I have spent the past week testing out the Pixel 9a, and unfortunately, my initial concerns have been confirmed: the new design of this phone does not do it any favors. As mentioned before, the Pixel 9a bears a striking resemblance to an iPhone, and not in a flattering way at all.
In the past, fans of the Pixel series could always mock Apple’s budget-friendly iPhone SE for recycling an outdated design. Meanwhile, Google consistently introduced fresh designs with each iteration of the Pixel A-Series, reflecting the sleek aesthetics of its flagship phones. However, with the launch of the Pixel 9 models, things took a different turn. While the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro embraced a modern look with a stylish aesthetic, the Pixel 9a seems to have stripped away every distinctive feature from its design.
The camera island on the Pixel 9 is a standout feature, but on the Pixel 9a, it’s just a featureless black oval with cameras that lacks any excitement or uniqueness. The plastic material used on the Pixel 9a is more noticeable, and the overall design feels flat and uninspired compared to its predecessor, the Pixel 8a.
Despite the disappointing design changes, the Pixel 9a does have some positive aspects. The display is larger and brighter than before, making it ideal for outdoor use and HDR photo viewing. While the bezels surrounding the display may detract from the overall look, the performance of the display itself is commendable.
One of the key selling points of the Pixel A-Series is its use of high-quality hardware usually found in flagship phones. The clean Android user interface, free from bloatware, combined with seven years of software support and regular feature updates, ensures a seamless user experience for years to come.
The Pixel 9a may not have the most attractive design, but it excels in the camera department. The Pixel A-Series is renowned for offering a premium camera experience at an affordable price point. Google’s reliable camera hardware and software combination delivers impressive results without the need for manual tweaking. The Night Sight feature enhances low-light photography, setting it apart from its competitors.
In conclusion, the Pixel 9a may not win any awards for design, but its larger display, improved camera capabilities, and seamless software experience make it a compelling choice in the mid-range smartphone market. While the design may be a letdown, the overall performance and features of the Pixel 9a make it a worthy contender. Stay tuned for our full review of the Pixel 9a, coming soon.
