Why you should (and shouldn't) claim that free Google Pixel 9a from T-Mobile's Presidents' Day sale

The Obsidian Google Pixel 9a held in hand above a houseplant.
(Image credit: Michael Hicks / Android Central)

It's official: the Google Pixel 10a is set to be revealed this week, but if you don't want to wait, there's a new Pixel 9a deal from T-Mobile that's worth a bit of extra consideration. Just in time for Presidents' Day, you can get last year's midrange masterpiece for FREE by adding a line with  "most T-Mobile plans". No trade-in required and no confusing fine print to worry about.

The obvious catch is that, with the arrival of the next-gen version of the phone set for February 18th, many folks may want to wait and see what Pixel 10a preorder deals become available in the coming days. 

Google Pixel 9a 128GB:$499.99FREE with most data plans at T-Mobile

Google Pixel 9a 128GB: $499.99 FREE with most data plans at T-Mobile

Forget the Pixel 10a! Add a line with nearly any data plan at T-Mobile and you'll get enough promo credits to cover the full cost of last year's Google Pixel 9a. This AI-boosted cheap Android phone comes with flagship-level performance, great camera tech, and years of guaranteed software support.

✅Recommended if: you want a great Pixel phone with versatile camera tech, a sleek design, and all-day battery life, but you don't want to pay for it; you're an existing T-Mobile subscriber or you're willing to switch. 

❌Skip this deal if: you want to wait and see what Google Pixel 10a preorder deals go live on February 18th; you're looking for a trade-in deal. 

The Google Pixel 9a boasts a lovely 6.3-inch pOLED display, Tensor G4 chipset with 8GB of RAM, and a 5,100mAh battery that should easily surpass a full day on a single charge. You also get a bunch of handy Gemini AI features and seven years of guaranteed software support. 

In fact, like I mentioned above, the only reason I wouldn't take advantage of this deal is the fact that we're getting the Pixel 10a this week. The newer phone is likely to receive an upgraded chipset and Android 16, but I wouldn't expect many dramatic improvements beyond that. Preorder deals for the Pixel 10a are likely to include some compelling trade-in opportunities and perhaps a free gift card when you buy unlocked. 

In other words, if you're a big Pixel fans and you want the latest and greatest device from the OEM, wait a few days for the Pixel 10a launch. If, on the other hand, you simply want a great device with a straightforward, no-strings T-Mobile deal, this offer on the Google Pixel 9a is jumping on. 

Patrick Farmer
eCommerce Editor

After almost a decade of working in the e-commerce space, Patrick Farmer (he/him) began his career at Android Central as a Deals and Commerce Writer before moving into a new role as AC's eCommerce Editor in 2023. When he's not hunting down the best deals and offering shopping advice for our readers, you'll often find him listening to music, camping out at a brewery, or treating his cat like a human child. 

You must confirm your public display name before commenting

Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.