The Pixel 9A is a tempting phone for $499, but even more tempting is the 128GB Pixel 8 Pro, which is selling for $599 unlocked right now at the Google Store. Its perks are well worth the extra $100. You’re getting a more robust camera system (the 5x telephoto lens is very good) and better build quality. Not only that, Google is including a free Pixel Watch 2 with LTE, along with one of its phone cases.
The Pixel 8 Pro launched in late 2023, meaning it has just a little over five years of OS updates left before it’s no longer supported. In other words, there’s plenty of life left in this phone. This model has a 120Hz refresh rate OLED screen that can go down to 1Hz with its always-on display to save battery life. You’ll be glad to have the free case, as the Pixel 8 Pro’s back glass is matte-textured, which Verge reviewer Allison Johnson found made it more slippery to hold, not less. Read our review.
