🔥Get an affordable warranty for your phone with Upsie! myte.ch/upsie Get 10% off with Promo Code "TECHTODAY" (Sponsored) 🚨 *️QOTD: Which one is the best fit for YOU? What makes it your choice? What device do you have right now and will you switch over to a Pixel 2 XL or Pixel 3a/3a XL? Let me know in the comments!*
@@74906 I think u should go with pixel 3a because of the clean software and amazing camera It's processor is not bad as well But if u like flagship grade hardware and sound quality through headphones you can go with the LG g7
You did not mention the fact that with 2 XL you get unlimited storage on google photos in original quality (for example 4K video) for another 1.5 year. That, together with water resistance and panda look, made me buy 2 XL month ago.
I had a 2XL for a year on launch, it really is a pretty poor phone. Even when it was released the display and speakers were terrible. Now a couple of years later it's just bad in comparison to modern handsets. The fact that it's defeated by what is effectively a mid ranger says it all.
@@bryte1321 Probably, but ebay is not a good option for me, all pixel vendors there, are not from my country. I prefer buying new phone with warranty in popular shop. I am willing to buy Pixel 4 in two years or so.
I use Google Photos but it's quirky & super-slow too often. Feels like Google's reducing its upload bandwidth to the breaking point. I've heard similar complaints about using Amazon for backup. There's got to be something better...🤔
your breakdowns are so deep, it's like i have already used it. your video is so much more professionally recorded, edited and narrated than in the past. keep it up bran.
I'll tell you what, I've watched thousands of TH-cam review videos, and this was hands down the most comprehensive and well made that I've ever seen. I have the pixel two, and was contemplating moving up to the 3AXL but I think I'll just stick with what I have since I just went with the beta q software and it works really well.
Great video, as always! There are a few things I'd like to add. First, the Pixel Visual Core. It's on the Pixel 2 XL. This means, the photos will process much faster, as there is a dedicated processor for this. The 3a will take a little more time. Next, repairability. The 2 XL, and 3a series, are some of the most repairable devices on the market. Parts are plentiful, and swapping a screen is a breeze. And, finally, ROM support. The 2 XL has a healthy development community. One only needs to view XDA threads to find this. With the Google variant being bootloader unlockable, you can easily extend the life of the device by years, once Google stops supporting it. The 3a series has some support now, but as time goes by, it will get a lot better. Again, great video!
I have a Panda Edition 2 XL and love it (it's never let me down yet) but will be getting the Pixel 4XL when it is released. Another great, unbiased and informative vid. Keep up the good work fella 👍
My wife crushed her pixel XL and I could have went for the 3a but decided to go with a refurbed pixel 2 xl for $260 off of Amazon. Most underrated and over criticized phone of all time! I loved my panda one I had before I got my pixel 3 xl!
Top video again. I've been completely happy with my 2 XL since o got it and it's never let me down, been a great phone and I didn't seem to get any of the issues the phone apparently had at launch. Keen to see what the 4xl has to offer soon though. Keep up the good work 👍
Due to damage to my pixel 2xl and being out of the states I had no choice but to go with a 3a. I bought the 3a xl for 479.00 thankfully it was a non Verizon version with the eSim enabled so I can use Google Fi. I love it, and honestly your review is spot on. The Audio and display is better, I prefer not having the curved bezel as the issue with my 2xl is the adhesive coming unglued due to that curve.
Nice, Anthony! I'm glad you're enjoying it. It's kind of wild how nice it is for the price. It always surprises me how much I don't miss from my Galaxy S10+ when I use it.
@Balram Bandgar if you have the option to open it, check the sim tray, it will have a sim with a red checkmark. If you can't open it, get the IMEI number from the box or phone and call Google Fi support or chat, and they can verify for you. If you buy one in a store, I highly recommend checking one of these methods prior to leaving as it will make your return process much easier.
Thank you for this video. I bought a pixel 2 and gave it to my dad after I bought a pixel 3 but wasn’t sure if a 2 or 3a was better for my dad. Glad you helped me make the right choice.
Haha, thanks. Yes, these are thorough and helpful, but they don't help me grow as much which is why I don't do them as much, but I like to now and then!
@@mavrickfaust2751 I can respect that...the 11 should have an amazing camera compared to current models. The question will be if it will best the pixel 4!
hmmm... Other than the black crush, my 2XL crushed everything in its path for me. Mind you, it's idle battery drain was freaking less than 1%.... YEAH ONE over 7-8 hours
It just feels and works better with waaaaaaay longer battery life, which is a big deal. Plus the pictures are better. Sometimes it's not about specs but how enjoyable it is to use and I even enjoy the 3a over my s10+
Well done! Great video. I think 3a is much better option if you don't have Pixel line before otherwise 2xl is still good at least before Pixel 4 is out
I swear to God why the hell do you not have 1 million subscribers. Your content is amazing and comparable and even better than the top dogs in the tech community.
Man, I really enjoyed that video. I love the presentation and the points you made. Not a cookie cutter review; I love the deeper dive into the screen, speakers, camera, etc. You got a new subscriber. :)
BIG thing to consider if you use social media a lot - no visual core. On my 2XL, my snapchats and instagram stories look as good or better than that on an iPhone, whereas the 3a will have similar quality to a Samsung - and that's not a good thing by any stretch of the imagination
One of the big differences not mentioned in your video is that pixel 2 XL has visual core chip, while pixel 3a XL doesn't. Pixel 3a XL has Titan m security chip while pixel 2 xl doesn't. Not sure if it means anything for everyday use. I find it interesting that you find white contrast balancing on pictures better on 3a, since Pixel Visual Core is supposed to aid in faster and better HDR processing.
One other difference to note: The Pixel 2 XL gives you original quality Google Photos without counting against your drive storage until 2021--this means you can keep all your 1080p, 60fps videos or 4k videos at 60fps & 4k, respectively. The 3a and 3a XL do not offer this perk. If you take a lot of photos, and especially videos, the 2 XL can save you money by allowing a smaller google drive subscription (if any at all). This holds for any video uploaded from the Pixel 2 XL--even if you just transferred files to it from another source to upload (which I have done).
I just bought the panda version of the pixel 2xl on Amazon for $ 273 a week ago and already am impressed by it. The display is not bad at all from what I can see and I have had mostly iphones for the past 4 years. The battery is great as well as the speakers. Also TH-cam in 1440p is very smooth and sharp.
Exactly, for that price it's a better value than the 3a series. You have to spend $200 more to get the same sized 3a XL just to basically upgrade the battery and camera slightly while losing some features.
I recently got my pixel 2 xl undergo service and quality check all under warranty.. must say my phone was returned to me only to bring a smile on my face.. I am referring to the rattling speaker that was fixed by Google and it sounds really great now.. iPhone 8 ish great
I have 2 (not XL) and it's probably the best phone I've had. it just does everything you need it to. What's strange is that on my advice, my buddy bought the 3 XL, and was very disappointed. Phone overheats like crazy, battery goes dead very quickly, (even after replacing the battery). Around the same time, my mom bought the 3 A, and it's exactly the opposite. Very fast, very cool, battery lasts multiple days.
Alex Elitist I keep hearing things about the pixel 2 battery not lasting very long, how have you found it? And world you recommend the 2 or 3a now you kind of have experiences with both. I’m not considering the 3 since it’s too expensive rn so what would you recommend more? I use my current iPhone 6s a lot and lately it’s going down hill, I think it’s just slowly breaking so I want to get a new phone before it completely breaks. All I use it for is taking a lot of pictures, searching things and using social media. Thanks if you can help!
I had a comment made but lost it😞 Mes Bad! Pixel 3a would be my pick, but that's what have too! 🙂 I originally came from a Samsung Galaxy S5, so needless to say, I am so amazed of how much more this Pixel 3a has. Old system, new system, I love it. Thanks for the rest of the information, it truly helped. Great content and review.
Just upgraded from pixel xl to a 3.... It's smaller but literally the Same thing! Apps even downloaded in the same spots on the home screen. Get a pixel 3 or 3a for software updates
Watching this on my Pixel 3a XL. I briefly had the 3a from a Craiglist transaction but after going from the Pixel OG XL the 3a felt too narrow and I wanted feel the 3a XL. I eventually sold the 3a and bought a 3a xl from someone else, totally worth it. The extra 700 mah of battery make it worth it, more battery, more enjoyment! People say get the 3 XL because they're throwing discounts or 2 XL for the price but the 3a XL has longevity and most importantly a HEADPHONE JACK. I know a lot of people can live and make do without it but I still want and prefer it. Who knows, maybe the Pixel 4 or 4a might come up with it. I don't know why they don't just leave it on there. What space are they trying to save and maximize by getting rid of the headphone jack? I wish the 3a had a 128gb option and extra wide selfie but its the 'budget" version after all and had to make some compromises. In all honesty, the Zenfone 6 is right up there for me but the Google software is something I want after having a Pixel for a while.
@This is Tech Today I bought a Pixel 3a XL and I'm not happy with the screen resolution, because before I used an og Pixel XL with around 530 ppi. Do you think the extra 40 ppi from the 3a will be enough for me... or is there no difference because you're holding the littleer screen more close to your face.... So do you notice that the display is sharper... (Pixel 2 XL would have the same resolution im used to, but I would like to have one of the 3a line, because apart from the display, I am very satisfied with the Pixel 3 XL. )
Traded my S9+ for a 3a and I couldn't be happier. This phone is objectively better in every sense except resolution and gaming performance, and both things I don't miss at all. Not a mobile gamer myself. And after having glass phones for years, I gotta say i LOVE the feel and weight of plastic.
Very nice video! AMAZING quality! The 2 XL's speakers sounded much better to me though, the 3a's sounded much tinier and lacking in bass. I also disagree about the 3a being a better buy, but that's a personal preference of course.
Great video, man. The 3a doesn't get original quality unlimited storage for photos and videos with Google photos tho, while the 2xl has that till at least the end of 2020. Although the 3a also has unlimited storage at a limited quality (just like every android phone)
Ah, yeah, I missed that. I would say that I can't even notice the difference myself. I imagine you might be able to if you have them printed off at a large size.
@@ThisIsTechToday The S10 can go to 1,000 for brief periods (the one where it tells you off for even putting it that bright) and typically hangs around 500, from what I could find, the Pixel 2XL and 3XL come in at around 480 nits. My 2XL at 75% goes struggle to see outside to clear as day at 100%
Fantastic video, very informative. Although, being super indecisive I'm stuck between gettting a mint 2XL panda for 360 or getting a new 3a for around 450. Caveat, just a standard user, typical web browsing, streaming videos/music, basic games. Leaning towards the 3a . .
Great. I´m using a Pixel 2xl. (My Oneplus 8pro is in service in poland right now) And i can confirm everything. The display is not so much an issue for me but the speakers aren´t good and are very susceptible to repeir. Agree with white balance and focus problems with night sight. (u can use gcam mod with focus options)
I had that choices too when I was trying to decide between the 2xl or the 3a xl. I couldn't decide between going for a slightly faster phone in 2xl or the bigger battery in 3a xl. But the thing that got me to choosing the 3a xl is the battery. I like the flat screen better also. I am not a gamer and don't worry to much about how fast a phone is. The 3a xl is great. It may not have the greatest specs for any flagship but that battery life is amazing. I compared the screen of the regular 3 xl to the 3a xl and the 3a xl is way brighter. I don't like how the regular 3xl has this yellowish/orange tint on their screen. The flat screen is easier to type messages on and of course having one of the best camera in the market helps too. I take this phone over any of the all screen/curve display they have now. The only thing is I wish the bottom bezel is a little thinner. I prefer bezel on my phone for easy hold but that bottom bezel is a little too thick and a wasted space. Should of put the speaker there instead. But overall the 3a xl is a better buy. If you are not a heavy user of your phone, this phone can last 1 and a half to 2 full days. For a phone that does what it "NEEDS" it is a great phone.
I did get my 2 xl new in box for 237. And the front facing stereo speakers and high resolution screen. And updates. I'm on Android 10 right out of the box. So far no crazy screen mess ups. And am hoping for none. The hue when off center is no biggie. I rarely,if ever, watch the phone from the side. But honestly, it was the phone plus the price that took it. I was on the fence between this new for 237, or the LG v40 for 249, new in the box. And as for the speakers. I'm coming from an Alcatel idol 4s, with the best speakers I've had on a cell phone. So the 2xl is a little mild and disappointing. But everything else is great so far. Good comparison though. Cept u didn't do any 3a XL shots. Thanks
For me it wasn't about saving the money. Display and sound issue? Superficial. I need a phone that can perform. Benchmark tests proved the true winner. The rest are just bonuses that are hit or miss.
Doesn't mean it's not water resistant though, they've probably gone to the effort of making it water resistant but just not paying extra for the certification so they could keep the price low
these phones are awesome! love the fact that photo space is unlimited, but for some reason I'm still stuck on the iPhone. Maybe I'm just too deep in the ecosystem haha
The speaker grill on the Pixel 2XL is why the sound gets muffled and crackels over time. It needs to be scrubbed with a toothbrush and isopropyl alcohol. The audio is great on this device. It does have a more filtered bass-y sound to it.
So, would you say is it safe to say that the Pixel 3A & 3a XL is absolutely safe for light rain and accidental water spills especially with its ports? Is battery life really that good I.e. will last the whole day? (Was underwhelmed with the 3 XL battery life)
I got the pixel 3A XL about a week ago from Amazon, replacing my Moto Z Play. After having Moto X's for several years and the Moto Z Play, I decided I wanted to change because the Moto Z4 didn't sound that great to me. The battery is good in the 3A XL but it's not much different than my year and a half old Moto Z Play, which was fantastic when it was brand new. I have a question for you, Brandon. When you say you have 10% battery left at the end of the day, what is your starting point? Do you top it up at 100% to begin with? The recommendation for lithium batteries seems to be to keep it between 30% and 80%. What do you think about that?
ahh yes, the Moto Z play.. I remember using it mainly for Pokemon Go and it was very VERY hard to kill especially if with the battery moto mod. It’s amazing, sadly, I was held at gunpoint and had to give it up.
Help please! I am due for an upgrade really soon and I am seriously considering to get this 3a for the price and essential features. I am curious to know how is the Pixel 3a holding up? Does it have the same problems with charging, random rebooting, and screen issues as the flagship Pixel 3? I am coming from an iPhone 8, I have been using iPhones since 3GS and quite nervous about switching over to Android. But I think if I would switch to Android, it has to be pure/vanilla
Nice. Thank you for the long waiting comparison. I git only question about camera, since it's the most important thing for me. Is it a much noticeable difference, and can you equal camera quality by just downloading apk like Camera P3 ? And please give a full quality of photo comparison. Plus Pixel 2 Xl gives an unlimited uploading via google photos in original quality, which is huge thing )
i've got an S7 and looking to upgrade to a Pixel 3a... because i hear the camera is really good. But they said the same about the S7 and i thought it didn't perform that great where i take them mostly.... in dim lit bars and clubs. I know no phones are amazing under low light but with the hype i expected better from the S7. So is the pixel 3a a better quality camera than the S7 and can be perform well in low light i.e bars and clubs that can be dark with flashing lights around. Another question on the pixel 3a..ha. When taking selfies is it best to do it from the rear camera as i found the front camera of the S7 for selfies to be really poor. Is there a side button to click to take the photo over pressing capture button on the screen - that's for the pixel 3a? Thank you :)
Imma get the 3A for My daughter ,but I'll use it until the 4 comes out. I still have the Pixel 1 and didn't like the 2 and assumed the 4 would look good,buttttt🙄🤦🏿♂️ it didn't . So I love the 3A and am waiting for the 4
Yeah, I really get that. Oddly, I haven't encountered many times when I needed over 64GB even though I used to insist I needed 128GB. I actually looked at my usage and then ate my foot 😂
I'm going to keep my 2xl because a) mine is rooted so I won't need to switch phones for a while until after the pixel 4 comes out so I can jailbreak that b) I like bigger phones and the panda look c) you forgot to mention the pixel 2xl has unlimited photos backup unlike the 3a, which justifies keeping it even more
Senpai Zarif the 3a also has unlimited storage, it’s just not at the full quality. I have an iPhone and I even have unlimited storage. Just not original quality.
@@leiflala lots of stuff, like iOS emojis, Dolby Atmos, an actual dark mode and changing accent colors in pie and other small things. Just get even more control
I prefer the Pixel 3a over the 2XL. I had to RMA my 2XL for a faulty USB-c port, this display was pretty bad and it had some weird display bugs. I much prefer the size of the 3a over the 2XL.
@@ThisIsTechToday really liked some of your points on 2xl regarding the screen and audio grills. These are just nightmare and it's difficult to get stuff out of these grills
Pixel 2 XL (2-2018). Use Galaxy S9 part-time. Several weeks now a PALM 100 as companion using Verizon service. PALM has only 800mAh capacity. YES! backup second phone for sure. Still have no service for though Galaxy S6 edge(128GB storage); generally do not use. PALM uses Android 8.1 & Pixel 2 XL Android 10 monthly updates. 😀
This is Tech Today Yeah I’m leaning 3A cuz I’m afraid of that screen on the 2. Even tho spec wise it looks less powerful it reportedly almost performs the same and the screen is brighter.
Google only do these fantastic promotions in North America. In the rest of the world the handsets are hardly ever discounted, and if so it's a small token amount. Coupons are not a thing for most markets, and the "get this free" deals are usually only on launch.
Since doing this video and had the latest updates I'd like your opinion in which phone has better battery life (one would truly last the whole day), better camera but especially with better low light, better selfie & better audio in video) and louder/much fuller speakers sound?
@@ThisIsTechToday I'm worried that the Pixel 3a XL is not water resistant. But would you say in daily use is it safe in light rain or accidental spills of water?
Very good video again Brandon!!😉 As I already mentioned before on another video, I sold the Pixel 3 XL and kept only the Pixel 3a XL. And I still do not regret that I did! I love the 3a XL! Waiting for Android Q beta 5 to arrive hopefully this coming Wednesday!
You're right: the 2XL screen has been thoroughly trashed. Given that, I'd expect the reburbs & "renewed" 2XLs aren't going to be better. Could you compare or comment on the 3A vs the 5" Pixel 2 screen which has a very different screen w much better reviews? I read LG made the XLs & Samsung the 5' Pixel 2. That seems like a more competitive buying dilemma, no?
@@whiteghost45 Yeah it's a deal breaker for me. I love to have 4K videos in full resolution in the cloud (it works even when you upload GoPro videos from a Pixel). 3a doesn't have it.
🔥Get an affordable warranty for your phone with Upsie! myte.ch/upsie Get 10% off with Promo Code "TECHTODAY" (Sponsored)
🚨 *️QOTD: Which one is the best fit for YOU? What makes it your choice? What device do you have right now and will you switch over to a Pixel 2 XL or Pixel 3a/3a XL? Let me know in the comments!*
This is Tech Today pixel 3a is good because of stadia
I Have to apologize to you. I was just giving my opinion on the phone I enjoyed.
Hope you can forgive me. Thank you. 💙
I love pixel 3a but I won't have money to buy it
Pixel 3a XL vs OnePlus 6T?
@@74906 I think u should go with pixel 3a because of the clean software and amazing camera
It's processor is not bad as well
But if u like flagship grade hardware and sound quality through headphones you can go with the LG g7
Now THIS is how a phone review should be done. This was amazing.
You did not mention the fact that with 2 XL you get unlimited storage on google photos in original quality (for example 4K video) for another 1.5 year. That, together with water resistance and panda look, made me buy 2 XL month ago.
Same I got mine last year around this time
I had a 2XL for a year on launch, it really is a pretty poor phone. Even when it was released the display and speakers were terrible. Now a couple of years later it's just bad in comparison to modern handsets. The fact that it's defeated by what is effectively a mid ranger says it all.
Tbh right now on ebay you can get a pixel 3 for less than a pixel 3a XL so i think if you waited a little longer you might have gotten a better phone
@@bryte1321 Probably, but ebay is not a good option for me, all pixel vendors there, are not from my country. I prefer buying new phone with warranty in popular shop. I am willing to buy Pixel 4 in two years or so.
I use Google Photos but it's quirky & super-slow too often. Feels like Google's reducing its upload bandwidth to the breaking point. I've heard similar complaints about using Amazon for backup. There's got to be something better...🤔
your breakdowns are so deep, it's like i have already used it. your video is so much more professionally recorded, edited and narrated than in the past. keep it up bran.
Haha, thank you, Javier!
I'll tell you what, I've watched thousands of TH-cam review videos, and this was hands down the most comprehensive and well made that I've ever seen.
I have the pixel two, and was contemplating moving up to the 3AXL but I think I'll just stick with what I have since I just went with the beta q software and it works really well.
Glad I could help! Thank you 🙂
My friends been wanting the Pixel 3a for ages, mostly because the cheap price and the amazing Pixel camera
This video has helped, thank you :)
Great video, as always! There are a few things I'd like to add. First, the Pixel Visual Core. It's on the Pixel 2 XL. This means, the photos will process much faster, as there is a dedicated processor for this. The 3a will take a little more time. Next, repairability. The 2 XL, and 3a series, are some of the most repairable devices on the market. Parts are plentiful, and swapping a screen is a breeze. And, finally, ROM support. The 2 XL has a healthy development community. One only needs to view XDA threads to find this. With the Google variant being bootloader unlockable, you can easily extend the life of the device by years, once Google stops supporting it. The 3a series has some support now, but as time goes by, it will get a lot better. Again, great video!
I have a Panda Edition 2 XL and love it (it's never let me down yet) but will be getting the Pixel 4XL when it is released.
Another great, unbiased and informative vid. Keep up the good work fella 👍
My wife crushed her pixel XL and I could have went for the 3a but decided to go with a refurbed pixel 2 xl for $260 off of Amazon. Most underrated and over criticized phone of all time! I loved my panda one I had before I got my pixel 3 xl!
TravvyTops 2 months later ,how is it now?
@@Bluebird77750 zero issues
Top video again. I've been completely happy with my 2 XL since o got it and it's never let me down, been a great phone and I didn't seem to get any of the issues the phone apparently had at launch. Keen to see what the 4xl has to offer soon though. Keep up the good work 👍
Due to damage to my pixel 2xl and being out of the states I had no choice but to go with a 3a. I bought the 3a xl for 479.00 thankfully it was a non Verizon version with the eSim enabled so I can use Google Fi.
I love it, and honestly your review is spot on. The Audio and display is better, I prefer not having the curved bezel as the issue with my 2xl is the adhesive coming unglued due to that curve.
Nice, Anthony! I'm glad you're enjoying it. It's kind of wild how nice it is for the price. It always surprises me how much I don't miss from my Galaxy S10+ when I use it.
@Balram Bandgar if you have the option to open it, check the sim tray, it will have a sim with a red checkmark.
If you can't open it, get the IMEI number from the box or phone and call Google Fi support or chat, and they can verify for you.
If you buy one in a store, I highly recommend checking one of these methods prior to leaving as it will make your return process much easier.
Thank you for this video. I bought a pixel 2 and gave it to my dad after I bought a pixel 3 but wasn’t sure if a 2 or 3a was better for my dad. Glad you helped me make the right choice.
I remember when you first started....now ur at 60k! 😮
These are the types of videos that drew me to the channel... keep it up bro 👊
Haha, thanks. Yes, these are thorough and helpful, but they don't help me grow as much which is why I don't do them as much, but I like to now and then!
💯 agree with you nice comparison! I have a 2xl and am waiting for the 4.
Same so far I love my pixel 2xl for the most part. Hopefully that pixel 4xl will be a huge upgrade.
I have 2 xl and am getting iPhone 11 when coming out
@@mavrickfaust2751 I can respect that...the 11 should have an amazing camera compared to current models. The question will be if it will best the pixel 4!
Y'all mean the iPhone X2? Calling it now!
hmmm... Other than the black crush, my 2XL crushed everything in its path for me. Mind you, it's idle battery drain was freaking less than 1%.... YEAH ONE over 7-8 hours
Switched from an s9+ to a pixel 3a xl and I love the pixel
You should send me that S9+.
Is....is the s9 broken or something
What 😐😐😐😐😐
Why? I'm not joking, I really want to know.
It just feels and works better with waaaaaaay longer battery life, which is a big deal. Plus the pictures are better. Sometimes it's not about specs but how enjoyable it is to use and I even enjoy the 3a over my s10+
Well done! Great video. I think 3a is much better option if you don't have Pixel line before otherwise 2xl is still good at least before Pixel 4 is out
I love my pixel 2 xl. It is the best phone I have owned thus far. Waiting on pixel 4 to hopefully be its successor...fingers crossed x.
I swear to God why the hell do you not have 1 million subscribers. Your content is amazing and comparable and even better than the top dogs in the tech community.
Great video man!
Thanks so much, Mark!
Man, I really enjoyed that video. I love the presentation and the points you made. Not a cookie cutter review; I love the deeper dive into the screen, speakers, camera, etc. You got a new subscriber. :)
Thanks so much, Shad!
BIG thing to consider if you use social media a lot - no visual core. On my 2XL, my snapchats and instagram stories look as good or better than that on an iPhone, whereas the 3a will have similar quality to a Samsung - and that's not a good thing by any stretch of the imagination
One of the big differences not mentioned in your video is that pixel 2 XL has visual core chip, while pixel 3a XL doesn't. Pixel 3a XL has Titan m security chip while pixel 2 xl doesn't. Not sure if it means anything for everyday use. I find it interesting that you find white contrast balancing on pictures better on 3a, since Pixel Visual Core is supposed to aid in faster and better HDR processing.
One other difference to note: The Pixel 2 XL gives you original quality Google Photos without counting against your drive storage until 2021--this means you can keep all your 1080p, 60fps videos or 4k videos at 60fps & 4k, respectively. The 3a and 3a XL do not offer this perk. If you take a lot of photos, and especially videos, the 2 XL can save you money by allowing a smaller google drive subscription (if any at all). This holds for any video uploaded from the Pixel 2 XL--even if you just transferred files to it from another source to upload (which I have done).
I just bought the panda version of the pixel 2xl on Amazon for $ 273 a week ago and already am impressed by it. The display is not bad at all from what I can see and I have had mostly iphones for the past 4 years. The battery is great as well as the speakers. Also TH-cam in 1440p is very smooth and sharp.
Exactly, for that price it's a better value than the 3a series. You have to spend $200 more to get the same sized 3a XL just to basically upgrade the battery and camera slightly while losing some features.
Also, wow you are so underrated it’s insane. You deserve millions of subs
Whoa, the microphone quality is highly better on the Pixel 3a. Thanks for doing this test for us. 💪🌎
You continue to knock these videos out of the park. Solid review/comparison.
I recently got my pixel 2 xl undergo service and quality check all under warranty.. must say my phone was returned to me only to bring a smile on my face.. I am referring to the rattling speaker that was fixed by Google and it sounds really great now.. iPhone 8 ish great
Thanks for this type of very helpful videos man :) you really help people with this comparisons.
Lux value divided by Pi equals Nits value :)
Getting the 3a for my daughter; can't wait! 😃
I have 2 (not XL) and it's probably the best phone I've had. it just does everything you need it to. What's strange is that on my advice, my buddy bought the 3 XL, and was very disappointed. Phone overheats like crazy, battery goes dead very quickly, (even after replacing the battery). Around the same time, my mom bought the 3 A, and it's exactly the opposite. Very fast, very cool, battery lasts multiple days.
Alex Elitist I keep hearing things about the pixel 2 battery not lasting very long, how have you found it? And world you recommend the 2 or 3a now you kind of have experiences with both. I’m not considering the 3 since it’s too expensive rn so what would you recommend more? I use my current iPhone 6s a lot and lately it’s going down hill, I think it’s just slowly breaking so I want to get a new phone before it completely breaks. All I use it for is taking a lot of pictures, searching things and using social media. Thanks if you can help!
Nice in-depth comparison!
I'll hold on to my 2XL until the Pixel 4.
I had a comment made but lost it😞 Mes Bad!
Pixel 3a would be my pick, but that's what have too! 🙂
I originally came from a Samsung Galaxy S5, so needless to say, I am so amazed of how much more this Pixel 3a has.
Old system, new system, I love it. Thanks for the rest of the information, it truly helped.
Great content and review.
Just upgraded from pixel xl to a 3.... It's smaller but literally the Same thing! Apps even downloaded in the same spots on the home screen. Get a pixel 3 or 3a for software updates
So proud of you and how much your channel has grown.
Great video, dude! Been waiting for this one. 🙏😀💜
I saw you tweet recently and was like "oh, crap, I owe Gerald a video on nanoslips and I'm late" 😂
Watching this on my Pixel 3a XL.
I briefly had the 3a from a Craiglist transaction but after going from the Pixel OG XL the 3a felt too narrow and I wanted feel the 3a XL. I eventually sold the 3a and bought a 3a xl from someone else, totally worth it. The extra 700 mah of battery make it worth it, more battery, more enjoyment! People say get the 3 XL because they're throwing discounts or 2 XL for the price but the 3a XL has longevity and most importantly a HEADPHONE JACK. I know a lot of people can live and make do without it but I still want and prefer it. Who knows, maybe the Pixel 4 or 4a might come up with it. I don't know why they don't just leave it on there. What space are they trying to save and maximize by getting rid of the headphone jack? I wish the 3a had a 128gb option and extra wide selfie but its the 'budget" version after all and had to make some compromises. In all honesty, the Zenfone 6 is right up there for me but the Google software is something I want after having a Pixel for a while.
karl tee true tho, sad that the Pixel lineup isn’t sold in my country and so the best option is either Oneplus or Nokia.
@This is Tech Today
I bought a Pixel 3a XL and I'm not happy with the screen resolution, because before I used an og Pixel XL with around 530 ppi. Do you think the extra 40 ppi from the 3a will be enough for me... or is there no difference because you're holding the littleer screen more close to your face.... So do you notice that the display is sharper... (Pixel 2 XL would have the same resolution im used to, but I would like to have one of the 3a line, because apart from the display, I am very satisfied with the Pixel 3 XL. )
Traded my S9+ for a 3a and I couldn't be happier. This phone is objectively better in every sense except resolution and gaming performance, and both things I don't miss at all. Not a mobile gamer myself. And after having glass phones for years, I gotta say i LOVE the feel and weight of plastic.
Nice comparison. Well done!
Still using my 2xl. Waiting on the 4, although my wife's 3xl screen makes me jealous
Gonna wait for the 5 now?
Very nice video! AMAZING quality!
The 2 XL's speakers sounded much better to me though, the 3a's sounded much tinier and lacking in bass. I also disagree about the 3a being a better buy, but that's a personal preference of course.
Maybe the quality didn't translate but I'd pick the 3a over the 2xl for audio any day!
As of right now, the Google Pixel 3a is on sale for $199 at Best Buy if anyone is considering to switch
Love your videos! Very helpful and well done! Bravo 👏👏👏
I have the 2XL. It's still going strong and the screen is not as bad as everyone said. Honestly I don't. Think it was a bad phone at all.
I bought the 3a XL and I got a Acer Chromebook 11 for free
(Sold my 2 XL)
@Nick Nice how did you get that deal?
@@ZulkSOD Carphone + Google
Did they tuck a twenty in your pocket when you walked out the door, too? Haha
@@kacperstank Carphone Warehouse UK
Glad to hear u are using pixel 3a. I am your biggest fan when Google+ existed!
Great video, man.
The 3a doesn't get original quality unlimited storage for photos and videos with Google photos tho, while the 2xl has that till at least the end of 2020.
Although the 3a also has unlimited storage at a limited quality (just like every android phone)
Ah, yeah, I missed that. I would say that I can't even notice the difference myself. I imagine you might be able to if you have them printed off at a large size.
@@ThisIsTechToday
Exactly
To convert lux to nits, you would divide lux by pi (3.14159). If you want to go backwards, you multiply nits with pi to get lux!
Interesting! I'm wondering where the numbers are going wrong because it's definitely not brighter than the Galaxy S10+ screen 🤔
@@ThisIsTechToday The S10 can go to 1,000 for brief periods (the one where it tells you off for even putting it that bright) and typically hangs around 500, from what I could find, the Pixel 2XL and 3XL come in at around 480 nits. My 2XL at 75% goes struggle to see outside to clear as day at 100%
Watching from my Pixel 3a!
Buy me plesse :)
And I, with my 3 🥰
Divide lux by pi (3.14...) to get the value in nits
Fantastic video, very informative. Although, being super indecisive I'm stuck between gettting a mint 2XL panda for 360 or getting a new 3a for around 450. Caveat, just a standard user, typical web browsing, streaming videos/music, basic games. Leaning towards the 3a . .
Watching on my 3A XL great device 👍👍
I upgraded from 2xl to 3a xl , latter much better battery life
Significantly so!
Is there a camera difference noticed ?
Don't know the battery life on the 3a xl but I am more than happy with my 2xl...
Camera comparison is in the video
@@ThisIsTechToday any camera issues with the pixel 3 xl? Because my pixel 2 xl camera randomly stopped working
Great. I´m using a Pixel 2xl. (My Oneplus 8pro is in service in poland right now) And i can confirm everything. The display is not so much an issue for me but the speakers aren´t good and are very susceptible to repeir. Agree with white balance and focus problems with night sight. (u can use gcam mod with focus options)
Thanks for starting the video by giving me permission to choose which phone i want.
You actually sound like you know what you're talking about.
Good job !
Multiply the nits value by π ("pi"): 3.14159. For example, 10 nits times π equals 31.4159. The previous result is nits converted to lux.
I had that choices too when I was trying to decide between the 2xl or the 3a xl. I couldn't decide between going for a slightly faster phone in 2xl or the bigger battery in 3a xl. But the thing that got me to choosing the 3a xl is the battery. I like the flat screen better also. I am not a gamer and don't worry to much about how fast a phone is. The 3a xl is great. It may not have the greatest specs for any flagship but that battery life is amazing. I compared the screen of the regular 3 xl to the 3a xl and the 3a xl is way brighter. I don't like how the regular 3xl has this yellowish/orange tint on their screen. The flat screen is easier to type messages on and of course having one of the best camera in the market helps too. I take this phone over any of the all screen/curve display they have now. The only thing is I wish the bottom bezel is a little thinner. I prefer bezel on my phone for easy hold but that bottom bezel is a little too thick and a wasted space. Should of put the speaker there instead. But overall the 3a xl is a better buy. If you are not a heavy user of your phone, this phone can last 1 and a half to 2 full days. For a phone that does what it "NEEDS" it is a great phone.
Best TH-camr! Keep it up man!
Great video ! Calm and professional 👍
I did get my 2 xl new in box for 237. And the front facing stereo speakers and high resolution screen. And updates. I'm on Android 10 right out of the box.
So far no crazy screen mess ups. And am hoping for none. The hue when off center is no biggie. I rarely,if ever, watch the phone from the side. But honestly, it was the phone plus the price that took it. I was on the fence between this new for 237, or the LG v40 for 249, new in the box. And as for the speakers. I'm coming from an Alcatel idol 4s, with the best speakers I've had on a cell phone. So the 2xl is a little mild and disappointing. But everything else is great so far. Good comparison though. Cept u didn't do any 3a XL shots. Thanks
I'd get the 2xl and save $50-79
If you already have it keep it, but if not.... well, keep watching :)
For me it wasn't about saving the money. Display and sound issue? Superficial. I need a phone that can perform. Benchmark tests proved the true winner. The rest are just bonuses that are hit or miss.
@@RyobiUeharaVT so you only by a phone considering it's numbers on benchmarks? Pathetic
Buy*
@@JanChacn calling someone pathetic for having their own preferences is pathetic in itself. What do you care anyways?
The worst and probably only one significant disadvantage in 3a is none water resistant certification.
Doesn't mean it's not water resistant though, they've probably gone to the effort of making it water resistant but just not paying extra for the certification so they could keep the price low
Trust me, in the tear downs, there's NOTHING there to save you from water...that screen is a big leaky door
@@ThisIsTechToday well then, RIP
@@ThisIsTechToday
Wit Rigs
test made it look fine
these phones are awesome! love the fact that photo space is unlimited, but for some reason I'm still stuck on the iPhone. Maybe I'm just too deep in the ecosystem haha
That ecosystem isn't to be shrugged off! It's a good one.
The speaker grill on the Pixel 2XL is why the sound gets muffled and crackels over time. It needs to be scrubbed with a toothbrush and isopropyl alcohol. The audio is great on this device. It does have a more filtered bass-y sound to it.
So, would you say is it safe to say that the Pixel 3A & 3a XL is absolutely safe for light rain and accidental water spills especially with its ports? Is battery life really that good I.e. will last the whole day? (Was underwhelmed with the 3 XL battery life)
Just upgrade from neffos to pixel 2xl so far Im so satisfied with the performance and if enable battery saver it can last a whole day in my preference
best camera for a cheap price? "google pixel 2"
I got the pixel 3A XL about a week ago from Amazon, replacing my Moto Z Play. After having Moto X's for several years and the Moto Z Play, I decided I wanted to change because the Moto Z4 didn't sound that great to me. The battery is good in the 3A XL but it's not much different than my year and a half old Moto Z Play, which was fantastic when it was brand new. I have a question for you, Brandon. When you say you have 10% battery left at the end of the day, what is your starting point? Do you top it up at 100% to begin with? The recommendation for lithium batteries seems to be to keep it between 30% and 80%. What do you think about that?
ahh yes, the Moto Z play..
I remember using it mainly for Pokemon Go and it was very VERY hard to kill especially if with the battery moto mod. It’s amazing, sadly, I was held at gunpoint and had to give it up.
The pixel 3a is making me super hyped for Pixel 4, but I might end up getting another OnePlus device again :/
Tony_yeung One plus 7 Pro is pretty tempting
@@joshowens1269 yeah, I really like it, besides the curve display. I heard that there's phantom touch like Samsung device:/
yeah, it’s pretty hard to find another android device that can perform as fast as Oneplus :[
my 5T is still as fast as day 1.
@@quchi7232 same for my 6T. But I really want to try out an pixel device, I wanted them since the first one, but never got a chance to get one
Help please! I am due for an upgrade really soon and I am seriously considering to get this 3a for the price and essential features. I am curious to know how is the Pixel 3a holding up? Does it have the same problems with charging, random rebooting, and screen issues as the flagship Pixel 3?
I am coming from an iPhone 8, I have been using iPhones since 3GS and quite nervous about switching over to Android. But I think if I would switch to Android, it has to be pure/vanilla
Nice. Thank you for the long waiting comparison. I git only question about camera, since it's the most important thing for me. Is it a much noticeable difference, and can you equal camera quality by just downloading apk like Camera P3 ? And please give a full quality of photo comparison. Plus Pixel 2 Xl gives an unlimited uploading via google photos in original quality, which is huge thing )
I was favoring 3a XL but the lack of 128GB storage option is a huge deal breaker for me. sorry 3a XL. blame Google for not giving you enough storage
i've got an S7 and looking to upgrade to a Pixel 3a... because i hear the camera is really good. But they said the same about the S7 and i thought it didn't perform that great where i take them mostly.... in dim lit bars and clubs. I know no phones are amazing under low light but with the hype i expected better from the S7. So is the pixel 3a a better quality camera than the S7 and can be perform well in low light i.e bars and clubs that can be dark with flashing lights around. Another question on the pixel 3a..ha.
When taking selfies is it best to do it from the rear camera as i found the front camera of the S7 for selfies to be really poor.
Is there a side button to click to take the photo over pressing capture button on the screen - that's for the pixel 3a?
Thank you :)
Imma get the 3A for My daughter ,but I'll use it until the 4 comes out.
I still have the Pixel 1 and didn't like the 2 and assumed the 4 would look good,buttttt🙄🤦🏿♂️ it didn't .
So I love the 3A and am waiting for the 4
Can you give me the 3a plzzz 😂
I don't even know why I'm watching this my pixel 2 XL is coming in the mail tommorow. Very good review though
I have the 2xl now and love it,but may jump to the 3 XL when the price drops another 75 bucks.
I love the 3a Pixel, but I don't like the storage option honestly. If it had a SD card slot or different storage options I'd be all over it.
Yeah, I really get that. Oddly, I haven't encountered many times when I needed over 64GB even though I used to insist I needed 128GB. I actually looked at my usage and then ate my foot 😂
@@ThisIsTechToday Hahahaha no it's cool man! It's more of a "Rather have it and not need it than to need it and not have it."
@@johnwilliamsoniii3936 I feel that. I really do, lol
Hat off for the presentation!
Thanks for the review i neened most! but you might add multitasking performance both of them.
2 xl is better. Better processor: SD 835 vs SD 675
I've had the 2XL since it released and I love it and have had zero issues with it
3a xl has 670 not 675 so even worse
but which one has better camera?
@@russellrozario236 3a
I'm going to keep my 2xl because
a) mine is rooted so I won't need to switch phones for a while until after the pixel 4 comes out so I can jailbreak that
b) I like bigger phones and the panda look
c) you forgot to mention the pixel 2xl has unlimited photos backup unlike the 3a, which justifies keeping it even more
Senpai Zarif the 3a also has unlimited storage, it’s just not at the full quality. I have an iPhone and I even have unlimited storage. Just not original quality.
Can I ask, what do you get from jailbreaking a Pixel?
@@mr.anonymous3103 I had a iPhone before and I filled up my iCloud so fast. And I would rather have full quality even if the phone is a year old
@@leiflala lots of stuff, like iOS emojis, Dolby Atmos, an actual dark mode and changing accent colors in pie and other small things. Just get even more control
@@zxrfp I see, but can't you brick it from jailbreaking?
I suppose you can also install default firmware again right?
Watching on my pixel 2xl😍
Same
Hey how do u like it
Another fire video with crisp audio.
Thanks so much, Luis! 👊
I prefer the Pixel 3a over the 2XL. I had to RMA my 2XL for a faulty USB-c port, this display was pretty bad and it had some weird display bugs. I much prefer the size of the 3a over the 2XL.
Happy with my Pixel 2xl but great review
Thanks!
@@ThisIsTechToday really liked some of your points on 2xl regarding the screen and audio grills. These are just nightmare and it's difficult to get stuff out of these grills
Pixel 2 XL (2-2018). Use Galaxy S9 part-time. Several weeks now a PALM 100 as companion using Verizon service. PALM has only 800mAh capacity. YES! backup second phone for sure. Still have no service for though Galaxy S6 edge(128GB storage); generally do not use. PALM uses Android 8.1 & Pixel 2 XL Android 10 monthly updates. 😀
I can get a 2 XL or 3A XL free from my company, price not an issue which should I pick?
2 xl for sure
2 xl for water resistance, 3a XL for better speakers (surprisingly)
This is Tech Today Yeah I’m leaning 3A cuz I’m afraid of that screen on the 2. Even tho spec wise it looks less powerful it reportedly almost performs the same and the screen is brighter.
Google only do these fantastic promotions in North America. In the rest of the world the handsets are hardly ever discounted, and if so it's a small token amount. Coupons are not a thing for most markets, and the "get this free" deals are usually only on launch.
The age old (2019) debate has been answered!
Amazing review dude! Gonna swap my 2XL for a 3aXL!
That's exactly he advised not to do!
lol
Get a used pixel 3 renewed for the same price
You get ip rating better processor
2017 2xl release v 2019 3a release,of course the 3a was going to be improved!
Its not though, its a worse phone in almost every department because its a mid range phone compared to a flagship
Since doing this video and had the latest updates I'd like your opinion in which phone has better battery life (one would truly last the whole day), better camera but especially with better low light, better selfie & better audio in video) and louder/much fuller speakers sound?
3a in every way. Was the same before and the same now.
@@ThisIsTechToday I'm worried that the Pixel 3a XL is not water resistant. But would you say in daily use is it safe in light rain or accidental spills of water?
Very good video again Brandon!!😉 As I already mentioned before on another video, I sold the Pixel 3 XL and kept only the Pixel 3a XL. And I still do not regret that I did! I love the 3a XL! Waiting for Android Q beta 5 to arrive hopefully this coming Wednesday!
You're right: the 2XL screen has been thoroughly trashed. Given that, I'd expect the reburbs & "renewed" 2XLs aren't going to be better. Could you compare or comment on the 3A vs the 5" Pixel 2 screen which has a very different screen w much better reviews? I read LG made the XLs & Samsung the 5' Pixel 2. That seems like a more competitive buying dilemma, no?
These videos are for the US market. Pixel 3A XL in my country (Europe) have almost the same price as Pixel 3 XL. Crazy.
I guess get the 3 XL at that point.
Full resolution images backups on 2XL but not on 3a.
Are you sure? I thought I remembered hearing it did?
@@whiteghost45 Yeah it's a deal breaker for me. I love to have 4K videos in full resolution in the cloud (it works even when you upload GoPro videos from a Pixel). 3a doesn't have it.
@@ted363636 3 has it right?
@@italkcreepy All Pixels except 3a have it and it works three years since release.
Is it worth getting either with the 4 coming out later this year?