Reviewing Google's Pixel 8a after two weeks as my full time phone, testing the camera performance, gaming abilities and battery life. The Pixel 8a is a proper pocket pleaser and it's almost as good vs the 8 for photo capture - and an equal for games and the everyday Android experience. It's one of my favourite mid-range phones in 2024, and here's why!

Check out my other reviews of the best budget-friendly smartphones and flagships right now.

The Pixel 8a is a bit more expensive than previous A-Series Google handsets, but it's still cheaper than the 8 flagship and yet comes close or equals it in many areas. That camera tech may be a downgrade, but that smart image processing means you get similar photos day and night. Check out my comparison to see how they stack up.

Likewise, the Pixel 8a can happily smash through a game of Genshin Impact with maxed out graphics. I did get an overheating message one time while using Android Auto, but otherwise the phone doesn't get quite as hot as earlier Pixels.

Battery life is good enough to keep you going all day even with a fair bit of camera play. And I love that stock Android experience, with the guaranteed 7 years of support!

Google Pixel 8a Review Chapters:
0:00 - Obligatory beginning waffle
0:42 - Design
3:22 - Features
5:06 - Display & audio
6:43 - Performance & gaming
7:42 - Battery life
8:59 - Cameras
12:53 - Verdict