Google Pixel 8a smartphone review (video)

The Google Pixel 8a is a mid-range smartphone that offers a compelling balance between affordability and functionality. Priced at $499, this device is designed for users who want a reliable, feature-rich smartphone without having to break the bank. In the video below, Tech Spurt discusses various aspects of the Pixel 8a, including its design, software, display, performance, battery life, camera, audio, memory, and more.

Quality of design and workmanship

One of the standout features of the Pixel 8a is its compact design. With a 6.1-inch display, this smartphone is easy to use and fits comfortably in most hands. The device has a plastic back and a metal frame, which contributes to its overall durability. Additionally, the Pixel 8a is IP67 rated, which makes it dust and water resistant. The display is protected by Gorilla Glass 3, which provides an extra layer of protection against scratches and minor drops.

Compact 6.1-inch display for easy operation
Durable plastic back and metal frame
IP67 rated for dust and water resistance
Gorilla Glass 3 display protection

Software and updates

Google Pixel 8a runs on the latest version of Android 14, which ensures a smooth and intuitive user experience. One of the key benefits of owning a Pixel device is the guarantee of long-term software support. Google promises seven years of OS and security updates for the Pixel 8a, ensuring your device stays updated and secure for longer. The stock Android system on the Pixel 8a is clean and bloat-free and is enhanced with exclusive Google features that are not available on other Android devices.

It keeps working Android 14 to ensure a smooth and intuitive user experience
Seven years of OS and security updates Guaranteed by Google
A clean, bloat-free Android experience
Exclusive Google features not available on other Android devices

Display quality

Pixel 8a comes with an OLED display that provides excellent contrast and realistic color tones, making it perfect for enjoying multimedia. The display has a 120Hz refresh rate for a smooth scrolling and gaming experience. HDR10 support improves video playback for a more immersive viewing experience. The display also boasts an impressive brightness level of up to 2,000 nits, which ensures that the screen remains visible even in bright sunlight.

OLED display with excellent contrast and realistic color shades
Refresh rate 120 Hz for smooth scrolling and gaming
HDR10 support for better video playback
High brightness levels of up to 2000 nits ensure visibility in bright sunlight

Performance and hardware

Under the hood, the Pixel 8a has a Tensor G3 chipset paired with 8GB of RAM. This combination ensures that the device can handle gaming and multitasking with ease. It’s worth noting, however, that you may notice occasional overheating during extended periods of heavy use. Despite this minor issue, the overall performance of the Pixel 8a remains solid for a mid-range device.

Tensor G3 chipset and 8GB RAM for smooth operation
It handles gaming and multitasking with ease
Occasional overheating during prolonged, intensive use
Overall solid performance for a mid-range device

Battery life and charging

Pixel 8a is equipped with a 4,492 mAh battery that provides approximately 6 hours of screen time. That’s enough for a full day of moderate use, so you can rely on your device all day long without constantly searching for a power outlet. The device supports wired and wireless charging with a power of 18 W, which provides flexibility in choosing how to power your phone.

4492 mAh battery providing approximately 6 hours of screen operation
Enough for a whole day of moderate use
18W wired charging and wireless charging support
Flexibility in charging options

Camera performance

The camera setup on the Pixel 8a is impressive for a mid-range device. It has a 64MP main camera with optical image stabilization, a 13MP ultra-wide camera and a 13MP front camera. The main camera performs excellently in low light conditions, capturing detailed and well-lit photos even in difficult lighting conditions. Pixel 8a also has built-in editing tools that let you enhance your photos quickly and efficiently without the need for third-party apps.

Main camera 64 MP with optical image stabilization
13MP ultra-wide camera and 13MP front camera
Excellent low light performance
Built-in editing tools enable you to quickly and effectively improve your photos

Sound quality

The Pixel 8a has stereo speakers that provide decent sound quality. While the audio experience may not be as immersive as that of higher-end devices, it is more than adequate for casual listening and video playback. A potential drawback for some users is the lack of a headphone jack. However, the device offers reliable Bluetooth streaming, ensuring a good audio experience when using wireless headphones.

Stereo speakers with decent sound quality
For some users, the lack of a headphone jack may be a disadvantage
Reliable Bluetooth streaming for wireless headphones

Storage options

The Pixel 8a has a starting capacity of 128GB, which should be enough for most users. This storage space allows you to store a significant number of applications, photos, videos and other files without worrying about running out of space. However, please note that the Pixel 8a does not support microSD card expansion, so you cannot increase the capacity beyond what is built into the device. For users who need more space, a 256 GB option is available at a higher price.

It starts at 128 GB memorysufficient for most users
No support for microSD cards to expand memory
A 256GB option available at a higher price for those needing more space

Additional features

Pixel 8a gives you the flexibility of network connectivity, supporting both a single SIM and eSIM slot. This allows you to use your device with your preferred operator or take advantage of the convenience of eSIM while traveling. The device also comes with a fingerprint sensor and facial recognition for safe and convenient unlocking of the device. While the Pixel 8a lacks some of the advanced features found on higher-end models like the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, it still offers a solid feature set for its price.

Supports both single SIM slot and eSIM for network flexibility
The fingerprint reader and face unlock ensure safe and convenient unlocking of the device
It’s missing some of the advanced features found on higher-end Pixel models

**Application**
Overall, the Google Pixel 8a is an attractive mid-range smartphone that offers a balanced mix of features, performance, and affordability. The compact design, solid software support and impressive camera capabilities make it a strong competitor in its price category. While it may not have all the benefits of more expensive devices, the Pixel 8a delivers a solid user experience that will meet the needs of most users looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone without the high price tag.

Image credit and credit: Tech Spurt

Filed under: Gadget News

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