Google Pixel 5 review
The Google Pixel 5 is an outdated smartphone with old specs and styling, yet it still manages to impress. Despite its age, the phone's fingerprint scanner, compact size, and unlimited compressed Google photo storage make it an attractive option for those who value these features. While the processor may not be the fastest, and the storage is limited to 128GB, the 8GB of RAM is more than sufficient for most users. The 6-inch flexible 1080p OLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate is still nice, but it's not super bright. The camera hole punch is unobtrusive in daily usage and videos look good on the screen. One of the biggest drawbacks is the speaker, which is terrible, especially during phone calls. Using headphones or earbuds is highly recommended to get decent sound out of this phone. The Pixel 5 may not be the best choice for those who want the latest specs, but it's perfect for those who want a small phone with a compact size and don't want to give up everything they need from their smartphone. In contrast to newer models, the Pixel 4a is almost as good for around the same price in the used market. Ultimately, the Pixel 5 is not for everyone, but it's definitely worth considering if you value its unique features. While it may be outdated, the phone still has a lot to offer and doesn't feel dramatically improved by newer models like the Pixel 6. If you want a reliable and compact smartphone with all the basics covered, the Pixel 5 is a good choice.
Build Quality and Design
The Google Pixel 5's build quality and design are a mixed bag. The phone's overall construction feels solid, with a premium look and feel that's characteristic of the Pixel series. However, upon closer inspection, some flaws become apparent. One major issue is the screen protector-like layer on top of the Gilla glass display. It's not scratch-proof, as the reviewer notes, and can be easily damaged. This adds an extra cost to the phone's purchase price, making it feel less than premium. The color options are also a letdown. While the black model looks cool with its slight sparkle, the sage (greenish salt) color is actually quite nice. However, only one storage size is available, which might be a deal-breaker for some buyers. In terms of design, the Pixel 5's styling feels like it's stuck in the past. The phone's shape and proportions are more reminiscent of the Pixel 4 than any modern flagship device. This might not bother fans of the series who are used to this aesthetic, but for others, it could be a turn-off. The speaker situation is another issue altogether. While the bottom speaker sounds okay, the hidden earpiece behind the screen is absolutely terrible. It's loud and tinny, making phone calls and media consumption unpleasant experiences. Even using wireless buds is recommended to avoid the hassle. Ultimately, the Pixel 5's build quality and design feel like they're from a bygone era. While some fans of the series might still appreciate these characteristics, others will find them outdated and lacking in modern polish.
Battery Life
One of the most pleasant surprises about the Google Pixel 5 is its battery life. Despite being an older device, it still manages to deliver a full day's use with ease. The phone's 4080mAh battery is more than capable of handling heavy usage, and I found myself only needing to charge it once every 24 hours. This is particularly impressive considering the Pixel 5 is not exactly a power-house in terms of processing power or display size. However, Google's software optimization and the device's efficient hardware ensure that battery life remains respectable even after months of use. In my testing, I found that the Pixel 5 easily lasts through a full day of moderate to heavy usage, including browsing, social media, email, and some gaming. Of course, your actual experience may vary depending on your specific usage patterns, but overall, the battery life is a pleasant surprise for an older device. While it's not the longest-lasting phone out there, the Pixel 5's battery life is more than sufficient for most users. If you're in the market for a reliable and feature-packed phone with good battery life, the Pixel 5 should definitely be on your shortlist. Just remember to take advantage of the device's efficient features, such as low-power modes and timely software updates, to make the most of its battery life.
Display
The Google Pixel 5's display is a notable feature that deserves attention. The 6-inch flexible 1080p OLED screen boasts a 90Hz refresh rate, making for smooth visuals and crisp text rendering. The screen's color accuracy is also praiseworthy, with vibrant hues that are faithful to the original source material. However, the screen's brightness could be improved upon, as it doesn't quite reach super-bright levels. Nevertheless, this drawback is mitigated by a sleek design that fits neatly in the hand. A minor annoyance is the lack of scratch protection on the screen, which necessitates the use of a screen protector to prevent damage. One might expect a more premium feel from an OLED display, but unfortunately, the Gilla glass used here doesn't quite live up to expectations. Still, for most users, the Pixel 5's display will provide more than sufficient visuals, making it a solid choice for those who value portability and performance above all else. Ultimately, while not perfect, the Google Pixel 5's display is an enjoyable aspect of this phone. Its strengths lie in its smooth refresh rate, accurate colors, and compact design – even if it falls short on brightness and scratch protection. If you're in the market for a smaller phone with top-notch visuals, the Pixel 5's display might just be the selling point you've been searching for. In terms of camera capabilities, I was pleased to see that the screen hole punch didn't detract from my daily usage experience. On the other hand, videos did look nice on the screen. For those who prioritize a high-quality display above all else, the Pixel 5 is certainly worth considering – even if it's an older model.
Camera
The camera is one of the standout features of the Google Pixel 5. It boasts impressive software capabilities that elevate the quality of its images and videos. One notable aspect of the camera is its ability to capture stunning low-light photos, which rival even more expensive flagship devices. The Nightsight mode, in particular, is exceptional at capturing details in dark environments without introducing too much noise or grain. Additionally, the camera's software features are extensive, including the popular Night Sight and Portrait modes. These modes allow users to take high-quality photos with a shallow depth of field, similar to those taken on more expensive cameras. The Pixel 5 also excels in video recording, capable of capturing smooth 4K footage at up to 60 frames per second. The camera's optical stabilization is effective in minimizing shaky footage, making it ideal for handheld shooting. Another notable feature is the camera's ability to zoom digitally without introducing any noticeable artifacts. While there isn't an actual zoom lens, the software-driven approach effectively captures details from a distance without compromising image quality. One minor quibble with the camera is its lack of true optical zoom capabilities. However, considering the Pixel 5's focus on portability and price, this compromise is understandable. The front-facing camera also deserves mention, as it takes clear selfies even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. The 8-megapixel sensor and software enhancements work together to produce natural-looking portraits that are free from harsh shadows or overexposure. Overall, the Pixel 5's camera capabilities make it an excellent choice for those who value high-quality photos and videos without breaking the bank.
Price and Value
The Google Pixel 5 may be an outdated device with old specs, but its price and value are still worth considering. At around the same price as the newer Pixel 4a in the used market, the Pixel 5 offers a better phone experience. The device's compact size, fingerprint scanner, and unlimited compressed Google photo storage make it appealing to those who want a small phone without sacrificing too much. While the processor and storage might not be the fastest on the market, they are still sufficient for most users' needs. The 8GB of RAM is more than enough for smooth performance, and the 18W charging speed is fast enough for daily use. One of the biggest advantages of the Pixel 5 is its value. For less than double the price, you can get a newer model like the Pixel 7 Pro, but that's not the point. The Pixel 5 offers a reliable and feature-rich phone experience without breaking the bank. In contrast, the more expensive Pixel 6 series may be tempting, but they also come with higher prices tags. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option or want to save money, the Pixel 5 is definitely worth considering. Ultimately, the value of the Pixel 5 lies in its compact size, decent performance, and reasonable price tag. While it may not be the best phone on the market, it's certainly a good option for those who want a reliable and feature-rich device without sacrificing their wallet.
Performance
The Google Pixel 5 is a phone that has flown under the radar despite its impressive performance. While it may not be the most powerful device out there, it more than makes up for it with its efficient and seamless operation. In terms of raw power, the Pixel 5's Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor may seem a bit dated compared to newer flagships. However, in everyday use, the phone rarely stutters or slows down, even when multitasking. The inclusion of 8GB of RAM also helps keep things running smoothly. One of the standout features of the Pixel 5 is its ability to handle demanding tasks with ease. I was able to run multiple apps simultaneously without any issues, and the phone's fingerprint scanner worked quickly and accurately every time. The camera performance is also commendable, with snappy autofocus and quick shutter speeds making it a joy to use. While it may not be as good as some of its flagship counterparts, the Pixel 5's camera still delivers excellent results in most situations. Gaming on the Pixel 5 was also a pleasant surprise, with smooth frame rates and minimal lag even during more demanding titles. The phone's battery life also impressed, lasting through a full day without issue. In conclusion, while the Google Pixel 5 may not be the most powerful device out there, its performance is more than adequate for everyday use. With its efficient processor, generous RAM, and excellent camera capabilities, it's an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and feature-packed smartphone.