Google Pixel 6a
MSRP $449.00
“While it may not be the knockout value that its predecessors were famous for, the Pixel 6a still delivers a lot of phone for not much money.”
Pros
- Compact, lightweight design
- IP67 water resistance
- Flagship-grade performance
- Excellent cameras
- Clean software
- Years of guaranteed updates
Cons
- Display is only 60Hz
- Tensor chip runs hot
- Lacking battery life
Last year’s Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro signaled a major shift for Google’s smartphone strategy. With original designs, Google’s first in-house chipset, new cameras, and a bold software update with Android 12, the Pixel 6 duo marked a significant step forward for flagship Pixel phones. Fast-forward to mid-2022, and Pixel 6 gets you a lot more for your money — including a larger and more durable 90Hz display, a bigger battery, faster wired charging, wireless charging support, reverse wireless charging, an extra 2GB of RAM, better water resistance, and a more capable 50MP primary camera. Those aren’t insignificant upgrades, and if you managed to grab the Pixel 6 when it was on sale for $499 during Prime Day, it became a no-brainer to purchase it over the Pixel 6a. The Pixel 6 is a worthy alternative to consider at the full $599 MSRP, and when it’s discounted below that, making an argument in the Pixel 6a’s favor becomes increasingly complicated.
As for other phones closer to the 6a’s asking price, the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G is also available for the same $449. It has a smoother 120Hz screen and two-day battery life, but the performance from its Exynos 1280 chipset is noticeably more sluggish than the Tensor chip inside the Pixel 6a. The iPhone SE 2022 is also worth considering if you prefer iOS over Android. If you can get past its large bezels and lackluster screen quality, Apple’s $429 handset delivers outstanding performance, a great camera, and at least five years of guaranteed updates. Finally, if you live outside the U.S. and want something with a flashier design, the Nothing Phone 1 is also worth checking out.
How long will it last?
The Pixel 6a comes equipped with an IP67 rating. That means it’s totally sealed against dust/dirt and can be submerged in up to one meter of water for up to 30 minutes. Whether you use the Pixel 6a out in a rainstorm, drop it in a lake, or get sweat on it while at the gym, it should be totally fine in all those scenarios. The plastic back should also be quite durable against drops/falls, though you may want a screen protector to supplement the older Gorilla Glass 3 covering the screen. And, as noted above, the Pixel 6a comes with three years of major Android updates and five years of security updates.
Should you buy it?
Yes. Despite its average battery life and lack of wireless charging, the Pixel 6a still stands out as an excellent value for its price. If you can’t afford the regular Pixel 6 and crave the Google smartphone experience on a budget, the Pixel 6a is an easy recommendation.
Editors’ Recommendations
