The Google Pixel 8a is a robust upper mid-range phone that has garnered substantial attention, not just in the USA, UK, or Australia, but worldwide. However, like any device, the Pixel 8a is not without its issues.
Therefore, if you’re thinking about purchasing the Google Pixel 8a, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of this phone.
These Pixel 8a FAQs will provide you with the information you need.
What are the specifications of the Pixel 8a?
- Display: 6.1 inches FHD+, 120Hz, OLED, 2000 nits peak brightness
- Processor: Google Tensor G3, 4nm, 9 cores
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR5x
- Storage: 128GB, 256GB UFS 3.1
- Rear Cameras: 64 MP, f/1.9, 1/1.73″ main; 13 MP, f/2.2, 120˚ ultrawide
- Front Camera: 13 MP, f/2.2
- Communication: Nano-SIM and eSIM, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
- Battery: 4492 mAh, 18W wired, 7.5W wireless
- Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, IP67 rating, USB Type-C 3.2, 188g
- Software: Launched with Android 14, 7 years of OS and security updates with feature drops
What is the price of the Pixel 8a?
The Pixel 8a is priced at $499 in the US, £499 in the UK, and AU$849 in Australia for the 128GB variant. The 256GB variant is priced at $559 in the US, £559 in the UK, and AU$949 in Australia.
What are the key features of the Pixel 8a?
Pixel devices are well-known for two primary features: camera quality and software, and the Pixel 8a is no exception.
Despite not having ultra-high resolutions like 108MP or 200MP, the Pixel 8a’s camera delivers outstanding results, possibly the best in its price range under $500.
Software is another standout feature. The clean, stock Android experience is unmatched in this segment. Additionally, receiving 7 years of OS updates on a phone under $500 is exceptional.
How does the Pixel 8a perform?
The Pixel 8a performs adequately for everyday tasks. It shares the same Tensor G3 CPU as the flagship Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, which might excite some buyers.
However, it’s not designed for performance-intensive users who engage in tasks like gaming or video editing. Under such conditions, the Pixel 8a can heat up significantly, leading to performance degradation to manage temperatures.
Unfortunately, even with basic use outdoors in direct sunlight, the Pixel 8a can start to feel warm. Continued use in these conditions can exacerbate this issue.
Indoors or in more moderate outdoor temperatures, you won’t encounter such performance issues.
If you’re interested in benchmarks, the Tensor G3 scores between 1,150,000 and 1,250,000 in the AnTuTu (V10) app, indicating that this CPU is not on par with flagship CPUs. It performs more like a mid-premium CPU.
Overall, the Pixel 8a performs well in everyday activities such as social media, watching TikTok or YouTube, and taking photos. However, its performance diminishes when used for more demanding tasks.
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How long does a Pixel 8a battery last?
The Pixel 8a comes with a 4492mAh battery, which is considered small by today’s standards. However, due to its compact size, FHD+ resolution, and efficient software optimization, it should offer good battery life, right?
Well, it does last reasonably long, but it typically provides around 4 hours of screen-on time on mobile data. While this falls short of flagship standards, it’s considered decent for a compact phone.
Here’s what you can expect from its battery performance:
- Around 5 hours of screen-on time with light usage and no gaming.
- Approximately 4 hours with moderate usage, including some camera use and light gaming.
- Close to 3 hours with heavy usage, such as gaming and extensive camera use.
The battery performance is acceptable but not particularly impressive.
It’s worth noting that the phone consumes less power when connected to Wi-Fi compared to mobile data, where it drains the battery faster.
Charging the Pixel 8a is another aspect to consider. It takes nearly 2 hours and 30 minutes to fully charge from 0% to 100% using an 18W charger. Wireless charging, supported at 7.5W, is slower and can take several hours.
Overall, the Pixel 8a offers decent battery endurance. It gets you through a day with light usage, but heavy users will find it less convenient.
Does the Pixel 8a have a good camera?
Yes, the Pixel 8a has excellent cameras. Despite not boasting the highest megapixel count, it stands out due to its exceptional software processing.
Pixel devices are known for delivering photos with natural colors and enhanced contrast, and the Pixel 8a continues this tradition.
Even in low-light conditions, the Pixel 8a excels with impressive light control and detail retention in darkness.
Video performance is also impressive, although it may not be as smooth as iPhones. Nevertheless, considering its price, it delivers great results.
Overall, the Pixel 8a possibly offers the best cameras on any phone under $500.
Is the Google Pixel 8a waterproof?
The Google Pixel 8a comes with an IP67 water and dust resistance rating, which means it can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.
While it has been observed that the phone can withstand longer submersion without immediate damage, it is not recommended to exceed the manufacturer’s guidelines. It’s best to avoid prolonged exposure to water.
Whenever possible, keep the phone away from water to maintain its durability.
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Does the Pixel 8a support 5G?
Yes, the Pixel 8a supports both 5G Sub-6GHz and 5G mmWave technologies. It covers a wide range of bands including n1, n2, n3, n5, n7, n8, n12, n20, n25, n26, n28, n29, n30, n38, n41, n48, n66, n70, n71, n77, n78 for Sub-6GHz, and n260, n261 for mmWave.
It supports all major 5G bands used worldwide.
What colors are available for the Pixel 8a?
The Pixel 8a is available in four colors: Obsidian (Black), Porcelain (Creamy White), Bay (Sky Blue), and Aloe (Light Green).
How much storage does the Pixel 8a offer?
The Pixel 8a offers two storage options: 128GB and 256GB, both paired with 8GB of LPDDR5x RAM and UFS 3.1 storage technology.
Given that the Pixel 8a emphasizes camera performance, many users will likely fill up their storage quickly with photos and videos. Therefore, having 256GB as the base storage variant would have been more convenient.
Does the Pixel 8a have expandable storage?
No, the Pixel 8a does not support expandable storage. It offers only the 128GB and 256GB storage options. To free up space, you can transfer your photos or videos to cloud services or your laptop or PC.
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Is the Pixel 8a’s screen durable?
The Pixel 8a features Corning Gorilla Glass 3 protection on its display. It’s worth noting that Gorilla Glass 3 was launched back in 2013, and it’s somewhat surprising that modern phones still use this glass technology.
Gorilla Glass 3 provides good scratch resistance but lacks the shatter resistance found in more recent versions like Gorilla Glass 5.
While the Pixel 8a can withstand minor accidental drops on hard surfaces, the outcome depends largely on the angle of impact.
Overall, the Pixel 8a display offers moderate durability. We recommend handling your phone with care and minimizing the risk of drops whenever possible.
Does the Pixel 8a support wireless charging?
Yes, the Pixel 8a supports wireless charging, but it’s limited to 7.5W, which is relatively slow.
It’s not recommended to rely solely on wireless charging to go from 0 to 100%, as it can take several hours.
Instead, wireless charging on Pixel 8a is useful for scenarios where you want to top up your phone’s battery while not actively using it, helping to extend its battery life without needing to plug it in before bedtime.
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Is the Pixel 8a compatible with major carriers?
Yes, the Pixel 8a is compatible with all major carriers globally, including major US carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, and others.
What security features does the Pixel 8a have?
The Pixel 8a includes robust security features such as VPN by Google One at no extra cost, end-to-end security designed by Google, multi-layer hardware security with the Titan M2TM security chip, anti-malware and anti-phishing protection including support for passkeys, automatic security checks and privacy controls through the Security and Privacy hub, and Android Messages end-to-end encryption along with Android backup encryption.
For unlocking, the Pixel 8a offers face unlock, a fingerprint scanner and traditional PIN or pattern unlock.
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Is the back of the Pixel 8a made of glass or plastic?
The back of the Pixel 8a is made of plastic. While the company may use a fancy name to make buyers believe it’s unique or more durable, in reality, it’s just plastic.
What version of Android does the Pixel 8a come with?
The Pixel 8a comes with Android 14 and will receive updates up to Android 21.
Can the Pixel 8a last 7 years?
While the Pixel 8a supports 7 years of OS updates, whether it will last that long is a major concern.
It’s clear that the battery won’t maintain optimal performance over such an extended period, especially given its relatively small size.
The CPU is adequately powerful, but concerns about heating issues remain. Setting aside these concerns, the CPU itself could potentially last for 7 years.
Based on our experience with a Snapdragon 845 phone, which is over 7 years old and still performs well today, it’s evident longevity is possible with proper care. However, it’s worth noting that while our phone had a Snapdragon CPU, the Pixel 8a features a Tensor CPU akin to Exynos CPUs, which have different longevity characteristics.
Still, with diligent maintenance, the Pixel 8a could potentially last for 7 years, though you may need to replace the battery a few times during its lifespan.
Pros and Cons of Pixel 8a
What we liked about Pixel 8a:
- Compact design
- Sturdy build quality
- Great display quality with 120Hz smoothness
- Decent performance
- Excellent cameras for pictures and videos
- 7 years of updates
- Stock Android UI
What we didn’t like about Pixel 8a:
- Significant throttling and heating issues under heavy load
- Average battery life
- Super slow charging
- No charger included
- Concerns about its longevity over 7 years
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Conclusion: Is it worth buying Pixel 8a?
The Pixel 8a excels in the everyday essentials we interact with most on a smartphone: display, cameras, and software.
For most users, where cameras and software are crucial, the Pixel 8a delivers solid performance without disappointment.
However, when pushed beyond everyday tasks, the Pixel 8a begins to struggle. It experiences significant throttling, the battery drains quickly, and charging is painstakingly slow. Additionally, purchasing a charger separately adds to the cost.
For general users who prioritize essential functions over intensive tasks, the Pixel 8a is an excellent choice and worth considering.
However, if you’re a power user who frequently plays games or records 4K videos, this phone won’t meet your needs. While the Pixel 8a captures great 4K footage, it tends to overheat and will interrupt recording, which is a significant drawback.
Given that most users prioritize everyday usability, the Pixel 8a remains a worthwhile option to consider.
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So, these are the Google Pixel 8a FAQs, and we’ve tried to answer them comprehensively.
If you still have any doubts, feel free to ask in the comment section below. Additionally, we’d love to hear your thoughts and whether you agree or disagree with these FAQs.