Google Pixel 8a Review

The Google Pixel 8a is now available in many markets around the globe, on the official Google Store or third-party retailers. Resembling the original Pixel 8, it offers a streamlined feature set at a slightly lower price tag. But can it be aright choice for you? Let’s dive in.

Design and Build

The Pixel 8a is the latest in the Pixel ‘a’ series, often interpreted as standing for ‘affordable‘. The design is simplified with less complex cameras and more basic connectivity options, making it cheaper than the Pixel 8, though not by a large margin.

• Materials: Front glass is Gorilla Glass 3, while the rear and camera housing are entirely plastic.
• Durability: It boasts an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance.
• Colors: Available in familiar colorways – Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, Aloe.

Display

• Screen: A 6.1-inch OLED screen with an extended 1080p resolution and 120Hz refresh rate.
• Performance: Uses the same Tensor G3 chip as the Pixel 8 with 8GB RAM + 128GB UFS storage.

Camera

• Rear Cameras: 64MP OIS primary and 13MP fixed-focus ultrawide.
• Front Camera: 13MP with an ultrawide lens.
• Software Features: Includes Best Take, Magic Editor, Audio Magic Eraser, Top Shot, and Astrophotography mode.

Battery and Charging

• Battery: 4,492mAh battery.
• Charging: Supports up to 30W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging. However, the included charger is only 18W, which is notably slow.

Software

• Operating System: Ships with Android 14.
• Support: Promised 7 years of software updates.
• Exclusive Features: Call Screen, Direct My Call, Hold For Me, Circle to Search.

Performance

The Pixel 8a runs on Google’s Tensor G3 chip, featuring a 9-core processor with a mix of performance and efficiency cores. It includes the Titan M2 security chip and a dedicated NPU for AI tasks. While the overall performance is smooth, there are occasional hiccups, especially under heavy load, such as gaming.

Camera Performance

• Main Camera: 64MP sensor with OIS, capable of 2x lossless zoom.
• Ultrawide Camera: 13MP sensor, but lacks macro capabilities.
• Front Camera: 13MP wide-angle.

Competition

• Price: Launched at €549, which is not significantly cheaper than the Pixel 8, often found at €525.
• Alternatives:
  • Galaxy S24 offers better specs for about €90 more.
  • Xiaomi 14 and iPhone 15 are better but significantly more expensive.

Verdict

The Pixel 8a is a capable compact smartphone with a sturdy design, excellent display, and good camera quality. However, its high launch price and slow charging are notable drawbacks. If the price drops to around €420, it would be a more compelling option.

Pros:

• Sturdy design, IP67 rating, compact.
• Great OLED display, bright and color-accurate.
• Good battery life.
• Very good speakers.
• Decent performance.
• Excellent photo and video quality.
• Clean Android 14 with 7 years of support.

Cons:

• Expensive at launch.
• Thick bezels suggest a budget device.
• Very slow charging.
• No charger included in the box.
• Performance throttling under load.

The Pixel 8a is a solid option for those seeking a compact, affordable smartphone, but waiting for a price drop could make it an even better deal.