Rumors suggest that the Google Pixel 9a could arrive this month, less than a year after the Pixel 8a last May.
That’s great news for phone buyers on a budget. The Pixel ‘a’ series has routinely topped our list of the best cheap phones you can buy, and there’s no reason to think that the new version won’t continue that trend.
But will it be worth paying extra for the excellent Pixel 9? Here’s what we know based on current leaks and rumors.
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 9 specs
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 9 price and availability
The Google Pixel 9 was released last August, starting at $799 for the model with 128GB of storage, and rising to $899 for double that. In the intervening months, prices have dropped, and you can now get one for as low as $599 if you shop around.
But that will still be more expensive than the Pixel 9a if rumors are to be believed. Google is tipped to keep pricing parity with its predecessor, meaning $499 for the 128GB version of $599 for the 256GB model.
It’s very likely to arrive this month. A long-standing rumor says that the handset will be available for pre-order from March 19.
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 9 design and display
Since the Pixel 6 arrived in 2021, Google phones have adopted a wide camera bar as their signature design calling card, but it looks like the Pixel 9a is going to abandon this for something that looks a bit more generic. The dual-camera array is still present, but tucked into a slightly raised pill-shaped bump in the corner.
Otherwise, the devices look set to be pretty much indistinguishable, with a hole-punch camera at the top of the screen. Said screen looks set to be identical between devices: a 6.3-inch OLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. Notably, that’s up 0.2 inches on the Pixel 8a.
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 9 performance
Recent Pixel ‘a’ devices have offered pretty similar performance to the regular models, because they use the same Google Tensor chipset. That’s set to continue this time around, with the adoption of the Tensor G4, which offers relatively weak performance compared to other flagships, but should be really good for a sub-$500 handset like the Pixel 9a.
One difference is the amount of RAM used. While the Pixel 9 was bumped to 12GB RAM to improve AI functionality, the Pixel 9a looks set to persist with 8GB. That won’t mean the Pixel 9a has no AI — the Pixel 8a managed just fine — but it will mean slightly weaker performance and could impact multitasking somewhat.
There is another minor difference between the handsets. The cheaper model reportedly won’t use the Pixel 9’s Exynos Modem 5400, instead opting for the 5300 from the Pixel 8a. While connectivity is the kind of spec detail that only enthusiasts will notice, it will likely mean that the Pixel 9a won’t support the Satelite SOS feature Google added to its recent flagships.
One area where the cheaper model may have the upper hand is in stamina. While the Pixel 9 packs a 4,700mAh battery, one rumor suggests the Pixel 9a will have a 5,100mAh cell installed. If true, that would be a huge upgrade from the 4,492mAh battery in the 8a.
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 9 cameras
The Google Pixel 9 has a dual-camera array comprising a 50MP main camera (f/1.68) backed by a 48MP ultrawide lens (f/1.7).
This seems to be one key area where Google is cutting costs with the Pixel 9a, which is set to feature a 48MP main lens backed by a 13MP ultrawide one. Interestingly, the Pixel 8a comes with a 64MP main sensor, which sounds like a downgrade on paper, but photo quality is about far more than just megapixels.
Indeed, one report suggests that the main sensor will be the same one used by the $1,799 Pixel 9 Pro Fold, so picture quality may be markedly improved. We’ll have to wait and see.
Pixel 9a vs Pixel 9 outlook
All in all, these differences sound pretty minor. Enthusiasts may notice the difference in camera quality, 4GB less RAM and an older modem, but most buyers won’t.
Like the Pixel 8a before it, the Pixel 9a is set to be an incredible bargain, if talk of a sub-$500 price point is confirmed.
That said, with Pixel 9 prices now hovering around the $599 mark, those with a bit more money to spend may want to opt for the regular model. We’ll know for sure when review units land on our desks, hopefully later this month.
