Google Pixel 8a

Sturdy Pixel design, likable, IP67, compact.

Expensive at launch.

We would still have liked to recommend the Pixel 8a, but unfortunately, at third-party retailers, its price is ridiculously close to that of the Pixel 8, which is the better phone by all accounts. The price has begun to go down already, so once it...

Manageable size ; IP rating and Qi charging ; Great camera (for the price) ; Seven years of software updates ; Clever AI-infused software

Screen is far from the best ; The battery will never last more than a day ; Slow charging

Even with a price rise in certain regions, the Pixel 8a remains excellent value for someone looking for a device with a great camera, pocketable design and the promise of many years of software updates.

Outperforms its closest Samsung A55 competitor ; Solid cameras and photography features ; Screen upgrade over last-gen model ; Fun design and colour options

Fingerprint scanner sensitivity is subpar ; Nothing Phone (2) now closely priced ; Charging is still a little slow ; Smaller size won't suit all

The Google Pixel 8a is the best affordable phone of 2024. Sure, the battery and charging could be better still, and the fingerprint scanner's responsiveness is my biggest gripe, but with big improvements over its Pixel 7a predecessor, this entry-level...

Very good camera for its class ; Seven years of OS upgrades ; Good durability with IP67 rating

AI features are a mixed bag ; You can get a better screen for $499

But the Pixel 8A really does stand alone in its combination of good enough features, price, and seven years of promised OS updates. There’s nothing essential missing, and what it lacks in flashy features, it makes up for in sheer ROI. And for someone...

Excellent cameras ; Powerful performance ; Useful AI features ; Long battery life ; Seven-year software support

Older protective glass on the front ; Relatively slow charging

The Pixel 8a combines some of the most compelling elements in Google's lineup with few compromises for the price, making it the best Android phone under $500.

Great design and color options ; Useful AI tools for writing and photo edits ; Seven years of Android updates coming

Underpowered compared to Snapdragons ; Cameras are better on more expensive Pixels ; Battery life isn't great

The Pixel 8a is my new favorite bargain phone, and if you need a new phone for less, the Pixel 8a gives you more than you'd expect. You get Google's latest and greatest mobile AI tools, plus seven years of Android updates, in a package that's colorful...

Excellent performance. Nice cameras. Bright, smooth display. Fun design. Smart software features. Wireless charging. IP67 water resistance. Seven years of support. Secure face unlock.

Battery life could be better. You can probably find the Pixel 8 on sale for nearly the same price. Did Real Tone … get worse?

Great tactile, sturdy feel in hand ; Software and experience feels close to flagship ; Simple point-and-shoot camera, great night-mode ; Precise touchscreen key response ; 7+ years of software upgrades

Chunky side bezels and frame ; Higher price than mid-range competitors ; Display could be better at angles and certain lighting ; Battery is average

A combination of a great design and build, long-term software support, useful software features and a strong, reliable camera, make it a great option for anyone not looking to spend more than $500 on a phone.

Flagship-challenging photography skills ; Improved design over the previous generation ; Brighter screen ; Most accessible way to access Google’s AI ; Seven years of support

Charging speeds remain behind rivals ; The Pixel 8 can be found for a similar price ; Gemini AI chatbot not available in UK and Europe

With similar hardware to its more expensive siblings, the Pixel 8a is the most affordable way to access Google’s AI smarts. Paired with amazing photography skills, the Pixel 8a is the mid-range smartphone to beat.