The purest Android experience at this price
First and foremost, the Pixel 9a runs stock Android 15, just like its flagship siblings. This means no unnecessary apps, no UI overlays, and no ads or gimmicks, just a clean, fast, and intuitive user experience.
Unlike many Android phones in this price range, the Pixel 9a isn’t left behind when it comes to long-term software support. Google promises at least three years of major OS updates and five years of security patches, which is ideal for someone who keeps the phone for many years.
You’re also getting access to exclusive Pixel features like:
- Call Screen – helpful for avoiding spam or unknown callers
- Now Playing – shows what music is playing around you without needing to ask
- Recorder with smart transcription – perfect for students or journalists
- Magic Eraser – easily remove distractions from photos
- Live Translate – real-time language translation across apps
These are meaningful, useful tools, not gimmicks, and they all run smoothly thanks to what’s powering the phone under the hood.
Powered by Google’s Tensor G4
Unlike most budget phones, which settle for mid-tier chips from Qualcomm or MediaTek, the Pixel 9a is equipped with Google’s Tensor G4, the same chip used in the more expensive Pixel 9 and 9 Pro.
What does that mean for you?
It means better multitasking, faster app launches, and more intelligent features, powered by machine learning. Tensor is specifically built for tasks like voice recognition, smart photo editing, and real-time language processing.
If you’re a casual user, the performance will feel more than capable. Apps open quickly, games run smoothly on medium settings, and even photo editing feels snappy.
Camera quality that punches above its weight
Here’s where the Pixel 9a truly sets itself apart: the camera.
Budget and mid-range phones often struggle when it comes to photography, especially in low light. The Pixel 9a, however, leverages Google’s image processing magic to deliver photos that rival those from phones twice the price.
Front Camera : 13MP (f2.2), 4k @ 30FPS
Rear Camera :48MP wide Main camera (f1.7), 13MP Ultrawide (f2.2), 4k @ 60FPS
Whether you’re snapping photos in daylight, at night, or indoors, the results are consistently sharp, balanced, and natural-looking.
You also get access to features like:
- Night Sight – exceptional low-light photos
- Real Tone – better skin tone accuracy for diverse subjects
- Portrait Mode – smooth background blur with facial clarity
- Astrophotography – for stargazing photographers
Compact, comfortable design
In a world full of oversized phones, the Pixel 9a’s 6.29-inch OLED display feels refreshingly compact. It’s lightweight, easy to hold with one hand, and fits comfortably in your pocket. The display is bright, colourful, and smooth, thanks to a 90Hz refresh rate.
The design is minimalist but polished. You get a matte plastic back that resists fingerprints, a flat display with slim bezels, and a signature camera bar that gives the phone its Pixel identity.
It also features IP67 water and dust resistance, which isn’t something you usually find in this price category. So whether you’re caught in a rainstorm or dealing with a kitchen spill, the 9a can handle it.
Battery life and charging
With a 5100 mAh battery, the Pixel 9a easily lasts through a full day of regular use, whether you’re scrolling social media, taking photos, watching videos, or hopping between apps. Tensor G4 also helps manage power more efficiently, so idle drain is minimal.
Charging is available via USB-C at 18W. There’s no wireless charging, but that’s an expected trade-off in the budget tier.
While others may offer slightly faster charging or extra gimmicks, Google’s software polish, camera quality, and long-term support make the Pixel 9a the most balanced pick.
Get the Pixel 9a from TELUS
If you’re considering the Pixel 9a, one of the smartest ways to get it in Canada is through TELUS. Whether you’re looking for a reliable carrier plan, financing options, or special employee discounts, TELUS offers one of the best overall packages for this budget-friendly device.
Why choose TELUS for the Pixel 9a?
TELUS is known for its fast and reliable 5G network, which pairs perfectly with the Pixel 9a’s capabilities. The device is 5 G-ready right out of the box, so you can stream, browse, and video chat with smoother connectivity across major Canadian cities and rural areas alike.
Plus, when you buy the Pixel 9a through TELUS, you benefit from:
- Flexible payment options: Like Easy Payment plans that let you spread the cost of the phone over 24 months
- No interest: Pay monthly with $0 upfront on approved credit
- Trade-in credits: Save even more by trading in your old device
- Device protection: Add TELUS Device Care for added peace of mind
For customers who want to balance affordability and quality, TELUS makes the Pixel 9a even more accessible.
Save more with TELUS EPP
If you’re an employee of a partner company, government agency, or large corporation, you may qualify for TELUS EPP, Exclusive Purchase Program. TELUS EPP offers exclusive discounts on the Pixel 9a and plan bundles that aren’t available to the general public.
Here’s what makes TELUS EPP stand out:
- Lower monthly rates on select mobility plans
- Discounts on new smartphones like the Pixel 9a
- Perks and promos that rotate throughout the year (e.g., bonus data or waived connection fees)
- Online self-serve access to check eligibility and shop your EPP-exclusive offers
How to check TELUS EPP eligibility
To see if you’re eligible for TELUS EPP:
- Visit the official Open Connection TELUS EPP website
- Enter your work email address from a qualifying organization
- Browse your exclusive pricing on devices and plans
- Complete your order online or have it shipped directly to you
Whether you’re a nurse, teacher, federal employee, or part of a corporate team, it’s worth checking if you qualify. TELUS has partnerships with hundreds of employers across Canada.
Final thoughts: Should you buy the Pixel 9a?
It might not come with every bell and whistle, but it nails the essentials and then some. For students, professionals, or anyone tired of overpaying for a smartphone, the 9a delivers where it truly matters.
- Getting regular software updates
- Taking great photos
- A reliable, clean Android experience
- Long-term value
Verdict: Yes, it might just be the best budget Android phone of 2025
Great performance, excellent cameras, clean software, and a solid design at a fair Canadian price. That’s what makes the Pixel 9a such a strong contender this year.
So, if you’re considering a new phone and want great value without compromise, the answer is clear: the Google Pixel 9a deserves a top spot on your list.