In the year 2025, smartphones have become an essential tool for travelers. From boarding passes to GPS navigation, our reliance on smartphones while traveling has only increased over time. As I prepared for a trip to New York in late April, I decided to review Google’s Pixel 9a, a mid-range handset that had impressed me during my time at home.
While the Pixel 9a had served me well in familiar surroundings, navigating the bustling streets of Manhattan was a different story. Despite having had a positive experience with the Pixel 9 Pro XL on a previous trip, I decided to take a chance with the Pixel 9a. While the phone excelled in several areas during my time in NYC, it also revealed a major downside that would make it difficult for me to recommend it for travel.
### A Fine Design
One of the standout features of the Pixel 9a was its lightweight and compact design. Navigating the streets of New York City, I found the phone comfortable to hold for extended periods, even with a case on. The 6.3-inch screen provided ample viewing space while remaining pocket-friendly.
### What a Display
Despite its smaller size compared to flagship phones, the Pixel 9a’s display was top-notch. The P-OLED screen delivered vibrant colors and crisp imagery, perfect for watching videos or browsing the web. The fast 120Hz refresh rate ensured smooth and fluid performance, even in demanding situations like bright sunlight.
### Heavyweight Performance
While some may question Google’s decision to use its own Tensor chipset in the Pixel 9a, the phone’s performance was more than adequate for everyday tasks. From using Google Maps to browsing the web and taking photos, the Pixel 9a handled everything with ease, without any noticeable slowdowns or glitches.
### Great Battery Life, Finally!
Battery life has often been a weak point for Pixel A phones, but the Pixel 9a’s 5100mAh battery was a game-changer. Even on busy days in New York City, the phone easily lasted the entire day with plenty of charge to spare. The improved battery life was a welcome surprise, especially for travelers who rely heavily on their phones.
### Killer Photography…
The highlight of the Pixel 9a was its impressive cameras, particularly the 48MP main rear lens. Photos taken with the phone were vibrant, well-exposed, and offered excellent low-light performance. The front-facing camera also delivered great results, making it easy to capture memorable moments during my trip.
### …Except When You Want to Zoom
Despite the overall strong performance of the cameras, the lack of a telephoto lens was a notable drawback. Without the ability to zoom in optically, the Pixel 9a’s digital zoom capabilities fell short, especially in situations where capturing distant subjects was crucial. The absence of a telephoto lens was particularly felt during moments like the Staten Island Ferry ride, where capturing high-quality zoomed-in shots was challenging.
In conclusion, while the Pixel 9a excelled in many areas, its lack of a telephoto lens limits its suitability for travel, especially in cities like New York where zoom capabilities are essential. For travelers seeking a versatile and reliable smartphone, the Pixel 9 Pro XL may be a better option. However, there are several alternative options available in the market that cater to different preferences and needs.
