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Google's A-series phones have always been the sweet spot for Android fans
Flagship-level software and camera without the flagship price tag.
With the Pixel 10a, Google is once again targeting that mid-range sweet spot. Starting at around RM2,299, it promises powerful AI features, one of the best cameras in its class, and a whopping seven years of software updates.
The design is clean, simple, and very Pixel
This is probably a non-issue to most people but I care about the colour of my phones, and Pixel's palette continues to pop.
While not for everyone, I personally adore bright, bold colours. I've been using the Pixel 9 in Peony since its launch in 2024, and that decision was 100% influenced by the colour.
With the Pixel 10a, choices include Lavender, Berry, Fog, and Obsidian. Of course, Berry was screaming my name.
Taking a photo of the Pixel 10a with my Pixel 9.
Image via Laila/SAYSDesign-wise, the phone features a flat back with minimal camera bump, rounded corners, and flat sides, giving it a clean, modern aesthetic that feels comfortable in the hand.
The front is dominated by a 6.3-inch Actua OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling through apps and social media feel incredibly smooth. The screen can reach up to 3,000 nits peak brightness, meaning it's easy to see even under bright sunlight.
Durability is also a highlight:
- Gorilla Glass 7i on the front
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Recycled aluminium frame with recycled plastic back
Google says recycled materials make up more than a third of the device, which is great if sustainability matters to you.
Performance is smooth for everyday use
The Pixel 10a runs on Google's Tensor G4 chip paired with 8GB of RAM and up to 256GB of storage.
If that sounds familiar, it's because it's the same processor used in the previous Pixel 9a.
While it isn't the fastest phone in the mid-range market, it's more than capable for everyday tasks like messaging, browsing, watching videos, social media doomscrolling, and casual gaming.
However, if you're planning to run heavy games or demanding apps all the time, this isn't exactly a performance monster.
The camera remains the star of the show
Pixel phones have always been known for their cameras. On paper, the setup looks modest:
- 48MP main camera
- 13MP ultra-wide camera
But Google's software steps in with features that include:
- Night Sight for low-light photography
- Macro Focus for close-up shots
- Best Take, which merges multiple photos to create the best group shot
- Camera Coach, which suggests better composition while shooting
Portrait Mode on the Pixel 10a.
Image via Laila/SAYS
Macro mode for close-ups capture all the details.
Image via Laila/SAYS
Nighttime photography is surprisingly clear on the Pixel 10a.
Image via Laila/SAYSThese AI-powered tools make it easier to capture beautiful photos even if you're not a professional. The one thing missing is a telephoto zoom lens, so zoom shots aren't as strong as higher-end devices.
As expected, Google's AI is a big part of the Pixel experience.
The Pixel 10a comes with built-in access to Gemini, as well as other features like:
- Circle to Search
- AI photo editing in Google Photos
- Real-time assistance through Gemini Live
These tools are designed to make everyday tasks faster and more intuitive. However, some of Google's most advanced AI features remain exclusive to the more expensive Pixel 10 models.
Battery life is another area where the Pixel 10a performs well
It packs a 5,100mAh battery, the largest in the A-series so far. You can comfortably get through a full day on a single charge. This is if you're not streaming hours of Netflix, binging YouTube, or gaming heavily.
P.S. You'll need to buy a charger separately; Google doesn't include one in the box.
Google promises seven years of Android updates, security patches, and Pixel Feature Drops
That's longer support than many flagship phones from other brands.
For a mid-range device, that kind of long-term support is honestly impressive and pretty cost-efficient if you find yourself constantly having to upgrade your phone.
The only "criticism" I have about the Pixel 10a is that it doesn't bring much change from the Pixel 9a.
The processor, cameras, RAM, and overall design are largely the same, with only small improvements like a brighter display and slightly faster charging.
Despite the lack of major upgrades, the Pixel 10a is still a fantastic phone for the price
For people who want a reliable Android phone without paying flagship prices, the Pixel 10a remains one of the easiest phones to recommend.
However, if you already own a Pixel 9a, upgrading probably won't make much sense.
