upgrade it gets. So, upgrading is a must if you want to keep getting OS and security updates for many more years.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 6a: Who wins?

The Google Pixel 8a is a clear upgrade from the 6a, but what matters most to you will determine whether you upgrade or not. If you stay with the older model, you're only looking at one more system update before it's stuck at that version, but you get seven more years with the latest mid-range model.

The Pixel 8a also gives you more AI features to play with and more powerful cameras. If you only use your phones for basic things and you're not a heavy user, the Pixel 6a will do just fine. But since most of us use them for everything these days, the upgrade looks very tempting.

Google's latest device has been out for less than 24 hours, but Mint Mobile has wasted no time in dropping one of the best Pixel 8a deals yet. Pick up the phone alongside any six-month plan at Mint and the T-Mobile-owned carrier with hook you up with a $100 discount AND six additional months of coverage for completely free. 

In other words, you could be getting an entire year of wireless service on Mint's Unlimited plan plus the brand-new Google Pixel 8a for just $579 upfront (or $25 per month when you pay with Affirm over 24 months). Not too shabby for a phone that literally just hit store shelves yesterday. 

This is just the latest in a series of Mint Mobile deals that have been slashing prices on Google phones, but given the newness of the Pixel 8a, it feels particularly exciting. After all, Mint is one of our all-time favorite MVNO carriers and the Pixel 8a is sure to rank among the best cheap Android phones released this year, so it's really a win-win all around. That said, I wouldn't be surprised if the deal disappeared as swiftly as it arrived, so act fast if you're eligible.

The new Pixel 8a continues the legacy of Google's A series by packing a bounty of innovative camera technology and flagship-level specs into an affordable sub-$500 device. You get the same Tensor G3 chipset that powers the Pixel 8 Pro, plus a gorgeous 120Hz display, seven years of OS updates, and of course, all of those innovative AI features that were detailed during Google I/O 2024.

The only real catch is that this offer is only available to new Mint Mobile customers. If you're an existing member or you prefer to buy your phones unlocked, there are plenty of other Google Pixel 8a deals that are worth checking out. 

With a Gorilla Glass display and an IP67 rating, the Google Pixel 8a is built to withstand the occasional tumble. Still, I'd recommend being extra careful with one of the best Pixel 8a cases, just in case (no pun intended). 

The Google Pixel 8a vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE mid-range battle is here. After comparing the specifications of both phones, you may get a clearer picture of which phone is right for you. The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE has been out for a while, but it still wins in some areas compared to the new Pixel 8a.

Both Android phones have a lot to offer, but what matters most to you will determine which one you go with. For example, some users will only consider a phone if the camera specifications are good, while others care more about the software. Pixel phones get the latest Google features first, but is that a solid reason to get the Pixel 8a? We'll give you a detailed comparison to see where each phone loses and wins, and which is best for your tech needs.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE: Design

You can identify which phone is which by looking at the design. The Google Pixel 8a stands out because the aluminum camera bar runs along the back and has more rounded corners than the previous model, giving it a more elegant look. With this new design, the Pixel 8a looks practically identical to the Pixel 8. The Google Pixel 8a is available in Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, and Porcelain. It also has a matte finish on the back that matches the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro style.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE has three camera modules in the upper left-hand corner without the border that the S21 FE has. It is available in Mint, Purple, Cream, Graphite, Indigo, and Tangerine finishes. Unlike past models, the back of the phone has a glass finish. You also get lovely silver accents in the form of separate camera rings. The aluminum frames have a matte finish and are 30 grams heavier than the previous model, and the bezels are a little thick.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE: Display

The Google Pixel 8a has an improved display this time, but the size is still the same, with a 6.1-inch panel. You can also count on a 120hz OLED panel with a 1080 x 2400 resolution and a middle-hole punch cutout for the selfie camera.

The display has an optical fingerprint reader and has been bumped to the same Actua display featured on the Pixel 8. The Pixel 8a's peak brightness is 40% higher than the previous model at 2,000 nits in HDR mode. The layer of Gorilla Glass 3 for protection isn't as good as its Galaxy competitor. You enjoy features like an Always-on mode and widgets like At A Glance and Now Playing on the lock screen.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 1080 x 2340 resolution that offers decent sharpness and color accuracy. It also has a 120Hz refresh rate (60Hz when idling) and Gorilla Glass 5, not Victus, like the previous model. The Galaxy S23 FE supports HDR10+ video content, and the brightness is better in this model than the S21 FE. The Galaxy S23 FE isn't as bright as its Pixel 8a competitor, with a peak brightness of 1,450 nits.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE: Hardware

How long can the Google Pixel 8a last in terms of battery life? With a 4,492mAh battery that supports 18W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging, the Pixel can last a day. You can stretch that to as long as 72 hours on the extreme battery-saver mode. It has a slightly inferior battery than the Samsung Galaxy S23 FE but a better Tensor G3 chip than last year's flagships. The cores are new, and they have improved performance. There is no information on the thermal management at this point. It also has a USB Type-C 3.2 port.

There is no change regarding RAM, you still get the same 8GB memory from last year. You also get UFS 3.1 storage instead of the faster UFS 4.0 storage, which is a shame. The Pixel 8a offers two storage options: 128GB and 256GB, the latter being a first for the Pixel A series. The Pixel 8a shares the exact RAM and storage capacity as its Galaxy S23 FE competitor.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE has a 4,500mAh battery that supports 25W wired and 15W wireless charging. Unfortunately, battery life is middling with about half a day's worth of usage resulting from a single charge. The phone has a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 processor that is slightly less powerful than its Pixel competitor. The Samsung model sold outside the United States has an Exynos 2200 processor. Both the Pixel 8a and the Galaxy S23 FE feature stereo speakers.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE: Software

Google promises seven years of software and security updates with the Pixel 8a and Android 14 out of the box, so you're sure to get monthly Feature Drops as well as major OS upgrades for quite a while. With this mid-range Pixel, you get a lot of the smart AI features you would see on the Pixel 8. You get Call Assist, Pixel VPN, Magic Eraser Audio, Speech-to-Text, and Gemini.

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE comes with Android 13 based on One UI 5.1 but can be upgraded to Android 14 based on One UI 6.1 right away. However, this model doesn't offer as many updates, as Samsung promises only four years of system updates and five security updates. You also get the same AI experience you would on higher-end models (when updated to One UI 6.1), such as DeX support, Photo Remaster which fixes blurry pictures, and the Summarize feature which gives a summary of long articles when using the Samsung browser.

This model also includes Interpreter Mode, which is very helpful whenever you need something translated. Other included features are Circle to Search, Auto format, Correct spelling, and Translate in Samsung Notes.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Samsung Galaxy S23 FE: Which should you buy?

The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE is available now for a starting price of $599, and the Google Pixel 8a starts at $499 in the US. The Pixel 8a is cheaper and has fun AI features you won't find on the Galaxy S23 FE, so if you're a selfie enthusiast and always want the latest system updates, the Pixel 8a might sound more appealing.

But if you've always wanted to have the AI features you would see on Samsung's higher-end Galaxy S models like the Galaxy S24 Ultra, and want to flaunt a more elegant-looking phone, then the S23 FE could be your choice. In the end, it always comes down to your preferences and budget.

This is Android Central's News Weekly, your go-to source for a concise roundup of the week's most significant tech stories. This is where we delve into the top headlines that provide the latest developments and innovations contributing to the digital landscape. 

This week, the Pixel 8a steals the show, YouTube gets a funky new AI feature, the Moto G 5g stylus launches, the Pixel devices get a new round of updates,  and Prime Video users are in for more ads.

Pixel 8a is here with more than a few upgrades

Read more here.

Google's budget-friendly Pixel 8a just dropped, and if you're looking for a device with all the new AI features packed in it at a reasonable price, this might be the device for you. 

The Pixel 8a has a 6.1-inch Full HD+ OLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. It runs on the same Tensor G3 chip as the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, including features like the improved Magic Eraser, Zoom Enhance, Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser, and more. The device also has a Titan M2 security chip and a built-in VPN for extra security.

For the first time, the Pixel 8a offers a 256GB storage option along with 8GB of RAM. It also comes in two new colorways, Aloe (which is a limited edition) and Bay, alongside the usual Obsidian and Porcelain options.

With an aluminum camera bar, the Pixel 8a has a 64MP main camera, a new 13MP ultrawide camera, and a 13MP front-facing selfie camera. That helps users shoot 4K videos, with 60fps for the rear cameras and 30fps for selfies.

The Pixel 8a comes at a starting price of $499. In Canada and India, its retail price starts at $679 CAD and ₹52,999, respectively. There are also already some good Pixel 8a preorder deals you can take advantage of.

Youtube tests an AI feature that actually helps

Read more here.

Much like the skip intro option on most streaming platforms, YouTube is also testing "jump ahead," an AI-assisted feature that will automatically skip to the best or most important parts of YouTube videos for YouTube Premium subscribers. 

It analyzes watch data from real users using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to find the most-watched sections. Essentially, it's like skimming through the video instead of manually skipping through slower parts. 

YouTube's algorithm will pick these key points in a video, and you can skip them. Or, if you're in the middle of watching a video, you can "jump ahead" to the closest key point in a YouTube video. 

This option likely won't work for every YouTube video, as it is currently being tested. It could be based on how many views a video gets— because  YouTube needs a large enough viewer sample size to identify those key points. While these are some things we speculate, it is to be seen how YouTube will roll out this feature in the future. 

Hello again, Moto

Read more here.

Earlier this week, Motorola launched its mid-range Moto G Stylus 5G 2024, which, at first glance, has an upgraded design, an improvised stylus, and multitasking capabilities. The catch—Motorola claims the device can get enough power "for the day" in just thirty minutes.

Moto G Stylus furthers its capabilities with a 6.7-inch pOLED display that rocks a 120Hz refresh rate. Motorola adds that the Full HD+ resolution makes the display feel brighter, sharper, and clearer. Moreover, the company is touting the phone's multitasking abilities, stating users can take notes while binge-watching a show.

Stylus comes with a larger contact area and improved software, which enhances the pen's mobility for a smoother experience. Motorola has implemented a new UI when using stylus-specific features. Additionally, users can add an array of "favorite apps" for the pen that will appear when it's taken out.

The phone comes with a Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chip and Android 14 out of the box. Like last year's edition, the 2024 G Stylus 5G boasts a vertical dual-camera array. It contains a 50MP primary lens, a 13MP ultrawide camera, and a 32MP centered selfie camera.

The device has a 5,000mAh battery with 30W TurboPower wired charging and 15W when charged wirelessly. It hits shelves on May 30 for $399 in Scarlet Wave and Caramel Latte. On the same date as U.S. consumers, Canadians can grab the phone for $499 CAD.

Pixel devices get their May update patches

Read more here and here.

The Pixel 8a was all the rage this week, but the other Pixel devices didn't feel left out since Google rolled out a new update for all Android 14 devices. 

Google announced the update rollout to Pixel devices running Android 14, including Pixel 5a and above. The update brings bug fixes and improvements for Pixel users with it. The improvements can be seen in the stability or performance of Bluetooth LE audio for eligible Pixel devices, including the Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro users are said to get a new bug fix that will hopefully resolve their video recording vows. 

On the same day, all Pixel Watch models running Wear OS 4 began receiving the May security patch, which will be rolled out through the week. Unlike last month's patch, which has interesting features like watch vibration, the May 2024 patch really just includes security fixes. Details of the update weren't disclosed due to security reasons and we'd have to wait until the update is deployed to really get into it.

To install the May 2024 security update on your Pixel Watch, open the Settings app on your device and navigate to System > System Updates

Prime Video users are in for ad(ded) interruptions

Read more here.

Streaming on Prime Video will get a bit annoying as Amazon announced that it will add three new interactive and shoppable ad formats to its streaming platform on living room devices.

The company said that Prime Video will now receive an expanded suite of interactive ad formats, including remote-enabled capabilities for living room devices that go a step ahead of the usual QR code that pops up in an ad.

Brands will now be able to showcase shoppable carousel ads during ad breaks in Prime Video shows and movies. Ad will also appear when a video is paused— interactive pause and brand trivia ads in Prime Video TV shows, movies, and live sports. 

Many people find ads on streaming platforms frustrating, and paying an additional $2.99 on top of their Prime Video or Amazon Prime subscription isn't something that everyone willingly does to get rid of ads. Instead, viewers painfully wait for the 15-30 sec ads to get done. Imagine another layer of interactive ads to steer your attention away.

Those are some of the biggest stories from this week. Meanwhile, here are some other stories that are worth catching up on:

• Google's Find My Device Network rolls out for more people and devices
• Early leak indicates the OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R look distinct in design
• Wear OS is pulling an Apple by introducing 'School Time' for kids
• Circle to Search sort of makes its way to iPhones, with a Chrome version spotted
• New Chrome feature might give users more agency over active and inactive tabs
• Google Messages finally sees voice moods feature in action for RCS chats
• TikTok is suing the US government to stop a law that bans the app
• Fossil's Wear OS exit shows the platform is both better and less competitive than ever
• The Motorola Razr Plus 2024 just leaked again
• Samsung's next flagship phones might get a battery-boosting AI feature

Google has announced the Pixel 8a, and on paper, it looks like we have a new budget phone king to crown. That's nothing new, as Google's Pixel "a" series of phones has always been of great value, but this year, Google has stepped things up a notch.

You're basically getting a Pixel 8 disguised as a "budget" phone, saving you $200. I love to see it. Unless something catastrophic happens once it gets into people's hands, this one will be the phone to buy if you're looking for something really good and don't want to spend too much.

It makes you wonder how Google can afford to do this. Year after year, Google sells an A-series Pixel phone that offers exceptional value compared to anything else out there. However, like Samsung's Fan Edition models, there have always been compromises. Early Pixel A phones were slippery plastic with underpowered chips inside that performed OK but didn't pack flagship hardware. 

I'm sure the Pixel 8a is missing something important to someone, but a glance at the hardware tells me that small differences in the cameras, a lack of Wi-Fi 7, and a different version of Gorilla Glass are the biggest changes from the Pixel 8. You still get all the fancy Gemini and camera software AI tricks, the same services, and the same connectivity options.

Google isn't losing money doing this. While it's more expensive outside of the U.S., the Pixel 8a can still be a money-maker at just $499 because it does the most important thing for Google's business — gets a good phone in your hands and in front of your eyeballs.

Google is more than a hardware company. I'd say it isn't much of a hardware company at all and only does it to get devices into as many hands as possible. Google is also an advertising company, a software company, and a services company. That's why it sells hardware in the first place.

Some companies, like Apple or Samsung, also provide software services, but the bulk of their business is hardware sales. 

Both have tried to sell a "flagship-budget" phone and had some level of success before drifting away from the idea. Samsung can make more money selling great midrange phones that are more than good enough for almost everyone, and Apple manages to make most of the money despite having only 20% of the worldwide market because it's streamlined the manufacturing process — there's a lot of profit made from a single iPhone.

This is what works for Apple and Samsung, and both are very successful. Google doesn't make any money from selling phones or tablets. It makes money from people who use phones or tablets, no matter which brand people are buying from. If you use the internet, Google will probably make money from it.

The Pixel 8a is also a vehicle for Google's software and subscription services. If you have a phone with a good camera, you'll use it more and might be tempted by Google's cloud offerings. If your phone is fast and has a great screen, you'll watch more YouTube and might buy YouTube Premium. When your phone is better at playing games, you might spend money on Google Play.

All of this applies to any of the best Android phones like the Galaxy S24. It also applies to people using an iPhone. Here's a shocker though — most people aren't buying $1,000 phones. Getting a phone that feels like a $1,000 phone into more hands means more people will be tempted to go all-in with Google's software because it's there and it works.

It's tough to find a new phone that isn't good enough. Even the cheapest Android phones are pretty amazing compared to how things were a few years ago. Google can afford to sell the Pixel 8a without much per-unit profit because getting a great phone in more hands is more important.

I think the Pixel 8a is Google's real flagship phone.

What you need to know

• Mishaal Rahman's new findings indicate that Pixel 8a also supports display output.
• While the mid-range phone's hardware supports the feature, it is locked with a software flag.
• The upcoming June update will likely open up the functionality on the Pixel 8a alongside the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro models.

We just witnessed the launch of Google's new mid-range handset, Pixel 8a, a few days ago. Mishaal Rahman's latest finding now hints at a possible new feature buried somewhere in the Pixel 8a handset.

Just like the Pixel 8 series from last year, the Pixel 8a can support display output through a USB Type-C port, notes Rahman via Android Authority. While the hardware is definitely capable, Google needs to enable it software-wise, which is likely to happen with an update sometime in June.

Google previously took a similar approach with its flagship Pixel 8 series, which is built on a Tensor G3 chip and features a USB controller that supports the DisplayPort Alternate Mode signal.

The search giant disabled it during the launch, and some workarounds, such as rooting the Pixel 8 Pro, helped the device connect to an external monitor. However, with the release of Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2, Google enabled DP Alt mode that allowed Pixel 8 devices to connect to external displays.

And since the latest Pixel 8a is also built on the likes of its flagship siblings, including Tensor G3 and several other internal components, including the USB controller, the mid-range handset also supports the external display via its USB Type-C port.

Rahman further notes that there is a system property dubbed persist.vendor.usb.displayport.enabled, which is set for 0, meaning the DisplayPort Alternate Mode is disabled. However, the Android 14 QPR3 Beta 2 release set it to 1, enabling the DP Alt mode.

While the current builds are Android 14 QPR2-based (with May security patches), the mode is still disabled even for the Pixel 8 series running the current stable builds. The upcoming June update, which is underway, will be based on Android 14 QPR3; thus, we could see the DisplayPort Alternate Mode in action on the Pixel 8 series and the latest Pixel 8a.

On the other hand, Android 15 is on its way, and recent reports have indicated that Google is already working on a desktop mode overhaul. This will likely better handle multiple windows when devices are connected to external displays. We could also see apps in full-screen mode with a navigation bar-style tab at the top—tapping it further would give people full-screen, split-screen, and freeform mode.

With Google I/O 2024 just around the corner, we expect to see more details about the feature at the Android 15 announcement. It is encouraging to see Google attempting to take on Samsung's Dex by introducing new features and support to Pixel phones for the desktop mode.

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

We're used to having three shades of every Google phone usually. This time around, there is one more hue available right out of the gate. Not only does it signify that Google has a lot of faith in the Pixel 8a, but it also makes it more fun to decide what color Pixel 8a you should buy.

You may or may not have expected to see either blue or green, but the good news is that we get both colors. Then there's the basic black and white colorways to consider too. Let's take a look at all the colors of the Pixel 8a.

The Pixel 8a comes in four colors

• Back to the top ^

Picking a color and what you need to know

There's one key piece of information to know before settling on a single Google Pixel 8a colorway to buy. The phone comes in two memory variants, 128GB and 256GB. Unfortunately, only one shade comes with 256GB and there's no microSD slot. This means that anyone who wants more than 128GB of storage will have to purchase the Pixel 8a in Obsidian.

If you're happy with 128GB, there's nothing to worry about. You can choose any of the four hues of the Pixel 8a without worries. For people who prefer muted hues, Obsidian and Porcelain are going to be satisfactory. On the other hand, those who like to make a statement will favor brighter hues like Aloe and Bay. Both the green and blue are cheerful colors. Opt for something that aligns with your personal tastes.

Once you've ordered the color that pleases you, you better move on to crucial accessories for your new Google device. A screen protector is essential, so be sure to grab a sturdy screen guard for your Pixel 8a. After that, consider getting one of the best Pixel 8a cases to protect the rest of the device from everyday wear and tear.

Wait! This is what you need to know before exposing your Pixel to water

Since the Google Pixel 8a is not waterproof for hours on end, it's best to use a waterproof Pixel 8a case to protect it from water damage if you take it for a swim longer than 30 minutes. But if you don't have a case yet, be cautious of how much water lands on your Pixel since an IP67 rating (given by the International Electrotechnical Commission) will protect it if caught in light rain or you splash water from the faucet on it. However, the protection rating doesn't include corrosive liquids such as sugary or soft drinks. If you drop in the snow or the toilet, your phone should be fine.

Never take your Pixel 8a when showering with hot water, and try to avoid highly chlorinated pools or seawater since the IP rating was conducted in a lab and done with fresh water. But if you want to snap a quick picture underwater while swimming, it should be fine. The Pixel 8a has the same protection as its predecessor, the Pixel 7a, but with other apparent upgrades in the specification list.

The rating always consists of two numbers, the first referring to protection against solids and the second to liquids. The lowest rating for each one is a zero, which indicates no protection, and an X indicates the manufacturer has not provided a rating. But remember that the IP rating can degrade over time as your phone is exposed to impacts, wear and tear, and various temperature changes.

The Pixel 8a is only a hair short of its bigger sibling in terms of protection, the Pixel 8 Pro, which has an IP68 rating and high protection against dust and water. While the IP68 rating is a high one, it doesn't make the device waterproof for long periods of submersion, but it allows it to be submerged more than a meter and is more protected against the effects of continuous immersion in water.

The Pixel 8a's IP rating doesn't mean it will perform well in high-moisture environments. There is no similarity between humidity tolerance and IP rating, so if you're going to be in an area with a high humidity level, it would be best to use a waterproof case to be on the safe side. With an IP rating, there is no confusion as to how much water the device can withstand, and it is more precise than words such as water-resistant and waterproof.

The Pixel 8a may not have the same rating as the Pixel 8 or 8 Pro, but it has various similar specifications, especially when compared to its smaller flagship sibling. For example, both Pixels have a 120Hz refresh rate and a 2400 x 1080 resolution. Both phones reach 1,400 nits for HDR or 2,000 nits for peak brightness, and they share the same 1-million-to-1 contrast ratio along with 16 million colors. Another great addition to the Pixel 8a is the Tensor G3 chipset and the fact that it gets seven years of system updates up to Android 21.

Google's latest midrange masterpiece hits store shelves on May 14th, but Best Buy is already out here with one of the best Pixel 8a preorder deals imaginable. Grab the unlocked phone through the retailer's site and you'll get a $100 Best Buy gift card straight away, no strings attached. Activate the phone today and you'll score an additional $100 discount, plus there's up to $499 of trade-in credit available when you send Best Buy an old or broken device. In other words, meet the eligibility requirements and Best Buy might give you the Google Pixel 8a for free AND throw in a $100 gift card for good measure. 

We haven't dropped our official Google Pixel 8a review just yet, but first impressions suggest that the device will easily rank among the best cheap Android phones released this year. 

Starting at just $499 for the 128GB model, the phone boasts the same outstanding Tensor G3 chipset that powers the Google Pixel 8 Pro at half the price, plus you get an upgraded 120Hz AMOLED display and more battery life than any A series Pixel phone to date. The Google Pixel 8a also comes with seven years of OS upgrades and the same camera tech that made its predecessor such a winning model.

Of course, Best Buy isn't the only retailer offering great Google Pixel 8a deals, but this particular offer is notable for the sheer amount of free stuff you can receive. Instead of offering just trade-in credit or just a free gift card, Best Buy is allowing customers to stack the promos and earn some seriously impressive savings if they're able to meet all of the eligibility requirements. At bare minimum, you're getting a free $100 gift card when you buy the phone unlocked, which might be reason enough to choose Best Buy for your Pixel 8a needs.   

Once your Pixel 8a preorder is complete, don't forget to reserve some great protection with one of the best Google Pixel 8a cases and/or screen protectors. 

If the Google Pixel series is famous for anything in particular, it's the camera. But just behind that ranks the immense value presented by Google's own smartphones, which often debut at lower prices than the competition yet offer more updates in the long run.

The Google Pixel 8a was just announced, and it's the crown jewel of value for the company, delivering what looks to be the best Pixel A-series experience yet. The hardware appears to be nearly identical to the Google Pixel 8, yet the Pixel 8a is $200 cheaper. It certainly makes me wonder why anyone would bother buying the more expensive Pixel 8 at this point.

But is the Pixel 8a the right phone for you? Let's start by taking a look at the specs compared to last year's Pixel 7a to see if it makes sense for you to order a Pixel 8a today.

Based on specs alone, the Pixel 8a is a fairly menial upgrade over the Pixel 7a. You get the Tensor G3, a processor that's a year newer and runs quite a bit cooler than the Tensor G2 in the Pixel 7a. If you have a Pixel 7a, it doesn't make any sense to upgrade to a Pixel 8a, though. There's just not enough change to warrant the cost.

Google also upgraded the display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1,400 nits of brightness, although we're not yet sure if they improved the PWM rate as Samsung did with some of its 2024 phones. Comparatively, the Pixel 7a has a 90Hz display capable of 1,000 nits of brightness and has a 360Hz PWM rate at all brightness levels.

Despite increasing the battery by a little over 100mAh, Google managed to decrease the weight by just over 5 grams. This minor battery size increase, coupled with the slightly more efficient Tensor G3, gives us hope that the battery life might see some improvements.

Google also swapped out the nasty shiny back of the Pixel 7a with a "matte composite back" and aluminum frame on the Pixel 8a. That shiny fingerprint magnet back on the 7a was easily the most annoying part of the phone's design, so it's great to see that directly addressed this year.

However, the most exciting upgrade might just be the inclusion of Gemini Nano. This makes the Pixel 8a the only phone under $500 to come with Gemini Nano, a big shift from last Fall when Google reserved its upgraded AI assistant and shipped it only with its most expensive phone, the Pixel 8 Pro.

That means the Pixel 8a has all the AI features Google advertises as important for its most expensive Pixel phones, including Best Take, Magic Editor, Audio Magic Eraser, Real Tone in video, Guided Frame on both the front and rear cameras, Circle to Search, Call Assist, and more.

Plus, by the end of this year, owning a Pixel phone will be the only way to get the free VPN by Google One feature. The best VPN services for Android all offer better features than Google's VPN, but you have to pay extra for those services, obviously.

Considering that most phones in this price range don't have any of these features adds even more value to the Pixel 8a. Plus, all of these upgrades come without raising the price of the base model — as long as you're in the U.S. at least.

However, some regions, like Canada, are seeing a price increase with this year's Pixel 8a release. Considering that Pixel 7a deals will often get you that phone for $350 or less, it would be much harder to recommend the 8a in these regions.

Last year, Google raised the price of its Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro by $100 to offset the company offering seven years of support in addition to a bevy of other improvements, including better hardware build quality.

While it's not unreasonable for Google to raise prices for better products, last year's Pixel 7a already received a price increase in all regions, not just a select few. Being selected as a region to receive increased prices certainly doesn't feel very nice.

And there's really no ignoring the myriad of problems Google has had with Pixel phones and updates over the years. Google's Tensor line of processors are incredible for many reasons but they have a tendency to run hotter than processors from Qualcomm or MediaTek.

Just search Google for Pixel overheating, and you'll find a slew of articles and forum posts over the years talking about this issue. Tensor G3 runs cooler, but the processor didn't improve performance much compared to the Tensor G2 in order to keep it from running hot regularly.

Google also seems to have a QA problem with some of its updates. Back in October, Pixel 6 owners ran into a crucial storage bug that made it nearly impossible to use the phone until a fix was issued. A nearly identical bug reared its ugly head earlier this year and affected nearly all Pixels, not just the Pixel 6, leaving some users with a useless phone until a patch was issued over a week later.

Plus, we've seen updates cause awful battery drain issues, cellular connectivity issues, and overheating issues, just to point out a few problems that have amassed over the years.

The silver lining? Almost none of these issues seem to have affected the Pixel A-series of phones. In the past, that's because Google changed some key hardware components between a mainline Pixel phone like the Pixel 7 and the budget-minded A-series of that generation — in this example, the Pixel 7a.

According to our sources, however, Google has apparently used the Pixel 8's hardware as a base for this phone, meaning it could be susceptible to any update mistakes that might cause problems for the mainline Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro.

But while these things hold a bit of a cloud over the launch, I still feel more confident than buying a Pixel 8a than a mainline series Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro, mainly because the A-series has long skirted the issues mainline Pixels have faced. Plus, there's just something satisfying in knowing that you got features once reserved for more expensive phones at a fraction of the price.

Wireless charging is supported, but it's not fast

The Google Pixel 8a needs to cut some corners somewhere to be cheaper than the base Pixel 8, and one of those places is with wireless charging. In comparison, Google includes fast wireless charging on its Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro phones, while the Pixel 8a sticks to a fairly slow 7.5W Qi speed. With a large 4492mAh, you shouldn’t expect to top up your battery in a hurry using wireless charging, but it should be great for topping up at work or in bed.

If you’re in a hurry, you can get up to 18W charging using a cable USB-C charger. Google only includes the cable, so you’ll need to pick up a Qi-compatible charger to get that full speed, however. While you can use an older 5W wireless charger, you’ll need the right charging pad to get the full 7.5W. 

Don’t forget you’ll also need a USB-C charger for your wireless pad that supports these higher speeds, so if you’re trying to make your aging 5W travel adapter last, you’re giving up some speed. Having a high-speed USB-C charger is also a help if you’re in a hurry.

If wireless charging speed is really important to you, the upgrade to the Pixel 8 could be worth the money. The Pixel 8 supports faster 18W wireless charging, while the Pixel 8 Pro supports up to 23W. Even the older Pixel 7 supports 20W wireless charging, so you’ve got a few options if you really need the extra speed.

The Pixel 8a is shaping up to be an incredible value with the Tensor G3 SoC with 8GB of RAM and an excellent display, but the charging speeds aren’t going to impress anyone. Luckily, Google is expecting over 24 hours of battery life for average users, so most people shouldn’t need to worry about finding a charger before the end of the day.

If you’re a heavy user and don’t want to risk running out of battery, you can grab a high-capacity power bank, some of which even work with wireless charging. Overall, the Pixel 8a’s wireless charging capabilities are far from impressive but are decent considering the budget price.

Budget charging speeds on a budget phone

The Google Pixel 8a, like Google’s previous budget options, offers most of the performance of the flagship phone with a few cutbacks. One of the cutbacks is charging speed which offers the same speeds as the outgoing Pixel 7a. Despite this, for a budget-oriented phone, the Pixel 8a charges decently fast.

Using the included USB-C cable and a PD 3.0-compatible charger, such as one of the best USB-C chargers, you can charge the Pixel 8a at up to 18W. Even so, in our Pixel 7a review, we noted that it would take well over an hour to fully charge the phone and that phone has a slightly smaller battery than the 8a.

The phone also supports wireless charging at up to 7.5W if you’ve got the right Qi-compatible charger. The wireless charging on this phone won’t be quick and is really only sufficient for keeping your battery topped up during the day or charging the battery overnight while you sleep. Otherwise, you may find yourself waiting hours to see 100% at the top of the phone.

If you think you’ll need some more juice before you get home for the night, it’s a good idea to pick up one of the best power banks to make sure you’ve always got some battery capacity at the ready. You’ll also want to pick up a fast USB-C charger to make sure you get the full 18W charging speed since Google doesn’t include one in the box.

Comparing the Pixel 8a to the Pixel 7a, there have been some nice tech updates, but charging isn’t one of them. It would have been nice to see Google offer faster charging speeds on this mid-range device, especially considering many Samsung Galaxy A-series and OnePlus phones support much faster charging. Even the cheap Galaxy A15 5G supports 25W wired charging.

As for the other Pixels you can pick up, the older Pixel 7 and 7 Pro phones aren’t that much faster at 20W and 23W respectively. If you can afford the upgrade, the Pixel 8 supports 27W charging while the Pixel 8 Pro supports up to 30W wired charging. If you’re a heavy user and think you’ll need to top up your phone midday, choosing a more expensive Pixel could be worth it for you.

Why updates matter with the Google Pixel 8a

The Google Pixel 8a, the latest budget entry in the Google Pixel line, joins the Google Pixel 8 and Google Pixel 8 Pro. Like its bigger siblings, it promises seven years of OS and security updates as well as Feature Drops. This means the phone will be “current” until 2031. 

Loaded with Android 14 out of the box, it offers the same OS as the other two phones in the line that launched last year. Like the others, Feature Drops are included, and this assurance means you will be able to load and enjoy new features on the phone for the same length of time. Google launches Feature Drops consistently, several times per year, so the phone will always provide a fresh, new experience. 

The Google Pixel 8a, which will likely rank among the best cheap Android phones, is about as powerful as the Pixel 8, although not so much the Pixel 8 Pro with its 12GB of RAM. Still, it’s a decent phone that users will want to keep for years. With that said, if you do decide to upgrade, the option to resell or trade-in the device, or even hand it down to a friend or family member, helps extend the investment and add value. With so many years of support, the phone will retain more of its value than a device that only supports a few years of OS and/or security updates, for example, and is considered outdated by the time you’re ready to upgrade. 

You could purchase the Google Pixel 8a, for example, use it for a few years, then hand it over to a family member. Upgrade to something more powerful if you decide you need something else or if you have saved up for a higher-end phone. Parents will especially love the lengthy support since you can confidently invest in this phone for one child and hand it down to the next when they come of age without worrying that it won’t be supported by the latest OS or, more importantly, security updates. 

It should be noted that Google offers a shorter software promise with its older, recent Pixel phones and devices, which only span three OS upgrades and five years of updates, making this is an important selling point for the Pixel 8a. Keep the phone protected in a great Pixel 8a case, add a screen protector, and this phone will not only look but also operate like new for many years to come.

The best Google Pixel 8a screen protectors don't cost much, but they work around the clock to keep your phone's shiny display safe. The smallest of bumps could result in ugly scratches, and that's the last thing you want to look at. Nicks and abrasions can distort the display output, but a decent screen protector can prevent issues like this very easily.

I recommend grabbing at least a two-pack of screen protectors. That way, you'll have a spare for emergencies. Some Pixel 8a screen protectors come with easy-install kits and frames, so you can achieve a flawless application at home.

Keep that gloss intact with the best screen protection for your Pixel 8a

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It doesn't cost much to get the best Google Pixel 8a screen protection

Much like the excellent pricing of the Pixel 8a, its accessories also give you bang for your buck. None of the best Google Pixel 8a screen protectors cost more than $10, and these are all multipacks we're talking about. This gives you spares for emergencies or to share with family and friends.

Before buying a Pixel 8a screen protector, make up your mind about whether you want something made of glass or plastic. Plastic refers to TPU and PET films, which can be surprisingly reliable. They don't offer better shatter-proofing than tempered glass, but plastic films can self-heal from minor scratches and they are much thinner so you get better touch sensitivity.

When it comes to tempered glass screen guards for the Pixel 8a, you have an insanely wide array of options. The JETech Screen Protector 3-Pack is the best overall pick in this category at the moment. You get high-grade tempered glass screen protectors with oleophobic properties. This means each of the three screen protectors in the box repels liquids and solids, so they stay squeaky clean. JETech also gives you an installation frame, so you can easily apply the screen guards by yourself at home without misaligning them or getting air bubbles.

If you prefer flexible films that can heal small scrapes and abrasions, Supershieldz has a budget-friendly three-pack of PET films you should check out. Films are super thin so they offer higher touch response as opposed to tempered glass. This set is case-friendly too, so you don't have to worry about compatibility issues with your Pixel 8a case.

The Pixel 8a series phone, introduced in May 2024, is a doozy. This value-packed device makes you question whether you really need a thousand-dollar flagship at all. Naturally, this means that should you buy a Pixel 8a, you'll need the best Google Pixel 8a cases to keep it in good shape.

A good phone cover with raised edges can prevent cracks. It also improves the resale value of your device by keeping the body free of scratches and nicks. On top of that, the best Pixel 8a cases also bring added functionality like a kickstand or MagSafe support.

These Pixel 8a cases are slim, trim, and full of vigor

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Get the best gear for your Google Pixel 8a

Boasting a 6.1-inch display, the Google Pixel 8a is a small device. As such, you don't want to destroy the beauty of a small and lightweight phone by bulking it up with a fat cover. This doesn't mean you need to forgo protection because luckily, the best Pixel 8a cases come in sleek sizes.

Our favorite case for the Pixel 8a is — unsurprisingly — the Spigen Liquid Air. This wonderfully thin case for the Pixel 8a is drop-proof, affordable, extremely lightweight, and stylish all at once. Raised edges thwart direct contact with surfaces in the event of a fall and Spigen's Air Cushion technology improves shock absorption while minimizing damage. I just wish there were more than two dark colors from which to choose.

If you want something flashier, try the Poetic Guardian MagPro Case for the Google Pixel 8a. This bumper cover touts military-grade drop-proofing, which is incredible. This is achieved by adding a built-in screen protector and raising the edges by a good amount. What's fun about this Pixel 8a case is that it is see-through, so you can admire your phone's paint job, and it has a MagSafe ring on the back. This enables you to use any of the best MagSafe accessories for Android phones with your Pixel 8a.

Google's latest midrange masterpiece was finally announced this morning, and Verizon has wasted no time in dropping one of the best Google Pixel 8a deals we've seen yet. Preorder the Pixel 8a ahead of its May 14th release date and you'll get the phone for free when you add a line with an eligible unlimited plan. No trade-in is required, and I'm not just talking about Verizon's most expensive plan options here either: the Unlimited Welcome, Unlimited Plus, AND Unlimited Ultra plans are all eligible for the promotion. 

This Verizon deal makes the most sense if you're already a customer or you're interested in making the switch. If you prefer to buy your phones unlocked, however, there are already several other Google Pixel 8a preorder deals that might be worth checking out (with plenty more on the way). 

Either way, you'll be getting one of the best cheap Android phones expected to hit store shelves in 2024, coming complete with a gorgeous 120Hz display, some flagship-quality camera tech, and the same Tensor G3 processor that's behind the flagship Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The Google Pixel 8a also features a bigger battery than its predecessor, and you'll be guaranteed to receive seven years of OS upgrades.

Like we mentioned above, the Google Pixel 8a is slated for release on May 14th, the same day as Google I/O 2024. The 128GB version will retail for $499 in the United States, while the larger 256GB storage configuration will set you back $599. 

• Phone deals: Best Buy | Walmart | Samsung | Amazon | Verizon | AT&T

Comparing the Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8 requires diving deep into Google's tech specs for both phones. Intentionally designed to be quite similar to the Pixel 8, the Google Pixel 8a shares common traits like its Tensor G3 chip, 120Hz FHD display, and seven years of OS updates. Both phones even look very similar on the surface.

Launching at $499, the Pixel 8a is similar enough to the Pixel 8 ($699) that you're probably wondering where the price difference comes in. Many of the differences are minor, but you might decide that you can't live without specific Pixel 8 upgrades like its auto-focusing ultrawide camera or faster charging.

Both phones have come down in price since they launched, but which one is the better value for you?

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Design

• The Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 share a similar design, with subtle differences between the two.
• The Pixel 8a has a plastic back with a matte finish, while the Pixel 8 has a glass back with a glossy finish.
• Both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 come in four colors, but only share Obsidian between the two.
• The Pixel 8a is less durable than the Pixel 8, with an IP67 rating versus an IP68.

Despite its slightly smaller display, the 6.1-inch Pixel 8a is one gram heavier and about 1.5mm taller and wider than the 6.2-inch Pixel 8. You'll notice aluminum bezels along the 8a's front, while the Pixel 8 is thinner along the edge. That being said, you won't notice a difference holding them, especially once you add a case.

Both Pixels use recycled aluminum for the camera bar and side frame, but the Pixel 8a has a matte composite back (a.k.a plastic), while the Pixel 8 has a glossy glass back with Gorilla Glass Victus protection. It's a judgment call whether you prefer a matte or gloss look, but most of the AC staff prefer the Pixel 8a's matte look since it's less likely to accentuate fingerprints. Plus, it feels just as premium to hold as the 8.

They share that classic Pixel camera bar aesthetic, with the dual camera sensors aligned to the left cutout and the LED on the right. It gives the Pixel 8a a unique look compared to most budget Android phones.

The Pixel 8 ships in Obsidian, Hazel, Mint, and Rose, while the Pixel 8a has Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Aloe.

One non-aesthetic design difference to note: the Pixel 8a only hits IP67 protection, slightly below the Pixel 8's IP68 protection. Technically, both phones can be submerged in one meter of water for 30 minutes, but the Pixel 8 is more likely to survive at slightly greater depths or longer durations. Don't go swimming with either phone, though.

While both phones have stereo speakers, the Pixel 8 has one extra microphone (3) than the Pixel 8a (2), which could make your voice clearer for phone calls.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Display

• The Pixel 8a features a 6.1-inch OLED display, whereas the Pixel 8 boasts a 6.2-inch display.
• Both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 feature a 120Hz refresh rate and 2,000 nits of peak brightness.
• The Pixel 8a refresh rate only adjusts from 60Hz to 120Hz, while the Pixel 8 LTPO panel ranges from 1Hz to 120Hz.
• Both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 only feature a 240Hz PWM dimming rate.

• The Pixel 8a features a 6.1-inch OLED display, whereas the Pixel 8 boasts a 6.2-inch display.
• Both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 feature a 120Hz refresh rate and 2,000 nits of peak brightness.
• The Pixel 8a refresh rate only adjusts from 60Hz to 120Hz, while the Pixel 8 LTPO panel ranges from 1Hz to 120Hz.
• Both the Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 only feature a 240Hz PWM dimming rate.

Spec-wise, the 6.2-inch Pixel 8 and 6.1-inch Pixel 8a displays are extremely similar, aside from the slight size difference.

They share 'Actua' AMOLED displays with 2400 x 1080 resolution and 120Hz refresh rates (a step up from the Pixel 7a's 90Hz display). They each hit 1,400 nits for HDR or 2,000 nits for peak brightness. Visually, they have the same 1-million-to-1 contrast ratio and 16 million colors. Technically, the Pixel 8a beats the Pixel 8 by two pixels per inch (430 vs. 428), but you won't notice.

Both phones have a flat-edged design — none of the curving you get with the Pixel 8 Pro or other flagships — and an in-display optical fingerprint sensor.

As mentioned before, the Pixel 8 has slightly smaller bezels than the Pixel 8a, which looks more visually appealing. Plus, the Pixel 8a only has Gorilla Glass 3, which is much less durable against cracks and scratches than the Victus on the mainline Pixel 8.

Another difference that you might not notice is the fact that the Pixel 8a does not have an LTPO panel, which means its refresh rate can switch between 60Hz and 120Hz only. The Pixel 8 has LTPO tech, which allows the refresh rate to adjust anywhere from 1Hz to 120Hz, making it more power efficient.

One drawback that both phones have in common is the lowly 240Hz PWM dimming rate, which can cause headaches for PWM-sensitive folks. There's no anti-flicker or flicker-reduction mode either when using the display in low light. This continues to be an issue with even the latest Pixel 9 series.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Hardware and cameras

• The Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 feature the same Tensor G3 chipset with 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of storage.
• The Pixel 8a battery has a capacity of 4,492mAh, slightly smaller than the 4,575mAh capacity of the Pixel 8.
• The Pixel 8a battery charges at a top speed of 18W with a USB-C charger, while the Pixel 8 tops out at 27W.
• The Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 feature dual camera systems: a 64MP primary and 13MP ultrawide lens on the Pixel 8a, and a 50MP primary and 12MP ultrawide lens on the Pixel 8.

Google gave the Pixel 8a the same Tensor G3 chip, 8GB of RAM, and UFS 3.1 storage as the Pixel 8, making their performance identical. In our review, we found that the 8a's overall performance was definitely better than the 7a and even the Pixel 8 Pro in some cases. Google attributes this to a new thermal management system in the 8a, which delays the inevitable throttling as the phone takes longer to hit its thermal limit.

Google's spec sheets list both phones as lasting 24 hours in normal conditions or 72 hours in Extreme Battery Saver mode. Specifically, the Pixel 8 has a typical 4,575mAh capacity or 4,485mAh minimum; the Pixel 8a hits 4,492mAh (typical) or 4,404mAh (minimum). In our parent company's lab test results, the Pixel 8a actually managed an hour extra than the 8 Pro in the controlled battery rundown test, with the display set to 60Hz. With regular use though, the Pixel 8 does have slightly better battery life thanks to the larger capacity and more power-efficient display.

Google lists both phones as having "Fast Charging," but only the Pixel 8 has a guaranteed 50% charge in 30 minutes with 27W speeds. The Pixel 8a is only rated to hit 18W charging. In our 30-minute charging test with a 30W adapter, the Pixel 8a went from empty to just 33%, while the Pixel 8 managed to reach 60%.

As for wireless charging, the Pixel 8a uses 7.5W Qi wireless charging, which is a slight step up from the 7a but no where close to 12W offered by the Pixel 8. If you have a Pixel Stand (2nd Gen) wireless charger, the Pixel 8 is capable of 18W wireless charging.

Most of the key Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8 differences pertain to camera specs and features.

While the Pixel 8a main camera has 64 megapixels to the Pixel 8's 50, the latter has an "Octa PD" system that enables autofocus shots, while the Pixel 8a has a "Quad PD" system. In practice, we found the Pixel 8a's camera to be excellent, with photos exhibiting high contrast and very good color accuracy. It doesn't do as good a job with moving subjects as the 8 though. Both main sensors have 8X Super Res Zoom and optical image stabilization.

Only the Pixel 8's ultrawide camera has autofocus, and it gives you about six extra degrees of width on its shots. Both have the same aperture, but the Pixel 8a has a smaller pixel size.

For the front camera, both phones use a fixed-focus lens. Once again, the Pixel 8a selfie has a higher resolution (13MP) and the same aperture, while the Pixel 8 has a 10.5MP dual PD camera with a larger pixel size. Of the two, only the Pixel 8 can film 4K 60FPS selfie videos, while the Pixel 8a maxes at 30FPS.

Thanks to its Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8a packs just as much AI punch as its more expensive sibling's epic Google AI tricks, including Magic Editor, Best Take, and Audio Magic Eraser. However, Google reserves a couple of tricks for the Pixel 8, like Macro Focus, Macro Focus Video, and Cinematic Blur.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Software and connectivity

• The Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 launched with Android 14.
• The Pixel 8a and Pixel 8 support up to seven years of OS upgrades and software updates.
• The Pixel 8a only supports Wi-Fi 6E, while the Pixel 8 supports Wi-Fi 7.

Whether you buy the Pixel 8 or Pixel 8a, you'll get seven years of software updates and security updates. Both launched with Android 14, which means they'll receive Android 21 in seven years.

It's fair to ask whether the Tensor G3 will hold up for that long, and you can rest assured that neither phone will get whatever new camera tricks come to the Pixel 9. Nevertheless, this longevity is appreciated since it could increase both phones' eventual trade-in value.

Google has also brought Gemini to the Pixel 8a, in addition to popular AI tricks on the mainline Pixels like Circle to Search and Pixel Call Assist. The June Pixel Feature Drop update has brought Gemini Nano AI to the 8a, as promised.

Both phones support most 5G bands, including mmWave, in the United States. If you have a Wi-Fi 7 router, the Pixel 8 is better equipped to take advantage of the extra speed; the Pixel 8a will get the benefits of Wi-Fi 6E routers, at least. Also, the Pixel 8 has dual-band GPS support for better accuracy while using Google Maps, while the Pixel 8a might be more prone to signal blockage.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 8: Which should you buy?

• The Pixel 8a is a stellar choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet powerful Android phone.
• The Pixel 8 is for anyone who wants to take fuller advantage of Google's AI features and connectivity options.
• Anyone considering the Pixel 8a might also want to consider the Pixel 7a, as there are few differences between the two.

The Google Pixel 8a is our current top choice if you want the best cheap Android phone, and is the one we'd recommend over the Pixel 8 to most people. With a price difference of nearly $200, the 8a offers 90-95% of the features of the 8, making it incredible value for money. Plus, in goes toe-to-toe with the Pixel 8 in areas that matter like long-term software support, display quality, processing power, and camera performance.

The Pixel 8 still has the 8a beat in a couple of areas. Maybe you like to go caseless and need extra protection, have a Wi-Fi 7 router, like macro photography, or are really passionate about wireless charging. During sales, the Pixel 8's pricing can go as low as the 8a, in which case, I'd recommend the Pixel 8 blindly.

To put it simply, if you're buying the Pixel 8a just for the cameras and nothing else, we'd suggest getting the Pixel 7a as the performance is nearly identical and you'll also save a lot more. For most users, the Pixel 8a should do just fine and there's no real need to pony up the premium for the 8 (unless they are price-matched during sales).

Now that you know the Google Pixel 8a exists, the decision comes down to the Google Pixel 8a vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro. On the one hand, you save money and still get a new device with the Google Pixel 8a. On the other, you aren’t getting the most premium experience. Which way should you go? We’re here to help with this detailed comparison of the two Pixel phones.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: The look and basics

The Google Pixel 8a is Google’s “budget” entry option in the latest 8 line. Prior to its launch, if you wanted a step down from the Google Pixel 8, your best option would be the Google Pixel 7 or even the Google Pixel 7a. This device offers upgraded specs compared to those phones while still keeping the price down for a current device. 

The Google Pixel 8a has a 6.1-inch Actua OLED display that boasts 1,080 x 2,400 resolution and up to 120Hz refresh rate. You get a decent up to 1,400 nits brightness in HDR or up to 2,000 nits peak brightness, which is great for viewing outdoors. It isn’t quite as bright and beautiful as the screen on the Google Pixel 8 Pro, but Google says it’s 40 percent brighter than the Pixel 7a screen. 

The always-on screen is covered with Corning Gorilla Glass 3 with a fingerprint-resistant coating, and it’s made from a matte composite with a matte aluminum frame. So, it isn’t as durable, but considering you’ll be using a protective case, this might not matter much for regular everyday use. It comes in Obsidian and Porcelain and, for the first time with an A-series device, Bay, along with a brand-new limited edition Aloe finish. The Google Pixel 8a is also IP67 water- and dust-resistant, so slightly less rugged in this respect than the Pixel 8 Pro. 

For the first time with an A-series model, you can choose from 128 GB or 256GB storage. This isn’t expandable, though, as with the Google Pixel 8 Pro. The Pixel 8a runs Android 14 and promises seven years of OS and security updates as well as frequent Feature Drops. So, like with other new Pixel devices, you can be assured that this phone will last you a long time. 

Speaking of lasting, it has a 4,492mAh battery that Google says lasts for more than a day and can extend to up to 72 hours using the Extreme Battery Saver mode. It also supports both fast and wireless charging, the latter with Qi-certified chargers. 

The Google Pixel 8a includes face and fingerprint unlock just like its bigger sisters along with stereo speakers with two mics and noise suppression, though you won’t get support for Spatial Audio. There’s no headphone jack, as is typical with most phones nowadays.

How does this compare to the Google Pixel 8 Pro? The flagship has a larger 6.7-inch Super Actua LTPO OLED display that boasts a higher resolution at 1,344 x 2992. It’s also brighter at 1,600 nits with a peak brightness up to 2,400 nits, so if you use your phone a lot outdoors in bright sunlight, this might matter to you. The refresh rate is adaptive as well at 1-120Hz, so it can keep up with demanding tasks. 

The screen employs Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, which is more durable and resistant against scratches and fingerprints. But again, with a protective case, which is recommended for any phone, as well as a screen protector, this might not be a dealbreaker. This phone also has a higher IP68 water- and dust-resistant rating. 

The Google Pixel 8 Pro comes in three finishes, Porcelain, Bay, and Obsidian, and you get the option for 512GB and 1TB capacities as well as 128GB and 256GB. If you plan to download a lot of apps and store tons of photos and other content and don’t want to rely on cloud storage, this phone is the better option since you can get tons more onboard storage. Of course, you’re also paying more for it. Keep in mind that the Google Pixel 8 Pro comes with a six-month trial compared to Google One Premium, which includes 2TB cloud storage. 

The Google Pixel 8 Pro runs on Android 14 as well, with the same promise of seven years of OS and security updates. It has a larger 5,500mAh battery that can also last for up to 24 hours or longer, up to 72 hours, with the Extreme Battery Saver mode. This phone also supports fast charging and fast wireless charging, along with Battery Share for recharging compatible devices like Pixel Buds with the phone.   

Along with the same fingerprint and face unlock, you get stereo speakers, three mics with noise suppression, and support for Spatial Audio. So, you’ll enjoy a better audio experience with this phone. This device also does not have a headphone jack.

Google Pixel 8 Pro vs. Google Pixel Fold: The specifications

Let’s break things down by specs to paint a clearer picture of how these two Google Pixel phones compare and contrast with one another.

It’s obvious from these specs that the Google Pixel 8a is a step down from the Google Pixel 8 Pro in several ways. But it’s all a matter of price and what you need and value the most.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: Power and processing

Not surprisingly, the Google Pixel 8a is a less powerful device than the Google Pixel 8 Pro. As noted, they both come loaded with Android 14, and both also include the Google Tensor G3 chip. You get less RAM with the Google Pixel 8a at just 8GB, but this is still respectable: you can expect the phone to meet your daily needs. 

From a security perspective, you get VPN by Google One included with a purchase of the phone along with Google’s standard end-to-end security, which comes with every Pixel device. There’s also the Tensor security core, Titan M2 security chip, and anti-malware and phishing protection, all of which are par for the course with Pixel devices. Using Family Link, you can manage privacy settings, establish screen time limits, and share location, useful for parents getting this device for kids. 

Interestingly, the Google Pixel 8a has all the same AI goodies as its bigger sister, like Circle to Search for easily searching for a subject or object by circling or scribbling over it, and Google’s Gemini. With the Gemini built-in AI assistant, once you enable extensions, just hold the power button to ask Gemini to do things like summarize an e-mail, help you brainstorm ideas, write a thank you note, or even plan a vacation. 

There’s also Pixel Call Assist, Call Screen, Direct My Call, Hold for Me, Clear Calling, and other features. A fun new feature, presumably that will also be accessible in the Google Pixel 8 Pro, is called Audio Emoji. Effectively, you can create your own soundtrack on a call, playing audio “emoji” like applause or laughing as part of the conversation.

The Google Pixel 8 Pro has all that and more. Along with the Google Tensor G3 chip and Google AI, it has more RAM at 12GB. Note, however, that Android Central’s Nicholas Sutrich says he didn’t notice much of a difference when gaming with the Pixel 8 Pro over previous generation devices with the Google Tensor G2 chip. So, keep this in mind if you plan to do a lot of mobile gaming. The Google Pixel 8 Pro is still the better option between the two in this respect, though. It will be snappier and better for gaming, multi-tasking, and other high-resource apps. 

Along with features like Call Screen to automatically screen and filter out spam calls, you can enjoy AI functions like Live Translate and an improved Google Assistant experience that can summarize web pages, even translate them, help you compose messages, and more. 

It has the same security features, including VPN by Google One and the Titan M2 chip, and adds others like crisis alerts and car crash detection. While the built-in temperature sensor in the Google Pixel 8 Pro is a nice-to-have feature, there’s still some work to do with it, so it isn’t a deal-breaking feature. 

For fitness folks, the Google Pixel 8 Pro comes with a six-month Fitbit Premium trial as well as three months of YouTube Premium if you love to watch videos on the device. This is a nice incentive that could sway you in the direction of this phone, too, especially if you own a Google Pixel Watch 2 or another compatible Fitbit device.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: The cameras

Taking photos from your mobile device is important. For some, in fact, the cameras could be the deciding factor between two phones. 

The Google Pixel 8a comes out of the gate with a main camera that has a larger 64MP quad PD wide camera with Super Res Zoom up to 8x. It has a 13MP ultra-wide camera, ideal for getting group of panoramic scenic shots. This is complemented by the decent 13MP front camera, which has an ultra-wide field-of-view so you can get everyone in the photo and is actually higher resolution than the front camera in the Google Pixel 8 Pro. 

You can enjoy all the typical Google Pixel photo editing and capture features like Magic Editor for repositioning and resizing objects and using preset backgrounds, Best Take for adjusting facial expressions for each person in a photo to get the best one (Sutrich says it works flawlessly), Magic Eraser, Photo Unblur, Real Tone, Face Unblur, Night Sight, Portrait Mode, and more. There’s also Audio Magic Eraser for videos, which removes distracting background noises. So, you’re getting all the same great features, but the cameras themselves aren’t the same. 

With that said, we haven’t yet put the cameras in this phone through their paces, so we can’t compare head-to-head. But based on specs alone, and the expectation that the Google Pixel 8 Pro provides a superior experience, keep this in mind. Also consider that the Google Pixel 8 and even the Google Pixel 7a take wonderful photos, so you likely won’t be disappointed with the cameras in the Google Pixel 8a. 

In terms of specs, the Google Pixel 8 Pro has a 50MP main camera, 48MP telephoto camera, 48MP ultra-wide camera with improved Macro focus, and 10.5MP front camera, so its front camera is actually lower resolution than the Google Pixel 8a. The Super Res Zoom is superior, however, going up to 30x. You get those same photo editing features like Photo Unblur, Magic Eraser, Face Unblur, Real Tone, Night Sight, and Best Take, as well as Astrophotography and, of course, Portrait mode. 

There are some professional-level camera controls worth mentioning with the Google Pixel 8 Pro, including advanced camera settings for shutter speed, ISO, and more. There’s also Audio Magic Eraser for videos, which, as mentioned, you get in the Google Pixel 8a as well. Sutrich says it works “unbelievably well.”

Google Pixel 8a vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro: Which should you buy?

Now, it’s decision time. Which should you buy between the Google Pixel 8a vs. Google Pixel 8 Pro? It really comes down to budget and needs. If you just want a simple device for an affordable price, go with the Google Pixel 8a, which will easily rank among the best cheap Android phones. You’ll save a ton while also still coming out with premium features that are typically only reserved for higher-end models like the Google Pixel 8 Pro and Google Pixel 8. These range from photo editing tools to a wonderful primary and even selfie camera, fast processor, and lots of AI goodies. 

If you want the best of the best, go with the Google Pixel 8 Pro. It is more powerful overall, has a more elegant and durable build, more RAM, larger storage options, and additional cameras. All the Google AI goodies will come in handy, and you may use them more than you think you will. 

The nice Goldilocks option, if you can’t decide, is the Google Pixel 8, which sits neatly between these two devices. It has many of the same features with a few step-ups in design, build, and specs compared to the Pixel 8a, but with a smaller screen and some concessions compared to the Google Pixel 8 Pro. See our comparison between the Google Pixel 8 Pro vs. Google Pixel 8 to decide which one would suit you better if you think the Google Pixel 8a is too entry-level for you. 

But as a fabulous first phone, secondary phone, or even a device for a teen or tween, the Google Pixel 8a is offered at a great price with tons of features to rival even some higher-end phones. If you prefer the smaller screen size, that might be enough to sway you towards this phone. For average, everyday use, good photos, and even the option to play around with AI features, the Google Pixel 8a is worth considering. 

The bottom line: no matter which of the Pixel 8 devices you choose, you can rest assured that it will keep up with demanding tasks, take great photos, and provide an intuitive and pleasurable experience. The best part is that with seven years of updates promised for all three, you can easily sell or trade-in one and upgrade if needed, and the phone will retain its value for years to come.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Design

Google has a distinct design aesthetic, and it hasn't deviated too much from that path with the Pixel 8a. The phone is nearly identical to the Pixel 7a, so you get the same camera bar at the back that runs along the width, with the camera modules housed inside.

The key difference this time is that the phone has rounded corners, and that makes it a look a little more elegant while being easier to hold and use. Google is also rolling out exciting color options, with the Pixel 8a available in Aloe, Bay, Obsidian, and Porcelain. Aloe has a green hue that is quite striking, and Bay is the same great blue variant that debuted with the Pixel 8 Pro, but it looks a little more vibrant.

Google is still using a polycarbonate back and an aluminum mid-frame, but the brand is using more recycled materials this time around. Interestingly, the Pixel 8a is touted to be more durable, and in our testing experience, we found it be just as sturdy as the 8 series. You can tell the back isn't glass due to a hollow sound then you tap it, but it feels nearly as premium as the more expensive models.

The Pixel 8a has roughly the same dimensions as the 7a, and coming in at 188g, it is a smidgen lighter. I like the Aloe and Bay color options, and while Google had issues with launching its more interesting colorways outside the U.S., it is doing a better job on that front — all four colors are available in most other regions.

Given the similarities between the two devices, there isn't much to talk about the Pixel 7a. The phone has muted color choices, has a great in-hand feel, and I didn't see any issues on the design side of things after several months of usage.

Both phones have IP67 ingress protection, giving them added resilience against the elements. On the whole, there really isn't much to distinguish the two devices in this area, but the rounded edges along with vibrant colors give the Pixel 8a a slender edge.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Display

Google has been stingy with refresh rates on its mid-range phones; the Pixel 6a had a 60Hz panel, and the Pixel 7a came with a 90Hz panel. That's thankfully changing with the Pixel 8a — the phone has a 120Hz OLED panel, and it uses the same Actua tech that the brand debuted with the Pixel 8.

The screen gets noticeably brighter, going up to as high as 2,000 nits in HDR mode. Google hasn't changed the screen size, so you still get a 6.1-inch panel with a resolution of 2,400 x 1,080, and it has a layer of Gorilla Glass 3, just like the Pixel 7a. The always-on mode, and 'At A Glance' and 'Now Playing' features are intact as well.

The switch to 120Hz is the biggest talking point, and it gives the Pixel 8a a sizeable advantage over the 7a. The 90Hz panel on the Pixel 7a is decent enough in its own right, but you can make out a difference when using the device alongside a 120Hz phone. So I'm glad Google finally decided to roll out 120Hz refresh to the Pixel 8a, and it makes the device that much more enticing.

It's worth pointing out that the Pixel 8a and 7a suffer from the exact same issue of having a low 240Hz PWM dimming rate. PWM-sensitive folks would find the displays unbearable to use after a point due to the way in which it adjusts the brightness. Rather than adjusting the voltage, it switches the display on and off to create the illusion of a bright or dim screen. The trouble is that both phones do this for the entire range of brightness, and there's no flicker-reduction feature to mitigate this.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Hardware

Not much has changed on the hardware side of things; the Pixel 8a gets the usual silicon upgrade, with the phone rocking Google's latest Tensor G3 platform. It has newer cores and much better performance. In our review of the 8a, we found an improvement in the thermals as benchmark scores were at times even better than the Pixel 8 Pro.

The Pixel 7a was severely constrained in this area, and even the Pixel 8 struggles with demanding workloads at times.

The 8a has the same 8GB of RAM as last year, and this time, Google is rolling out a 256GB model in addition to the base 128GB version. Limiting the Pixel 7a to 128GB was an oversight on Google's part last year, and I'm glad to see the brand addressing that issue this time.

That said, the Pixel 8a has UFS 3.1 storage modules, and it misses out on the fastest UFS 4.0 storage. This doesn't make a difference in real-world use (at least not right now), but with the device slated to last the better part of a decade, UFS 4.0 would have been the better choice.

Coming to the battery, the Pixel 8a has a larger 4492mAh battery — versus the 4385mAh unit on the 7a — and it should last a little longer. It has the same 18W wired charging, but a quicker 7.5W wireless charging. The Pixel 7a could only do 5W Qi charging.

Google needs to do better with its charging tech, and with the Pixel 8 series going up to 27W now, that should have been the case with the Pixel 8a as well — 18W charging just isn't enough in 2024.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Cameras

Google isn't making too many modifications to the cameras; the Pixel 8a has the same 64MP main camera at the back alongside a 13MP wide-angle lens, and there's a 13MP camera at the front. If that sounds familiar, it's because it is the same set of sensors as the Pixel 7a.

While the camera modules haven't changed, Google continually optimizes its algorithms, and we hoped that the Pixel 8a would deliver better quality photos. When we compared the photos of both phones in our 8a review, we found that the photo quality is actually identical between the 8a and 7a. If you're just after the cameras, you can save a great deal by grabbing the Pixel 7a instead.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Software

Google guarantees seven years of software updates to the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, and it is extending that to the Pixel 8a. The phone comes with Android 14 out of the box and will get seven Android OS updates, and there's no other device that comes close to it in this segment. While Samsung also has the same guarantee, it's limited to the Galaxy S24 series, and the Galaxy A35 and A55 will get four updates.

The Pixel 7a, meanwhile, will get three platform updates along with five years of security updates. I didn't think Google would extend the same guarantee as its high-end phones to the Pixel 8a, but it is absolutely the right move.

What's also interesting is that the Pixel 8a is getting all the AI-focused features that debuted on the Pixel 8 series. That includes Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser, and Magic Editor. The phone gets all the camera-focused additions as well, and that again gives it a big advantage over just about every other mid-range phone. The June Pixel Feature Drop finally brought Gemini Nano AI features too.

The software itself is clean and doesn't have any bloatware, and Google has a ton of useful features that make using its devices an absolute joy.

Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a: Which should you buy?

Global availability is still a bit of an issue with Pixel phones, and while that is getting better, Google just doesn't have a presence in anywhere as many markets as its rivals. The Pixel 8a launched in 17 countries, and there isn't a lengthy wait to get your hands on the device — it's now available globally.

As much as I like the Pixel 7a, the 90Hz panel and lack of a 256GB model ultimately limit the device. The Pixel 8a doesn't have these problems, and just the fact that it has a 120Hz panel makes it worthy of consideration. Yes, it has minor upgrades in all areas, but it's the screen and the seven-year update guarantee that makes the phone stand out. It is the best mid-range phone you can get today.

If you need a new phone that can last the better part of a decade and takes fantastic photos and videos, the Pixel 8a is the obvious choice. Coming in at $499 (usually sells for less), it costs the same as the Pixel 7a, but you're also getting better hardware.

If you want to maximize value, some colors of the Pixel 7a can be found for as low as $330, and this is not counting mega sale days like Black Friday or Prime Day. Anything in the vicinity to $300 is a terrific price for the device, and you're still getting feature-rich software and outstanding cameras.

If you're on the hunt for the best Google Pixel 8a deals on the web, you're certainly not alone. Priced at just $499 for the 128GB version, the latest midrange masterpiece from Google is priced in such a way that even a small discount could drop the Pixel 8a into budget phone territory. Unfortunately, we're not seeing quite as many deals as we did last month, but we've gathered all of the best offers from across the web so you don't have to go looking. 

The Pixel 8a continues the legacy of Google's midrange A series by offering some of the best specs and camera technology found in any Android phone under $500 to date. You get the same Tensor G3 chipset that powers the Google Pixel 8 Pro, plus a boost in battery life, a 120Hz display, and a whopping seven years of OS upgrades guaranteed. Beyond that, not much has changed from last year's Google Pixel 7a — but perhaps that's a good thing. So how can you buy it? Is it even worth it? We'll answer all of those questions (and more) below. 

Quick links

• Amazon Prime Day 2024 phone deals — early discounts and FAQ
• Mint Mobile: $100 off, plus six months free with any six-month plan
• Google Fi: Join Fi and get $499 back over 24 months
• Verizon: Free with eligible line, no trade-in required
• Amazon: $499, plus free $50 gift card
• AT&T: $2.99 per month, plus FREE Pixel Watch 2 with qualified line

Google Pixel 8a deals

FAQ

How much does the Google Pixel 8a cost?

The Pixel 8a starts at $499 for the 128GB version, or you can upgrade to the 256GB storage configuration for $599. There are four color options available: Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and a new Aloe variety.

How does the Google Pixel 8a compare to the Pixel 7a?

The evolution from the Pixel 7a into the 8a isn't quite as dramatic as you might have hoped. This new midrange masterpiece from Google is more about refinement than reinvention.  

Compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 8a features a new chipset straight out of the box — the Google Tensor G3 — plus you'll enjoy a boost in battery life and display quality. The Pixel 8a also comes with more software support than its predecessor. Aside from those specs, the Google Pixel 8a hasn't changed much. Since we called the Pixel 7a the "best Pixel Google has ever produced" almost exactly one year ago today, maybe we should appreciate the cautious approach, even if it's not particularly exciting. 

That being said, if you already own the Google Pixel 7a, you can probably skip this model. 

For a more comprehensive look into how these two smartphones compare, check out our Google Pixel 8a vs. Pixel 7a guide. 

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What you need to know

• The Google Pixel 8a closely resembles its pricier sibling, the Pixel 8, but introduces new features such as generative AI and more storage.
• Despite its budget-friendly status, the Pixel 8a boasts upgrades in performance, display quality, and battery life, all starting at $499 in the US.
• Equipped with the Tensor G3 chip, Titan M2 security chip, and a built-in VPN, the Pixel 8a promises advanced software features and enhanced security.
• Like the Pixel 8 series, the Pixel 8a will receive seven years of updates and exclusive Android features like Gemini, Circle to Search, and Pixel Call Assist.

Google's new budget-friendly Pixel 8a just dropped before the I/O 2024 event, and if you're after a great mix of features and price, this might be the phone you've been waiting for.

The Google Pixel 8a looks almost identical to its pricier sibling, the Pixel 8. To keep up with the competition, Google threw in new features like generative AI and bigger storage capacity.

Google has also upgraded the Pixel 8a’s performance, display, and battery life, all starting at just $499. In Canada and India, its retail price starts at CA$679 and ₹52,999, respectively. You can pre-order it today, and it will hit store shelves on May 14 at the Google Store and other retail partners, right alongside the newly unveiled Pixel Tablet.

The Pixel 8a runs on the same Tensor G3 chip as the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, so you'll get all the neat software features like the improved Magic Eraser, Zoom Enhance, Best Take, Audio Magic Eraser, and more. Plus, it includes the Titan M2 security chip and a built-in VPN for extra security.

For the first time, the Pixel 8a offers a larger 256GB storage option along with 8GB of RAM. It also comes in two fun new colors, Aloe (which is a limited edition) and Bay, alongside the usual Obsidian and Porcelain options.

For its display, the Pixel 8a keeps the 6.1-inch FullHD+ OLED screen but now features a 120Hz refresh rate, offering smoother animations that help it stack up against the leading budget Android phones from Samsung, OnePlus, and others.

Google says the new Actua display on the Pixel 8a is 40% brighter than the Pixel 7a's screen. It can reach up to 2,000 nits of peak brightness. Plus, it's protected by Corning's Gorilla Glass 3, so you won't have to worry about scratches.

Like the flagship models, the Pixel 8a features an aluminum camera bar and polished aluminum side rails. It's rated IP67 for dust and water resistance, so it can withstand slips, spills, and dust. According to Google, this makes the Pixel 8a the most durable A-Series phone to date.

The Pixel 8a keeps up the trend with a 64MP main camera, just like the previous model. It also adds a 13MP ultrawide camera and a 13MP front-facing selfie camera. All three can shoot in 4K video, hitting 60fps for the rear cameras and 30fps for selfies.

AI features and extended software support

You'll also get all the AI-powered imaging perks like Real Tone, Magic Eraser, Night Sight, Photo Unblur, and more. Plus, you can zoom in super close up to 8x without losing quality, thanks to the Super Res Zoom.

Google has also confirmed that the new mid-range phone will have Gemini, making the Pixel 8a the first in its price range to have the built-in AI assistant. You'll also get other Pixel-exclusive Android features like Circle to Search (which is also on Samsung's recent flagship phones), Pixel Call Assist, and Audio Emojis all bundled with the handset.

Similar to the Pixel 8 series, the 8a will also benefit from seven years of updates covering OS, security, and Feature Drops. This means Pixel 8 users can anticipate updates continuing until 2031. Previously, Google provided up to three years of major Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates for the Pixel-A models.

What you need to know

• The latest Pixel 8a rumors suggest the device will see pricing similar to the Pixel 7a in the U.S. once it launches.
• The device may pick up a $499 price tag for its 128GB version and a $559 tag for the 256GB variant.
• Rumors add the Pixel 8a could gain a larger battery, which could arrive with a 4,500mAh capacity over the 4,385mAh of its predecessor.

Leaks continue to surface about Google's Pixel 8a, with the latest potentially spilling the company's pricing and battery plans.

In conjunction with tipster OnLeaks, SmartPrix suggests the Pixel 8a's price will be similar to the Pixel 7a's starting price when it launched in 2023. The device is speculated to have a $499 price tag in the U.S. for its 128GB storage variant. Rumors add that a 256GB version might land at around $559 in the U.S., as well.

While things may stay the same in the U.S., rumors theorize that Google could "slightly" raise the price of the budget device overseas in India.

The last batch of rumors concerns the Pixel 8a's battery, stating that the device could contain a 4,500mAh battery. The publication adds that the phone may sport a 120Hz refresh rate display and reiterates its expected use of the Tensor G3 chip. Of course, generative AI capabilities (likely courtesy of Gemini) will be implemented throughout the device.

The Pixel 8a is rumored to launch on May 10.

We've heard rumors for a while now that Google could reach for a price bump for the Pixel 8a, but now current whispers tell us the opposite. In March, it was theorized that the device could cost around $622 for the 128GB version and $687 for the 256GB variant. The information was guesstimated from early retail listings in Germany, although the conversion isn't always definite.

The Pixel 8a's supposed price in Canada leaked earlier in April, and even those prices were slightly lower than its predecessor.

As for the battery, it might not be as large as previously rumored, but rumors of the Pixel 8a going up to 4,500mAh from the Pixel 7a's 4,385mAh battery is still a good sign as users may get a bit more time out of the device between charges.

These leaks surfaced a few days after the Pixel 8a had a major leak spill, consisting of its features, colors, and Google's software update promise. It was purported that the device would receive seven years of security updates, similar to the flagship Pixel 8 series. Several colors like Obsidian, Porcelain, Mint, and Bay are suspected to greet users once it launches.

Speaking of, the Pixel 8a's expected debut on May 10 would take place a few days before Google's I/O 2024 event on May 14.

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What you need to know

• New promotional images of the Pixel 8a leak ahead of Google I/O event.
• It confirms the device’s Tensor G3 chipset, IP67 rating, and other notable AI features.
• The Pixel 8a is also confirmed to come with a seven-year security update promise, just like the Pixel 8 series.
• In addition to images, a promo video has also been leaked.

The Pixel 8a launch is likely just around the corner as we approach Google I/O 2024, and a new leak spills the beans on what we can expect from the device.

The leak comes from Android Headlines, which shares additional new renders of the Pixel 8a in all colors — the Obsidian, Porcelain, Mint, and Bay — along with the accompanying cases and some promotional images of the next mid-range Android phone from Google. 

Some of the popular Pixel’s signature AI features can be seen on the upcoming Pixel 8a, including “Best Take,” which combines similar photos into one. Audio Magic Eraser, which can extract sounds from videos, is also coming to the upcoming handset. Other features include Night Sight, Astrophotography, Circle to Search, and more.

Per the promotional images, the other notable things to expect from the Pixel 8a include the incorporation of Google Tensor G3 and fast charging support up to 30W.

Additionally, the phone will include an IP67 rating, the same as the Pixel 7a, meaning it should be relatively safe from slips, spills, and dust. Like the Pixel 8 series, the Pixel 8a also appears to have seven years of security updates, per the promotional images, which is quite impressive for a mid-range phone.

To corroborate the images, reliable leaker @Onleaks has also provided a promotional video of the Pixel 8a that showcases the aforementioned features as well as the phone's design.

Lastly, while we expect the device to be unveiled at Google I/O 2024, Android Headlines hints at the sale to take place on May 16, citing the date showcased on the home screen of the Pixel 8a on the shared marketing material.

The latest promotional material leak follows the live hands-on video from early this week, showcasing the Pixel 8a in striking Blue and Mint hues.

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What you need to know

• Ahead of Google I/O 2024, more live images of the Pixel 8a surface online.
• The photos show the mid-range device in Mint and Bay colorways.
• The leak comes from Morocco and suggests the device is already being sold in retail stores.

We've seen a few renders leak of Google's upcoming Pixel 8a, but now, more live images of the mid-range smartphone have just popped up on the web, revealing the more vibrant color options.

An X user has shared live images of the upcoming Pixel 8a (via DroidReader), showing off the Mint and Bay color hues that more or less match the recent renders of the Pixel 7a's successor. Per the X post, the device is allegedly being sold in some markets in the Morocco region, and the shared image also appears to have been captured by a retail store.

From the images, the 8a has a rather matte finish with a brushed metal camera visor, a bit of a combination of the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. While the Pixel 7a introduced the Coral color option, Google is apparently looking to follow up the Mint Pixel 8 with a similar option for the 8a.

Aside from the new exciting color options, the Pixel 8a will also be seen in the Obsidian and Porcelain — the live images of the former also surfaced online a few times already.

More recently, we got to see more live photos of the alleged Obsidian colorway, which showcased the front pane of the device and imply significantly thicker bezels. The first live images of the Pixel 8a date back to as far as September 2023.

As usual, Google isn't doing a great job of keeping the device under wraps ahead of its expected launch, which may be less than a month away at the time of writing.

At this point, we only need to wait for the official launch at Google I/O. The event is in May, which means we get to see some AI announcements following to a possible launch of the Pixel 8a smartphone and other hardware.

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What you need to know

• Google Pixel 8a Canadian retail listing leaks the device's pricing for both storage options.
• The 128GB variant may cost CAD 708.99, and the 256GB may be priced at CAD 792.99.
• The pricing comes right ahead of the expected launch in early May at Google I/O 2024.

A new Pixel 8a leak might have revealed the expected pricing of the mid-range handset, which is likely to debut in May at Google I/O 2024.

After the Pixel 8a's recent renders leak showcased the device in all its colorways, the was spotted on a Canadian retail listing by PassionateGeekz, revealing possible pricing in both storage variants (via GSMArena). The Pixel 8a bearing 128GB of storage is shown to be priced at CAD 708.99, and the larger 256GB onboard storage variant may be priced at CAD 792.99, roughly equivalent to $518 and $579 in the U.S.

While the listing and translated pricing certainly match the previous rumor indicating that this year's mid-range device is going to be pricer than its predecessor, the Pixel 7a, it is still unclear whether these new prices are accurate.

The earlier price rumors indicated that the Pixel 8a would cost around €569.90 and €630, respectively, per a Germain retail listing, although the latest leak pricing is significantly lower in comparison. Of course, until the phone is launched, it's recommended that these pricing leaks be taken with a grain of salt.

The alleged pricing details follow the recent USCellular leak, showing the Pixel 8a in a device tutorial. With so many leaks, it seems clear that we can expect the Pixel 8a sooner rather than later as Google gears up for the Google I/O 2024 event in early May. Alongside significant software and AI highlights, we expect to see the Pixel 8a and other hardware announcements at the event.

As for the specs, the Pixel 8a is expected to have a Tensor G3, a 6.1-inch Full HD Plus display, a 64MP primary camera, a 13MP secondary lens, and a 13MP front camera. Per the recent battery listing, the device is also expected to have a bigger battery than the predecessor, featuring a 5000mAh battery capacity.

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