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Home / Hot Stuff / Smartphones / Google’s Pixel 3a is a mid-ranger that has learned a lot from its pricier predecessor

Google’s Pixel 3a is a mid-ranger that has learned a lot from its pricier predecessor

Imagine the Pixel 3, but cheaper

Overwhelmed by camera lenses and of the opinion that bezels are just misunderstood? You may well tempted by the Google Pixel 3a. It’s a smartphone that, just like the Pixel 3 before it, ignores the current trend of edge-to-edge displays and squeezing as many cameras onto a rectangular piece of metal as is physically possible, and instead offers a streamlined smartphone experience. For £400 you get either a 5.6in FHD+ OLED (6in if you opt for the larger Pixel 3a XL), the same consistently brilliant 12.2MP single rear snapper as last year’s 3, squeezable sides for Google Assistant-summoning, and a price-squashing plastic body. A Snapdragon 670 might not be the speediest on the market, but you should only really notice it if you’re playing graphically intensive games. Prices start at £399 for the Pixel 3a and £469 for the 6in model. Both are available now.

Profile image of Matt Tate Matt Tate Contributor

About

I'm fascinated by all things tech, but if you were going to leave me on a desert island, I'd probably ask for my Nintendo Switch, a drone, and a pair of noise-cancelling cans to block out the relentless seagull racket. When I'm not on Stuff duty you'll probably find me subscribing to too many podcasts, playing too many video games, or telling anyone who will listen that Spurs are going to win a trophy this season.

Areas of expertise

Video games, VR, smartwatches, headphones, smart speakers, bizarre Kickstarter campaigns