Pixel 3a XL Review | Google gets it right

Reviewing the Google Pixel 3a XL, a sub-£500 mobile boasting strong value for money and one of the best camera phones of 2019. Here's everything you need to know about the performance, battery life, specs, and how it is to use the Pixel 3a XL as your 'daily driver'.

I've been a strong critic of Google's smartphone strategy ever since it ditched the Nexus brand and launched the Pixels. These super expensive handsets are almost immediately dated because they're released just before Qualcomm updates its Snapdragon flagship platform, and lack the killer features of most (cheaper) rivals from OnePlus, Oppo and others - beyond the brilliant camera results.

However, the Pixel 3a and this XL model have turned things around. You get the same slick Pixel launcher, smooth performance (even for gaming with the likes of PubG Mobile), plus excellent photo and video quality, for half the price.

Check out my full review of the standard phone, which I prefer over the XL version - despite this handset offering a bigger battery. You can also see my full comparison to see exactly how these new phones stack up, as well as my Pixel 3a XL vs 3XL video.

[dmm.ax]

I like him! He is a great reviewer and has a sense of humor.

[jamesbelkin]

Just received my Pixel 3a two days ago, pretty neat device. Smooth and snappy.

[WICKED]

This phone is massive enough that I don't mind the bezels, no notches catching my eyes and more importantly the battery, my lord its incredible I can have a %49 charge and by the end of the day have %22. It's snappy enough for every day use, and that's all I care about.

[jdadmays]

I agree I grabbed the pixel 3a and have to say what a great phone. I haven't had a pure Google phone since the Nexus 6 and have to say Google hit a home run with this one. Absolutely love it.

[mp]

Watching this video on the pixel 3a XL... And it's an amazing device.

[araffaelegmw]

I have been very impressed with my new pixel 3a in black. I can absolutely recommend this phone to anyone over any of the competition. It actually doesn’t have any competition it’s a standout winner. Best phone of 2019 YES!!!

[waynezahra]

Awesome review Mr. I just can't explain enough how great it is that someone gets straight to the point instead of liking the sound of their own voice by going on and on before they review their product. 💯

[hydanzsidras]

Nothing like subtly giving middle finger to subscribers while swiping about the phone. 11/10 would like again

[minimalisthealth]

Purchased the device on the day of it's launch in India, been about a month. And, so far, the phone is a real gem! No lags and stutters, camera is epic etc. Only issue is with standby battery life, which isn't so great. But if you're a heavy user, then you'll get up to 6 hours out of it in the course of a day.

[cypher]

This goes to show that we're being ripped of by phone companies to buy their latest tech which they sell at extortionate prices. To me and from watching this there really isn't a need. The pixel 3a XL runs a good 95+ percent as well as the 3xl but for half the price. So it seems that it's not actually the latest hardware that's needed to run things smoothly but more optimisation! It goes to show we're being encouraged to buy the latest and best specced items when there is no need what so ever. I bet 99 percent of people wouldn't know the difference between the 3 and 3a if they were both put onto the same shell....

[hienho]

For that price now, I rather buy a regular pixel 3. I have seen so many people selling their pixel 3, both new or and used for about the same price or cheaper. Shop around. I got a pixel 3 for 100. Great deal

[DawnApon]

Loved the review, and the phone drop gag got me to laugh, so take a like.

[djross]

Love your reviews and sense of humor—I laughed all the way through this and learned a lot at the same time! I might be buying one of these today, thanks to your thorough review.

[mrbdamasceno]

That british humour. Gotta appreciate that.

[chrisbates]

Great review. Any chance on a link to your wallpapers??

[stevetorres]

I made a decision to switch from Samsung and I'm satisfied with both

[drchaos]

I got the pixle 3a xl last weekend. Its pretty cool. It took me a while to get used to. But other then that, its pretty good.

[gamingpikachu]

Just bought one today and already love it

[Maamed]

Brilliant review, I just received my 3a few days ago and it is awesome.

[akjl]

Canny review Bonny lad! I would get a Pixel 2 in mint condition from maybe CeX and save yourself a couple of hundred quid.. More or less the same camera Plus you get FULL resolution backups of your pics. Pixel 2 still a strong performer 😁