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With the Pixel 9a, Google once again sets the bar high for mid-range phones, combining flagship-grade software, industry-leading cameras, and unparalleled battery life, all below ₹45,000. But does it beat the rest? Let’s take a closer look. In a world of feature-laden, spec-sheet-overloaded markets, Google’s A-series devices have always played it straight with a pure Android experience and clever hardware-software integration. This phone, released in April 2025, seems to carry on this blueprint, but with substantial updates that push it closer than ever to the level of flagships.
It might be affordable for the masses, but don’t be fooled: this is not a run of the mill mid range phone. It is an intelligent, well-tuned device made for dominance in the sub-₹50K crowd. Here is what sets the Pixel 9a apart and where it leaves a little to be desired.
On first look, the Pixel 9a resembles a flatter, more mature version of its predecessor. It drops the signature camera bar in favour of a flat, one-piece back, presenting the phone with a clean, minimalist aesthetic that’s more premium-feeling in the hand. Flair without the gimmick, colours such as Peony and Iris provide.
At the front, the 6.3-inch Full HD+ OLED is silky smooth, courtesy of a 120Hz refresh rate. Colours pop, blacks are rich, and visibility outdoors is good. Google has placed emphasis on screen quality, which is a pleasant surprise in a segment that often gets filled with compromises.
Under the hood, the Pixel 9a is powered by Google’s in-house Tensor G4 chipset, coupled with 8GB RAM, and it provides a smooth and responsive performance in all tasks. Whether you are switching between apps or gaming with graphics-intensive games, the 9a doesn’t lag at all.
Most importantly, it is shipped with Android 15 and guarantees seven years of software and security updates, a level of commitment that competitors simply can’t keep with. This extended software guarantee provides Pixel 9a with a huge advantage for those looking for longevity.
If one thing the Pixel has consistently excelled at is photography, and the Pixel 9a is no different. The 48MP f/1.7 main sensor performs exceptionally well under all lighting scenarios. Night Sight continues to be class-leading, and the 13MP ultrawide lens manages landscapes and group shots with equal prowess. On the front, the 13MP selfie camera is broad enough for selfies and high enough for video calls. New AI features such as Astrophotography, Magic Eraser, and the smart ‘Add Me’ mode have been included by Google. The ‘Add Me’ mode cleverly includes faces that could have been left out in group photos. It is a kind gesture, even though some of the more experimental AI features are still exclusive to the flagship Pixel series.
Power users, take heed. The 5,100 mAh battery within the Pixel 9a is the largest a Pixel has ever had, and it pays dividends. The phone handily surpasses a day of heavy usage and can reach 100 hours with Extreme Battery Saver turned on. Charging speeds are fairly conservative, though, at 23W via cable and 7.5W wireless. It is not slow by any means, but in an age where fast charging at 100W is standard, Google’s restraints stand out.
Completing the package is IP68 water and dust resistance, also a first in the A-series. Connectivity options are 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and USB 3.2 Type-C support. But the omission of Wi-Fi 7 may be a drawback for those seeking to future-proof their devices.
The Pixel 9a won’t impress with gimmicks or sheer hardware numbers, but that’s not the idea. It gets it right where it counts, a great camera system, an unparalleled software experience, a rugged build, and extended battery life.
Exceptional battery life
Vibrant 120Hz OLED screen
Industry-leading software support
Pixel-level camera performance e
Dust and water-resistant built
Charging speeds trail behind competitors
No Wi-Fi 7
Some Pixel Pro AI features are absent
The Google Pixel 9a is not another mid-range phone, it’s a masterclass in intelligent, focused engineering. For those who value photography, longevity, and clean software without the premium price, this might well be the best smartphone in its class in 2025!
