Google Pixel 8a Review: A Flagship Killer in Disguise?
The Google Pixel 8a has recently made its debut in India, boasting significant upgrades compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 7a. However, with a price tag that edges into mid-range territory, the question arises – can it truly compete as a flagship killer? In this comprehensive review, we delve into the design, display, performance, cameras, software, and battery life of the Pixel 8a to determine if it lives up to the hype.
Unboxing the Pixel 8a unveils the absence of a charger, a common trend among recent smartphones. Inside the box, you will find the phone, a charging cable, a SIM ejector tool, and a USB-A to USB-C adapter. The Aleo-colored variant stands out with its eye-catching finish that includes a matte back panel to resist fingerprints. Despite the shiny aluminum rails and signature camera bar, some may find the build quality less premium due to the Gorilla Glass 3 on the front and a plastic back panel.
The Pixel 8a prioritizes comfort with its curved design, providing a familiar Pixel aesthetic with practical upgrades. The IP67 dust and water resistance rating set it apart, though the thicker bezels may deviate from current trends. The right side features easily accessible power and volume buttons, while the SIM tray is located on the left.
Featuring a 6.1-inch FHD+ OLED display with a traditional 20:9 aspect ratio, the Pixel 8a offers a variable refresh rate between 60Hz and 120Hz for smooth visuals and optimized battery life. With HDR support and a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, the display competes with the standard Pixel 8, albeit with thicker bezels.
Under the hood, the Pixel 8a houses the Tensor G3 SoC, delivering impressive performance but falling short of flagship processors such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Gen 3. The focus on AI operations over raw power allows seamless multitasking and gaming, with potential enhancements expected from the Google Gemini AI app.
The Pixel 8a’s dual-camera setup includes a 64MP primary sensor with OIS and a 13MP ultrawide sensor. Daylight photography excels with exceptional detail and accurate colors, while Night Sight impresses in low-light scenarios. The ultrawide camera stands out for its consistent performance alongside the main sensor.
With a 4,492mAh battery, the Pixel 8a offers a full day’s usage under moderate conditions. However, fast charging capabilities are limited to 18W wired and 7.5W wireless charging, falling short of competitors.
Despite its price pushing the mid-range boundaries, the Pixel 8a appeals to users valuing camera quality, clean software experience, and vibrant display. While not a powerhouse in raw performance, its focus on everyday usability makes it a compelling option for many.
In conclusion, the Pixel 8a may not be a flagship killer in terms of raw power, but for those seeking a fantastic camera system, clean software experience, and user-centric design, it emerges as a worthy contender in the smartphone market.
