Google Pixel 8a Review: The Smarter Midrange Choice
Powered by the Tensor G3 and backed by 7 full years of software support, Google's Pixel 8a redefines the mid-range smartphone value equation.
The Verdict
The Google Pixel 8a is currently the best overall smartphone choice under £500. By incorporating the flagship Tensor G3 chip and offering an industry-leading 7 years of operating system updates, Google has created a device built to last. While the charging speed is relatively slow and the screen bezels are slightly thick, its camera performance and AI smarts are completely unmatched in this price bracket.
1. Photography: The AI Edge
Google's image processing algorithms remain the best in the business. The 64MP main sensor, combined with the Tensor G3, delivers photos with rich detail, excellent dynamic range, and accurate skin tones.
During our testing, night shots captured under extremely poor light exposures turned out surprisingly bright and sharp. The phone also supports Google's signature AI editing tools, including **Magic Editor** (allowing you to relocate subjects in a photo) and **Best Take** (which swaps faces from a burst of photos so everyone is smiling).
2. Display: 120Hz Smoothness
The display has received a major upgrade, now running at a 120Hz refresh speed. The 6.1-inch OLED panel is incredibly vibrant and boasts a high peak brightness of 1,400 nits under simulated outdoor sunlight, making it highly readable in all conditions.
PROS
- Outstanding primary camera quality
- Flagship Google Tensor G3 processor
- 7 Years of Android OS upgrades support
- Vibrant 120Hz OLED display panel
CONS
- Slow 18W wired charging speeds
- Relatively thick bezels around display
- Mediocre battery life compared to Nothing Phone
Detailed Specifications
| Display | 6.1-inch OLED, 120Hz refresh, HDR, Corning Gorilla Glass 3 (1080 x 2400 pixels) |
| Processor | Google Tensor G3 (4nm) with Titan M2 security coprocessor |
| Cameras | Rear: 64 MP (f/1.9, OIS) + 13 MP (f/2.2 ultrawide) | Front: 13 MP (f/2.2) |
| Battery | 4492 mAh, 18W wired charging, 7.5W wireless compatible |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB configurations |
| Operating System | Android 14 (7 guaranteed upgrades and security updates support) |
| Dimensions | 152.1 x 72.7 x 8.9 mm (Weight: 188g) |