Pixel 9a: A Deep Dive into Google’s Latest Budget Challenger – Is it Worth the Hype?
Google's Pixel series has consistently impressed with its camera prowess and seamless Android experience. The latest entrant, the Pixel 9a, aims to bring that magic to a more affordable price point. But does it deliver? Recent teardowns and reviews offer a mixed bag of insights, revealing both the phone's strengths and potential drawbacks. Is the Pixel 9a the budget champion we've been waiting for, or are there hidden compromises to consider?
One of the most talked-about aspects of the Pixel 9a is its design and build quality. While praised for its solid overall feel, a recent JerryRigEverything teardown video raised serious concerns about battery replacement. "DO NOT BUY THE GOOGLE PIXEL 9A," the video boldly proclaims, highlighting the excessive glue used to secure the battery. This makes safe removal incredibly difficult, posing a significant risk to both the person attempting the replacement and the device itself. Battery replacement will be needed at some point considering Google promising 7 years of updates, and it certainly seems not only in the customer's or planet's interest, but in Google's best interest to fix this problem.
However, other reviews paint a more positive picture. ZDNET's Kerry Wan spent a month using the Pixel 9a as his primary phone and came away impressed. He lauded its timing, calling it "one of the most significant devices of 2025" due to its combination of long-term benefits and affordability. He praised the improved brightness of the display (ramping up to 2,700 nits). The Tensor G4 chipset also received positive feedback, with Wan noting a 30% speed bump in web browsing compared to the previous generation. The larger 5,100mAh battery was another highlight, providing admirable endurance even with a camera-heavy workflow.
In terms of camera performance, CNET notes that the Pixel 9A has two cameras on the back: a 48-megapixel wide and 13-megapixel ultrawide, along with a 13-megapixel front-facing camera. You'll still have access to, even with that lower price AI editing tools and features like Magic Editor.
Despite lacking a telephoto lens and having slower charging speeds, the Pixel 9a makes up for it with helpful AI tools, a brighter display, improved cameras and the largest battery to make it Google's longest lasting Pixel.
Pixel 9a vs. the Competition: How does the Pixel 9a stack up against other budget contenders? The $499 price tag puts it in direct competition with phones like the Nothing Phone 3a Pro and Samsung Galaxy A36 5G. While those devices may offer different design aesthetics or features, the Pixel 9a boasts Google's acclaimed software experience and a strong focus on AI-powered features. It also offers seven years of software support, a rarity in the Android world, further solidifying its long-term value.
Ultimately, the Pixel 9a presents a compelling package for budget-conscious consumers. It delivers a solid user experience, impressive camera capabilities, and long-term software support. However, the battery replacement issue is a significant concern that potential buyers should be aware of. If you prioritize repairability, you might want to consider other options. But if you're looking for a reliable, feature-rich smartphone at an affordable price, the Google Pixel 9a is definitely worth considering.
What are your thoughts on the Pixel 9a? Do the benefits outweigh the battery replacement concerns? Share your opinions in the comments below!
