Google Pixel 10a dashed my hopes, however I can advocate these 6 telephones as an alternative

[ad_1] Google has formally unveiled the Pixel 10a, its latest entry within the A-series lineup. On the floor, it seems to be like one other compelling budget-friendly Pixel: minimalist design, recent colors, a big battery, and Google’s well-known AI options. However dig slightly deeper, and the joy rapidly fades. For a lot of patrons, the Pixel 10a might really feel like a déjà vu second – a cellphone that appears new however behaves very very similar to final yr’s Pixel 9a. Actually, the similarities run so deep {that a} rising variety of customers and reviewers are asking the identical query: Why improve in any respect?

Regardless of its refreshed exterior and some fashionable touches, the Pixel 10a delivers almost equivalent core specs to its predecessor, and in some areas, truly seems like a step backward. For anybody buying within the sub-$500 bracket, the Pixel 10a’s worth proposition turns into questionable, particularly when a number of alternate options – some from Google’s personal lineup – supply much better {hardware} at equal or decrease costs.

Beneath, we break down why the Pixel 10a underwhelms and discover 5 smartphones that may be smarter buys.

Pixel 10a vs Pixel 9a: An incredibly small improve

Put the Pixel 9a and Pixel 10a facet by facet, and the variations nearly vanish. The show measurement, refresh charge, RAM, storage, charging speeds, and first digicam setup stay functionally the identical. Probably the most controversial change? Google swapped out its flagship-level Tensor G5 anticipated for A-series telephones, as an alternative choosing the older Tensor G4. This marks the primary time an A-series Pixel has launched with out the latest processor. For a model that constructed the A-series on value-driven flagship trickle-down, the choice is puzzling.

Some of the irritating omissions is the entire lack of Pixel Snap help. Pixel Snap – Google’s magnetic accent ecosystem – has change into a standout characteristic on the Pixel 10 lineup. But the Pixel 10a will get no magnetic capabilities in any respect. Even Google’s official Pixel 10a circumstances lack magnets. Consequently, patrons who need magnetic equipment should depend on third-party circumstances, relinquishing Google’s common first-party ecosystem expertise.

There are upgrades, however they’re small: barely brighter show, quicker wired charging, improved Bluetooth, up to date Gorilla Glass 7i entrance safety, and one additional yr of software program help. Whereas welcome, these refinements hardly justify the value leap when the Pixel 9a nonetheless exists – and continues to supply equivalent real-world efficiency.

Sure, we're barely upset too. However don’t fear, we gotchu. Listed here are 5 smartphones you should purchase as an alternative of the Pixel 10a.

If You Wish to Save Cash: Purchase the Pixel 9a

In case your precedence is worth, the older Pixel 9a stays the smarter buy. With the Pixel 10a now official, Pixel 9a pricing is predicted to drop considerably – typically $100 or extra beneath the 10a. For the reason that two telephones share the identical core expertise, choosing the 9a means saving cash with out sacrificing options.

<img decoding="async" width="3000" height="1800" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" src="https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/04/google-pixel-9a-pocket-e1761975480967.jpg?resize=3000%2C1800" alt="A person taking the Google Pixel 9a out of a pocket." class="wp-image-3908907"/> Andy Boxall / Digital Traits

The Pixel 9a’s solely actual shortcomings in comparison with the 10a embrace the older Gorilla Glass 3 show, barely slower charging, and one fewer yr of OS updates. None of those are dealbreakers for many customers – particularly these planning to improve once more inside three to 4 years.

Put merely, the Pixel 10a doesn’t justify its premium when final yr’s mannequin delivers almost equivalent efficiency at a a lot decrease price.

If you happen to’re prepared to spend extra: Purchase the Pixel 10

The Pixel 10 lists at $799, however its actual avenue value tells a unique story. Six months after launch, the Pixel 10 can frequently be discovered for $649 new – and refurbished models steadily dip to the Pixel 10a’s $499 asking value. Commerce-in bonuses and provider offers drive the value even decrease, making the Pixel 10 a considerably higher worth.

<img decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" src="https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/08/Google-Pixel-10-hands-on-5.jpg?resize=2000%2C1500" alt="Google Pixel 10 Obsidian" class="wp-image-4545448"/> Nirave Gondhia / Digital Traits

For a similar or barely increased price as a Pixel 10a, you get Google’s superior Tensor G5 chip, a correct ultrawide + telephoto rear digicam setup, 12GB RAM, more durable show glass, an ultrasonic fingerprint reader, and full Pixel Snap compatibility. In each significant approach – efficiency, images, ecosystem, really feel, longevity – the Pixel 10 outclasses the Pixel 10a.

The trade-offs? A barely smaller battery, a barely heavier chassis, and a slightly weaker selfie digicam. None outweigh the numerous benefits. If you happen to’re buying across the Pixel 10a’s value bracket, the Pixel 10 is just a greater cellphone.

If the Google Pixel will not be your jam, listed below are 4 different smartphones you possibly can go for as an alternative.

Samsung Galaxy A55

The Samsung Galaxy A55 stands out as a far stronger mid-range choice than the Pixel 10a, particularly for US customers on T-Cell, Mint Cell, or MetroPCS. Powered by Samsung’s Exynos 1480 octa-core chipset, it delivers quicker, extra steady efficiency than the Pixel 10a’s downgraded Tensor G4. The cellphone contains a vibrant 6.6-inch FHD+ Tremendous AMOLED 120Hz show, providing noticeably higher brightness, color accuracy, and smoothness.

<img decoding="async" width="3000" height="2000" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" src="https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/galaxy-a55-camera.jpg?resize=3000%2C2000" alt="The Samsung Galaxy A55's cameras." class="wp-image-3896651"/> Samsung Galaxy A55 Andy Boxall / Digital Traits

Its digicam system is extra versatile too, with a 50MP OIS predominant digicam, 12MP ultrawide, 5MP macro, and a 32MP entrance digicam with 4K video, giving it an edge in flexibility and element. Sturdiness is one other win, due to Gorilla Glass Victus+, an aluminum body, and IP67 water and dirt resistance – all superior to the Pixel 10a’s less complicated construct.

You additionally get microSD enlargement, twin SIM, newer Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6, and a extra premium total expertise. For many patrons, the A55 merely gives higher long-term worth than the Pixel 10a.

Motorola Moto G Stylus (2025)

Not each Pixel 10a different sits shut in value. The Moto G Stylus begins at simply $399, which means it can save you over $100 in comparison with Google’s new A-series gadget. It additionally comes with a built-in stylus, making it the one cellphone on this checklist with that functionality. For note-takers, artists, or productivity-focused customers, this can be a significant promoting level.

<img decoding="async" width="4032" height="2268" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" src="https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/05/PXL_20250507_231839903.jpg?resize=4032%2C2268" alt="Moto G Stylus 2025 an stylus hero shot" class="wp-image-3923464"/> Jason Howell / Digital Traits

Regardless of its modest value, the Moto G Stylus impresses with 68W quick charging – the quickest amongst these alternate options – and expandable storage by way of microSD card. These two options alone may sway many patrons.

After all, its low value comes with sacrifices: outdated Gorilla Glass 3, gradual UFS 2.2 storage, weak software program help, and slower USB switch speeds. This isn’t a cellphone for long-term customers or performance-heavy workflows – however as a price range gadget, it gives super worth.

Nothing Cellphone 3a Professional

For patrons who need one thing visually distinctive and feature-rich, the Nothing Cellphone 3a Professional stands out. Surprisingly, it retails for $40 lower than the Pixel 10a whereas providing twice the storage at 256GB. {Hardware}-wise, it’s stacked: a 50MP periscope telephoto lens, robust 50MP selfie digicam, 50W wired charging, and a surprising show with symmetrical bezels and peak brightness matching the flagship Pixel 10.

<img decoding="async" width="2390" height="1795" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" src="https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?resize=2390%2C1795" alt="The back of the Nothing Phone 3a Pro, with the Glyph Lights active." class="wp-image-3869907" srcset="https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?w=2390 2390w, https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?resize=220%2C165 220w, https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?resize=325%2C244 325w, https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?resize=720%2C541 720w, https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?resize=1536%2C1154 1536w, https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?resize=2048%2C1538 2048w, https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?resize=253%2C190 253w, https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/03/nothing-phone-3a-pro-epic-e1769539362433.jpg?resize=640%2C481 640w" sizes="(max-width: 2390px) 100vw, 2390px"/> Andy Boxall / Digital Traits

Its weaknesses embrace no wi-fi charging, much less highly effective Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip, and solely an IP64 ranking. Connectivity points might come up for Verizon prospects. Nonetheless, for the value, it’s an distinctive gadget – particularly for patrons who worth aesthetic aptitude and show high quality.

Samsung Galaxy S25 FE

Samsung’s Galaxy S25 FE serves as one other compelling different. Whereas its checklist value is increased than the Pixel 10a’s, real-world pricing – particularly throughout gross sales – typically brings it inside hanging distance. For customers who worth efficiency, the S25 FE simply outpaces the Tensor G4 in almost each benchmark. The Exynos 2400 delivers superior CPU and GPU efficiency, which interprets to quicker each day operation and noticeably higher gaming.

<img decoding="async" width="2000" height="1502" data-wp-class--hide="state.isContentHidden" data-wp-class--show="state.isContentVisible" data-wp-init="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async--click="actions.showLightbox" data-wp-on-async--load="callbacks.setButtonStyles" data-wp-on-async-window--resize="callbacks.setButtonStyles" src="https://www.digitaltrends.com/tachyon/2025/10/Samsung-Galaxy-S25-FE-blue-1.jpg?resize=2000%2C1502" alt="Samsung Galaxy S25 FE in Blue" class="wp-image-5347494"/> Nirave Gondhia / Digital Traits

Digicam {hardware} can be stronger on Samsung’s FE mannequin, particularly due to the inclusion of a telephoto lens – a characteristic lacking from the Pixel 10a. You additionally get quicker 45W wired charging and more durable show safety. On the flip facet, Google’s computational images nonetheless produces extra constant outcomes, and the Pixel 10a has a bigger battery and quicker OS updates.

Nonetheless, for customers already in Samsung’s ecosystem – or anybody prioritizing energy – the Galaxy S25 FE deserves severe consideration.

Ought to anybody purchase the Pixel 10a?

The Pixel 10a will not be a foul cellphone. In isolation, it gives dependable efficiency, a clear design, Google’s trademark AI options, and a protracted replace dedication. But it surely suffers from one main downside: the Pixel 9a exists, the Pixel 10 is discounted, and the competitors within the sub-$500 market is fiercer than ever.

In case your coronary heart is about on the Pixel 10a, go for it – Google’s {hardware} and software program consistency nonetheless make it an excellent on a regular basis cellphone. However if you need the absolute best worth on your cash, it’s exhausting to justify selecting the 10a over its alternate options. Whether or not it’s Google’s personal Pixel 9a and Pixel 10 or aggressive choices from Samsung, Motorola, and Nothing, a number of units supply extra on your greenback.

In 2026, the Pixel 10a isn’t the plain selection – it’s merely one choice in a crowded area. And for a lot of patrons, the alternate options could also be a much better match.

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