The Pixel 6a is an absolute steal for just $299

The Google Pixel 6a landed in late July, coming in at a respectable $450. However, we felt that it wasn’t a super-easy recommendation due to the Pixel 6 frequently dipping below its $600 price point.

Now, Google has quietly dropped the Pixel 6a to just $299 on Amazon. This makes it a no-brainer if you were in the market for a cheap smartphone off-contract.

Google’s mid-ranger brings the same Tensor processor seen in the Pixel 6 series, delivering upper mid-range horsepower and powerful machine learning silicon. This silicon is put to good use thanks to features like offline voice dictation and Magic Eraser functionality.

Otherwise, the Pixel 6a also has 128GB of fixed storage, a 6.1-inch FHD+ OLED screen, and a 4,410mAh battery. Other notable features include an IP67 rating, dual 12MP rear cameras (main, ultrawide), and an in-display fingerprint sensor.

There are a few downsides to the budget Pixel though, such as a 60Hz refresh rate and woefully slow 18W wired charging. Nevertheless, these flaws are much easier to overlook at this discounted $299 price tag.