The Google Pixel 8a is here, and it’s already turning heads in the midrange smartphone space. Google’s A-series has always been known for delivering flagship-like features at an affordable price. With the Pixel 8a, Google continues that tradition—this time with a few subtle but impactful upgrades.
But does the Pixel 8a still stand out in 2025, especially with competitors like the iPhone 16e and Samsung Galaxy Flip 6 pushing innovation to new levels? Let’s break down everything you need to know.
Design and Build Quality
At first glance, the Pixel 8a doesn’t stray too far from the familiar design language of its predecessors. It features a matte finish polycarbonate back with a slightly smaller camera bar, giving it a refined and minimalistic look. The aluminum frame adds some premium feel, though it’s still lighter than its flagship siblings.
Here’s a breakdown of the hardware:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm |
| Weight | 188g |
| Build Materials | Plastic back, Aluminum frame |
| Water Resistance | IP67 |
| Colors Available | Obsidian, Sea, Porcelain |
Although it doesn’t scream luxury, the Pixel 8a is comfortable to hold and use one-handed—something many phones can’t claim these days.
Display: Small but Sharp
The Pixel 8a features a 6.1-inch OLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. While that’s not groundbreaking by 2025 standards, it still provides a delightful viewing experience. Google has also improved the brightness levels, making outdoor readability much better.
| Display Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Size | 6.1 inches |
| Type | OLED, 120Hz |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 pixels |
| Peak Brightness | 1400 nits |
Even though competitors like the Galaxy Flip 6 offer foldable screens, the Pixel 8a’s panel holds its own in terms of sharpness and color accuracy.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Pixel 8a runs on Google’s in-house Tensor G3 chip, which powers both its speed and AI capabilities. It’s paired with 8GB of RAM and either 128GB or 256GB of storage.
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Google Tensor G3 |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage Options | 128GB / 256GB |
| OS | Android 14 (Stock) |
Google has also improved thermal performance, so the phone stays cooler during extended use. More importantly, Android 14 feels fluid and intuitive, without any unnecessary bloatware. The Pixel 8a benefits from the same software smarts as the Pixel 8 Pro, including real-time voice transcription, smarter Google Assistant commands, and excellent machine learning integration.
Camera: Still the King of Midrange
Google’s strength has always been photography, and the Pixel 8a lives up to that reputation. It boasts a 64MP main sensor with optical image stabilization and a 13MP ultrawide sensor.
Even though it lacks a telephoto lens, computational photography bridges the gap effectively. Night Sight, Magic Eraser, and Super Res Zoom continue to impress.
| Camera Specs | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, OIS |
| Ultrawide Camera | 13MP |
| Front Camera | 13MP |
| Video Recording | 4K at 30/60fps |
In daylight and low light, the Pixel 8a consistently delivers sharp, color-accurate shots. Compared to the iPhone 16e, it holds its own, and in some cases, even outshines it thanks to Google’s advanced image processing.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life on the Pixel 8a is decent, though not record-breaking. With a 4,500mAh battery, it can comfortably last a day with moderate use. Google’s AI-powered adaptive battery settings help extend longevity based on your usage patterns.
Unfortunately, the charging speed remains at 18W wired and 7.5W wireless, which feels slow compared to the fast-charging competition.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 4,500mAh |
| Wired Charging | 18W |
| Wireless Charging | 7.5W |
| Battery Life | Up to 24 hours (moderate) |
Still, thanks to Android 14’s improved power management, most users won’t feel held back.
Should You Buy the Pixel 8a?
If you’re looking for a clean Android experience, excellent camera performance, and guaranteed software updates, the Pixel 8a is a top contender. It’s not trying to be flashy, but it’s reliable and smart—qualities that matter most in daily use.
It’s also a great alternative for anyone who finds the folding screen of the Galaxy Flip 6 unnecessary or the iPhone 16e too pricey. For fans of Google services and timely Android updates, the Pixel 8a is a no-brainer.
Final Verdict
The Google Pixel 8a continues to prove that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a premium smartphone experience. Its compact size, AI-driven features, and photography chops make it one of the most well-rounded midrange phones in 2025.
If you can live with average charging speeds and a plastic back, the Pixel 8a delivers everything else with polish and precision. It’s also worth noting that Google’s strong emphasis on artificial intelligence makes this phone a future-ready option, especially for everyday users.
