Google Pixel 10a vs. Pixel 8a: What's changing two years later?

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

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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.