Top 5 Smartphones With Better Cameras Than Google Pixel 9a

Google’s new Pixel 9a, launched in India earlier this month, has sparked curiosity among smartphone buyers, especially those drawn to its computational photography and clean design. The device marks a visual departure from earlier Pixel phones by ditching the signature camera bar, and it's powered by the Tensor G4 chip—also found in its more premium siblings.

However, the Rs 50,000 segment in India is crowded with contenders, especially for camera-centric users. While the Pixel 9a excels in software-based photography, there are several options that arguably offer better hardware-level camera performance at similar price points. Here's a curated list of alternatives that may be worth your consideration.

1. iPhone 16e
The iPhone 16e is Apple’s affordable take on photography excellence. It features a 48MP single camera with in-sensor 2x zoom, though it skips the ultra-wide lens that the Pixel 9a includes. For selfies, it houses a 12MP front camera, just shy of the Pixel 9a’s 13MP sensor. Despite this, Apple’s A18 chip provides superior processing power over the Pixel’s Tensor G4, offering better overall performance and image optimization.

2. Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
Samsung’s Galaxy S24 FE, available for under Rs 45,000, brings a powerful Exynos 2400e processor and 8GB RAM to the table. Its triple-camera array includes a 50MP wide lens, an 8MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide sensor. A 10MP front camera and features like optical image stabilization (OIS) on the rear cameras make this device a strong all-around performer in photography.

3. OnePlus 13R
At Rs 42,999, the OnePlus 13R is a compelling alternative powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset and 12GB of RAM. Its camera setup includes a 50MP wide sensor, a 50MP telephoto lens, and an 8MP ultra-wide lens. With computational algorithms designed to mimic DSLR-like portrait effects, the 13R stands out as a strong imaging device in its class.

4. Vivo V40 Pro
If you’re focused on camera quality but want to stay within budget, the Vivo V40 Pro is a solid choice. It sports a triple 50MP camera setup—telephoto, ultrawide, and wide-angle—featuring Zeiss Optics for premium image quality. The MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ processor handles tasks well, and the device includes a robust 5,500mAh battery with fast charging capabilities.

5. Samsung Galaxy A56
The Galaxy A56 also goes beyond the Pixel 9a in camera hardware, boasting a 50MP main sensor with a larger 1/1.56-inch sensor size, which can capture more light compared to the Pixel’s smaller 1/2.0-inch sensor. The triple rear setup is rounded out with a 12MP ultra-wide lens and a 5MP macro sensor. On the front, it offers a 12MP selfie camera.

While the Pixel 9a continues to stand out for its clean Android experience and AI-based photography enhancements, those looking for more robust hardware—especially in the camera department—have plenty of choices in the same price bracket. These five smartphones offer competitive, and in some cases, superior camera systems that may better suit photography enthusiasts.