Struggling with an older iPhone? This $399 Prime Day deal will make you switch instantly

The Google Pixel 10a in the Lavender colorway. — (Image credit: Brady Snyder / Android Central)

So you're using an older iPhone or Android device, and while it's running fine, it doesn't quite last a day, takes longer to charge, and the software is starting to lag even in regular use.

While flagships now cost over $1,000, there really is no reason to spend anywhere as much if all you want is a reliable phone that handles the basics. And in that regard, there isn't a better phone than the Pixel 10a.

I didn't really get the point of the Pixel 10a when it launched; it was too similar to its predecessor, so I didn't use it. But it's only when I started using the phone recently that I realized it has a lot of small changes that make a noticeable difference in daily use: slightly faster charging means it doesn't take as long to fill the 5,300mAh battery, Bluetooth connectivity is better overall, and it holds up better in demanding tasks.

Basically, the Pixel 10a is a great choice if you need a new mid-ranger in 2026, and now is the best time to get your hands on the phone. The Pixel 10a debuted at $499, and it just got a major discount to $399, so if you're thinking of buying a new phone, I'd suggest getting the Pixel 10a while it's still on sale. The one caveat is that the $399 price is only on the fog, berry, and lavender color variants; the obsidian model is costlier at $424. This doesn't matter that much as you'll inevitably use a case, and if you need my recommendation, get the fog model.

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✅Recommended if: You want a reliable phone that nails the basics. The Pixel 10a has one of the best cameras in its class, I really like the design, the battery life is outstanding, and you get the best software — with meaningful AI features should you need it.

❌Skip this deal if: You want a gaming phone. While Google got a lot right with the Pixel 10a, gaming isn't really something the phone does well, so if you need better hardware, you should get the OnePlus 15R.

Google did a great job with the design of the Pixel 10a. The camera housing sits flush with the body, and that just feels great when you're holding and using the phone. As someone who's used to phones with massive camera islands like the Find X9 Ultra and Vivo X300 Ultra, this is a refreshing change of pace.

I also like the color variants available this year; the berry and lavender models have bright designs and look great. The phone has IP68 dust and water resistance, better glass protection this year, and it retains the aluminum mid-frame.

Google Pixel 10a in mint color in front of green leaves — (Image credit: Sanuj Bhatia / Android Central)

Google didn't change the cameras, so you get the same 48MP main camera and 13MP wide-angle lens. The sensors aren't new, but Google's image tuning means you get great photos in any lighting situation, and it's the consistency where the Pixel 10a really shines.

The Tensor G4 is decent enough, but I would've liked the G5 in the device — it does a better job with gaming in general. Regardless, the Pixel 10a doesn't have issues in regular use, and the 6.3-inch 120Hz OLED panel is among the best in this category; it gets very bright outdoors, and has great colors. Oh, and if you need a suggestion, get the 8GB/256GB model; you'll run out of storage on the 128GB model in a matter of months.

Battery life is great, and the software is the real star of the show. Unlike Samsung's Galaxy A57 and A37, the Pixel 10a doesn't come with any bloatware whatsoever, and that in itself is a huge deal. Combine that with all the Google extras that are available on the phone, and the fact that you can install Android 17 right now, and you start to realize why the Pixel 10a is Google's best-seller.

I'm annoyed that Google didn't do enough with the Pixel 10a, but the underlying fundamentals are great, and it is a good all-round choice in this category — particularly if you're using an older phone. And with the device now down to $399, this is the best time to buy it.

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