# Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a: Which Budget Android Device Suits You Best?
If you’re in search of a budget-friendly Android smartphone packed with premium features, the **Nothing Phone 3a Pro** and **Google Pixel 8a** are both excellent options. Each device boasts notable specifications at a price below $500, making them ideal for new users seeking a quality experience without spending too much.
Although both smartphones deliver remarkable value, they appeal to different user tastes. The **Nothing Phone 3a Pro** excels with its distinctive transparent design and Glyph interface, while the **Google Pixel 8a** provides a more conventional aesthetic, complemented by Google’s renowned software and extended support.
In this article, we will examine these two cost-effective Android phones to assist you in determining which one aligns better with your requirements.
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## **Nothing Phone 3a Pro vs. Google Pixel 8a: A Focus on Design and Display**
### **Nothing Phone 3a Pro: An Eye-Catching Design**
The **Nothing Phone 3a Pro**, released in early 2025, showcases a **transparent design** influenced by Japanese art. It boasts a **6.77-inch FHD+ AMOLED display** featuring a **120Hz refresh rate** and **3,000 nits peak brightness**, perfect for outdoor usage.
One of its distinctive characteristics is the **Glyph interface**, which incorporates LED lights on the back to deliver visual alerts, music playback notifications, and even a countdown timer. This design is not only visually appealing but serves practical purposes as well.
Available in **black and grey**, the device offers a **91.4% screen-to-body ratio**, resulting in a sleek and contemporary appearance.
### **Google Pixel 8a: Timeless Yet Trendy Design**
The **Google Pixel 8a**, introduced in May 2024, offers a **6.1-inch Actua OLED display** with a **60-120Hz adaptive refresh rate** and **2,000 nits peak brightness**. Although it is smaller than the Nothing Phone 3a Pro, it still provides a vivid and clear viewing experience.
The Pixel 8a is available in **Aloe, Bay, Porcelain, and Obsidian** hues, featuring a **matte composite back** and **matte aluminum frame**. It is also equipped with **Corning Gorilla Glass 3** for enhanced durability.
In contrast to the Nothing Phone 3a Pro, the Pixel 8a boasts a **higher IP67 water and dust resistance rating**, making it more resilient in challenging conditions.
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## **Performance and Software: AI Features and Longevity**
### **Nothing Phone 3a Pro: Performance Powered by AI**
Equipped with the **Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 processor**, the Nothing Phone 3a Pro offers configurations of **8GB or 12GB of RAM** and **up to 256GB of storage**. It operates on **Nothing OS 3.1 (based on Android 15)**, featuring **Essential Space**, an AI-driven organizer that aids in managing notes, screenshots, and voice memos.
The device includes **ChatGPT integration**, allowing users to create summaries and action points from their notes. While it may not excel in gaming performance, it operates smoothly for daily tasks.
Nonetheless, **software support is capped at three years for Android updates and six years for security updates**, meaning updates will continue only until 2028.
### **Google Pixel 8a: Extended Software Support**
The **Google Pixel 8a** runs on the **Google Tensor G3 chip** with **8GB of RAM** and **up to 256GB of storage**. It ships with **Android 14** and is set to receive **seven years of software and security updates**, ensuring support until **2031**.
Google’s AI capabilities, such as **Live Translate, Circle to Search, Call Screen, and Smart Replies**, make the Pixel 8a an excellent choice for those who are deeply integrated into Google’s ecosystem.
Moreover, **Family Link** offers parental control options, making it an attractive choice for parents purchasing a phone for their children.
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## **Battery Life and Charging: Which Offers More Longevity?**
### **Nothing Phone 3a Pro: Larger Battery, Quicker Charging**
The Nothing Phone 3a Pro is equipped with a **5,000mAh battery**, capable of lasting **up to two days** under light usage. It features **50W fast charging** and **7.5W reverse wireless charging**, ideal for users who require rapid charging.
### **Google Pixel 8a: Extended Battery Saver Mode**
The Pixel 8a is powered by a **4,492mAh battery**, designed to last throughout the day and can stretch up to **72 hours utilizing Extreme Battery Saver mode**. However, it supports only **18W fast charging**, which is considerably slower compared to the Nothing Phone 3a Pro.
