Top-Notch Google Pixel 9a Alternatives Unveiled
In the ongoing race for the best budget phones, the Google Pixel 9a has stirred things up with its flagship performance at a significantly reduced price of $449.
Packing the same flagship processor as its pricier siblings and an exceptional camera, the Pixel 9a is a worthy contender. Yet, Google's software experience might not be for everyone, and it has its fair share of tradeoffs—like polarizing camera bar design and no telephoto camera.
If the Pixel 9a doesn't quite hit the spot, here are four alternative budget-friendly options you should consider:
Samsung Galaxy A56
The Samsung Galaxy A56 takes a strong stand as the top alternative to the Pixel 9a. Announced close to the Pixel 9a's debut, the Galaxy A56 provides a few key advantages.
Although it sports a slightly smaller 5,060 mAh battery than the Pixel 9a's 5,100 mAh, charging happens at the same staggering 45W speeds as the Galaxy S25 Ultra—lightning-fast compared to the Pixel 9a's 23W. Samsung is also on a roll with its software support, offering six years of updates, just one less than Google's promise.
The Pixel 9a boasts a 48MP main camera and a 13MP ultrawide secondary lens, while the Galaxy A56 comes equipped with a 50MP main camera and a 12MP ultrawide secondary—plus a dedicated 5MP macro camera. And let's not forget the competitive price tag of just $350 on Amazon.
Nothing Phone 3a (Pro)
Willing to splurge a bit? Then the Nothing Phone 3a (Pro) deserves a spot on your radar. Priced $10 higher than the Pixel 9a at $459, it comes with unique features that justify the slight cost difference.
The design may polarize opinion, but it brings the signature beeps and lights that make Nothing phones stand out. Plus, a set of lights surrounds the unique camera, which can be programmed to highlight notifications, timers, and alarms.
Sporting a 50MP main camera that captures fabulous photos, an 8MP ultrawide lens with inconsistent results, and a 50MP telephoto offering 3x optical zoom, the Phone 3a (Pro) has a versatile camera setup for an affordability-focused device.
OnePlus 13R
Possessing a telephoto lens like the Phone 3a (Pro), the OnePlus 13R is perfect if you're looking for a budget phone with a touch of flagship flair. Starting at $599, this phone packs a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, beating the Phone 3a (Pro)'s 7s Gen 3.
Petite flat sides, a more powerful processor, and an impressive 6,000mAh battery that can charge to 50% in just 20 minutes make the OnePlus 13R an excellent choice for those seeking a flagship-like experience at a more budget-friendly price.
Apple iPhone 16e
If you're looking for an iOS device in this budget, your choices are limited. The iPhone 15 or iPhone 16e are your best bets, but the latter has a few advantages that make it the better pick, minus the ultrawide camera.
Boasting the identical A18 processor as the iPhone 16, the iPhone 16e offers excellent performance and support for the latest games and Apple's AI suite. With iOS 26 software, battery longevity, excellent network coverage, and fantastic display quality, the iPhone 16e is a solid choice if you're willing to drop the ultrawide camera.
The Samsung Galaxy A56, with its 50MP main camera, 12MP ultrawide secondary lens, and a dedicated 5MP macro camera at a price of just $350, offers strong competition to the Google Pixel 9a.
The OnePlus 13R, priced at $599, is another budget-friendly option that includes a telephoto lens, a powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, and a 6,000mAh battery that charges to 50% in just 20 minutes.
