Latest Pixel 9a Hands-On Leak Shows A Very Cheap Looking Handset

There isn’t much we don’t know about the Pixel 9a, but over the past couple of days, a few more leaks—including a hands-on video—have showcased just what the hardware will look like when it launches. The downside is that the Pixel 9a looks a lot cheaper than its predecessors.

We have yet to learn when Google will officially launch the upcoming Pixel 9a, but if the previous leaks and rumors are accurate, it’ll follow a tried-and-tested formula by offering the best of the current-gen flagship hardware in a more affordable package. That includes the Tensor G4 processor, up to 8GB of RAM, a 120Hz OLED screen, plus the key software that makes the Pixel phones popular.

To do so, some changes have to be made to keep the price lower. Ordinarily, this means that some areas, like the chassis or frame, are made from cheaper materials. Well, the latest hands-on leak was shared in a now-removed video but is still visible in a Thread post by site friend Shane Craig. The very brief clip showcases where some of the changes have been made, and they appear to have been made all over the hardware this year. You can see the video below:

While we don’t get to see the Pixel 9a display, this Obsidian model’s rear panel looks very cheap compared to the 7a and 8a. Those handsets also had some material changes but didn’t look as such. That said, a follow-up post from Craig screenshotting the original poster clarifies that despite looking cheap, the Pixel 9a has a very “Nokia Lumia” plastic aesthetic, which feels good in the hand.

It could simply be the camera bar change and odd plastic rings look vastly different to the old camera bar design we’ve seen on the past three Pixel A-series phones. It looks like a plastic ring while the matte finish is more in line with the current generation.

Let us know what you think of the design now that we’re judging the physical hardware rather than leaked renders down in the comments section. Personally, I’ll save full judgment until we get the opportunity to test drive in person, but it still doesn’t look that great from where I’m sitting. At least we might not have long to wait as the device is rumored to launch in late March.