Comparing Google Pixel 9a and Pixel 10a: Which is the Better Purchase?

Google has recently unveiled its newest mid-range smartphone, the Pixel 10a. Although I have not had the opportunity to test it yet, it seems likely that it will provide strong competition for the previous Pixel 9a.

In a previous article from August, I compared the Pixel 10 to the older Pixel 9a and concluded that the latter was a better buy. Now, with the Pixel 10a on the horizon, it seems like the reputation of the 9a will only be further enhanced.

While I will reserve my final judgement until I have spent more time with the new Pixel 10a, at this moment, it is hard to see why anyone would choose it over the Pixel 9a.

A Sense of Deja Vu

From the initial leaks to the final specifications that are now available, the launch of the Pixel 10a has been filled with a sense of familiarity. The design of the phone closely resembles that of the Pixel 9a, with only minor differences in the camera module, bezel, and color options.

The specifications of the Pixel 10a closely mirror those of the Pixel 9a, including the camera setup, battery size, and even the System on Chip. This marks a departure from previous A-series Pixel devices, which typically matched their non-A counterparts in terms of performance.

Missing Feature

One notable omission in the Pixel 10a is the lack of Qi2 wireless charging, a feature that was present in the Pixel 10 series. This absence may lead some to question the significance of the Pixel 10a’s release.

What’s New?

Despite the similarities, there are some new features in the Pixel 10a worth mentioning. These include a flatter camera module, a slimmer bezel, a tougher Gorilla Glass 7i display, faster wired charging, and improved brightness in HDR scenarios.

The Pixel 10a also boasts the highest volume of recycled material of any A-series Pixel device. Additionally, Google claims that the phone offers 20 hours more battery life than the Pixel 9a in Extreme Battery Saver mode, thanks to a software improvement.

Market Dynamics

The Pixel 10a shares many similarities with the Pixel 9a and is priced the same at launch. This decision reflects the challenges faced by Google in a market where RAM component costs are rising, leading to potential price increases for smartphones.

Ultimately, the Pixel 10a’s lack of significant upgrades may prompt consumers to opt for the cheaper Pixel 9a instead. With retailers offering discounts on the older model, it raises questions about the value proposition of the Pixel 10a.

The Pixel 9a was highly regarded as a mid-range smartphone in 2025, and it seems that it may continue to hold its own in 2026 amidst minimal changes in the Pixel 10a.