 "Google Pixel 10a vs iPhone 17e: Which 'budget' phone should you buy?"){kind=tracking}
The mid-range smartphone market is heating up again, and this year’s contenders from Google and Apple are already making waves.
The Google Pixel 10a has officially launched in India, bringing a punch of AI power and premium features at a price of Rs 49,999. Meanwhile, Apple iPhone 17e, the Cupertino giant’s next affordable iPhone, is rumoured to follow in just a few days, on March 4.
The rumour has it that the iPhone 17e may cost around 59,900.
Though Apple hasn’t confirmed the specs yet, early leaks suggest that the company is ready to bring significant upgrades to its budget-friendly lineup.
Here’s how the two stack up, at least based on what we know so far.
Google Pixel 10a vs iPhone 17e: Design and display
At first glance, neither phone is reinventing the wheel when it comes to design.
The Pixel 10a closely resembles last year’s Pixel 9a, retaining the matte finish, no bumpy camera bar, and sturdy recycled aluminium frame.
Similarly, leaked renders of the iPhone 17e suggest it will borrow heavily from its predecessor, the iPhone 16e, keeping the flat edges and aluminium build. The biggest change, according to reports, might be the introduction of a slightly slimmer chassis and new pastel colour options, typical Apple finesse.
When it comes to the display, though, the Pixel 10a pulls ahead. Google has equipped it 6.3-inch Actua display with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits— the brightest ever on an A-series Pixel.
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View AllApple’s iPhone 17e is expected to sport a 6.1-inch display, possibly with a 120Hz ProMotion refresh rate for the first time on an ‘e’ model, but that’s still speculative for now.
Google Pixel 10a vs iPhone 17e: Chipset and battery
The Pixel 10a runs on Google’s Tensor G4 chip, the same processor that powers the predecessor Pixel 9a. Backed by a 5,100mAh battery, Google promises all-day power and optimised performance through AI-driven battery management.
The iPhone 17e, on the other hand, is expected to be powered by the A19 chip. Built on a 3nm process, it should deliver a noticeable bump in efficiency and performance, particularly for on-device AI processing, something Apple is reportedly pushing hard with its upcoming Apple Intelligence.
Battery-wise, leaks point to a similar cells, but efficiency is expected to increase, thanks to A19 chipset.
Google Pixel 10a and iPhone 17e: Camera
Photography remains a major battleground, and both companies are bringing their best tricks to the table.
The Pixel 10a features a 48MP main camera with optical image stabilisation and Google’s signature image processing. It has sports 13MP ultra-wide and 13MP front camera.
The new Camera Coach feature offers real-time tips to help users frame their shots better, while Auto Best Take automatically picks the most natural expressions in group photos, now supporting up to 20 faces.
The iPhone 17e is expected to feature a 48MP rear camera with optical image stabilisation and a 12MP front camera for selfies and video calls. Powered by the A19 chip, it’s likely to deliver enhanced low-light photography, improved HDR, and more true-to-life colours.
Google Pixel 10a vs iPhone 17e: Which is a better choice?
With the Google Pixel 10a available for pre-orders, it has the first-mover advantage. It’s available, affordable, and brimming with AI-powered features that make everyday use smarter.
Apple’s iPhone 17e, however, could shake things up if the leaked specs hold true. A 120Hz display, A19 chip, and improved cameras would make it the strongest “budget” iPhone yet, especially for those already in the Apple ecosystem.
In essence, if you want a phone that’s here, smart, and AI-ready, the Pixel 10a is the better pick right now. But if you’d rather wait for Apple’s polished hardware and seamless ecosystem, the iPhone 17e might be worth holding out for.
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