Google Pixel 8a

After using the Google Pixel 8a for six months, I’ve gotten a good feel for what this device offers. Upgrading from the Pixel 5a, I was curious to see how much better the 8a would be, especially since I really liked the 5a. 

The Pixel 8a is a solid, everyday phone for anyone looking for great performance without going overboard on price.

Google Pixel 8a Specifications

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Great camera, especially in low light
• Smooth performance with the Google Tensor G3
• Wireless charging (finally!)
• IP67 water and dust resistance
• Long-term software support (7 years)

Cons

• Battery life is just okay compared to Pixel 5a
• The in-screen fingerprint reader is less reliable
• No headphone jack
• Charging speeds could be faster

Google Pixel 8a Features

1. Camera Performance

One area where the Pixel 8a really shines is its camera. The 64MP main shooter does an excellent job, even in low light. 

I found the AI editing features, like the “Best Take,” surprisingly useful. The 13MP ultrawide lens comes in handy for landscape shots or group photos. Compared to my old Pixel 5a, the 8a consistently delivers sharper, more detailed images.

2. Display Quality

The 6.1-inch OLED screen is bright, sharp, and responsive. I found the 120Hz refresh rate made a noticeable difference when scrolling through apps. 

With 2000 nits of peak brightness, I had no problem using the phone outdoors in direct sunlight. It’s smaller than some other phones, but for me, that makes it easier to handle.

3. Performance

Running on the Google Tensor G3 chip, the Pixel 8a handles multitasking with ease. Apps open quickly, and switching between them is smooth. During my time with it, I didn’t experience any slowdowns, even while running more demanding apps. 

The 8GB RAM keeps everything running efficiently. If you want a phone that handles daily tasks without hiccups, this one is solid.

4. Battery Life

Battery life is decent but not as long-lasting as my old Pixel 5a. On moderate use, it gets me through the day, but don’t expect more than that. 

The 4492mAh battery is fine, but the 5a seemed to last just a bit longer. Wireless charging is a plus, though the charging speed is on the slower side with the 18W wired option.

5. Fingerprint Sensor

The in-screen fingerprint sensor is a letdown. On the 5a, the rear-mounted sensor worked almost flawlessly. 

The 8a’s in-screen option feels slower and often struggles with accuracy, especially if you’re using a screen protector. I’ve started using face unlock more frequently because the fingerprint reader just isn’t as reliable.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Google Pixel 8a is a strong contender for those who need a reliable phone with great features at an affordable price. 

While the fingerprint sensor and battery life aren’t perfect, its camera performance, smooth operation, and long-term software support make it a worthy upgrade from older models.