Google's Pixel 10a is widely considered to be the best mid-range Android phone, thanks to its long software support, flagship-grade processor, and excellent cameras.
It starts at $499, which saves you a flat $200 over the Galaxy S26 FE.
As we mentioned in our Pixel 10a review, the phone also feels solid and well built, despite using composite plastic material for the body.
You also get a 120Hz refresh rate for a smoother experience; however, unlike the more expensive models, the lowest refresh rate it can achieve is just 60 Hz.
Finally, the onboard dual rear cameras are pretty much the best you can get at this price point; however, you miss out on a telephoto shooter, something that's present in the S26 FE.
Google's Pixel 10a is widely considered to be the best mid-range Android phone, thanks to its long software support, flagship-grade processor, and excellent cameras. It starts at $499, which saves you a flat $200 over the Galaxy S26 FE. One of the highlights of the phone is its completely flat design with no camera bump. As we mentioned in our Pixel 10a review, the phone also feels solid and well built, despite using composite plastic material for the body.
Among other features, there is a 6.3-inch OLED display that's capable of hitting 3,000 nits peak brightness, significantly more than the 1,900 nits panel that Samsung offers on the S26 FE. This will help you retain visibility in bright ambient conditions. You also get a 120Hz refresh rate for a smoother experience; however, unlike the more expensive models, the lowest refresh rate it can achieve is just 60 Hz.
Google has kept the Tensor G4 chip, the same one used on the Pixel 9a, with 8 GB of RAM. Despite the lack of an upgrade on the processor front, the Pixel 10a delivers a responsive experience in everyday use; however, it's not the most powerful if you're into demanding games, particularly at the highest graphics settings. The 5,100 mAh battery is enough to last a full day. Finally, the onboard dual rear cameras are pretty much the best you can get at this price point; however, you miss out on a telephoto shooter, something that's present in the S26 FE.