Google launched a more affordable version of its flagship Pixel 3 at Google I/O on 7 May 2019.
The mid-range phones cost £399/US$399 for the 3a and £469/US$479 for the 3a XL at launch, much cheaper than the regular Pixel 3/3XL models which have an RRP of £739/$799 and £869/$899, respectively. See our full comparison here, as well as our reviews of the 3a and 3a XL.
However, now the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL have arrived, there are some good discounts around. Check out our round-up here.
Despite the lower price, you still get the rear camera from the premium range, which is rare for mid-range phones. You also get a 5.8in screen on the 3a and 6in screen on the 3a XL, which you’ll want to keep safe from damage.
While we haven’t tried all these cases first-hand, we have been impressed with these brands in the past and so can recommend their products with confidence.
Best Pixel 3a and 3a XL cases
1. Spigen Rugged Armor for Google Pixel 3a
This case has become a classic in recent years, providing excellent protection in a sleek and stealthy design.
The matte black finish is complemented by carbon fibre highlights, which adds a premium feel to your device.
The case also features what Spigen calls Air Cushion Technology, which aims to absorb the majority of the impact from any drops.
While the splash of colour on the power button is no longer visible, the Rugged Armor adds extra protection to these areas while maintaining their tactility.
You can buy it now for £9.99/US$19.99 (or on Amazon for the £9.99/$10.99). It’s also available for the 3a XL on Amazon for £9.99/$10.99.
2. Snakehive Google Pixel 3a Case
Snakehive handcraft beautiful leather cases for all sorts of phones, including the Google Pixel 3a and 3a XL. The leather forms a wonderful patina over time, so the longer you use it the more distinguished it looks.
As a wallet case, you can also stow away up to three cards and notes on the inside. The case also allows access to all ports and buttons, so you don’t need to take it off to charge.
Pick it up directly from Snakehive for the Pixel 3a (£28.95/US$36.99) or 3a XL (£28.95/US$36.99) in an assortment of colours. Also available on Amazon.
3. Tech 21 Studio Design Throwing Shapes for Pixel 3a
The stand-out design of Tech 21’s case is suggested in its name – Throwing Shapes.
If you’re tired of cases that all look the same, the unique patterned back of this case should really. It strikes a good balance between design and durability, with drop protection up to 8 feet and a high-performing impact material known as BulletShield.
Tech 21 are a trusted partner of Google, so you can be sure this case will be a great fit for your phone.
It’s available in black (pictured), as well as Plum or Shark Blue if you want to stand out even more.
You can buy it now directly from Tech 21 for £15.96/US$23.96 or from Amazon for £19.99/US$21. Also available for the Pixel 3a XL for £15.96/US$
4. Otterbox Symmetry Case for Pixel 3a
It’s not a “Best Cases” round up until it includes an Otterbox. The Symmetry Sereis for Pixel 3a and 3a XL offers all the protection you’ll need for a neat £30 ($43.31).
It’s a case we’ve recommended for many of our other phone case round ups because it’s both thin while keeping your device safe from drops.
You can get it slightly cheaper on Amazon for both the 3a and 3a XL.
5. ESR Glass Case for Google Pixel 3a
We’ve seen this clear case for the Galaxy S10 before – though what sets it apart from other clear cases is that it’s made of tempered glass. This means you get the feel of a glass back with the certainty of keeping your phone safe.
With a 9H hardness rating, the case should keep your Pixel 3a at bay from scratches and dings. Plus the soft TPU bumper frame protects the edge of the phone.
It’s available for the Pixel 3a for £12.99/US$15.99 and the for the Pixel 3a XL for £13.99/US$17.99.
6. Totallee Pixel 3a Case
We’ve recommended Totallee cases before because they’re incredibly light and thin – and minimalist, with no branding on the exterior. It’s not designed for rugged protection, but it will keep your Pixel 3a safe from day-to-day scuffs and scratches.
The Totallee case is available for US$35 (around £29) directly from the brand’s site, where you can find the 3a XL size as well for the same price. You can get it for a better price on Amazon, however, where it’s £19.99/$19.99 for the 3a and 3a XL.
Totallee also offers a two-year warranty on its products.
7. Olixar Google Pixel 3a Gel Case
We often recommend Olixar cases. The brand offers reliable protection in a variety of styles and at affordable prices.
The gel case is another clear option for those who want the original beauty of their Pixel 3a or 3a XL to shine through, while keeping it safe from everyday wear.
It’s available for both the Pixel 3a (£5.99/US$6.99) and the 3a XL (£4.99/US$6.99).
8. Olixar Faux Leather Wallet for Google Pixel 3a
A wallet case provides the perfect balance between style and functionality, and for some it’s hard to picture life without one.
Olixar’s affordable faux leather option protects your Pixel 3a from knocks and drops while also offering two slots for credit cards. The front flap also fold into a stand for horizontal viewing.
You also get a two-year manufacturer warranty. Olixar’s walllet case is available for the Pixel 3a (£9.99/US$12.99) and 3a XL (£9.99/US$9.99).
9. Olixar Leather Back Case for Google Pixel 3a
Here’s one more option from Olixar that’s slightly more rugged than the other options. It’s a TPU and polycarbonate case with a texturized back for added grip. Plus, raised bezels keep the screen safe from scuffs and scratches.
You get a two-year warranty on this case too. It’s available for the Pixel 3a for £9.99/US$8.99.
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