Google Pixel 3a XLchat_bubble_outlineFrom real comments

Owners repeatedly describe the camera as flagship-level or better, even outperforming pricier phones in low light and dynamic range. The built-in stabilization and computational photography make point-and-shoot results consistently impressive.

@nniitchh

that phone was my favorite Pixel, because it was the best value per money Pixel ever, the night and astrophotography mode were just insane for the price, even iPhones lagged of this at the time, the performance was more than decent and you got all the software features, Pixel 1 (still has unlimited, uncompressed Google Photos storage to this day) Pixel 2, Pixel 3a and maybe 6 where the most inportant Pixels for shaping the core of what we define as Pixel (4a5g and 5 where cool too, but lagged of identitiy), 3 had the notch, 4 the gestures and was too expensive and 7 and 8 are refinements of 6, I love that we have 7 years of updates now, but let's be honest, we don't use our phones 7 years as a main device, everything else is going in a wrong direction with Pixel 9, they add a Pro Xl, not because people get a smaller Pro, but because People who love a bigger phone have to pay even more, Pixel 8 also had a price increase without huge benefits if you had a Pixel 7, all the AI stuff can run on any device, they just purely lie, at least we get it on all Tensors, so Apple is still much worse, because it is exclusive to iPhone 15 Pro and 16, also Pixel 9s desing looks worse and less unique and I don't expect much hardware improvementslaunch

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July 17, 2024

@SitesThatSuck

I love mine. I bought it for the 3 main features you indicated... price, camera and battery. The forehead and chin makes it look dated compared to the beautiful Samsung S10, but the Pixel is more rugged so it's worth the trade off. I also find Google phone to integrate perfectly with Google gmail and other Google apps. The XL reminds me of my Nexus 6P which was a trusty workhorse for me. I had a hard time deciding to buy either the Pixel 3a XL or Samsung S10. The S10 is a stunning flagship and the 3 cameras are best in the world of all phones. But the Pixel meets my current needs just fine. The S10 is for those that want the very best specs. No thanks.launch

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June 5, 2020

@bishooboyy

The Pixel 3a is a brilliant device. I wish I'd coughed up a little more money and gone with the XL, but the smaller one has treated me well too. The camera is an absolute beast, everyday operations are still very smooth (if not smoother after the update to Android 10) and it looks classy. The only people I'd not recommend the device to are heavy gamers.\nPS: I still wish RAM management was slightly better. Think it still overdoes the killing of background apps to an extent, but that's just a pet peeve.launch

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November 16, 2019

@legalsuit1

I switched to the Pixel 3a XL from the iPhone XS and I rediscovered the joy of taking pictures and videos of my kids like every day. Evening low light pics and videos are amazing and I can't complain about the price. The plastic construction makes it light in the hand, which I love. Probably helps with better reception too. Really nice speakers. The large screen size has been really pleasant. It being OLED, I feel spoiled at this price point. The only upgrade that would make any sense for me at this point would be the iPhone 11 Pro Max but I would be paying a pretty penny and would lose the headphone jack. Not ready to take that step.launch

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November 10, 2019

Commenters consistently frame the 3a XL as offering flagship-adjacent performance and features for roughly half the price, making it an easy recommendation for budget-conscious buyers.

@ricerice566

Arguably the best mid-range phone of all time imo. \n\nIt's almost tempting to buy another one just in case mine falters in 2-3 years because I don't foresee phones getting any cheaper, nor offering better value than this.\nLike, honestly screw these multiple lens phones, the photo processing on these pixels man are the best out there, while the industry is going to keep pushing hardware, multi-camera setups to justify $300-$400 price increases.launch

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March 14, 2020

@davidmartrano1549

I never owned a pixal so on cyber Monday picked up the 3a XL for 4oo.oo bucks tax included. A good phone? Absolutely the OLED display, camera & battery are very good. The 670processer runs well, no lags or stutters. For the average consumer at this price is an excellent buy. I would highly recommend this phone to anyone. The stereo speakers are quite good. Yep, I also like the polycarbonate build quality better than the glass sandwiche. Very good review!launch

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January 8, 2020

@View2Views

Thank you for a very thoughtful review. I have a Pixel 3a and in my experience it is the best phone I have ever used. I don't need all the bells & whistles & extra cost of the 'flagship' models. The plastic body makes for a light phone that will not shatter from the impact of a fall to the ground. I think the Pixel 3a is the phone to have with regard to cost and quality.launch

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November 12, 2019

@kerravon7530

Glad to see the love for this phone, I'm still enjoying my 3a XL months on. All the rubbish about long term performance issues have been debunked, if anything Android 10 has even improved it. Battery still guaranteed to last at least a day without recharge. I've never taken more photos with a phone before as I'm so confident of the results, even in tricky conditions. Just point, shoot and Google handles the rest. And the video, despite some reviews, have been fine with good audio capture.\n\n\nThe only trouble is I'm now reluctant to spend more than four or five hundred on a phone again, sorry Pixel 4 (and most def forget overpriced Samsung & Apple). Motorola is also producing good phones for the price, as well as the Chinese firms.launch

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October 19, 2019

Many users report the phone easily lasts a full day of heavy use, with some claiming two days under normal use. Fast charging is also called out as a pleasant bonus.

@stevebrown2646

Love it had one for six months but it has just developed a fault. If it is flexed even ever so lightly, the screen goes off and won’t wake up until it’s rebooted! Away now at the repairers so hopefully it will be fixed. Superb photos though and battery lasts two days with normal use. Love stock android, gone back to an old Galaxy S7 whilst its being repaired and the Samsung skin for android is really annoying and complicated compared to it, especially with all of the ‘Samsung app bloatware.launch

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February 25, 2020

@kerravon7530

Glad to see the love for this phone, I'm still enjoying my 3a XL months on. All the rubbish about long term performance issues have been debunked, if anything Android 10 has even improved it. Battery still guaranteed to last at least a day without recharge. I've never taken more photos with a phone before as I'm so confident of the results, even in tricky conditions. Just point, shoot and Google handles the rest. And the video, despite some reviews, have been fine with good audio capture.\n\n\nThe only trouble is I'm now reluctant to spend more than four or five hundred on a phone again, sorry Pixel 4 (and most def forget overpriced Samsung & Apple). Motorola is also producing good phones for the price, as well as the Chinese firms.launch

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October 19, 2019

@jpryor8102

I've had mine 2 months now & agree with everything u said. The phone is a master of battery conservation, I'm surprised when I don't get 2 days out of it. & despite the technically \"slower\" processor, it is a brand new model of processor, not a new version of an old processor. Max settings on pub g automatically selected on my end. & the camera, well Apple did a wonderful job copy & pasting the code, but I'd stick with the masters personally. The software behind the camera is what makes it so amazing, not the hardware & multiple lenses. & fast chargers are hard on batteries over time, I use a $10 anker smart charger, 2hrs & much less heat. FYI got mine $100 off thru best buy so $380, unlocked too, great deal. May be more discounts now the pixel 4 is out.launch

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October 19, 2019

@ayasinx8797

The Pixel 3a XL got me at: Headphone jack, massive battery, square screen with no god awful notch and front speaker. Will be getting in the near future.\nEdit: Got it for Black Friday. Never looking back. 😍launch

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October 17, 2019

The 3.5mm jack is one of the most frequently praised features, especially since many flagship phones had already dropped it. Commenters see it as a major differentiator and buying reason.

@ayasinx8797

The Pixel 3a XL got me at: Headphone jack, massive battery, square screen with no god awful notch and front speaker. Will be getting in the near future.\nEdit: Got it for Black Friday. Never looking back. 😍launch

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October 17, 2019

@CL4MP

Meanwhile the new Pixel 4 (non XL) : no headphone jack, 2800mAh battery, still thick bezels and no ultra wide camera lens for double the prize? Yes processor and high refresh rate display are better, but I rather wait for a good deal on the 3A XLlaunch

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October 16, 2019

@四川老罗

notch = no\nheadphone jack = yes\ngoogle camera = yes\nprice/performance = yes\nWhat are you waiting for?launch

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May 26, 2019

@coolgabby9889

I like the smaller version of pixel 3a because it's smaller and easier to carry for my small hand. Thank goodness the microphone jack is available for this phone. A great sweet spot. Great video Tim!launch

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May 25, 2019

Users report the phone stays fast and responsive over time, with some noting Android 10 even improved performance. Timely Google software updates and stock Android are praised over manufacturer skins.

@bishooboyy

The Pixel 3a is a brilliant device. I wish I'd coughed up a little more money and gone with the XL, but the smaller one has treated me well too. The camera is an absolute beast, everyday operations are still very smooth (if not smoother after the update to Android 10) and it looks classy. The only people I'd not recommend the device to are heavy gamers.\nPS: I still wish RAM management was slightly better. Think it still overdoes the killing of background apps to an extent, but that's just a pet peeve.launch

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November 16, 2019

@kerravon7530

Glad to see the love for this phone, I'm still enjoying my 3a XL months on. All the rubbish about long term performance issues have been debunked, if anything Android 10 has even improved it. Battery still guaranteed to last at least a day without recharge. I've never taken more photos with a phone before as I'm so confident of the results, even in tricky conditions. Just point, shoot and Google handles the rest. And the video, despite some reviews, have been fine with good audio capture.\n\n\nThe only trouble is I'm now reluctant to spend more than four or five hundred on a phone again, sorry Pixel 4 (and most def forget overpriced Samsung & Apple). Motorola is also producing good phones for the price, as well as the Chinese firms.launch

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October 19, 2019

@jpryor8102

I've had mine 2 months now & agree with everything u said. The phone is a master of battery conservation, I'm surprised when I don't get 2 days out of it. & despite the technically \"slower\" processor, it is a brand new model of processor, not a new version of an old processor. Max settings on pub g automatically selected on my end. & the camera, well Apple did a wonderful job copy & pasting the code, but I'd stick with the masters personally. The software behind the camera is what makes it so amazing, not the hardware & multiple lenses. & fast chargers are hard on batteries over time, I use a $10 anker smart charger, 2hrs & much less heat. FYI got mine $100 off thru best buy so $380, unlocked too, great deal. May be more discounts now the pixel 4 is out.launch

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October 19, 2019

@neilgourley612

Had gone from a 1st gen Pixel to a Razer Phone 2 when they dropped in price and did enjoy the performance uplift but really missed the regular Google updates and up to date security patches all Pixels get, not to mention glitch free software. I've taken a bit of a back step going to a Pixel 3a but whole heatedly can say it still blows my Razer Phone for use/reliability/quality and doesn't feel any slower due to Google's amazing optimisation. My wife now uses my original Pixel which still gets the latest android 10 updates and is very modern to use so it shows Google's commitment to older devices (Looking at you Samsung). Overall the Pixel 3a is an amazing phone for those not will or wanting to spend a clean fortune on a flagship phone, but want 98.5% of the features. Highly recommended *thumbs up*launch

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October 17, 2019

Multiple reviewers highlight the full screen without a notch as a standout design choice compared to competitors, contributing to a satisfying viewing experience.

@ayasinx8797

The Pixel 3a XL got me at: Headphone jack, massive battery, square screen with no god awful notch and front speaker. Will be getting in the near future.\nEdit: Got it for Black Friday. Never looking back. 😍launch

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October 17, 2019

@四川老罗

notch = no\nheadphone jack = yes\ngoogle camera = yes\nprice/performance = yes\nWhat are you waiting for?launch

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May 26, 2019

@wonfeather

Finally a phone I like. No notch. Headphone jack. Battery. Camera. Yeslaunch

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May 9, 2019

@kxp06

i'd say that these are superior to the \"flagships\" thanks to no notch and 3,5mm.launch

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May 7, 2019

While not premium, several users say the polycarbonate body makes the phone lighter and more shatter-resistant than glass flagships, and holds up fine under a case.

@matthewgierula5674

I have had the 3a XL since November, zero complaints. So what if its plastic, I have a Speck case on it and it perfectly fine. I was going to put a screen protector on it but it has zero scratches. Can't say that about any iPhone for damn sure. I do wish it had a memory card slot but I forces me to back up my info on my computer which you should do anyway.launch

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May 4, 2020

@davidmartrano1549

I never owned a pixal so on cyber Monday picked up the 3a XL for 4oo.oo bucks tax included. A good phone? Absolutely the OLED display, camera & battery are very good. The 670processer runs well, no lags or stutters. For the average consumer at this price is an excellent buy. I would highly recommend this phone to anyone. The stereo speakers are quite good. Yep, I also like the polycarbonate build quality better than the glass sandwiche. Very good review!launch

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January 8, 2020

@View2Views

Thank you for a very thoughtful review. I have a Pixel 3a and in my experience it is the best phone I have ever used. I don't need all the bells & whistles & extra cost of the 'flagship' models. The plastic body makes for a light phone that will not shatter from the impact of a fall to the ground. I think the Pixel 3a is the phone to have with regard to cost and quality.launch

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November 12, 2019

@araffaelegmw

I chose the the 3a as the do is just too big to use comfortably day to day also it’s cheaper at £399. Battery lasts great and I have around 30%- 40% left when I put it on charge at the end of the day. It’s charged so fast with the 18w quick charger it’s amazing. Build quality is fab no creaks or squeaks and it’s lighter than expected but no less durable. Cameras really are probably the best in any smartphone at any price. Speed and performance is fantastic and I’m coming from a iPhone XS which is considered one of the fastest on the market. Great stereo speakers add to the overall experience. I really can’t see any reason why anyone would not consider this as their next smartphone especially as it saves you (and me) a fortune yet delivers most of what I got from my £1000+ device which is now up for sale.launch

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May 25, 2019

Several owners specifically call out the front-facing stereo speakers as a pleasant surprise for a budget device, enhancing media playback.

@davidmartrano1549

I never owned a pixal so on cyber Monday picked up the 3a XL for 4oo.oo bucks tax included. A good phone? Absolutely the OLED display, camera & battery are very good. The 670processer runs well, no lags or stutters. For the average consumer at this price is an excellent buy. I would highly recommend this phone to anyone. The stereo speakers are quite good. Yep, I also like the polycarbonate build quality better than the glass sandwiche. Very good review!launch

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January 8, 2020

@ayasinx8797

The Pixel 3a XL got me at: Headphone jack, massive battery, square screen with no god awful notch and front speaker. Will be getting in the near future.\nEdit: Got it for Black Friday. Never looking back. 😍launch

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October 17, 2019

@araffaelegmw

I chose the the 3a as the do is just too big to use comfortably day to day also it’s cheaper at £399. Battery lasts great and I have around 30%- 40% left when I put it on charge at the end of the day. It’s charged so fast with the 18w quick charger it’s amazing. Build quality is fab no creaks or squeaks and it’s lighter than expected but no less durable. Cameras really are probably the best in any smartphone at any price. Speed and performance is fantastic and I’m coming from a iPhone XS which is considered one of the fastest on the market. Great stereo speakers add to the overall experience. I really can’t see any reason why anyone would not consider this as their next smartphone especially as it saves you (and me) a fortune yet delivers most of what I got from my £1000+ device which is now up for sale.launch

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May 25, 2019