In 2023, the Google Pixel 6A remains a top contender in the budget phone category, even though Google Pixel 6a was launched in India on 12th May 2022. In this article, I will discuss some of the essential features of this phone and explain why it is still worth considering a year later. First, let me briefly explain why I chose the Google Pixel 6A as my secondary phone.
Also Read: Google Pixel 6a Review – The Ultimate Android Experience
Additionally, you wanted to explore the quality of budget phones since you don’t want to spend a fortune on a new phone. After conducting extensive research, I discovered the Google Pixel 6A, which initially cost Rs 43,999, but is now available for under Rs 28,999. As you can see in the price, a considerable drop in price has been showing that it has been for some reason it does not cost Rs 43,999. Now you can prefer this phone as your secondary device for some reasons such as a 60Hz refresh rate. I will explain to you all the cons as well as the pros of Google Pixel 6a.
You can buy and check the price of Google Pixel 6a in India via the Amazon link: Buy Now
Unboxing and Design
The unboxing of the phone was satisfactory, and it was a pleasant experience. The package contains the phone, a USB-C cable, a USB-C to USB-A adapter, a SIM card ejector tool, and a manual. However, let’s face it, hardly anyone reads the manual. Regarding the design, I believe Google did an excellent job with this phone.
The phone’s construction has a somewhat plastic-like feel to it. Despite its glass-like appearance, the back of the phone is actually made of plastic. On the other hand, the frame is aluminum, and the overall design has been well-planned. Despite being larger, it’s not overly bulky, fits comfortably in hands, and isn’t too heavy. In my opinion, it looks exceptionally good, even better than the Google Pixel 7 series.
Google Pixel 6a Display
Regarding the specifications, the phone boasts a 6.1-inch OLED HDR display with a 60Hz refresh rate. Although 60Hz may be a deal-breaker for some, as someone who previously used an iPhone 11 with the same refresh rate, it will not a major concern. The phone is powered by the Google Tensor chip, which is also found in the more robust Google Pixel 6 and 6 Pro models. Although, the optimization with the stock android and Google Tensor chip will make the overall experience of surfing through the Google Pixel 6a excellent.
Also Read: OnePlus 9RT Price, Specs, Still A Good Deal To Buy In 2023
Most users cannot feel the 60Hz refresh rate eventually if they are not coming from the higher refresh rate 120Hz. If you really want the higher refresh rate display then move for another android device. But in my opinion, it will not be a deal breaker because many iPhone comes with a 60Hz display. The optimization of Google Pixel phones is far better than any other android phone.
RAM and Storage
It comes with 6GB of RAM, and a 4410mAh battery that can easily last a full day or more based on how will you use the device. It also has 128GB of non-expandable storage, supports 18-watt fast charging, is IP67 water and dust-resistant, and features a nano-SIM and eSIM option. The in-screen fingerprint sensor is not the fastest, but given the price, it’s understandable.
Google Pixel 6a Camera
Google Pixel 6a has a total of three cameras, two at the back comprising a 12.2-megapixel primary camera and a 12-megapixel ultra-wide camera, and an 8-megapixel front-facing camera. While these cameras aren’t the best on the market, I can’t complain about the price because the sustained power of Google Pixels comes from their robust software and advanced machine learning capabilities. The image optimization after capturing a photo is far better than other android phones in the same price range. The back camera can shoot 4K full HD at both 60 and 30 FPS, and the ultra-wide camera is also of good quality. However, the selfie camera only shoots full HD and not 4K.
Some Features
Additionally, the microphone quality is quite decent. The software has several cool features as well. For instance, the camera comes with various video stabilization modes designed for different purposes. The Magic Eraser feature is unique to this phone, and it allows you to remove certain objects from photos, though it’s not perfect. Additionally, the phone has a speech enhancer option that improves audio recordings, but I think it could be better. Let’s put it to the test. This is my voice with speech enhancement turned off, and this is my voice with it turned on.
Google Pixel 6a Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Attractive, compact design | Slow fingerprint sensor |
| Bright and accurate AMOLED display | 60Hz display |
| Good sustained performance | no headphone jack |
| Great all-around camera | no charger in the box |
Why You Should Buy
When recommending the Pixel 6a, one of the primary factors I would highlight is its software. The device features a stock Android interface with no bloatware, resulting in a clean and fluid interface without complications, a rarity among most phones. Additionally, Google offers 3 years of Android OS updates and 5 years of security updates, ensuring that users can experience the latest Android OS releases.
Another notable feature is the flagship Tensor chip from Google, which provides snappy performance capable of handling heavy tasks, such as playing games like Genshin Impact. However, users should adjust graphic settings to basic levels to ensure a lag-free experience. In my experience, I observed little to no lag when taking photos, and overall, the device offers solid performance right out of the box.
Why Avoid It
Although the OLED display on the Pixel 6a appears vivid and brilliant, there are a few persistent concerns that are likely to arise. Firstly, the bezels are thicker than what one would expect from a phone in 2022. However, even if you can overlook this flaw, the phone’s 60Hz refresh rate is certain to be a letdown. At this price point, other phones provide 90Hz and 120Hz refresh rates, resulting in smoother scrolling and animations.
As previously mentioned, the Pixel 6a’s Tensor chip performs everyday tasks with ease. However, it falls short in terms of gaming, as it is not the most capable processor for handling graphically demanding games. In other words, the Pixel 6a is not designed for gaming, and one can find better phones in this price range that offer smoother performance when playing games that require high-quality graphics.
Conclusion
This is an opportune moment to purchase the Pixel 6a in India, as its current price of Rs 30,999 makes it a compelling option for those seeking a stylish phone with stock Android, capable cameras, and smooth performance. However, we advise against buying the device in 2-3 months, as 2023 is anticipated to bring a plethora of new phones with superior hardware at a similar price point of around Rs 30,000. Furthermore, those willing to wait longer can anticipate the release of the Pixel 7a in late 2023, which is rumored to offer several upgrades over the current model.
Also Read: Xbox Series S vs PS4 Slim in 2023: Which console is right for you?
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