I’ve been waiting to see how Google would follow up on its mid-range success, and the Pixel 10a has finally made its grand debut in India. While it might look like a familiar face, Google is calling this one the “most durable A-series smartphone” they’ve ever built.
If you’re sitting there with a Pixel 9a—or considering one to save a few bucks—I’ve broken down exactly what has changed and whether that ₹10,000 price jump is actually worth your hard-earned money.
Design & Durability: A Flat-Out Change
The first thing you’ll notice is the back of the phone. While the Pixel 9a had a slight camera bump, the Pixel 10a goes completely flat with virtually no bump at all. But the real “tough” news is the screen protection.
-
Gorilla Glass 7i: The 10a jumps to much tougher glass compared to the Pixel 9a’s aging Gorilla Glass 3.
-
Lighter Build: Despite the extra durability, it’s slightly lighter at 183g.
-
Fresh Palette: You can grab it in Lavender, Fog, Berry, or Obsidian.
Display: Brighter Days Ahead
I’ve always said that outdoor visibility is a dealbreaker for mid-range phones. Google listened.
-
3,000 Nits Peak Brightness: The Pixel 10a gets a significant boost over the 9a’s 2,700 nits.
-
Why it matters: In the harsh Indian summer sun, those extra 300 nits make a world of difference for reading texts or framing photos.
Power & Charging: Filling Up Faster
While both phones share the same Tensor G4 brain and a beefy 5,100mAh battery, the way they “refuel” is where things get interesting.
-
45W Fast Charging: The 10a finally moves past the 30W limit of the 9a.
-
Long-Term Support: You’ll get Android and security updates all the way to 2033 (one year more than the 9a).
The “Affordability” Hack: Pixel Upgrade Program
This is a huge “First” for the A-series. The Pixel 10a is part of the Google Pixel Upgrade Program (launched Dec 2025). This means you can get the phone with zero down payment and zero interest. Plus, after 9 EMI payments, you can swap it for the next Pixel regardless of the condition of your 10a. The 9a is completely left out of this program.
Quick Specs: Pixel 9a vs. Pixel 10a
| Feature | Pixel 9a | Pixel 10a |
| Price (India) | ₹39,999 | ₹49,999 |
| Glass | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass 7i |
| Brightness | 2,700 nits | 3,000 nits |
| Charging | 30W | 45W |
| Software | Android 15 | Android 16 |
The Analytic Touch: Should You Upgrade?
If you already have a Pixel 9a in your pocket, stay put. The camera sensors (48MP main) and the processor are identical, so your daily performance and photo quality won’t see a massive jump.
However, if you are looking to buy new today, the Pixel 10a is the smarter buy for the Upgrade Program and the tougher screen alone. If you’re someone who drops their phone often, that Gorilla Glass 7i is worth the premium.
