15 Cons of Google Pixel 8a (Review 2024)

When I first got my hands on the Google Pixel 8a I was excited to explore its features and compare it with models and competitors.

However as I used the phone extensively I started noticing some drawbacks. While its a device, in aspects there are certain areas where it falls short. In this review I delve into the shortcomings of the Google Pixel 8a based on my experience and insights from reviewers.

If after reading all these cons, you still want to buy the product, congratulations! You’re making a well-informed decision, and you won’t regret your purchase!

Screen Brightness

One aspect that caught my attention away was the screen brightness. Despite being touted as an improvement over its predecessors the display often feels lacking in outdoor conditions. I found myself frequently needing to crank up the brightness to its level just to see clearly. This not limits flexibility. Also significantly drains the battery life. Screen brightness is an area where the Pixel 8a lags behind its competitors.

Thick Bezels

Another issue is the bezels of the Pixel 8a. Its design appears outdated compared to sleeker smartphones like the Samsung S24 Ultra, with their narrow bezels. The bottom part of the phone appears a bit thick which doesn’t quite match the style many people myself included, look for in devices in 2024. While not everyone might mind this detail it’s a step if you’re used to an edge, to edge screen.

Phone Overheating Concerns

I noticed occasions when my Pixel 8a would heat up after some use. It wasn’t an issue. There were times when prolonged usage made it noticeable. Worries about overheating could affect performance and the phones long term durability. I found this inconvenient during gaming or extended sessions.

Slow Charging Speed

Another drawback of the Pixel 8a is its charging speed. At times it charged quickly. Other times it was painfully slow at just two to three watts. This fluctuating charge rate can be frustrating when you need a boost before heading out. With 18W wired charging and 7.5W wireless charging available the Pixel 8a lags behind modern smartphones with faster charging capabilities.

Battery Performance

The battery life of the Pixel 8a is rather average. I typically got around five to five and a half hours of screen on time which is decent but not ideal, for a days use. I expected a phone of this price range to have a lifespan. The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8a are often referred to as “one day phones” since they typically need to be recharged by the end of the day which can be quite bothersome if you use them frequently.

Dual Assistant Issue

A notable drawback of the Pixel 8a is its inclusion of two assistants—Google Assistant and Gemini Nano—which can lead to an user experience due, to their overlapping yet not entirely aligned functionalities. It can be frustrating having to switch between assistants and deciding which one to utilize for tasks.

Build Quality and Material

When it comes to materials and build quality, the plastic of the Pixel 8a although frosted for fingerprint resistance may seem premium compared to the glass back of the Pixel 8. While it boasts edges and a sleek matte finish its design doesn’t deviate significantly from its predecessor, the Pixel 7a. Additionally some users may find the phone slightly heavier and thicker than the Pixel 8. Notably there’s a edge where the plastic meets the aluminum frame that contributes to an overall lower construction quality.

Camera Performance

In terms of camera performance one area where the Pixel 8a lags is in its capabilities. Utilizing sensors as its predecessor, the Pixel 7a this phone tends to produce images, with contrast levels leaning towards yellow tones. The front camera, on the Pixel 8a with its 13 megapixel resolution may not produce selfies as those from the Pixel 8. It also tends to have white balance issues. Additionally the absence of a feature found in the Pixel 8 that enables recording at 24 frames per second on the Pixel 8a could be a downside for users who prefer this video format.

High Price

In terms of pricing some might consider the $500 cost of the Pixel 8a to be somewhat high given its limitations. This becomes more apparent when comparing it to discounted prices for the Pixel 8 during sales. The latter offers features such as bezels, a brighter and higher quality display improved cameras, a larger battery capacity and faster charging capabilities for just an additional $50. When compared to both its competitors and older models like the Pixel 7a the higher price of the Pixel 8a makes it less appealing.

Absence of 24 FPS Video Capture

Another notable drawback is the absence of video capture at 24 frames per second on the Pixel 8a. This limitation may disappoint users who appreciate this frame rate for its feel. Those who prioritize video recording capabilities may find that opting for the Pixel 8 would better suit their needs due, to this functionality.

Missing Power Adapter

Furthermore users should note that they will need to purchase a power adapter since it is not included with the Pixel 8a. The cost of the phone might be bothersome, for some even though it may not be a deal breaker for everyone. When comparing the hardware of the Pixel 8a to that of the Pixel 7a they both feature a 64MP camera and a 13MP ultra wide camera along with components. For consumers those who already own the Pixel 7a and are looking for a substantial upgrade this similarity may not be sufficient to justify the higher price tag.

Low Light Performance

In terms of low light performance while the Pixel 8a performs decently in conditions there isn’t an improvement over the Pixel 7a—the night mode exposure duration is only slightly longer. Consequently its low light capabilities are not as impressive as those found in range smartphones.

AI Features

Despite introducing some new AI features in the Pixel 8a many of them are already present in the Pixel 7a well. This diminishes the appeal of upgrading for Pixel users since functionalities like Audio Magic Eraser and Best Take lose their novelty if you’ve already experienced them on models.

Dust and Water Resistance

When it comes to dust and water resistance ratings with an IP67 rating compared to IP68 for the Pixel 8 the Pixel 8a is slightly less resistant to water and dust. This could pose a drawback, for individuals who value enhanced durability. The Pixel 8 faces competition, from range phones like the Nothing Phone 2 which boasts a sleek design at a lower cost even though it may lack full US 5G support. This makes the Pixel 8 less appealing due to options offering features for a better price.

Fitbit Syncing Issues

I encountered issues syncing my Fitbit during setup, which could be frustrating for users on this service. Such hitches can detract from the user experience significantly.

Final Thoughts

While the Google Pixel 8a has some features it falls short compared to its competitors and even its own sibling, the Pixel 8. Various drawbacks such as bezels, display brightness issues, inconsistent performance and high pricing make it less attractive for buyers.

Whether its dated design, unreliable support services or, below average camera performance the Pixel 8a struggles to justify its cost. Opting for the more premium experience of the Pixel 8 or exploring mid range phone options that offer better value for money might be more beneficial.

However, if after reading all these cons, you still want to buy the Google Pixel 8a, congratulations! You’re making a well-informed decision, and you won’t regret your purchase.

Reference:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DfRQ_88OzY&pp=ygUWZ29vZ2xlIHBpeGVsIDhhIHJldmlldw%3D%3D
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlkpENAi5zI&pp=ygUWZ29vZ2xlIHBpeGVsIDhhIHJldmlldw%3D%3D
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