In summary
- The Pixel 10 offers premium features, but the Pixel 9a provides better value for money
- Both phones have similar camera setups
- The £300/$300 price difference may be hard to justify
Having spent time with all three of Google’s Pixel 10 models, with a focus on the standard version, it’s clear that the Pixel 10 is a compelling choice. Priced at £799/$799, it offers top-tier performance comparable to the more expensive Pixel 10 Pro XL, along with a sleek design and nearly identical software. The addition of a dedicated telephoto camera and Qi2 charging support further enhance its appeal.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Look out below
Directly below the Pixel 10 is the Google Pixel 9a, which presents a compelling case for being the best choice for most users. While the Pixel 9a sports a less premium design with some plastic elements, it offers IP68 rating like the Pixel 10, ensuring dust and water resistance.
Although the Pixel 10 boasts a slightly brighter display, the difference isn’t significant compared to the Pixel 9a. The performance advantage of the Tensor G5 chip in the Pixel 10, along with features like Pixelsnap and Qi2 charging, make it a strong contender.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Pixel 10 vs Pixel 9a – a snap decision
While the Pixel 10 excels in zoom photography with its telephoto camera, the Pixel 9a offers a similar camera experience that may be more than sufficient for most users. Both phones share identical camera setups, with the Pixel 9a even matching the Pixel 10 in certain aspects.
Google’s decision to prioritize the telephoto camera in the Pixel 10 results in a slight downgrade in overall camera quality compared to the Pixel 9 Pro models. In challenging lighting conditions or close-up shots, the differences become more apparent, with the Pro models delivering superior results.
Decision time
The Pixel 10 offers impressive performance and features, but the Pixel 9a provides a similar experience at a more affordable price point. The value proposition of the Pixel 9a has only been strengthened with the release of the Pixel 10, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious consumers.
