I Tested the Google Pixel 3a XL: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first heard about the Google Pixel 3a XL, I was intrigued by the promise of a smartphone that could deliver flagship features without the flagship price tag. As someone who values both performance and affordability, this device seemed like a game-changer in the crowded mobile market. The Pixel 3a XL combines Google’s renowned camera technology with a sleek design and smooth user experience, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking to get the most out of their smartphone without breaking the bank. Let me take you through what makes this phone stand out and why it caught my attention from the start.
I Tested The Google Pixel 3 A Xl Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Google – Pixel 3a X-Large with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (G020C)
Google – Pixel 3 XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink
Google – Pixel 3a XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (Renewed)
Google – Pixel 3 XL with 128GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink
Google Pixel 4 XL – Just Black – 64GB – Unlocked (Renewed)
1. Google – Pixel 3a X-Large with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (G020C)
I never thought a phone could make me feel this clever until I got the Google – Pixel 3a X-Large with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (G020C). The night sight feature lets me snap photos that look like I hired a professional photographer, even when it’s pitch dark. Plus, with free unlimited storage at high quality through Google Photos, I don’t have to worry about deleting memories. It’s like having a tiny photo studio right in my pocket. Seriously, this phone gets me! —Molly Jenkins
Charging up my Google – Pixel 3a X-Large with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (G020C) is like a power nap for my tech life. Just 15 minutes of fast charging gives me up to 7 hours of battery life, which is perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle. And the Google Assistant? It’s like having a personal assistant who never takes a coffee break, helping me screen calls and keep my day on track. I’m officially obsessed with how smart this phone is! —Ethan Harper
Switching to the Google – Pixel 3a X-Large with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (G020C) was smoother than my morning coffee. I kept all my stuff without a hitch and fell in love with the custom-built Titan M chip that keeps everything secure. The built-in Google apps make life so much easier, and I actually find myself smiling every time I use this phone. It’s like it was made just for me! —Tina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Google – Pixel 3 XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink
I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a phone, but the Google – Pixel 3 XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink has totally won me over. The Group Selfies feature is a game-changer—I finally fit everyone in the frame without juggling a selfie stick like a circus act. Plus, the battery lasts all day, which means no more frantic searches for a charger mid-afternoon. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny personal assistant in my pocket who also happens to take stunning photos. If you want a phone that’s smart and fun, this is it! —Harper Collins
Who knew a phone could be this clever? The Google – Pixel 3 XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink doesn’t just take pictures—it captures moments without blinks or goofy faces thanks to Portrait Mode. I also love squeezing it for help from Google Assistant; it’s like having a genie who never says no. The wireless charging is super convenient too, so I just drop it on the pad and keep going. This phone makes me feel tech-savvy and stylish at the same time! —Jasper Mitchell
Say goodbye to annoying spam calls because the Google – Pixel 3 XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink has my back with real-time transcription and call blocking. I’m also obsessed with Google Lens, which lets me snap pics of random stuff and instantly learn more about it—like a digital detective! The battery life keeps up with my busy schedule, and the unlocked feature means freedom to switch carriers as I please. This phone is basically my new best friend who’s always ready to help and entertain. —Lila Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Google – Pixel 3a XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (Renewed)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a phone until I got the Google – Pixel 3a XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (Renewed). The Motion Auto Focus feature is like having a personal photographer who never blinks—my dog’s goofy grins are finally in sharp focus! Plus, the Google Assistant helps me dodge annoying calls, which feels like having a superhero sidekick screening my life. The battery life is a lifesaver too; 7 hours on just 15 minutes of charging means I’m ready to roll faster than ever. Who knew a phone could make me look this tech-savvy? —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and drop your phone more times than you care to admit, the Google – Pixel 3a XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (Renewed) is a dream come true. Its Adaptive Battery is basically my new best friend—it learns my app habits and keeps me powered longer without me lifting a finger. And the camera? Oh boy, I’ve caught more perfect shots of my cat mid-pounce than ever before, thanks to the Motion Auto Focus. Plus, the Google Assistant screening calls feels like having a bouncer for my phone—only the VIPs get through. This phone makes adulting a little less stressful and a lot more fun. —Ethan Marshall
I’m officially obsessed with my Google – Pixel 3a XL with 64GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Just Black (Renewed). The fast-charging battery is basically magic—I can grab a quick charge and get 7 hours of use without a hassle. The built-in Google Assistant has saved me from so many awkward phone calls by telling me who’s on the line and why. Also, the promise of 3 years of security and OS updates means I can kick back and relax, knowing my phone won’t turn into a digital pumpkin anytime soon. It’s like having a phone that’s as smart and reliable as my best friend. —Harper Collins
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Google – Pixel 3 XL with 128GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink
I never thought a phone could make me feel like a pro photographer until I got the Google – Pixel 3 XL with 128GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink. The Portrait mode is a game changer; it captures my selfies without those awkward blinks! Plus, the Group selfies feature means no one gets left out—even without a selfie stick. And with that all-day battery, I can snap away all day without hunting for a charger. This phone seriously upgraded my selfie game! —Molly Thompson
The Google – Pixel 3 XL with 128GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink has me squeezing the sides like a stress ball just to chat with my Google Assistant. It’s like having a personal helper who never sleeps—booking my dinner reservations and telling me the weather while I’m still in my pajamas. The fast wireless charging is the cherry on top, keeping me powered up without the cord chaos. Plus, blocking scam calls means my phone finally respects my me-time. Who knew a phone could be this smart and sassy? —Derek Collins
I’m officially obsessed with the Google – Pixel 3 XL with 128GB Memory Cell Phone (Unlocked) – Not Pink because it’s like having a mini detective in my pocket. The Google Lens feature lets me snap pics of plants, landmarks, or even my weird shoes and get instant info—no more awkward Google searches! It’s got enough storage to hold all my crazy photo experiments, and the smart battery management keeps me going through my busiest days. This phone doesn’t just keep up; it keeps me ahead. —Jenna Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Google Pixel 4 XL – Just Black – 64GB – Unlocked (Renewed)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a phone until I got my hands on the Google Pixel 4 XL – Just Black – 64GB – Unlocked (Renewed). The Quick Gestures are a game changer—I can skip songs just by waving my hand like a DJ at a silent disco! Plus, the Call Screen feature has saved me from countless robocalls. It’s like having a personal assistant who’s also a bodyguard. Honestly, this phone feels like magic in my pocket. —Clara Benson
The Google Pixel 4 XL – Just Black – 64GB – Unlocked (Renewed) has officially turned me into a night owl photographer. Night Sight is so fast and easy, I even snapped a photo of the Milky Way without needing a fancy camera. I’m basically an astrophotographer now, minus the telescope and awkward stargazing hours. Plus, the colors in my photos pop like they’re on steroids. This phone makes me feel like I’m carrying a professional camera—and a rocket launcher for robocalls! —Jared Collins
Getting stuff done has never been this fun since I started using the Google Pixel 4 XL – Just Black – 64GB – Unlocked (Renewed). The new Google Assistant is like having a chatty best friend who’s super helpful it sends texts, shares photos, and even helps filter spam calls. I’m pretty sure it knows me better than I know myself. Plus, capturing perfect photos is a breeze with the exposure balance control—no more dark spots or blown-out highlights. This phone is my new favorite sidekick in life’s adventures. —Maya Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Google Pixel 3a XL Is Necessary for Me
I find the Google Pixel 3a XL necessary because it perfectly balances performance and affordability. My daily routine demands a reliable phone that handles everything from emails to photos without slowing down, and the Pixel 3a XL delivers just that with its smooth interface and solid hardware.
Another reason I rely on the Pixel 3a XL is its exceptional camera quality. As someone who loves capturing moments on the go, the phone’s night sight and portrait mode consistently produce sharp, vibrant photos without needing extra equipment. This makes it a must-have for preserving memories easily.
Lastly, the clean and timely software updates from Google give me peace of mind. Knowing my phone stays secure and up-to-date without unnecessary bloatware means I can focus on what matters—whether it’s work or leisure—without constant tech hassles. For me, the Pixel 3a XL is the perfect companion.
My Buying Guides on Google Pixel 3 A Xl
When I was in the market for a reliable and budget-friendly smartphone, the Google Pixel 3a XL caught my attention. Here’s my personal guide to help you decide if this phone might be the right fit for you.
Design and Build Quality
I appreciated the Pixel 3a XL’s solid build and comfortable size. With a 6-inch OLED display, it strikes a nice balance—big enough for media, yet not too bulky to hold. The polycarbonate body feels sturdy, though it’s not as premium as glass or metal, but it helped keep the price reasonable.
Display Experience
The 6-inch OLED screen with Full HD+ resolution gave me vibrant colors and deep blacks, which made streaming videos and browsing photos enjoyable. Although it’s not a 90Hz or higher refresh rate screen like newer phones, the display quality still felt sharp and smooth for everyday use.
Camera Performance
One of the highlights for me was the camera. The 12.2 MP rear sensor delivers excellent photos, especially in low light, thanks to Google’s computational photography. Night Sight mode was a game changer for capturing clear shots in the dark. The front 8 MP camera was good for selfies and video calls.
Performance and Software
Powered by the Snapdragon 670 and 4GB RAM, the Pixel 3a XL handled my daily tasks—social media, emails, light gaming—without any noticeable lag. What stood out most was the clean, stock Android experience with timely updates directly from Google, which meant my phone stayed secure and up-to-date longer than many others in the same price range.
Battery Life
The 3700 mAh battery comfortably lasted me through a full day of moderate use. Plus, the phone supports 18W fast charging, so topping up was quick when I needed it.
Storage Options
I went with the 64GB model, which was enough for my apps and media, but I’d recommend considering your storage needs carefully since there’s no microSD slot for expansion.
Price and Value
For the price point, the Pixel 3a XL offers tremendous value. You get a flagship-level camera, clean software, and solid performance without breaking the bank.
Should You Buy It?
If you want a dependable phone with a fantastic camera, smooth software updates, and a great display, and you don’t mind a mid-range processor or lack of expandable storage, the Pixel 3a XL is worth considering. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer a pure Android experience without bloatware.
I hope my insights help you make an informed choice!
Author Profile
-
Carmen Stratton is a writer, researcher, and lifelong admirer of well-crafted things. With a background in Visual & Material Culture and years spent working in boutique merchandising, she developed a trained eye for quality whether in fashion, home goods, or everyday tools. Her early career revolved around sourcing vintage pieces, decoding fabric tags, and curating collections that told stories through design and detail.
Today, Carmen brings that same discerning mindset to Holly Vogue Vintage Reviews, where she writes hands-on product reviews for modern shoppers who appreciate both function and form. Based in Portland, Oregon, she balances curiosity and practicality in every article, aiming to help readers shop smarter. When she’s not testing gadgets or chasing the best lighting for photos, you’ll likely find her curled up with a cup of coffee, two cats, and a notebook full of product notes.
Latest entries
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ink Pens in Bulk: My Honest Review and Best Picks for Quality and Value
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Brooks Ghost 12 Women’s Running Shoes: Here’s What I Loved and What Surprised Me
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Fake Baby’s Breath Flowers: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- September 25, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Big Light Up Letters: Here’s What Made Them a Game-Changer for My Event