Google Pixel 10a Review: Is Budget Best?

We’ve had a small amount of feedback recently about a glaring omission from our site. Here at Ghostek, we have a dedicated audience of smartphone enthusiasts, and a few of our regular readers pointed out that we’ve not said much about the Google Pixel 10a. You know what? Fair enough, sometimes a new release slips past us.

It was released at the start of March, and while we’ve spent plenty of time waxing lyrical about the rest of the series, the Pixel 10a has been neglected around these parts. So, we decided it was time to right that wrong. 

The Pixel 10a has been out for three months now, so let’s take a look at it and see how Google’s mid-range smartphone stacks up. 

What’s New with the Google Pixel 10a?

Let’s begin by detailing what you get with the Pixel 10a. Essentially, this is not what anyone would consider a premium-level smartphone, but rather a mid-range option. It isn’t a muscular powerhouse, but it promises to be a reasonably-priced and respectable device that can handle everyday tasks without trouble. 

In this respect, it fills a similar niche to its predecessor (the Google Pixel 9a), but with the added benefit of:

• Improved battery life

• A few upgrades to the camera

• Better AI features

• A brighter display

• Improved durability

If you’re standing in a queue at a tech conference, you wouldn’t consider taking it out to impress the rest of the line. However, if you want a no-fuss, gets-the-job-done Android phone, it’ll do nicely. 

The Price and Specs

We mentioned the price a few sentences ago, so let’s not string this out any longer: the Google Pixel 10a will set you back $499 for a 128GB model, or $599 for the larger, 256GB version. 

That’s not bad, is it? Not only is it cheaper than the standard Pixel 10, but it’s also less than the equivalents from other companies, such as the Apple iPhone 17e. 

So, what do you get for all those bills you’ve handed over? The Pixel 10a comes with:

• 8GB RAM

• A 5,100mAh battery

• Android 16 OS

• A 6.3-inch POLED display

• 48MP main camera

• 13MP ultrawide camera

It also features the Tensor G4 processor, with the Titan M2 security coprocessor. That’s pretty impressive for a phone that costs less than $600.

The Pixel 10a versus the Pixel 9a

While those tech specs are impressive, some of you might have noticed a drawback: they’re the same as the Pixel 9a. And this begs the question of why purchase a Pixel 10a if it’s got no advantages over the previous phone and costs more? The Pixel 9a is even cheaper at $399. 

Well…that’s a fair point. If you already own a Pixel 9a, there’s no serious reason to trade it in for the newer model. However, it would be a mistake to think that there are no differences at all. 

A Brighter Display Screen

Remember that 6.3-inch screen we mentioned? It now reaches up to 3,000 nits of brightness. That might not seem like a big deal, but it makes the screen easier to read when outdoors. We’ve been treated to a few bright days recently, and the Pixel 10a was noticeably more user-friendly, even with the sun shining directly onto it. 

It’s Tougher

The screen isn’t just easier on the eyes, it’s tougher too. Google has opted to use Gorilla Glass 7i for the Pixel 10a, and as a result, it’s more scratch-resistant. We frequently let our kids use our smartphones, and they can be…let’s say, less cautious when handling them. That extra level of protection means we’re less worried about getting the Pixel 10a back with a massive crack through the glass. 

Upgraded Camera AI 

The Pixel 10a also offers improved AI features for photography. It includes Camera Coach, which uses AI to offer tips on taking better photos and is a bit like having a miniature photography expert living inside your phone. Plus, there’s Auto Best Take, which uses generative AI to analyze facial expressions and ensure you get perfect smiles every time. 

Color Choices

There’s also been a slight alteration to the color options. Again, this is a relatively minor difference, but the Google Pixel 10a is available in:

• Obsidian

• Lavender

• Fog (a greenish-gray)

• Berry

These are very similar to the Pixel 9a color schemes, but if you’ll forgive us for channelling our inner art critics, we can see a difference. Opinions will vary, but we prefer the new shades, especially the fog one. There’s an understated wholesomeness about green phones, and it suits the overall design well. 

Does the Pixel 10a Have Any Design Alterations?

Lastly, let’s consider the shape and design of the Pixel 10a. As you might expect, it does look similar to the previous model, but there have been a few minor alterations. 

For instance, there’s no longer a camera bump. Instead, the module sits flush within the body of the phone. So if you place a Pixel 10a on a table or kitchen counter, it’ll lie perfectly flat, reducing the risk of it sliding off and damaging the internal components or screen. The corners have been rounded off, and the SIM card slot has moved as well. 

These aren’t game-changing tweaks by any means, but they are enough to distinguish the Pixel 10a. 

Ghostek’s Pixel 10a Verdict: An Impressive, If Not Essential Mid-Range Phone

One of the difficulties in reviewing smartphones is that there are always caveats. Taken in isolation, we have to admit that the Google Pixel 10a is a decent phone, but in the context of the wider smartphone world, it won’t be for everyone. 

In fact, if the budget is your primary motivating factor, we’d have to recommend getting a Pixel 9a instead. It does almost everything the Pixel 10a does, but it’s $100 cheaper. It also features the Tensor G4, which, in benchmark testing, was found to run pretty similarly to its predecessor (with mild efficiency improvements). That means only a slight performance upgrade for the newer chip.

On the other hand, if that extra cost isn’t a deterrent, the Pixel 10a is an excellent choice. It’s a reliable phone that offers a decent performance and handles everyday functions like calls, photography, and internet usage perfectly well. Make no mistake, this is not a rockstar phone, but if you’re after a no-fuss device, the Google Pixel 10a is a strong option. 

And if you’re in the mood to personalize your phone, we’ve got your back. You can explore our complete range of Google Pixel cases and accessories today. Why not see if anything catches your eye?