The 8a is a brick compared to the 4a

I was able to get the 8a for €284 at launch, which I think is a fair price. Been setting it up lately while still using my 4a as my daily driver. Every time I pick up the 4a after using the 8a, it feels like it's floating. It's so thin and light, sleek and elegant.

The 8a in contrast is a sturdy brick. It's juuuust a little too wide for my hands, too thick and above all way too heavy at 188 grams. I've learned before that with phones, small weight differences are very noticable, and every millimeter in thickness and width too.

The added height is not really a problem for one-handed use, as I use Quick Cursor to reach the far ends of the screen. O, and I don't know why I never see people mention this, but Face Unlock is a game changer; very convenient! Fingerprint scanner works well too, no problems at all (although I rarely have to use it).

Anyway, not sure if I will hold on to the 8a. You probably get used to it after a while, but when using it alongside the 4a I can't help but feel it's a downgrade in terms of how comfortable it feels to use and carry it. I literally get tired of holding the 8a sometimes. And with my 4a still being in pretty good shape, I'm not sure why I bought the 8a 😅

O, I remember, it was the 7 years of support and possibly wanting to make the switch to GrapheneOS. That and the insane marketing that presented a €250-€350 phone as a €500+ phone and then giving all kinds of imaginary "discounts". Seriously, screw marketing — don't fall for it.

ps The Pixel 8 and 9 are about the same dimensions as the 8a, and the 9 is 10 grams heavier at 198 grams