I’m not a fan of spending more money than I have to. If I can get the job done with a less expensive smartphone, I’m the first person to save some cash.

The Google Pixel 9a is one of the best values currently. It’s an excellent, well-rounded smartphone, and it’s hard to beat pound for pound with a price tag of $500.

However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t reasons to spend more on a Pixel 10. Google’s entry-level flagship device boasts impressive specs and performance for $800, while keeping the same compact feel of the Pixel 9a.

I’ve used both devices, and while I wouldn’t blame you for picking up a Pixel 9a and keeping $300 in your wallet, here are the reasons why you might consider shelling out extra cash for a Pixel 10.

More RAM (and Google Gemini features)

A smoother AI experience on the Pixel 10

Updated weather app on the Google Pixel 10

It’s easy to point at the headline RAM figures between the Pixel 9a and the Pixel 10 and determine that the Pixel 10 has the advantage. Unfortunately, that doesn’t tell the whole story.

Yes, the Pixel 10 features 12GB of RAM compared to 8GB on the Pixel 9, but a decent portion of the Pixel 10’s RAM is reserved for AI functions. You’re still getting a touch more usable RAM on the Pixel 10, but not enough to make a significant difference.

You will notice the difference in RAM with Google Gemini functions. The Pixel 10 features a full suite of improved AI functionality, and I’ve found it more useful than I initially thought.

Magic Cue prompts me when needed, and I look forward to it being supported by more apps. I haven’t gotten a lot of use out of Camera Coach, but I can see how it’s helpful, allowing people to get the best photo possible.

The Pixel 9a does enjoy some Google Gemini features, but I don’t know how many of the new functions will trickle down.

Google has previously mentioned RAM limitations for AI, and I wouldn’t be surprised if some features make their way to the Pixel 9a, only to be handled in the cloud or with reduced performance.

If Google Gemini interests you, it’s worth paying up for the Pixel 10.

A more versatile camera system

I love a good telephoto lens

Google Pixel 10 in the sunlight held against a tree

There’s nothing wrong with the cameras on the Pixel 9a. I’m pleased with the photos I got, and its 48MP primary sensor and 13MP ultrawide lens do the job.

You still get to enjoy Night Sight, which produces the best low-light photography on Android, thanks to Google’s computational prowess.

I love the photos I get from my Pixel 9a, and it’s the best camera system on a phone under $500.

However, I do enjoy a good telephoto lens on a phone, especially when it’s the 5x optical zoom featured on the PIxel 10. It adds a level of versatility I don’t get with just an ultrawide lens.

Capturing wildlife is much easier with the Pixel 10’s telephoto camera, with excellent detail and color reproduction.

I take a lot of cat photos, and sometimes it’s better to capture our feline friends from a distance.

If you’re at a family event or a special occasion with less-than-ideal seats, the Pixel 10 can help you secure that special moment. If you’re a shutterbug, the Pixel 10 may be worth paying up for.

There are also the added benefits of the new AI camera tools.

I trust that at least some of these features will trickle down to the Pixel 9a at some point, but there’s never a guarantee.

Qi2 compatibility made me a believer

I never cared about wireless charging

Rear view of a Google Pixel 10 on a Pixelsnap charging stand

I’m not a fan of wireless charging. I don’t have a million wireless charging pads around my home and in my car.

It’s a welcome convenience to have in a pinch, but it’s not something I require in a smartphone — until I used the Qi2 magnets on the Pixel 10.

It’s a revelation, and I can’t get enough of placing the Pixel 10 on a Pixelsnap charger on my desk. It’s ideal for topping off during the day, and I can still see information on my Pixel 10 through a screen-saver widget or using my device normally.

Thankfully, the Pixel 9a’s outstanding battery life makes charging during the day less of a concern.

I easily get two full days of mixed use on a single charge, and the phone still features wireless charging (just no magnets).

I was a Qi2 skeptic, but the Pixel 10 made me see the light. It’s not the sole reason I’d pick up a Pixel 10 over the Pixel 9a, but it adds to the equation.

I’ll never tell you not to buy the Pixel 9a

Despite all the reasons I’ve mentioned, you still can’t go wrong picking up a Pixel 9a. It’s a fantastic device with many years of software support left.

No single item I’ve listed is worth the $300 price difference from the Pixel 10, but the cumulative value might make you consider the more expensive Pixel, especially if you plan to keep your device for years.


  • Google Pixel 10 render with white background

    Google Pixel 10

    SoC

    Google Tensor G5

    RAM

    12GB

    Storage

    128GB / 256GB

    Battery

    4970mAh

    Operating System

    Android 16

    Front camera

    10.5 MP Dual PD selfie camera

    This striking-looking addition to the Pixel line offers a slew of Gemini features, an 5x telephoto lens, and seven years of updates, making this a smartphone that will last you a while.



    $799 at Amazon
    $799 at Best Buy


  • Pixel 9a_Front_Porcelain copy

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    Google Pixel 9a

    SoC

    Google Tensor G4

    RAM

    8GB

    Storage

    128GB, 256GB

    Battery

    5,100mAh

    Ports

    USB-C

    Operating System

    Android 15, 7 years of updates

    Google’s Pixel 9a takes everything that was great about the Pixel 8a and looks to modernize it. With an all-new Pixel 9-inspired look and no camera bump, this might be the best $500 smartphone we’ve seen yet.



    $500 at Amazon
    $500 at Google Store