The "1-Minute" Review
Verdict
This phone offers a mix of key features from pricier models at a more accessible price point.What's good
- Strong AI tools
- Advanced camera features
- Seven years of updates
- Bright screen
- Pixel 8-like performance
What's bad
- Big bezels
- Slow charging
- Heavy for its size
- No headphone jack
- Plastic back
Design
The Pixel 8A design feels premium with rounded edges and a soft, matte finish on the back. This makes the phone comfortable to hold and less prone to fingerprint smudges, a noted improvement over earlier models.
However, reviewers highlighted that the bezels around the screen are significantly larger compared to other modern phones. This may distract users who prefer a more immersive display.
Reviewers also commented positively on the device's color options, with the Aloe green shade particularly standing out. This gives the phone a bold, fresh look that's eye-catching.
Display(s)
The 6.1-inch OLED screen on the Pixel 8A offers sharp visuals and vibrant colors, making it ideal for watching videos and browsing photos. Reviewers appreciate its ability to retain clarity even under direct sunlight, stating, 'The Pixel 8A’s display is very bright.' This is crucial for outdoor use.
With a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, the Pixel 8A promises fluid scrolling and fast reactions. The display adapts its refresh rate based on your activity to save battery life while maintaining performance.
The bezels around the display may seem large, but they don’t distract from the overall viewing experience, noted as being 'adequate for most daily use' by tech experts.
Performance
The Pixel 8A excels in performance thanks to its Tensor G3 processor. This chip allows you to switch between apps effortlessly and enjoy a lag-free experience, whether you're browsing, streaming, or gaming.
Reviewers from CNET noted that the performance feels smooth, with apps opening quickly and games running without issues. The response to touch and quick app launches make using the Pixel 8A feel satisfying.
For a phone in this price range, the seamless performance ensures you can handle all your tasks efficiently without any frustration.
Software & Storage
The Google Pixel 8A offers a robust software package that includes many of the same features as its pricier counterparts, such as Circle to Search and Hold for Me. This means you can expect an enriched user experience driven by Google's smart AI tools.
Additionally, Google guarantees seven years of software support, keeping your device secure and up-to-date. Reviewers have praised this move, stating, 'It's great to see Google extending this policy to its cheaper phone.'
With regular updates and feature drops, the Pixel 8A’s software will continue to evolve, ensuring future-proof performance.
Cameras
The Pixel 8A has a strong camera setup with a 64MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide lens, similar to its predecessor, the Pixel 7A. Google's software excels in producing high-quality images, capturing detailed and vibrant colors in various lighting conditions.
Despite lacking a telephoto lens and macro mode, it still provides decent digital zoom and good close-up shots, as pointed out by experts. The AI-powered features like Magic Eraser and Best Take enhance user experience by simplifying photo editing tasks without compromising quality.
This makes the Pixel 8A's camera more than sufficient for most daily photography needs, though it may struggle with images requiring high zoom or macro focus.
Battery
You'll appreciate the Pixel 8A's reliable battery that can easily get you through an entire day, even with heavy use. From long office hours to an evening out with friends, you'll still have battery left to spare.
Experts enjoyed the device's strong battery results in various tests, from social media scrolling to playing games. You can confidently rely on it for daily tasks without fear of running out of juice.
Reviewers like Lisa Eadicicco from CNET highlighted its performance, stating, "The Pixel 8A still had 66% of its battery left at the end of a busy day."
Despite these benefits, the charging speed comes as a downside. At 18W for wired charging and 7.5W for wireless, you'll likely find it painfully slow to recharge. Expect around 2.5 to 3 hours for a full charge, so planning an overnight charging routine could save you from mid-day battery anxieties. Overall, the battery performance is robust, though the slow charging might require some lifestyle adjustments.
Audio
The Pixel 8A's stereo speaker setup features an earpiece that doubles as a second speaker along with a bottom-firing loudspeaker. This configuration delivers loud and clear audio, making phone calls easy to hear even in noisy environments.
When watching movies or playing games, reviewers from CNET noted, 'The audio quality is satisfactory for a mid-range device, offering a balanced sound.' Nonetheless, some users mentioned that listening at maximum volume can result in some distortion, particularly in high-frequency ranges.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall audio performance is solid. Whether for calls, music, or games, the sound quality on this phone meets the needs of average users, providing a decent and enjoyable experience.
The Bottom Line
This phone brings many useful features at a price that feels fair.
It has a good mix of software features and strong hardware performance.
One key point to note is the consistent seven years of software updates.
On the downside, it has slower charging speeds and a build that's not as premium as higher-end models.
What the Critics Are Saying...


- Ben Johnston, Expert ReviewsThe new AI features look fun, but the real strength of the Pixel 8a lies in its hardware improvements and fantastic software support.


- Kris Wouk, Make Use OfThe Google Pixel 8a features the same Tensor G3 chipset as the other Pixel phones, a battery that will easily last you all day, and a great camera. Combine that with smart AI features and seven years of updates, and that's a bargain considering the price.


- DxOMarkThe Google Pixel 8a delivers a very satisfactory display experience, featuring high scores in all our sub-scores and evaluations. In the High end segment, it is ranking among the top five in this category. This device is suitable for most use cases, like browsing the web or watching videos.


- Shaurya Sharma, Hindustan Times TechIf you are looking for a solid Android phone that does everything well without compromising on support and software, the Pixel 8a is a solid phone that will last you a long time. However, it does this at a premium price. At ₹52,999, the Pixel 8a is a tough sell, but we have seen how Pixel prices com...


- Marcus Herbrich, NotebookcheckWe don't have that much to complain about when it comes to the Pixel 8a—we just hope that price-wise, Google won't slip into the high-end segment with future a-models.
Prices (Where to Buy)
Common Questions
Google Pixel 8a prices will vary depending on retailer, age, special offers and whether or not it's purchased with a service plan. If purchased with a 2 year service contract for example, you would likely pay much less for the phone itself up front. Google's suggested retail price is $499.00. You can compare Pixel 8a prices from around the web here on The Informr.
Google backs up the Pixel 8a with a 1 Year parts & labour warranty.
If your Pixel 8a has problems and is still within its warranty period, you could contact Google support or the retailer you purchased the phone from. You'll find Google's contact information here. If your phone is off warranty and needs repair for a physical problem such as a broken screen or bad battery, you should visit an authorized service centre or a local phone repair shop. You can also connect with others in The Informr Community Forum to find and share answers to questions.
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