[Poll] Would you buy the Google Pixel 8a if the Pixel 8 is available at the same price?

Earlier today we highlighted the leaked Pixel 8a specifications. It seems Google is bringing some decent upgrades to its upcoming “affordable” smartphone. But these upgrades might also result in an “upgraded” price tag to match. At first, it might seem like the bump in price is justified, but things aren’t so straightforward.

We all know Google drops heavy discounts on its phones, especially in the US. In fact, you can bag a Pixel 8 for as low as $499, without even trading in any device. This offer is live on the Google Store itself. However, other retailers also have similar deals on the Pixel 8 every now and then. So if the rumored price increase to $549 is true, the Google Pixel 8 will be in direct competition with the Pixel 8a. You might even save $50 if you can pick up a Pixel 8 at $499.

The Pixel 8 initially launched at $699 in the US. At this price, the phone would be a fair bit more expensive than the upcoming Pixel 8a. Hence, a more affordable smartphone – the 8a – would make sense. But now that the Pixel 8 itself is selling almost $200 less than its launch price, I don’t see how the Pixel 8a would fit in.

The Pixel 8 is better or at least the same in just about every aspect when compared to the rumored Pixel 8a. I personally couldn’t think of any reason why one would choose the “A-series” sibling over the standard model at the same or similar price. I’ve added a brief comparison table below for reference:

Of course, this confusion is currently limited to the US market. Outside the US, the Pixel 8 is still arguably on the more expensive side when compared to the expected launch price of the Pixel 8a. However, the fierce competition in the mid-range smartphone market outside the US would mean that a bump in price might not be the best decision for Google.

I noticed a few comments from redditors who also shared (1,2,3) similar concerns. That said, would you buy the Pixel 8a over a Pixel 8 if they were both available at around the same price? Drop your vote in the poll below:

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