You Can Preorder the Google Pixel 10a for $500 and Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card

Google is releasing its budget A-series version of the Pixel 10 on March 5, a full month before the 9a releases in 2025. There’s not much that separates the 10a from the 9a, but there are a few software updates that may be worth it for some people. Add a $100 Amazon gift card and it’s hard to say no. Google already has pre-orders for the Google 10a, for $499plus the gift card. Alternatively, you can get their Pixel Buds 2a instead of the $100 gift card for the same price. $499 price.

Lifehacker Associate Tech Editor Michelle Ehrhardt got her hands on the Pixel 10a at a recent Google demo event. As she pointed out, the Pixel 10a’s specs aren’t like the Pixel 10. They’re more like the 9. It has a Tensor G4 processor, 8GB of RAM, and up to 256GB of storage, as well as the same camera system, with a 48MP main lens, a 13MP ultra-wide lens, and a 13MP selfie camera. Battery life is also the same at over 30 hours, and the MagSafe-like Pixelsnap functionality is gone. The main upgrade here is a brighter 3,000 nit display, thinner bezel, and improved Corning Gorilla Glass 7i cover glass. But the value may lie in the software and AI.

There are two AI camera features that debuted with the Pixel 10. One is Auto Best Take, which takes 150 images with one click, chooses the best image, and automatically deletes the rest (or stitches together elements from multiple shots to create a new “best” image). And Camera Coach, which guides you with AI on how to take the best photo. Google also introduced Satellite SOS for the first time on an A-series phone. It lets you connect to a satellite and ping emergency services for help if you don’t have a cellular signal.

If you’re considering upgrading from a Pixel 9a or later, there’s not much here to make it worth it. However, if you own anything older than a Pixel 9 or are upgrading to the Pixel for the first time, this is a great opportunity and phone to do so.