I might be one of those value shoppers; I usually buy the "Pixel .a" version of the oldest available generation when it's time for replacement (I'm currently on a Pixel 4a). I like it. I used to have an iPhone, but I prefer the "feel" of Andriod-on-Pixel, but I don't know how to describe it. Less heavy-handed maybe? More minimalistic?
I don't need the fastest, most powerful SoC. I don't need the best, super fast display. The battery life on my 4a is enough for my needs. People get way too religious about this.
Your "usually" is doing a lot there. You bought the second ever "a", so you've done it once?
I understand your preference though, I've used google's phones (Nexus then Pixel) for about a decade. They have the benefit of having one fewer cooks in the kitchen. Any other brand has to adjust to whatever dumb thing Google has done to copy iPhone in each new OS release, and then also add their own layer on top of that.
I don't need the fastest, most powerful SoC. I don't need the best, super fast display. The battery life on my 4a is enough for my needs. People get way too religious about this.