Google Pixel 8a Review: The New Budget Champion

The Google Pixel 8a, announced on May 7, 2024, and released on May 14, 2024, is the latest addition to Google's renowned Pixel lineup. With significant upgrades over its predecessor, the Pixel 7a, this smartphone is set to make waves in the budget segment. In this review, we'll dive into the Pixel 8a's specifications, features, and performance to see if it lives up to the hype.

Design and Build Quality

The Google Pixel 8a sports a sleek and modern design. Measuring 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm and weighing 188 grams, it offers a comfortable grip and solid build quality. The device features a glass front protected by Gorilla Glass 3, an aluminum frame, and a plastic back, providing a balance of durability and lightweight feel. Additionally, it boasts an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, ensuring it can withstand everyday elements.

Display

The Pixel 8a is equipped with a stunning 6.1-inch OLED display that delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks. With a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio, the screen offers crisp and clear visuals. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth scrolling and an enhanced viewing experience, while the peak brightness of 2000 nits makes it easy to view in bright sunlight. The always-on display feature adds convenience, allowing you to check notifications at a glance.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Pixel 8a is powered by the Google Tensor G3 chipset, built on a 4nm process. This nona-core processor (1x3.0 GHz Cortex-X3, 4x2.45 GHz Cortex-A715, and 4x2.15 GHz Cortex-A510) delivers impressive performance and efficiency. Paired with the Immortalis-G715s MC10 GPU, the Pixel 8a handles gaming and graphic-intensive tasks with ease. The device comes in two storage variants: 128GB with 8GB RAM and 256GB with 8GB RAM, both featuring UFS 3.1 for fast data access and app loading times.

Camera System

The camera setup on the Pixel 8a is one of its standout features. The dual rear cameras include a 64 MP wide lens with an f/1.9 aperture and a 13 MP ultrawide lens with a 120-degree field of view. The main camera supports dual pixel PDAF and OIS, ensuring sharp and stable shots. Features like Dual-LED flash, Pixel Shift, Auto-HDR, and panorama mode enhance the photography experience. The device can record 4K videos at 30/60fps and 1080p videos at up to 240fps, making it versatile for video enthusiasts.

On the front, the Pixel 8a sports a 13 MP selfie camera with an f/2.2 aperture and Auto-HDR. It supports 4K video recording at 30fps and 1080p at 30fps, ensuring high-quality video calls and selfies.

Software and Features

The Pixel 8a runs on Android 14, offering the latest features and security updates. Exclusive Pixel features like the advanced Google Assistant, call screening, and Pixel-specific apps enhance the user experience. The under-display fingerprint sensor provides quick and secure access to the device, while other sensors like the accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, and barometer add to its functionality.

Battery Life and Charging

The Pixel 8a is equipped with a 4492 mAh non-removable Li-Po battery that ensures all-day battery life. It supports wired PD3.0 charging and 7.5W wireless charging, providing flexibility and convenience for users on the go.

Connectivity and Network

The Pixel 8a supports a wide range of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, LTE, and 5G, ensuring fast and reliable connectivity. It features Wi-Fi 6e, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, and USB Type-C 3.2 for versatile connectivity options. The device also supports multiple positioning systems, including GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS, QZSS, and NavIC, ensuring accurate location tracking.

The Google Pixel 8a offers a compelling package with its stunning display, powerful performance, impressive camera system, and robust build quality. It stands out as one of the best budget smartphones of 2024, providing excellent value for money. If you're in the market for a new smartphone that combines performance, features, and affordability, the Pixel 8a is a worthy contender.

What do you think of the Google Pixel 8a? Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know if you plan to upgrade to this new device.