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A Nexus-style Pixel smartphone: Google Pixel 3a Review

Surprisingly good. The Pixel 3a ties in with the virtues of the Google Nexus devices of the past: It is compact, offers good performance and it is affordable. But there is one important difference between the Google Pixel 3a and the old Nexus smartphones. Find out what it is in our review.
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

In addition to the mandatory high-end Pixel phones from the end of last year, Google has now, for the first time, produced a mid-range smartphone series. The Pixel 3a offers the same camera module as its older brother, 4 GB of RAM, an OLED panel, stereo speakers and a 3000-mAh battery, which is recharged with a fast 18-watt AC adapter. Music fans will be happy to hear that the Pixel 3a is also equipped with a 3.5-mm audio jack.

Users will have to make some sacrifices, however, such as having a plastic case without IP certifications and managing with the poor choice of processors. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 in the Pixel 3a is significantly weaker than the Snapdragon 845 in its older brother. The affordable mid-range smartphone lacks a wireless charging function and Google has also decided to leave out the unlimited original-quality photo upload feature. 

Currently, the Pixel 3a is available for $400. This positions the mid-range phone in a highly competitive environment with a lot of alternative options. We have included the following possible competitors into our review: Samsung Galaxy A70Sony Xperia 10Huawei P30 Lite and Xiaomi Mi 9 SE.

Google Pixel 3a (Pixel 3 Series)
Processor
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 8 x 2 GHz, Kryo 360 Gold / Silver
Graphics adapter
Memory
4 GB 
Display
5.60 inch 18.5:9, 2220 x 1080 pixel 441 PPI, capacitive touchscreen, P-OLED, Asahi Dragontrail Glass, glossy: yes
Storage
64 GB eMMC Flash, 64 GB 
, 50 GB free
Connections
1 USB 2.0, Audio Connections: 3.5-mm audio jack, 1 Fingerprint Reader, NFC, Brightness Sensor, Sensors: proximity sensor, accelerometer, gyrometer, magnetometer, barometer, USB-C, OTG, Active Edge, Miracast
Networking
802.11 a/b/g/n/ac (a/b/g/n = Wi-Fi 4/ac = Wi-Fi 5/), Bluetooth 5.0, GSM/EDGE: Quadband 850/900/1800/1900 MHz, UMTS/HSPA+/HSDPA: bands 1/2/4/5/8, LTE bands: 1/2/3/4/5/7/8/12/13/17/20/25/26/28/32/38/40/41/66, Dual SIM, LTE, GPS
Size
height x width x depth (in mm): 8.2 x 151.3 x 70.1 ( = 0.32 x 5.96 x 2.76 in)
Battery
3000 mAh Lithium-Polymer
Operating System
Android 9.0 Pie
Camera
Primary Camera: 12 MPix f/1.8, 28 mm, 1/2.55", 1.4 µm, HDR, camera2 API: Full
Secondary Camera: 8 MPix f/2.0, 24 mm, 1.12 µm, HDR
Additional features
Speakers: stereo speakers, Keyboard: virtual, USB-C AC adapter, USB-C cable (USB 2.0), quick start guide, Quick Switch Adapter, SIM tool, 3.5 mm audio jack, Android 9, 24 Months Warranty, SAR: head: 1,390 W/Kg, body: 0,900 W/Kg, LTE Cat.11 (600 Mbps), DRM Widevine: L1, fanless
Weight
147 g ( = 5.19 oz / 0.32 pounds), Power Supply: 52 g ( = 1.83 oz / 0.11 pounds)
Price
399 Euro
Note: The manufacturer may use components from different suppliers including display panels, drives or memory sticks with similar specifications.

 

Case - Google phone with a polycarbonate unibody design

Color options of the Google Pixel 3a
Color options of the Google Pixel 3a

The polycarbonate unibody case of the Pixel 3a is available in black ("Just Black") or white ("Clearly White"). Unlike Google's high-end smartphone, today's mid-range test unit is equipped with Dragontrail glass from Asahi rather than Gorilla Glass 5. The scratch-resistant front cover of the Pixel 3a is slightly curved and transitions into the plastic frame smoothly. The edges around the 5.6-inch OLED screen are rather wide for a mid-range device from 2019, which leads to a screen-to-body ratio of just 75 percent.

Nonetheless, the Pixel 3a is a compact smartphone that is easy to hold. The plastic on its back does not look particularly elegant, but it does not feel cheap either. The volume rocker and power button are of good quality. They sit tight and have good pressure points. Overall workmanship is good as well.

Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

Size Comparison

164.3 mm / 6.47 inch 76.7 mm / 3.02 inch 7.9 mm / 0.311 inch 183 g0.4034 lbs156 mm / 6.14 inch 68 mm / 2.68 inch 8.4 mm / 0.3307 inch 162 g0.3571 lbs152.9 mm / 6.02 inch 72.7 mm / 2.86 inch 7.4 mm / 0.2913 inch 159 g0.3505 lbs151.3 mm / 5.96 inch 70.1 mm / 2.76 inch 8.2 mm / 0.3228 inch 147 g0.3241 lbs147.5 mm / 5.81 inch 70.5 mm / 2.78 inch 7.45 mm / 0.2933 inch 155 g0.3417 lbs145.6 mm / 5.73 inch 68.2 mm / 2.69 inch 7.9 mm / 0.311 inch 148 g0.3263 lbs148 mm / 5.83 inch 105 mm / 4.13 inch 1 mm / 0.03937 inch 1.5 g0.00331 lbs

Connectivity - cloud support, but no SD card reader

The internal eMMC storage has a capacity of 64 GB, of which users have around 50 GB available after the initial set-up. Users who need more storage capacity will have to make do with the unlimited reduced-quality cloud storage as the Pixel 3a is not equipped with a microSD card reader. You can connect peripherals such as USB sticks via the OTG adapter.

The device also has a fingerprint scanner on its back, Active Edge and a Dual-SIM function via eSIM as well as an Always On display for notifications. Content can be shared via Wi-Fi Direct, or rather Miracast. DRM-protected content can be shared in HD resolution as the Pixel has an L1 DRM Widevine certification. The 3000-mAh battery can be recharged via the Type-C port on the bottom of the Pixel 3a. Data can also be transferred via the USB port at USB 2.0 speeds.

Software - Pixel 3a with Android 9

The Pixel 3a comes with Google's operating system, Android 9.0 Pie. The security patches are dated June 2019 at the time of writing (July 2019). As usual for Pixel smartphones, the 3a is based on Stock Android. In exchange for this simple user interface, buyers will receive Android updates for at least three years.

Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

Communication and GPS - Pixel phone has fast Wi-Fi thanks to MIMO

The Pixel smartphone supports LTE category 10 mobile internet speeds. The Dual-SIM function requires the use of an eSIM, which will only be available after the future update to Android Q. It is unusual for a smartphone of this price range to offer this many frequency bands. The Pixel 3a can make use of a total of 20 LTE bands and should offer good coverage in the US.

The Wi-Fi module supports the IEEE 802.11 standards a/b/g/n and ac in both the 2.5-GHz and 5-GHz bands. The transfer rates to our reference router Linksys EA 8500 are very good for a mid-range smartphone thanks to its MIMO technology and reach 637 Mbit/s and 541 Mbit/s. The attenuation at close proximity to the router (Telekom Speedport, W921V) is fine too at -43 dBm.

The NFC chip enables wireless communication with peripherals. The Google phone also supports Bluetooth 5.0.

Networking
iperf3 transmit AX12
Google Pixel 3
Adreno 630, SD 845, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
591 (461min - 651max) MBit/s +9%
Google Pixel 3a
Adreno 616, SD 670, 64 GB eMMC Flash
541 (422min - 570max) MBit/s
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Adreno 616, SD 712, 128 GB UFS 2.0 Flash
279 (229min - 303max) MBit/s -48%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Adreno 612, SD 675, 128 GB UFS 2.0 Flash
264 (221min - 293max) MBit/s -51%
Sony Xperia 10
Adreno 508, SD 630, 64 GB eMMC Flash
253 (128min - 283max) MBit/s -53%
Huawei P30 Lite
Mali-G51 MP4, Kirin 710, 128 GB eMMC Flash
218 (95min - 239max) MBit/s -60%
iperf3 receive AX12
Google Pixel 3
Adreno 630, SD 845, 64 GB UFS 2.1 Flash
659 (610min - 698max) MBit/s +3%
Google Pixel 3a
Adreno 616, SD 670, 64 GB eMMC Flash
637 (275min - 679max) MBit/s
Average of class Smartphone
  (last 2 years)
376 MBit/s -41%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Adreno 612, SD 675, 128 GB UFS 2.0 Flash
338 (302min - 356max) MBit/s -47%
Sony Xperia 10
Adreno 508, SD 630, 64 GB eMMC Flash
334 (326min - 341max) MBit/s -48%
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Adreno 616, SD 712, 128 GB UFS 2.0 Flash
311 (214min - 346max) MBit/s -51%
Huawei P30 Lite
Mali-G51 MP4, Kirin 710, 128 GB eMMC Flash
188 (45min - 237max) MBit/s -70%
03570105140175210245280315350385420455490525560595630665Tooltip
Google Pixel 3a; iperf3 receive AX12; iperf 3.1.3: Ø637 (275-679)
Google Pixel 3a; iperf3 transmit AX12; iperf 3.1.3: Ø541 (422-570)
GPS test outdoors
GPS test outdoors
GPS test indoors
GPS test indoors

The Pixel 3a can use the satellite systems GPS, Galileo, GLONASS and BeiDou as well as the satellite-based augmentation system SBAS to locate its position. This occurs within about a minute and with a precision of around 4 meters (~13 ft) both indoors and outside.

In order to test how well our test unit does at navigating, we recorded a route together with the bicycle navigation system Garmin Edge 500. The data recorded by these two devices is very similar with a difference of just 70 meters (~76 yd) on a 9-km (~5.6 mi) route. 

GPS test Garmin Edge 500
GPS test Garmin Edge 500
GPS test Garmin Edge 500
GPS test Garmin Edge 500
GPS test Garmin Edge 500
GPS test Garmin Edge 500
GPS test Google Pixel 3a
GPS test Google Pixel 3a
GPS test Google Pixel 3a
GPS test Google Pixel 3a
GPS test Google Pixel 3a
GPS test Google Pixel 3a

Telephone and Voice Quality - Pixel 3a with VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling

Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

The Pixel 3a supports VoLTE (Voice over LTE), which enables voice calls via the 4G network, and Wi-Fi Calling, with which you can make phone calls via Wi-Fi. We did not encounter any reception issues and voices were transmitted clearly via the earpiece. The quality of the microphone seemed perfectly fine. 

Cameras - Google smartphone with Sony IMX363

Photo taken with 8-MP front camera
Photo taken with 8-MP front camera

Unlike the old Nexus series, the Pixel's mid-range models are focused on photography. The Sony IMX363 CMOS sensor on the back of the device has a resolution of 12 MP (4032 x 3024 pixels). The Pixel 3a takes very good photos in good lighting. Its high contrast ensures photos with good dynamics, and the camera focusses quite well thanks to dual pixel auto focus. The wide aperture of f/1.8 enables bright photos in dark surroundings. The night mode is particularly helpful when taking photos of dark objects, ensuring high details and good sharpness. The software-generated variable depth of field, which enables a Bokeh effect, works very well usually. The missing Visual Core in the Pixel 3a, however, means that the image is processed a lot slower than on the high-end Pixel devices.

Selfies taken with the 8-MP front camera also have a high contrast and are nicely sharp. While the sharpness and amount of details can't quite keep up with the main camera's quality, the photos taken with the Google Pixel 3a are still better than those taken with some other high-end smartphones. We recently tested the Sony Xperia 1, for example, whose front camera cannot keep up with the selfie quality of our Pixel test unit. This is as good as it currently gets in the mid-range segment.

Videos can be recorded at 30 FPS in UHD resolution. You can even reach 120 FPS if you limit the resolution to 1080 pixels. The front camera records videos at a maximum of 1080 pixels but only manages 30 FPS.

Please Note: You can see more photos taken with the Google Pixel 3a in our detailed mid-range camera comparison which will be published shortly.

Photo taken with 12-MP main camera
Photo taken with 12-MP main camera
Portrait mode
Portrait mode
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

Image Comparison

Choose a scene and navigate within the first image. One click changes the position on touchscreens. One click on the zoomed-in image opens the original in a new window. The first image shows the scaled photograph of the test device.

Scene 1Scene 2Scene 3
click to load images
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

Accessories and Warranty- 18-watt AC adapter

Users can purchase these covers for their Google Pixel 3a
Users can purchase these covers for their Google Pixel 3a

The device comes with a modular 18-watt AC adapter, a suitable USB cable, a SIM tool, a quick start guide and headphones.

The Pixel 3a has a warranty of 24 months.

 

 

Input Devices & Handling - great feedback through vibration

The capacitive multi-touch screen on the Pixel 3a is very appealing and works precisely and smoothly. It recognizes inputs with up to 10 fingers simultaneously. The Google Pixel 3a also supports Active Edge technology, which can be used to start Google Assistant, for example.  

We do not often mention the manufacturer's choice of vibration motor although it can have a reasonable impact on everyday use. The Pixel 3a is equipped with a very good vibration motor for a mid-range phone. While it cannot keep up with Apple's Taptic Engine or the motor in the Google Pixel 3, its mechanical feedback is comparably punchy and precise. 

The fingerprint reader on the back of this mid-range smartphone works well in everyday use, although it's a little on the slow side. The device does not offer biometric identification to unlock the device using your face.

Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Test Google Pixel 3a Smartphone
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

Display - Pixel with a P OLED panel

Subpixel array
Subpixel array

The 5.6-inch P OLED display of the Pixel 3a has a resolution of 2240x1080 pixels and an aspect ratio of 18.5:9. The display is sharp thanks to the pixel density of 441 PPI. The brightness of the panel is not particularly bright at a maximum of 411 cd/m², but the brightness distribution is uniform. If you turn off the ambient light sensor, which automatically adapts the display brightness to the surroundings, the maximum luminosity is quite similar at 408 cd/m². The same can be said for the realistic APL50 test, which simulates an even distribution of light and dark areas on the screen. We measured a brightness of 464 cd/m² here.

Google uses pulse-width modulation (PWM) to regulate the Pixel's screen brightness. The frequency of the flickering is quite low at between 88.65 and 271.7 Hz. Subjectively, we did not notice any bothersome flickering, but PWM can be an issue for sensitive users, causing headaches or dizziness at low frequencies.

 

 

415
cd/m²
408
cd/m²
404
cd/m²
415
cd/m²
403
cd/m²
404
cd/m²
418
cd/m²
416
cd/m²
412
cd/m²
Distribution of brightness
tested with X-Rite i1Pro 2
Maximum: 418 cd/m² (Nits) Average: 410.6 cd/m² Minimum: 1.61 cd/m²
Brightness Distribution: 96 %
Center on Battery: 403 cd/m²
Contrast: ∞:1 (Black: 0 cd/m²)
ΔE Color 5.1 | 0.5-29.43 Ø5
ΔE Greyscale 2 | 0.57-98 Ø5.3
100% sRGB (Calman 2D)
Gamma: 2.22
Google Pixel 3a
P-OLED, 2220x1080, 5.60
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
AMOLED, 2340x1080, 5.97
Huawei P30 Lite
IPS LCD, 2312x1080, 6.15
Sony Xperia 10
IPS-LCD, 2520x1080, 6.00
Samsung Galaxy A70
Super AMOLED, 2400x1080, 6.70
Google Pixel 3
OLED, 2160x1080, 5.50
Screen
31%
20%
-6%
9%
30%
Brightness middle
403
583
45%
451
12%
547
36%
554
37%
393
-2%
Brightness
411
577
40%
430
5%
525
28%
552
34%
398
-3%
Brightness Distribution
96
97
1%
90
-6%
93
-3%
98
2%
91
-5%
Black Level *
0.55
0.36
Colorchecker dE 2000 *
5.1
1.6
69%
1.4
73%
4.6
10%
3.3
35%
1.4
73%
Colorchecker dE 2000 max. *
11
3.9
65%
4.4
60%
12.1
-10%
9.2
16%
2.5
77%
Greyscale dE 2000 *
2
2.7
-35%
2.5
-25%
3.9
-95%
3.4
-70%
1.2
40%
Gamma
2.22 99%
2.27 97%
2.22 99%
2.17 101%
2.08 106%
2.19 100%
CCT
6589 99%
6267 104%
6422 101%
7158 91%
6606 98%
6597 99%
Contrast
820
1519

* ... smaller is better

Screen Flickering / PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation)

To dim the screen, some notebooks will simply cycle the backlight on and off in rapid succession - a method called Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) . This cycling frequency should ideally be undetectable to the human eye. If said frequency is too low, users with sensitive eyes may experience strain or headaches or even notice the flickering altogether.
Screen flickering / PWM detected 271.1 Hz ≤ 99 % brightness setting

The display backlight flickers at 271.1 Hz (worst case, e.g., utilizing PWM) Flickering detected at a brightness setting of 99 % and below. There should be no flickering or PWM above this brightness setting.

The frequency of 271.1 Hz is relatively high, so most users sensitive to PWM should not notice any flickering. However, there are reports that some users are still sensitive to PWM at 500 Hz and above, so be aware.

In comparison: 53 % of all tested devices do not use PWM to dim the display. If PWM was detected, an average of 18110 (minimum: 5 - maximum: 3846000) Hz was measured.

Display Response Times

Display response times show how fast the screen is able to change from one color to the next. Slow response times can lead to afterimages and can cause moving objects to appear blurry (ghosting). Gamers of fast-paced 3D titles should pay special attention to fast response times.
       Response Time Black to White
3.6 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 2 ms rise
↘ 1.6 ms fall
The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.1 (minimum) to 240 (maximum) ms. » 10 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (21.6 ms).
       Response Time 50% Grey to 80% Grey
4.4 ms ... rise ↗ and fall ↘ combined↗ 2.4 ms rise
↘ 2 ms fall
The screen shows very fast response rates in our tests and should be very well suited for fast-paced gaming.
In comparison, all tested devices range from 0.2 (minimum) to 636 (maximum) ms. » 10 % of all devices are better.
This means that the measured response time is better than the average of all tested devices (33.9 ms).

As organic panels can display "absolute" black even at maximum brightness, the contrast ratio in theory approaches infinity. We measured a relatively high average Delta-E deviation to the sRGB color space of 5.1 (colors). Ideally, this value would be below 3. The color temperature is very close to the ideal at 6589 K instead of 6500 K. We did not notice a color cast on the display.

Color accuracy (target color space: sRGB)
Color accuracy (target color space: sRGB)
Color space (target color space: sRGB)
Color space (target color space: sRGB)
Grayscales (target color space: sRGB)
Grayscales (target color space: sRGB)
Saturation (target color space: sRGB)
Saturation (target color space: sRGB)

The organic display of the Pixel 3a has stable viewing angles and colors do not invert even at very wide angles. It is possible to read the display even on a sunny summer day, thanks to the high contrast. However, it can become rather difficult to read the panel clearly under direct sunlight due to the low luminosity of our panel.

Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

Performance - Pixel 3a with a Snapdragon 670

The Snapdragon 670 (SDM670) is a Qualcomm SoC from 2018. It is the successor of the Snapdragon 660 and offers 8 Kryo 360 cores (custom design, supports 64 Bit). The two performance cores Kryo 360 Gold clock at up to 2 GHz while the six efficient cores Kryo 360 Silver have a clock rate of up to 1.7 GHz. Apart from these CPU cores the Snapdragon 670 also includes an Adreno 616 graphics chip.

The device's system performance is very good thanks to its light user interface. We did encounter occasional judders and delays despite the very well adapted software, however. Our synthetic benchmarks position the performance of the Snapdragon 670 in the center of our comparison field. As expected, the Pixel 3a with its 4 GB of RAM is a little slower than the Snapdragon 675 in the Galaxy A70. Our test unit does better under graphic load, thanks to its Adreno 616 and positions itself just below the Xiaomi Mi 9 SE 

Geekbench 4.4
64 Bit Single-Core Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
1624 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
1875 Points +15%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
1544 Points -5%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
837 Points -48%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
2380 Points +47%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
2355 Points +45%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (1616 - 1712, n=3)
1651 Points +2%
Average of class Smartphone
  (800 - 9574, n=90, last 2 years)
5063 Points +212%
64 Bit Multi-Core Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
5164 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
5975 Points +16%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
5429 Points +5%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
3986 Points -23%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
6446 Points +25%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
7754 Points +50%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (5164 - 5742, n=3)
5359 Points +4%
Average of class Smartphone
  (2630 - 26990, n=90, last 2 years)
13549 Points +162%
Compute RenderScript Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
6475 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
7282 Points +12%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
3551 Points -45%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
3763 Points -42%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
6104 Points -6%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
13620 Points +110%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (6090 - 6479, n=3)
6348 Points -2%
Average of class Smartphone
  (2053 - 18432, n=70, last 2 years)
10590 Points +64%
PCMark for Android
Work performance score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
9458 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
8346 Points -12%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
8125 Points -14%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
4948 Points -48%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
9288 Points -2%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
11744 Points +24%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (7988 - 9458, n=4)
8742 Points -8%
Average of class Smartphone
  (10884 - 19297, n=2, last 2 years)
15091 Points +60%
Work 2.0 performance score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
7387 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
6832 Points -8%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
6483 Points -12%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
5987 Points -19%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
7315 Points -1%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
9063 Points +23%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (6633 - 7387, n=4)
7024 Points -5%
Average of class Smartphone
  (9101 - 12871, n=4, last 2 years)
10872 Points +47%
3DMark
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
29229 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
29316 Points 0%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
18377 Points -37%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
16290 Points -44%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
23013 Points -21%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
62568 Points +114%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (19315 - 29229, n=4)
25989 Points -11%
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Graphics Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
35401 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
43514 Points +23%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
21643 Points -39%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
17878 Points -49%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
26348 Points -26%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
84256 Points +138%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (22381 - 35619, n=4)
32249 Points -9%
1280x720 offscreen Ice Storm Unlimited Physics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
18523 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
13686 Points -26%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
12023 Points -35%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
12437 Points -33%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
15948 Points -14%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
32914 Points +78%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (13055 - 18523, n=4)
15710 Points -15%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2477 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2073 Points -16%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
1414 Points -43%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1315 Points -47%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
1606 Points -35%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
5059 Points +104%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2378 - 2477, n=4)
2438 Points -2%
Average of class Smartphone
  (712 - 7285, n=52, last 2 years)
3548 Points +43%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Graphics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2419 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
1980 Points -18%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
1256 Points -48%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1235 Points -49%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
1427 Points -41%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
7075 Points +192%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2357 - 2428, n=4)
2407 Points 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (618 - 9451, n=52, last 2 years)
3905 Points +61%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Physics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2708 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2480 Points -8%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
2490 Points -8%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1687 Points -38%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
2869 Points +6%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
2533 Points -6%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2456 - 2708, n=4)
2556 Points -6%
Average of class Smartphone
  (1093 - 4525, n=52, last 2 years)
3005 Points +11%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Unlimited (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2582 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2217 Points -14%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
1494 Points -42%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1375 Points -47%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
1734 Points -33%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
4966 Points +92%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2506 - 2582, n=4)
2541 Points -2%
Average of class Smartphone
  (704 - 23024, n=115, last 2 years)
9038 Points +250%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Unlimited Graphics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2533 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2146 Points -15%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
1336 Points -47%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1299 Points -49%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
1571 Points -38%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
6404 Points +153%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2533 - 2541, n=4)
2536 Points 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (607 - 45492, n=114, last 2 years)
15757 Points +522%
2560x1440 Sling Shot OpenGL ES 3.0 Unlimited Physics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2771 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2506 Points -10%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
2578 Points -7%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1732 Points -37%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
2727 Points -2%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
2781 Points 0%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2413 - 2771, n=4)
2562 Points -8%
Average of class Smartphone
  (1075 - 8749, n=114, last 2 years)
4335 Points +56%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
1651 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2073 Points +26%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
963 Points -42%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
809 Points -51%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
978 Points -41%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
4560 Points +176%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (1594 - 1651, n=4)
1629 Points -1%
Average of class Smartphone
  (286 - 7890, n=102, last 2 years)
2685 Points +63%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Graphics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
1482 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
1980 Points +34%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
819 Points -45%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
704 Points -52%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
823 Points -44%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
5188 Points +250%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (1451 - 1487, n=4)
1476 Points 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (240 - 9814, n=102, last 2 years)
2675 Points +80%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Physics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2728 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2480 Points -9%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
2489 Points -9%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1645 Points -40%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
2886 Points +6%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
3203 Points +17%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2436 - 2728, n=4)
2553 Points -6%
Average of class Smartphone
  (858 - 4679, n=102, last 2 years)
3127 Points +15%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
1772 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2217 Points +25%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
981 Points -45%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
896 Points -49%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
1110 Points -37%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
4275 Points +141%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (1742 - 1772, n=4)
1758 Points -1%
Average of class Smartphone
  (317 - 20131, n=174, last 2 years)
6545 Points +269%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited Graphics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
1611 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2146 Points +33%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
843 Points -48%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
792 Points -51%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
949 Points -41%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
4882 Points +203%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (1611 - 1612, n=4)
1612 Points 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (267 - 33376, n=173, last 2 years)
9330 Points +479%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited Physics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2763 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2506 Points -9%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
2550 Points -8%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1664 Points -40%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
2719 Points -2%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
2979 Points +8%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2424 - 2763, n=4)
2584 Points -6%
Average of class Smartphone
  (938 - 8480, n=173, last 2 years)
4158 Points +50%
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (Vulkan) Unlimited (sort by value)
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
1988 Points
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
Points
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
861 Points
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
1063 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (1540 - 1563, n=3)
1551 Points
Average of class Smartphone
  (365 - 6439, n=96, last 2 years)
2611 Points
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (Vulkan) Unlimited Graphics (sort by value)
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
1907 Points
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
693 Points
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
914 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (1408 - 1425, n=3)
1416 Points
Average of class Smartphone
  (298 - 8601, n=96, last 2 years)
2775 Points
2560x1440 Sling Shot Extreme (Vulkan) Unlimited Physics (sort by value)
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2338 Points
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
2167 Points
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
2482 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2288 - 2365, n=3)
2322 Points
Average of class Smartphone
  (1667 - 3525, n=96, last 2 years)
2671 Points
GFXBench (DX / GLBenchmark) 2.7
T-Rex Onscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
52 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
58 fps +12%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
31 fps -40%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
25 fps -52%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
37 fps -29%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
61 fps +17%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (32 - 53, n=4)
47.5 fps -9%
Average of class Smartphone
  (22 - 165, n=177, last 2 years)
83.6 fps +61%
1920x1080 T-Rex Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
58 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
74 fps +28%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
33 fps -43%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
29 fps -50%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
41 fps -29%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
127 fps +119%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (46 - 58, n=4)
55 fps -5%
Average of class Smartphone
  (19 - 791, n=177, last 2 years)
243 fps +319%
GFXBench 3.0
on screen Manhattan Onscreen OGL (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
27 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
33 fps +22%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
16 fps -41%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
11 fps -59%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
19 fps -30%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
54 fps +100%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (17 - 28, n=4)
24.8 fps -8%
Average of class Smartphone
  (6.8 - 165, n=178, last 2 years)
71.3 fps +164%
1920x1080 1080p Manhattan Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
29 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
36 fps +24%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
17 fps -41%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
13 fps -55%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
20 fps -31%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
55 fps +90%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (29 - 29, n=4)
29 fps 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (9.2 - 363, n=178, last 2 years)
137.9 fps +376%
GFXBench 3.1
on screen Manhattan ES 3.1 Onscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
19 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
24 fps +26%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
11 fps -42%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
7.8 fps -59%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
13 fps -32%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
41 fps +116%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (6.9 - 19, n=4)
15.7 fps -17%
Average of class Smartphone
  (3.7 - 158, n=178, last 2 years)
60.2 fps +217%
1920x1080 Manhattan ES 3.1 Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
20 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
26 fps +30%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
12 fps -40%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
9.5 fps -52%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
15 fps -25%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
46 fps +130%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (19 - 20, n=4)
19.8 fps -1%
Average of class Smartphone
  (6.2 - 279, n=178, last 2 years)
97 fps +385%
GFXBench
on screen Car Chase Onscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
10 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
13 fps +30%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
6.5 fps -35%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
4.3 fps -57%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
7 fps -30%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
26 fps +160%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (6.4 - 11, n=4)
9.6 fps -4%
Average of class Smartphone
  (5 - 117, n=178, last 2 years)
42.9 fps +329%
1920x1080 Car Chase Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
11 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
15 fps +36%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
6.9 fps -37%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
5.3 fps -52%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
8 fps -27%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
28 fps +155%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (8.5 - 11, n=4)
10.4 fps -5%
Average of class Smartphone
  (2.9 - 166, n=178, last 2 years)
58.6 fps +433%
on screen Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Onscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
11 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
14 fps +27%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
6.4 fps -42%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
4.4 fps -60%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
8 fps -27%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
27 fps +145%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (6.8 - 11, n=4)
9.7 fps -12%
Average of class Smartphone
  (3.6 - 123, n=218, last 2 years)
43.3 fps +294%
1920x1080 Aztec Ruins Normal Tier Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
12 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
16 fps +33%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
7 fps -42%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
4.9 fps -59%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
9 fps -25%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
29 fps +142%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (12 - 12, n=4)
12 fps 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (2.3 - 229, n=218, last 2 years)
62.9 fps +424%
on screen Aztec Ruins High Tier Onscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
7 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
9.1 fps +30%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
4.2 fps -40%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
2.7 fps -61%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
4.7 fps -33%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
23 fps +229%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (4.3 - 7.2, n=4)
6.38 fps -9%
Average of class Smartphone
  (2.8 - 105, n=218, last 2 years)
32.2 fps +360%
2560x1440 Aztec Ruins High Tier Offscreen (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
4.4 fps
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
5.8 fps +32%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
2.6 fps -41%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1.7 fps -61%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
3 fps -32%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
11 fps +150%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (4.4 - 4.5, n=4)
4.45 fps +1%
Average of class Smartphone
  (0.85 - 94, n=218, last 2 years)
25 fps +468%
AnTuTu v7 - Total Score (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
153450 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
179353 Points +17%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
132834 Points -13%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
88287 Points -42%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
167836 Points +9%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
280162 Points +83%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (153450 - 158868, n=3)
156363 Points +2%
BaseMark OS II
Overall (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2811 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2906 Points +3%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
2201 Points -22%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1374 Points -51%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
2756 Points -2%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
4516 Points +61%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2621 - 2811, n=4)
2720 Points -3%
Average of class Smartphone
  (411 - 11438, n=158, last 2 years)
5704 Points +103%
System (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
5480 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
5932 Points +8%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
5146 Points -6%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
3159 Points -42%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
6137 Points +12%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
7826 Points +43%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (5024 - 5507, n=4)
5332 Points -3%
Average of class Smartphone
  (2376 - 16475, n=158, last 2 years)
9621 Points +76%
Memory (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
3288 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
2969 Points -10%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
3036 Points -8%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
983 Points -70%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
3285 Points 0%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
4650 Points +41%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2877 - 3316, n=4)
3094 Points -6%
Average of class Smartphone
  (670 - 12306, n=158, last 2 years)
6230 Points +89%
Graphics (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
2818 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
3453 Points +23%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
1478 Points -48%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
1409 Points -50%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
2272 Points -19%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
7965 Points +183%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (2790 - 2818, n=4)
2810 Points 0%
Average of class Smartphone
  (697 - 58651, n=158, last 2 years)
13900 Points +393%
Web (sort by value)
Google Pixel 3a
Qualcomm Snapdragon 670, Adreno 616, 4096
1229 Points
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
Qualcomm Snapdragon 712, Adreno 616, 6144
1172 Points -5%
Huawei P30 Lite
HiSilicon Kirin 710, Mali-G51 MP4, 4096
1024 Points -17%
Sony Xperia 10
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630, Adreno 508, 3072
815 Points -34%
Samsung Galaxy A70
Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, Adreno 612, 6144
1259 Points +2%
Google Pixel 3
Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, Adreno 630, 4096
1435 Points +17%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
  (1144 - 1229, n=4)
1182 Points -4%
Average of class Smartphone
  (10 - 2145, n=158, last 2 years)
1487 Points +21%

The browser speed is decent and we did not encounter any issues while loading elaborate pages. Scrolling is also smooth for the most part, although objectively it cannot quite keep up with its competition here. Only the Sony Xperia 10 and the Huawei P30 Lite get lower results in our browser benchmarks.

Jetstream 2 - Total Score
Average of class Smartphone (13.8 - 351, n=167, last 2 years)
104 Points +210%
Samsung Galaxy A70 (Chrome 74.0.3729.157)
43.42 Points +29%
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE (Chrome 73)
37.21 Points +11%
Google Pixel 3a
33.56 Points
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 (32.1 - 33.6, n=4)
33 Points -2%
Huawei P30 Lite (Chrome 74)
31.78 Points -5%
Sony Xperia 10 (Chrome Version 73)
16.25 Points -52%
Octane V2 - Total Score
Average of class Smartphone (4633 - 89112, n=202, last 2 years)
33355 Points +208%
Google Pixel 3 (Chrome 70)
16454 Points +52%
Samsung Galaxy A70 (Chrome 74.0.3729.157)
15716 Points +45%
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE (Chrome 73)
13562 Points +25%
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 (10245 - 11312, n=4)
10864 Points 0%
Google Pixel 3a
10844 Points
Huawei P30 Lite (Chrome 74)
9779 Points -10%
Sony Xperia 10 (Chrome Version 73)
4865 Points -55%
Mozilla Kraken 1.1 - Total
Sony Xperia 10 (Chrome Version 73)
10257 ms * -186%
Huawei P30 Lite (Chrome 74)
4138 ms * -15%
Google Pixel 3a
3589 ms *
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 (3361 - 3655, n=4)
3525 ms * +2%
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE (Chrome 73)
2912 ms * +19%
Samsung Galaxy A70 (Chrome 74.0.3729.157)
2807 ms * +22%
Google Pixel 3 (Chrome 70)
2305 ms * +36%
Average of class Smartphone (388 - 9999, n=165, last 2 years)
1658 ms * +54%

* ... smaller is better

The speed of the eMMC flash storage in the Pixel 3a is very similar to that of its competition; the speeds we measured with our AndroBench 5 benchmark are average and very decent. 

Google Pixel 3aXiaomi Mi 9 SEHuawei P30 LiteSony Xperia 10Samsung Galaxy A70Google Pixel 3Average 64 GB eMMC FlashAverage of class Smartphone
AndroBench 3-5
11%
-10%
-30%
7%
74%
-29%
290%
Sequential Read 256KB
302
492.5
63%
293.2
-3%
273.8
-9%
508
68%
766
154%
273 ?(95.6 - 704, n=201)
-10%
1468 ?(215 - 4512, n=210, last 2 years)
386%
Sequential Write 256KB
253.9
190.1
-25%
158.6
-38%
232.9
-8%
194
-24%
181.8
-28%
176.8 ?(40 - 274, n=201)
-30%
1078 ?(57.5 - 3678, n=210, last 2 years)
325%
Random Read 4KB
63.6
115.8
82%
71.6
13%
53.1
-17%
103.8
63%
149.8
136%
59.1 ?(9.58 - 148.5, n=201)
-7%
242 ?(22.2 - 543, n=210, last 2 years)
281%
Random Write 4KB
99.9
21.86
-78%
87.3
-13%
14.39
-86%
21.95
-78%
133.8
34%
31.7 ?(2.34 - 146.9, n=201)
-68%
266 ?(13 - 709, n=210, last 2 years)
166%
Sequential Read 256KB SDCard
76.8 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
83.2 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
76.2 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
77.4 ?(21.1 - 107.6, n=144)
Sequential Write 256KB SDCard
67.8 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
63.8 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
58.8 ?(Toshiba Exceria Pro M501)
58.3 ?(11.2 - 83.3, n=144)

Games - a Qualcomm Adreno 616

The Qualcomm Adreno 616 supports modern APIs such as Vulkan, OpenGL ES 3.2 and DirectX 12. The GPU is manufactured using the 14-nm process and can be considered a powerful graphics card. The Pixel 3a can display demanding games such as "PUBG Mobile" smoothly at high details. The racing game "Asphalt 9 Legends" is also displayed smoothly at maximum quality settings. However, we did occasionally note small drops in the frame rate on both games. 

The sensors and capacitive touchscreen in this Google smartphone are reliable and responsive.

Asphalt 9 Legends
Asphalt 9 Legends
PUBG Mobile
PUBG Mobile

Emissions - Pixel phone with stereo speakers

Temperature

The surface temperatures are within the normal range, although the Pixel 3a has a rather uneven temperature distribution.

Max. Load
 37.3 °C
99 F
36.6 °C
98 F
32 °C
90 F
 
 37.4 °C
99 F
37.1 °C
99 F
31.7 °C
89 F
 
 36.4 °C
98 F
34.5 °C
94 F
31.3 °C
88 F
 
Maximum: 37.4 °C = 99 F
Average: 34.9 °C = 95 F
30.4 °C
87 F
32 °C
90 F
35.9 °C
97 F
30.5 °C
87 F
32 °C
90 F
36.5 °C
98 F
30.5 °C
87 F
32.2 °C
90 F
35.2 °C
95 F
Maximum: 36.5 °C = 98 F
Average: 32.8 °C = 91 F
Power Supply (max.)  25.1 °C = 77 F | Room Temperature 21 °C = 70 F | Voltcraft IR-260
(±) The average temperature for the upper side under maximal load is 34.9 °C / 95 F, compared to the average of 32.7 °C / 91 F for the devices in the class Smartphone.
(+) The maximum temperature on the upper side is 37.4 °C / 99 F, compared to the average of 35 °C / 95 F, ranging from 21.9 to 56 °C for the class Smartphone.
(+) The bottom heats up to a maximum of 36.5 °C / 98 F, compared to the average of 33.8 °C / 93 F
(+) In idle usage, the average temperature for the upper side is 29.9 °C / 86 F, compared to the device average of 32.7 °C / 91 F.
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review
Google Pixel 3a Smartphone Review

Speakers

Speaker test: Pink Noise
Speaker test: Pink Noise

Thanks to one speaker in the earpiece and one on the bottom of the phone, the Pixel 3a can produce stereo sound when playing music or videos. Together, these speakers offer very good sound quality for this price range and reach a maximum volume of 83 dB(A).

While the speaker placed above the display is significantly quieter and more focused on highs, the speaker on the bottom of the phone is louder and stronger. The sound that these two speakers produce is very linear.

If you want to use your own headphones, you can: The Pixel 3a is equipped with a 3.5-mm audio jack, which works very well.

dB(A) 0102030405060708090Deep BassMiddle BassHigh BassLower RangeMidsHigher MidsLower HighsMid HighsUpper HighsSuper Highs2042.237.22531.230.13127.229.14023.726.4503135.76322.725.78022.823.810024.427.212520.93716020.349.420019.151.525016.453.93151656.240017.658.950015.262.963014.668.580015.468.9100014.872.5125015.271.9160015.670.5200014.871250014.670.9315014.370.4400014.669.8500014.763.1630015.366.9800015.372.51000014.973.31250015.369.31600015.661.5SPL27.382.2N0.954.3median 15.3median 68.5Delta1.27.932.633.828.926.525.224.126.120.430.227.426.919.628.721.729.120.818.431.5215224.350.917.459.216.86215.362.715.665.614.168.415.273.114.173.114.673.714.673.614.272.413.873.41475.614.66714.470.614.676.314.474.814.871.414.660.314.763.32784.90.964.3median 14.6median 68.41.68.1hearing rangehide median Pink NoiseGoogle Pixel 3aGoogle Pixel 3
Frequency diagram (checkboxes can be checked and unchecked to compare devices)
Google Pixel 3a audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (82.2 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 22.6% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (10.2% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 3.4% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (4.4% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 3.1% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (4.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (16.5% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 5% of all tested devices in this class were better, 4% similar, 91% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 38%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 23% of all tested devices were better, 5% similar, 72% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Google Pixel 3 audio analysis

(+) | speakers can play relatively loud (84.9 dB)
Bass 100 - 315 Hz
(-) | nearly no bass - on average 22.3% lower than median
(±) | linearity of bass is average (13.8% delta to prev. frequency)
Mids 400 - 2000 Hz
(+) | balanced mids - only 4.1% away from median
(+) | mids are linear (3% delta to prev. frequency)
Highs 2 - 16 kHz
(+) | balanced highs - only 4.8% away from median
(+) | highs are linear (6.9% delta to prev. frequency)
Overall 100 - 16.000 Hz
(±) | linearity of overall sound is average (17.4% difference to median)
Compared to same class
» 8% of all tested devices in this class were better, 6% similar, 86% worse
» The best had a delta of 12%, average was 38%, worst was 134%
Compared to all devices tested
» 27% of all tested devices were better, 8% similar, 64% worse
» The best had a delta of 4%, average was 25%, worst was 134%

Battery Life - Pixel 3a with small battery, but good battery life

Power Consumption

The power management of the Pixel 3a is great compared to its competition. It is particularly efficient under load. 

Power Consumption
Off / Standbydarklight 0.01 / 0.22 Watt
Idledarkmidlight 0.61 / 1.56 / 1.6 Watt
Load midlight 2.67 / 4.33 Watt
 color bar
Key: min: dark, med: mid, max: light        Metrahit Energy
Currently we use the Metrahit Energy, a professional single phase power quality and energy measurement digital multimeter, for our measurements. Find out more about it here. All of our test methods can be found here.
Google Pixel 3a
3000 mAh
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
3070 mAh
Huawei P30 Lite
3340 mAh
Sony Xperia 10
2870 mAh
Samsung Galaxy A70
4500 mAh
Google Pixel 3
2915 mAh
Average Qualcomm Snapdragon 670
 
Average of class Smartphone
 
Power Consumption
7%
-60%
-28%
-19%
-62%
-67%
-48%
Idle Minimum *
0.61
0.53
13%
0.91
-49%
0.72
-18%
0.66
-8%
1.21
-98%
1.18 ?(0.61 - 2.07, n=4)
-93%
0.894 ?(0.42 - 2.37, n=157, last 2 years)
-47%
Idle Average *
1.56
1.18
24%
2.41
-54%
2.16
-38%
1.69
-8%
2.01
-29%
2.89 ?(1.56 - 4.43, n=4)
-85%
1.452 ?(0.69 - 4.26, n=157, last 2 years)
7%
Idle Maximum *
1.6
1.2
25%
2.43
-52%
2.17
-36%
1.8
-13%
2.05
-28%
2.94 ?(1.6 - 4.52, n=4)
-84%
1.632 ?(0.79 - 4.45, n=157, last 2 years)
-2%
Load Average *
2.67
3.04
-14%
4.57
-71%
3.32
-24%
3.42
-28%
4.06
-52%
3.82 ?(2.64 - 5.91, n=4)
-43%
5.55 ?(2.4 - 16.5, n=157, last 2 years)
-108%
Load Maximum *
4.33
4.83
-12%
7.57
-75%
5.34
-23%
5.88
-36%
8.79
-103%
5.65 ?(4.33 - 7.91, n=4)
-30%
8.23 ?(4.32 - 20.8, n=157, last 2 years)
-90%

* ... smaller is better

Battery Life

In order for the Pixel 3a to keep going on long days, the manufacturer has equipped it with a 3000-mAh battery. Our test unit has good runtimes despite the small battery capacity, thanks to the efficient Snapdragon SoC and OLED display. The Pixel 3a managed to keep going for over 10 hours in our realistic Wi-Fi test with the display brightness set to 150 cd/m².

Battery Runtime
WiFi Websurfing
10h 12min
Google Pixel 3a
3000 mAh
Xiaomi Mi 9 SE
3070 mAh
Huawei P30 Lite
3340 mAh
Sony Xperia 10
2870 mAh
Samsung Galaxy A70
4500 mAh
Google Pixel 3
2915 mAh
Battery Runtime
WiFi v1.3
612
510
-17%
515
-16%
541
-12%
736
20%
471
-23%

Pros

+ attractive OLED panel
+ fast Wi-Fi
+ very good speakers
+ good vibration motor
+ cameras

Cons

- display brightness
- weak SoC for this price range
- small battery
- plastic case

Verdict - Google can also do mid-range

Review: Google Pixel 3a. Test unit provided by Google Germany.
Review: Google Pixel 3a. Test unit provided by Google Germany.

Google's previous high-end smartphones with their wide bezels have made it clear that the manufacturer is not particularly up to date in terms of design language. The same was to be expected from this mid-range Pixel smartphone. Barring that, the industry leader among search engines has shown that it is also capable of producing very good mid-range smartphones, both in terms of technology and in terms of software.

Lovers of compact smartphones will find that the Pixel 3a is one of the best smartphones available at the moment.

Despite its rather old-school design, the Pixel 3a is a very compact device that is nice to handle thanks to its plastic back cover. While the Pixel looks rather bland on paper, its everyday performance is very pleasing. The results the Pixel manages to get out of its two single cameras on the front and back are impressive. We were also impressed by the very good speaker and vibration motor that set the Pixel 3a apart from its competition.

The high price of $400 makes the Snapdragon 670 smartphone look quite unattractive on paper and could even be considered a dangerous move. The Pixel 3a would have done well with a Snapdragon 700 chip: The mid-range smartphone has some performance weaknesses despite its well-optimized software. We cannot quite understand why Google did not include an SD card slot on this mid-range device with only 64 GB of internal storage.

Google Pixel 3a - 09/03/2022 v7
Marcus Herbrich

Chassis
80%
Keyboard
65 / 75 → 87%
Pointing Device
92%
Connectivity
48 / 70 → 68%
Weight
93%
Battery
88%
Display
87%
Games Performance
19 / 64 → 30%
Application Performance
63 / 86 → 73%
Temperature
91%
Noise
100%
Audio
82 / 90 → 91%
Camera
58%
Average
74%
80%
Smartphone - Weighted Average

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> Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations > Reviews > A Nexus-style Pixel smartphone: Google Pixel 3a Review
Marcus Herbrich, 2019-07-10 (Update: 2019-07-11)