The Google Pixel 5a is finally official, and it’s being positioned as a cheaper successor to the Pixel 4a 5G rather than a follow-up to the 4G-toting Pixel 4a. Google took a similar approach with the Pixel 4a last year, offering a $50 price cut over the Pixel 3a.
Is the new mid-ranger a hot device or do you think Google scored an own goal? You can vote in our poll below and leave a comment if you have more on your mind.
The Pixel 5a starts at $449 and shares plenty in common with the Pixel 4a 5G, for better or worse. We’ve got the same Snapdragon 765G chipset, that dual rear camera system (12MP main, 16MP ultra-wide), and a similar 60Hz OLED screen. So you’re not seeing a huge upgrade at first glance.
However, the new phone does pack a couple of welcome upgrades in other categories. There’s a 4,680mAh battery that’s a massive upgrade over the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5 (albeit with 18W charging and no wireless charging), and an IP67 rating for much better durability. You also get a metal back, which seems to be the material of choice for many readers. Toss in the price cut over its predecessor and you’ve got a pretty solid package.
What do you make of the Pixel 5a as a result? Make your voice heard in our poll above, and read our full Pixel 5a review for even more details.