Google Pixel 9a vs Nothing Phone 3a: If you are thinking of getting a new smartphone and your eyes are fixed on Google Pixel 9a and Nothing Phone 3a, then you are not alone. Both the phones are very popular in their respective segments – on one hand is Google’s software expertise and camera quality, on the other hand is Nothing’s unique design and strong performance.

In this comparison, we will compare the design, display, performance, camera, battery and software experience of both the phones in easy language, so that you can choose the best phone for yourself without any confusion.

Classic Pixel vs Stylish Glyph

Pixel 9a: The design of this phone is quite simple and clean. It has a matte back and aluminum frame which gives it a premium feel. Along with this, there is an IP68 rating, that is, this phone is well protected from water and dust.

Nothing Phone 3a: In this you get transparent back and Glyph lights which make it stand out in the crowd. It has a glass back and plastic frame. With IP64 rating, this phone is splash and dust resistant.

Bigger vs Brighter Display

Pixel 9a: 6.3-inch OLED display, 120Hz refresh rate and up to 2700 nits brightness – means outdoor readability is excellent.

Nothing Phone 3a: 6.77-inch AMOLED display, 120Hz refresh rate and super thin bezels. Peak brightness can go up to 3000 nits according to some sources. That means bigger display and immersive look.

AI Chip vs Gaming Power

Pixel 9a: Google’s own Tensor G4 chip has been given which is very good for AI-based tasks. With 8GB RAM, this phone is smooth for daily use.

Nothing Phone 3a: Comes with Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 chip which is optimized for gaming and multitasking. The Pro variant gets 12GB RAM which is a bonus for multitasking lovers.

Camera: Stable vs Versatile

Pixel 9a: 48MP main + 13MP ultrawide camera. Due to Google’s computational photography, these photos come out very natural and balanced. Features like Night mode, Astrophotography are also available.

Nothing Phone 3a: Triple camera setup – 50MP main + 50MP telephoto + 8MP ultrawide. Telephoto zoom (up to 30x) makes it special. There is also a 32MP selfie camera in the front.

Battery: Optimization vs Fast Charging

Pixel 9a: 5100mAh battery with 23W fast charging and 7.5W wireless charging is also available. Pixel phones are known for battery optimization.

Nothing Phone 3a: 5000mAh battery with 50W fast charging is available which is quite fast. Also, there is an option of reverse wired charging but there is no wireless charging.

Software: Longevity vs Custom Touch

Pixel 9a: Stock Android 15 experience and 7 years of OS and security updates – a very future-proof phone.

Nothing Phone 3a: Comes with Nothing OS 3.1 which is similar to stock Android but with extra features (like Glyph control, ChatGPT integration). 3 years of OS and 6 years of security updates are available.

Which will be better for you?

Choose Pixel 9a if:

You want the best camera experience

You want pure Android and 7 years of long-term support

Wireless charging and IP68 durability are your needs

You are interested in AI features

Choose Nothing Phone 3a if:

You want a stylish and different-looking phone

You like bigger display and thinner bezels

High-speed charging is a priority

You want more RAM for gaming/multitasking

You are a little budget-friendly and prefer visual innovation

Final Thoughts

The Pixel 9a gives you long-term reliability and camera perfection, while the Nothing Phone 3a gives you an experience with modern design, speed and variety.
Your choice will depend on your needs and taste – do you want stability or a mix of style and performance?