JerryRigEverything’s durability test on the Google Pixel 9a shows that the device is comparable to more expensive models in this regard. The screen is starting to show scratches similar to flagship phones, but it’s likely less resistant to drops or bumps. Screen burn-in and body bending tests were also performed.
Google launched the Pixel 9a in March as the most affordable model in the latest Pixel 9 series. Since then, many have had the opportunity to try out the device, receiving generally favorable reviews. Now, the Pixel 9a has been put through its paces by Zack from the popular YouTube channel JerryRigEverything, putting its durability to the test. Will it survive? Read on to find out.
Zack performed the typical “torture” on the phone, including the scratch test, the burn test, and the bend test. The YouTuber expressed dissatisfaction with one specific aspect in which Google has fallen behind other Android brands: the difficulty of replacing the battery.
Google Pixel 9a shows decent durability in scratch test
First, Zack conducted the dreaded scratch test. Zack’s blade started leaving its mark on the Pixel 9a’s screen at level 6, with deeper grooves showing up at level 7. It turns out Google opted for Gorilla Glass 3 to protect the display—a few generations behind the current standard, likely to keep costs down. While it offers scratch resistance on par with modern screen protectors, it might be a bit more vulnerable to accidental drops.
The good news continues with the rear camera glass, which shrugged off Zack’s knife scratches like a champ. However, the phone’s glass back wasn’t quite as resilient, showing some noticeable scratches. So, maybe be a little extra careful with the back. Moving to the sides, the Pixel 9a sports a flat frame made of anodized aluminum. As expected, the frame didn’t stand a chance against Zack’s blade, totally normal for this material. The physical buttons, thankfully, are metal and match the phone’s color.
Burn and bend test
Regarding water resistance. The Pixel 9a officially boasts an IP68 rating, but Zack raised a skeptical eyebrow at the large speaker holes. Typically, devices with this level of water resistance have a fine mesh grill over smaller speaker openings. The waterproofing mesh inside the Pixel 9a’s speaker grill looks rather delicate, making it prone to compromising the phone’s IP68 rating. That’s something to definitely keep in mind.
Next up, the burn test. The Pixel 9a’s screen held its own against a lit lighter for a respectable 30 seconds before showing minimal damage. That’s pretty decent and suggests the display can handle some accidental heat.
Finally, the bend test. The Pixel 9a proved to be a solid and rigid phone, refusing to flex or bend under Zack’s attempts to fold it in half. That’s a big thumbs-up for overall structural integrity.
Battery assembly contradicts Google’s own environmental claims
Overall, the Pixel 9a seems like a pretty reliable daily driver in terms of toughness. However, Zack did have a better bone to pick with Google’s continued use of frustrating and outdated battery removal methods. This makes battery replacements unnecessarily difficult. He even went as far as suggesting you might want to skip this phone if easy battery swaps are important to you. He also pointed out the environmental concern of Google sticking the battery with extra elements. Google’s decision seems contradictory considering their environmental claims.
On a brighter note for DIYers, once you get past the battery hurdle, things get easier. You can actually replace the screen without having to take off the entire back panel. The camera system is also modular and replaceable. Plus, Google is making genuine parts readily available through suppliers like iFixit. So, while there are a couple of quirks, the Pixel 9a seems like a generally durable phone with some surprisingly repair-friendly aspects.
