Google Pixel 10a

Status: Daily Driver

I purchased the Google Pixel 10a to replace my Asus Zenfone 10. I ended up having a few issues with it, namely the battery started to be unable to do a full day charge, but also connectivity through the mobile network had serious issues. More than often, it would not be able to load a single page, no matter the signal strength. After months of growing frustrations, my partner informed me that Google was running a rebate campaign on the 10a. Without looking at other models, I went ahead and got one.

I must say that I had an.... average experience with the Pixel 6 and was a bit concerned about running in the same issues I had, but my partner had a Pixel 9a and wasn't complaining.

Feeling in hand

The first time I held the Pixel 10a, it was a bit of a mixed bag. I do love the straight edges and the flat screen. It just looks more premium and sharp. I cannot say the same thing on the back of the device. It feels like a thin sheet of plastic with not really much behind it as support. So thin that I was able to run my finger on the back of the device, and feel parts of the internal of the phone. That is not a premium feeling. So much so that I started to regret not getting the regular Pixel 10. I kept the 10a and put a dBrand Grip case on it instead of changing it (too much hassle). In context, I was coming from the Zenfone 10 that also has a plastic back, but it in this case, it doesn't feel cheap at all.

The haptic feedback

One thing I immediately noticed was the vibration system of the Pixel 10a. It was excellent on the Pixel 6, it was terrible on the Zenfone but now I'm glad to have it back! It's the little touches that makes a difference at the end of the day. It is of course difficult to describe in text, but it feels gentle and precise. It gives confident about the quality of the phone.

The cameras

Of course, Google is known for their great camera and image processing capabilities and it shows. This is another weak point of the Zenfone 10 that I'm glad I'm over with. The Zenfone had a decent camera on paper, but the photos it produces are always deceiving. Nothing to complain here, it's a Pixel alright!

The fingerprint sensor

This was one of my major gripes regarding the previous Pixel 6 I owned. It was slow, and it was failing recognition more often than not. I'm also glad to report that this issue is fixed! The sensor is quick and reliable on the 10a!

Overall

I appreciate the Google Pixel 10a. It has a decent battery life, an excellent camera, a gorgeous and vibrant screen, all that in a decent package. If only it came with an headphone jack, that would be the perfect phone for 2026!