I’ve been hands-on with the Google Pixel 10a, and the 9a for AU$570 is looking like the better buy — here’s why

Google’s Pixel A-series phones have always been great value handsets, providing premium hardware while cutting costs in some areas, like using lower-quality materials, lower-spec cameras, and slower charging.

One of the main features of the A-series devices, however, is the fact that they use the same Google-made Tensor processors found in the flagship Pixel handsets. For anyone who wants a phone that’s quick to use but doesn’t need all the features of a flagship device, the Google Pixel A phones are hard to beat.

In the case of the Pixel 9 series, the same Tensor G4 chip that was featured in flagship phones of the time was also present in the Pixel 9a. The result was a phone that performed well enough that we could include it in our list of the best cheap phones. Not only did the Tensor G4 deliver plenty of power, but the Pixel 9a also boasted excellent camera skills, which our reviewer found almost on par with the Pixel Pro phones.

This year, however, Google made the surprising decision to keep the Tensor G4 processor with its new Pixel 10a, rather than opting for the Tensor G5 used in the highly acclaimed Pixel 10 line. This disappointed me personally and makes the 10a virtually indistinguishable from the 9a.

It’s not just the processor that’s carried over: both generations feature the same 8GB of RAM, the same camera arrays, the same 5,100mAh battery, the same 120Hz refresh rate, and the same 128GB and 256GB storage options. This really begs the question: what’s new?

Google hasn’t directly explained the reason for sticking with the Tensor G4 chip, but a representative told TechRadar that the goal is to hit the same AU$849 price as the Pixel 9a. The cynic in me can see how this was made possible – just keep everything the same.

Google, however, hasn’t pulled the Pixel 9a from shelves – nor has it confirmed when it will officially be discontinued in Australia – and given that it now has a successor, the 9a is getting a modest discount in the Australian Google Store for AU$799, which is AU$50 off the RRP.

This makes what was already a great value handset even more appealing, but wait, it gets even better because I’ve found a deal that gets you a great budget phone for just AU$570. Just keep in mind that opting for an older version means you get a year less software and security updates.

I’ve had the chance to test out a Pixel 10a over the past couple of weeks, and it’s certainly a great budget phone, at least in isolation.

While the handset retains many of the Pixel 9a’s specs, as mentioned above, there are some changes worth mentioning. Continuing the transition from the large metal camera bumps of previous Pixel A phones, the Pixel 10a now has a completely flat back, removing the 9a’s slight camera bump to align it with the chassis. The 10a also has comparatively more rounded edges than its predecessor. It’s a subtle change, of course, but one that some users will appreciate.

Other changes include a Gorilla Glass 7i front (up from the 9a’s Gorilla Glass 3) for better drop protection and scratch resistance, a new Exynos S5400 modem with built-in satellite connectivity (perfect for the Australian bush), and 30W wired charging (up from 27W). New colors like “Berry” and Lavender are also worth mentioning for those who like unique color options.

Using the Pixel 10a was a pleasure to use, with the 120Hz display providing a smooth and fast experience to complement the always capable Tensor G4 processor. The cameras are perfect for a budget phone, which would rival most flagships when it comes to macro photography. But that’s also what my colleague said in his review of the Pixel 9a.

The Berry color is a breath of fresh air reminiscent of the iPhone 17 Pro Cosmic Orange, or even older Product (Red) iPhones, and a welcome departure from a sea of ​​black or gray devices. The plastic back doesn’t feel too cheap, but it’s a compromise I’m willing to live with for any budget handset.

If the Pixel 10a had the Tensor G5 processor, it would have been an automatic recommendation for me at the AU$849 MSRP, given that it also gets 7 years of support from Google (including Android OS upgrades, monthly security patches and Pixel feature drops) compared to 6 years of support currently for the 9a.

Unless you’re really going for a completely flat camera set or want the Berry and Lavender colors, I have a hard time recommending the Pixel 10a while the Pixel 9a is still available, and even harder when it’s at a discount as deep as the deal I highlighted above.

If the Pixel 9a is ultimately pulled from shelves in the future, the 10a becomes the obvious choice, but even then there are other fantastic, budget-friendly phones that might be worth your attention.