Smartphones Under €500 Tested: What the Samsung Galaxy A55, Nothing Phone 2, and Google Pixel 8a Have to Offer

We put three budget smartphones priced around €500 or less to the test: the Pixel 8a (review), Samsung’s mid-range Galaxy A55, and Nothing’s first budget device, the Phone 2a (review). The price range among these devices spans approximately €200, with Google’s smartphone being the most expensive. Is it worth opting for the pricier choice?

Mid-Range Marvels: Samsung, Google, and Nothing’s Choices

The Galaxy A55 and Phone 2a, measuring 6.6 and 6.7 inches respectively, are quite comparable in size, making them less manageable than Google’s Pixel 8a, which features a more compact 6.1-inch display. This smaller size not only enhances its portability but also makes single-handed use more feasible.

In terms of design, the Samsung and Nothing models exhibit a more angular frame, while Google’s budget option boasts smoother edges, offering a more comfortable grip. It’s worth noting that although the larger displays on the A55 and Phone 2a provide better viewing area, the Pixel 8a’s compactness caters to users valuing ease of handling.

Material Choices: Durability vs. Aesthetic Appeal

When it comes to materials, Samsung’s Galaxy A55 features a Gorilla Glass Victus Plus back, recognized for its durability. On the other hand, the Pixel 8a and Phone 2a utilize plastic backs, which, while feeling less premium, reduce the likelihood of breakage upon dropping. Interestingly, the glossy finishes of the Nothing and A55 models tend to attract fingerprints more easily compared to the matte finish of the Pixel 8a, which remains smudge-free.

One standout feature of the Phone 2a is its unique Glyph Interface. Integrated with LEDs on the rear, it visually alerts users about new messages, calls, and even functions as a timer. This innovative design certainly sets it apart in a crowded market.

Display Quality: Bright and Vivid

All three smartphones shine when it comes to display quality. Each device is equipped with a vibrant OLED screen, offering excellent brightness levels. The Pixel 8a stands out with a peak brightness of 2,000 nits, making it notably brighter than the 1,000 nits offered by the A55 and Phone 2a. They all deliver natural colors and support refresh rates of up to 120Hz, ensuring smooth interactions.

Moreover, the optical in-display fingerprint sensors across the models perform efficiently. However, users may experience initial hiccups, particularly with the A55’s sensor, which might require a firmer touch to register successfully.

Performance Breakdown: Pixel 8a Leads the Pack

In terms of performance, while budget smartphones like these may not match the capabilities of high-end models such as the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (review), they provide ample power for everyday tasks and gaming. The Pixel 8a, powered by the Tensor G3 chip, outshines the A55 and Phone 2a in both CPU and GPU performance, making it the most powerful of the trio.

This advantage is complemented by its ability to perform various AI tasks directly on the device, a feature that the other two phones lack. The benchmark scores reinforce this superiority, with the Pixel 8a achieving significantly higher numbers across the board.

Battery Life: Nothing Phone 2a Outlasts the Competition

When it comes to battery endurance, the Nothing Phone 2a takes the lead with its 5,000 mAh battery, lasting over 16 hours in benchmarks. The Galaxy A55 also holds its own, but the Pixel 8a, with its 4,500 mAh battery, falls slightly behind. Despite these differences, all three devices can easily last a full day, with the Phone 2a potentially stretching to two days depending on usage.

Charging capabilities also vary: the Phone 2a supports wired charging at 45 watts, making it the fastest of the group, while the A55 and Pixel 8a offer slower charging speeds. Notably, only the Pixel 8a supports wireless charging, albeit at a modest 7.5 watts.

Ultimately, while the Pixel 8a carries a higher price tag, it justifies the cost with superior performance, camera capabilities, and longevity, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a compact yet powerful smartphone. However, both the Galaxy A55 and Phone 2a present viable alternatives, especially for price-conscious consumers.