Everything you need to know about the Google Pixel 5

Google's Pixel 5 is cheaper than expected.

Google Pixel 5
Google Pixel 4a 5G
Georgia Dixon
Oct 20, 2020
Icon Time To Read2 min read

Google Pixel 5: The basics

  • 5G-enabled
  • Wireless charging
  • RRP is $999

With the release of the Google Pixel 5, it seems the search giant has finally listened to its users' biggest gripes with previous models (according to some glowing reviews of Google's latest), boosting battery life, adding 5G and even lowering the price.

Google Pixel 5 price

Just when it seems smartphones are only getting more expensive, Google has decided to buck the trend. With an RRP of $999, the Pixel 5 continues the trend of each new Google flagship being cheaper than its predecessor. At release, the Pixel 3 started at $1,199, followed by the cheaper Pixel 4 at $1,049.

For outright purchasers, the best price we've found so far is at Kogan, who is slinging the Pixel 5 for $10 under RRP.

Google Pixel 5

Google Pixel 5 design

Given Google put a lot of work into overhauling the Pixel design last year, it doesn't come as a huge surprise that they’re sticking by it for another year at least. The Pixel 5 will retain the matte finish of its predecessor, as well as the dual-camera setup, however, unlike the Pixel 4, the Pixel 5 reintroduces a physical fingerprint sensor on the rear of the phone. It's interesting given most manufacturers are moving towards facial security tech, but given mask-wearing will likely be hanging around beyond 2020, it's a smart move.

As for the front of the new flagship, Google has thankfully ditched the Pixel 4’s controversial thick top bezel and instead opt for a hole-punch-style selfie camera, revealing a much sleeker look and a slightly larger 6-inch OLED screen with the same smooth 90Hz refresh rate.

The Google Pixel 5 comes in two colours - 'Just Black', and the new, ultra-chic 'Sorta Sage' hue.

Google Pixel 5 features: Camera, battery life, 5G

Like its predecessor, the Pixel 4 features a dual-lens rear camera setup. However, while the 12.2MP main snapper remains the same, Google has swapped the 16MP telephoto lens for a 16MP ultra-wide lens. While this setup isn't quite as good as that of the Pixel 4, it (along with Google's superior post-processing software) still allows for some incredible shots.

One of the biggest pain points for owners of previous Pixel iterations has always been battery life. After all, what's the point of forking out around $1,000 if the device won't even make it till dinner? Thankfully, Google has listened to its users and upped the battery life from a measly 2,800mAh to a far more competitive 4,000mAh. In reality, this translates to up to two days of battery life compared to just one. Of course, the addition of 5G is known to be quite a battery drainer, but even with it switched on, early reports suggest the Pixel 5 far outstrips the Pixel 4 in terms of longevity.

What about the Pixel 4a 5G?

If you're willing to sacrifice a few of the Pixel 5's flagship features (namely waterproofing, 2GB RAM, wireless charging and a 90Hz refresh rate), you'll get what is essentially the same device, all for $200 less and with a slightly larger 6.2-inch screen.

The Pixel 4a 5G is a damn fine smartphone, and one of our favourite 5G phones currently available in Australia. It's not available on any plans, but you can nab it for $569 at Kogan.

Google Pixel 4a 5G
Georgia Dixon
Written by
Georgia Dixon has 10 years of experience writing about all things tech, entertainment and lifestyle. She spends most of her time as Managing Editor of SafeWise Australia and also has bylines on 7NEWS, Stuff.co.nz, in TechLife magazine and more. In 2023 she won Best News Writer at the Consensus IT Awards, and in 2024 she was a finalist for Best News Journalist at the Samsung IT Journalism Awards (The Lizzies). In her spare time, you'll find her playing games and daydreaming about good food, wine, and dogs.

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