The Google Pixel 9a gets even more attractive with this deal

The Google Pixel 9a is one of the best smartphones you can buy for $500. Google did a fantastic job producing a well-rounded device, and it’s in the early running for my midrange phone of the year. Thankfully, carrier deals and discounts mean you don’t have to pay the full $500 to get Google’s best A-series phone. There are a few conditions, but if you’re in the market to switch carriers, Mint Mobile can get you a Pixel 9a for less.

If you switch to Mint Mobile, you can get a Pixel 9a and a year of unlimited service for $580. You must port in your existing line to be eligible for the full discount. However, if you’re considering saving money on your monthly carrier bill, you’d most likely bring your existing number, making the deal less complicated. It’s an excellent way to buy a Pixel 9a for $400 and pick up a year of unlimited 5G service at a discount.

Why you should buy a Google Pixel 9a

The Google Pixel 9a provides a complete smartphone experience for $500, which is not always something you can say about midrange devices. I never feel I’m missing out by not spending more on a flagship phone, as the Pixel 9a gives me the power and performance I desire. It features a vibrant 6.3-inch Actua 1080p display refreshing at 120Hz. It’s brighter than last year’s screen, and I have no problem viewing the Pixel 9a’s display outdoors. Don’t worry about the slightly larger display size on the Pixel 9a this year; it still maintains the same compact feel as the Pixel 8a.

I’m impressed by the Tensor G4 chipset in the Pixel 9a. It doesn’t heat up like previous Tensor generations, and I get smooth performance. Google fitted the Pixel 9a with 8GB of RAM, which means future Google Gemini features may be limited, but you won’t notice that for a while. Not having a full slate of Gemini features on the Pixel 9a is a positive, not a negative, at least until Google proves Gemini adds to the user experience. The Tensor G4 is also more power-efficient, and I get fantastic, two-day battery life from the Pixel 9a’s 5,100mAh cell.

If you’re a shutterbug, the Google Pixel 9a is the obvious choice under $500. Google upgraded the camera sensor for 2025, fitting the Pixel 9a with a 48MP primary lens. Pictures are crisp, and Night Sight is still fantastic at helping improve low-light images. You’ll also enjoy 7 years of software support on your Pixel 9a. It’s an excellent smartphone, and if you can port in your number, you can get one even cheaper through Mint Mobile.