Coming in at great value, the Google Pixel 8a is one of the best budget phones of 2024
The new Google Pixel 8a smartphone is the newest addition to Google’s 8-series, and not only is it a bargain starting at $499 — it’s feature-packed with a great camera, a 120Hz OLED display, and an extensive software guarantee. That’s right, Google’s 7-year update promise will keep the 8a for years to come.
On May 7, pre-orders for the Google Pixel 8a went live worldwide. The first day of Google I/O is on May 14, when shipments and general sales start. The phone is powered by the proprietary third-generation Tensor G3 processor, which utilizes redesigned components and has a primary focus on on-device generative AI. This includes the company’s next-generation TPU, which is designed specifically to run Google’s AI algorithms, as well as improved GPUs, upgraded ISPs and imaging DSPs, and state-of-the-art ARM CPUs.
Specs-wise, the 8a comes with a 6.1-inch OLED, as previously stated, that boasts a 2400×1080 resolution, a 20:9 aspect ratio, and a 120Hz refresh rate. Customers have the option to choose 8GB of RAM and a storage space of either 128GB or 256GB. Cameras include a 64MP wide camera with ƒ/1.89 aperture and OIS + EIS, a 13MP ultra-wide camera with 120deg FoV and ƒ/2.2 aperture, and a front camera with 13MP and a ƒ/2.2 aperture.
Just like it’s older brother the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, the 8a uses the same software which includes the Pixel’s Super Res Zoom, Night Sight, Best Take, Magic Editor, Real Tone, and Guided Frame, which are all AI-powered features that offer digital zoom, low-light photography, editing, and much more. The 8a also supports video features like the Audio Magic Eraser, which removes background noise, and Real Tone that improves skin tones.
As far as battery life, the battery’s capacity is at 4,492mAh, which is larger than the 7a but smaller than the 8. The 128GB variant will come in four colorways (Obsidian, Porcelain, Bay, and Aloe), while the 256GB will only come in Obsidian.
Offering a future-proof midrange option with Android 14 equipped out of the box, the Google Pixel 8a smartphone is an excellent choice that might just be the best bang for the buck in the market.
