The Google Pixel 3a is one of Google's most beloved mid, range smartphones. Launched in 2019, the Google Pixel 3a brought flagship-quality photography to budget, conscious buyers, and for many users, it still gets the job done today.
Google Pixel 3a Key Specs
- Display: 5.6, inch OLED, 1080 x 2220
- Processor: Snapdragon 670
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64GB
- Main Camera: 12.2MP with OIS
- Front Camera: 8MP
- Battery: 3000mAh
- Headphone Jack: Yes
- Launch OS: Android 9 Pie
Google Pixel 3a Camera Performance
The Google Pixel 3a's camera is the biggest reason people still talk about this phone. Google's HDR+ processing and Night Sight mode deliver sharp, detailed shots even in low light, performance that was unmatched at its price point when it launched. Even today, the Google Pixel 3a camera holds up well against many budget phones.
Performance
The Google Pixel 3a runs on a Snapdragon 670 paired with 4GB of RAM. Everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and streaming run smoothly. However, the Google Pixel 3a isn't built for heavy gaming or intense multitasking, expect slowdowns with demanding apps.
Battery Life
The Google Pixel 3a packs a 3000mAh battery, which is modest by today's standards. With moderate use you'll get through a full day, but heavy users may need to charge before evening.
Should You Buy the Google Pixel 3a in 2025?
The biggest drawback of the Google Pixel 3a today is software support, it stopped receiving security updates in 2022. This makes it a risky choice as a primary device. That said, if you find a used Google Pixel 3a for under $80, it's a solid option as a secondary phone or a budget camera device. If you are looking to get into mobile photography, reading our Smartphone Photography Guide for 2026 will help you get the most out of older sensors. For everyday use, however, you are much better off looking at our updated list of the Best Budget Phones in 2026.
Google Pixel 3a: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding camera for its class
- Clean, bloat, free Android experience
- Headphone jack
- Affordable used price
Cons:
- No longer receives security updates
- Aging processor
- Only 64GB storage
- Average battery life
Google Pixel 3a FAQs
The Google Pixel 3a is still usable in 2025 for basic tasks and photography, but it no longer receives security updates so it's not recommended as a primary device.
The Google Pixel 3a launched with Android 9 Pie and received updates up to Android 12. It will not receive any further OS updates.
The Google Pixel 3a is no longer sold new. You can find a used Google Pixel 3a on eBay or Swappa for around $50–$90 depending on condition.
Yes, the Google Pixel 3a includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, one of its standout features compared to other phones at the time.
Yes, the Google Pixel 3a camera is excellent for its price range. Google's computational photography and Night Sight mode make it one of the best budget camera phones even today.
The Google Pixel 3a XL has a larger 6-inch display and bigger 3700mAh battery compared to the standard Pixel 3a's 5.6-inch screen and 3000mAh battery. Everything else is identical.
Final Verdict
The Google Pixel 3a was a game-changer when it launched, and it remains a solid used buy for the right person. If you need a reliable camera phone on a tight budget, the Google Pixel 3a is hard to beat at its current used price, just don't rely on it as a daily driver in 2025.