Is the Pixel 3a still worth buying?

By Joe Maring
published

Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL
Pixel 3a and Pixel 3a XL (Image credit: Alex Dobie / Android Central)

Released this past May, the Pixel 3a (opens in new tab) is one of the best mid-range smartphones currently available on the market. Between its incredible camera performance, AMOLED display, clean software, and guaranteed updates, it more than justifies its competitive $399 price.

As much love as we have for the Pixel 3a, however, whether or not you should buy one in mid-September is a more difficult question than it was just a few short months ago. While the upcoming Pixel 4 will be more expensive, it's also expected to deliver big upgrades in the form of face unlock, even better cameras, and a bold new design.

When asked whether or not now was a good time to buy the Pixel 3a, this is how some of our AC forum members responded.

Want to buy a Pixel 3a but wondering if I should hold off as a new Pixel is just around the corner. Wondering if A, they may also announce a new budget model ? B, maybe another sale on 3a’s ? Any thoughts ?

flippyfloop

I see you are a new user here - welcome to Android Central! I too am thinking about snagging the Pixel 3. I think it depends on the following: - do you need the latest and greatest? The 3's Snapdragon will be just as snappy as the Pixel 4's - if camera experience is important to you, the 3a will still get the job done but the Pixel 4 is supposed to have an impressive camera setup - if...

Morty2264

If it's within your budget, I would hold off and see what Google has to offer in terms of the Pixel 4.

EMGSM

Now, we want to hear from you. Is it still worth buying the Pixel 3a?

Join the conversation in the forums!

Joe Maring
Joe Maring

Joe Maring was a Senior Editor for Android Central between 2017 and 2021. You can reach him on Twitter at @JoeMaring1.

6 Comments
  • If you can wait the pixal4, may just wind up being the best release of the series, maybe. But for the average the 3a price wise will be the better buy for alot cheaper!
  • The problem with the 3a isn't the upcoming 4. That's going to be twice the price. The problem is the 3 is currently only $100 more than the 3a. I'd still wait to see if a 4a will be introduced at the same time, or if there is a further price drop on the 3, but the discounted 3s almost make the 3a redundant
  • Is it still worth buying after being available for a a total of 4 months? Seriously? What world do you live in?
  • Yo bro, you still rocking a 4 month old phone? How do you manage? /S
  • Comparing the Pixel 3A with the Pixel 4 doesn't make sense, one costs half of the other one. Hey, should I buy this Kia car? Naaah, Just wait for the upcoming Porsche.
    Anyway, the wife has the Pixel 3A and the camera is incredible, if you value photos and videos that's the best budget phone I've seen ever. Daylight, night, very dark night, indoor, outdoor, that thing is magic.
  • In Canada, the 3a is being sold for only $50 less than the 3. I’d say that the 3 is offering a awful lot of goodies for only 50 extra bucks.