Has anyone ever used a later case? I'm on the market for a very thin phone case for my pixel 6A, but I really have a hard time swallowing the $50 price for that case.

I was like you at first, but I convinced myself to get a $50 Peak Design case for my Pixel 7 and I love it. Feels really good in the hand. Worth it IMO.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0B7NZBFRQ/ This is the case I use every day, it just snaps on and provides a little depth and some cushioned corners. I've used a case like this for the last four phones, and I've never experienced any screen crack, even though there is no protector over the screen. It adds very little to the bulk of the phone.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BDDL7ZLZ/ This is a case that I bought, and I have kept. It is excellent, rugged. If I worked in construction or was in a situation of high risk of dropping my phone or scratching the surface, this is what I would use. It is such a low cost and high quality that I just could not return it in favor of the first link that I've added above. This case adds just a little bit of heft to the phone, but the protection is substantial.

I always go with the "Spigen thin fit" (in the Pixel 2 went with the Ringke Slim which was about the same).

I have it for pixel 7. Had it for pixel 5. Best cases I've ever had. Will buy again