So, if you found the Pixel 6 to be big, this affordable alternative feels better. With a 6.1-inch display, the Pixel 6a isn't a small phone, but it's much more compact than the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro - closer to the iPhone 13. The slipperiness we encountered on the Pixel 6 isn't as much of an issue, as the 6a can be held with one hand, but we've found a case to be useful in adding grip. The glass back of the Pixel 6 is replaced with plastic on the 6a, but it still feels high-end. Even after months of use, we're continually impressed with the sleek design.Īlongside the flashy Nothing (1), Pixels boast one of the most unique looks around. We like that the 6a is thin and less chunky than the 6 or 7 Pro, sitting flush when on flat surfaces. The camera bump that runs along the width of the back to separate the two-tone colour scheme returns, although it's been pared back slightly. It's instantly obvious that when it comes to looks, the 6a is clearly a recent Pixel phone.

Cameras: 12.2 MP wide, 12 MP ultra-wide, 8MP selfie.

Resolution: FHD+ (1080 x 2400 pixels) OLED.

And even after the release of the 7a, it remains a brilliant budget option, available to buy for under £300.

Plus, the tech giant promises Android and security updates for years to come. The 6a also has the same processor as the Pixel 6 for powering its photo tools. Why choose it over other Pixels? With the 6a, Google kept the eye-catching design introduced with the Pixel 6 while packing many of that phone's top features into a frame that's smaller and lighter. It's a handset we recommend to not only Android purists but also anyone tempted to make the jump from an Apple iPhone SE and even from the 6a's latest successor, the Pixel 7a. It gives you snappy performance, quality cameras and loads of software smarts for under £400.

Shopping for an affordable Android smartphone doesn't mean you have to sacrifice specs, power or features. And yes, it's still worth considering the flagship Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 in 2023, too. We're also tracking the best Pixel 8 deals throughout this month. Want an even more recent model? Check out the most recent Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro. The good news is that w e've spotted a great discount on that model in the Black Friday sales - it's now down from £ 449 to £379. Still, we think that anyone after an affordable Android upgrade with one of the top Pixel phones in 2023 should be looking at the newer Pixel 7a instead - as you get a better camera system, a higher refresh rate, a better processor and longer software support. We updated this review in November 2023 to highlight that the Pixel 6a is at a great phone considering its sub-£300 price point in 2023 (or £250 if you're buying refurbished).

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