Everything you need to know about the Google Pixel 3a

In an age of bigger, better, and more expensive smartphones, we’re starting to see the big tech companies pivot toward more affordable models. Thanks to increased competition from mid-tier manufacturers, such as Huawei, over the past 12 months we’ve seen Apple release the iPhone XR, Samsung release the Galaxy A8, and now Google have released the Pixel 3a – all ‘budget’ versions of their flagship devices.

But what does the Pixel 3a offer to the ever-expanding smartphone market, and what differentiates it from other Google models? Let’s find out:

The 3a offers a 5.6-inch OLED display, which is slightly larger than the Pixel 3. However, while the screen quality is still impressive, it doesn’t offer the same quality as Google’s flagship model, with no HDR Support.

Whilst the Pixel 3a keeps a similar design aesthetic to offer Google devices, it doesn’t have a soft-touch glass back – opting instead for a polycarbonate unibody which makes the phone a little lighter. Like other Google models, the 3a is available in several unique colours, with the white and black standard, as well as a lilac alternative called ‘Purple-ish’.

As for power, the mid-tier smartphone has a Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 processor, 4GB AM, and a 3000 mAh battery with 18w fast charging. While not quite as powerful as the flagship devices, the 3a has more than enough power to produce stunning visuals and run high-end applications.

One area in which the Pixel 3a keeps up with the more expensive models is the camera. It features a 12.2 MP dual-pixel rear camera with auto-focus and electronic image stabilisation, allowing for the impressive photo quality that we’ve come to expect from Google’s smartphones. However, the 3a doesn’t have a dual front camera, and the single one that is there doesn’t have a wide-angle lens. Furthermore, the front camera only has a f/2.0 aperture and fixed focus. While this still allows for great shots, it doesn’t quite compete with high-end smartphone cameras.

One of the most touted features of the Google Pixel 3a is the Night Sight camera, which allows for high-fidelity images, even when shooting in the dark. The phone also has photo editing software, such as a depth editor and colour pop, allowing users to manipulate their images on the fly.

As for the device itself, the battery can last up to 30 hours, thanks to Google’s Adaptive Battery system, which learns which apps you use most regularly and minimises power being sent elsewhere. The Pixel 3a also features fast charging, thanks to the 18 W adaptor that is included with the device.