The Google Pixel 9a has made a splash with its impressive features and affordable $499 price tag. This mid-range marvel boasts a vibrant 6.3-inch 1080p display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, Google’s renowned camera technology, and a fresh new design. While the Pixel 9a is undoubtedly appealing, it’s not the only contender in the mid-range arena. Several other smartphones offer compelling features and performance that might make them a better fit for your needs. Here are five alternatives to the Google Pixel 9a worth considering.
OnePlus 13R: Powerhouse Performance
A Pokemon game running on the OnePlus 13R.
While the Pixel 9a boasts Google’s Tensor G4 chip, the OnePlus 13R offers comparable power with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. This processor, previously featured in flagship devices like the Galaxy S24 Ultra and OnePlus 12, delivers exceptional performance for a mid-range price of $600. Coupled with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, the 13R handles any task with ease.
Someone holding the OnePlus 13R, showing the back of the phone.
A massive 6,000mAh battery provides exceptional longevity, easily lasting two days on a single charge and potentially reaching three days with lighter use. 55W fast charging outpaces many flagship competitors, though wireless charging is absent. The 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a 1-120Hz variable refresh rate and 4,500 nits peak brightness offers a vibrant and responsive visual experience.
Lock screen customization page on the OnePlus 13R.
The camera system, featuring a 50MP primary lens, a 50MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and an 8MP ultrawide lens, delivers solid performance. While lacking the extended zoom capabilities of true flagships, it’s a reliable and versatile setup.
Nothing Phone 3a Pro: Unique Style and Substance
A person holding the Nothing Phone 3a Pro.
The Nothing Phone 3a Pro stands out with its distinctive transparent back and signature Glyph lighting. At $570, it offers a compelling blend of unique style and solid performance. The Glyph interface, a series of LED lights on the back, adds a futuristic touch and provides functional notifications.
The Nothing Phone 3a Pro
The 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1080p resolution delivers a smooth and vibrant viewing experience. Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor, along with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, the 3a Pro offers respectable performance. Software options include stock Android 15 or Nothing’s minimalist Android skin.
The Nothing Phone 3a Pro
The camera system, featuring a strong 50MP main lens and a 50MP periscope lens with 3x optical zoom, produces impressive results. However, the 8MP ultrawide lens is a noticeable weakness. The battery life is average, lasting about a day, but 50W fast charging speeds up replenishment.
The Nothing Phone 3a Pro
iPhone 16e: Apple Intelligence on a Budget
The OLED display on the Apple iPhone 16e in White
The iPhone 16e, priced at $599, offers the most affordable entry point into Apple’s ecosystem, complete with access to Apple Intelligence. While its design, featuring a notched display and single rear camera, might appear dated, it retains the core iPhone experience.
The camera on the Apple iPhone 16e in White
The 6.1-inch display, while maintaining a 60Hz refresh rate, offers vibrant colors and deep blacks. Performance is powered by a modified A18 processor, providing ample power for most tasks. Battery life is a standout feature, easily lasting multiple days on a single charge. However, charging speeds are limited to 20W wired and 7.5W wireless, and MagSafe is not supported.
Apple Intelligence on-screen on the iPhone 16e
The single 48MP rear camera, while lacking the versatility of multi-lens systems, utilizes pixel binning for improved low-light performance and offers a simulated 2x optical zoom through cropping.
Google Pixel 8: Last Year’s Flagship, Today’s Value
The Google Pixel 8 on a table.
The Google Pixel 8, often available for around $499, presents a compelling alternative to the Pixel 9a. This previous-generation flagship offers a premium camera system, long battery life, and access to Google’s AI features.
The Google Pixel 8 on a table showing the screen.
The Pixel 8’s camera system, headlined by an excellent 50MP main lens, delivers impressive image quality. The Google Tensor G3 processor provides flagship-level performance, and the dynamic 120Hz display offers a smooth and responsive user experience.
The Google Pixel 8 on a table showing the screen.
Battery life lasts approximately a day, with potential for longer use with lighter usage patterns. Charging speeds are capped at 27W wired and 18W wireless. Like the Pixel 9a, the Pixel 8 benefits from seven years of software updates.
A person taking a photo with the Google Pixel 8.
Moto G Stylus 5G (2024): Budget-Friendly with a Stylus
The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) resting on someone
The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024), priced at $400, offers a budget-friendly option with the added functionality of a built-in stylus. While the stylus lacks advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or pressure sensitivity, it’s a useful tool for note-taking and sketching.
Someone holding the Moto G Stylus 5G (2024), showing the back of the phone and its stylus.
The phone features a surprisingly premium design with a vegan leather backplate. The 6.7-inch 1080p OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a smooth and vibrant visual experience. The camera performance is decent for its price point. However, the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor and 8GB of RAM deliver performance that, while adequate, falls short of the flagship-level chips found in other phones on this list. A significant drawback is the limited software support, with only one major Android update expected.
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The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) sitting upright in a park outside.
The Moto G Stylus 5G (2024) represents a value-oriented option for users prioritizing stylus functionality, though its limited software support should be carefully considered. These five alternatives offer a diverse range of features and price points, providing compelling options for those seeking a mid-range smartphone beyond the Google Pixel 9a.
