Video Gamer is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Prices subject to change. Learn more
We’re looking at Google Pixel 5 vs Pixel 5a to find out which is the better purchase.
The Google Pixel 5, the predecessor to the hugely popular Google Pixel 6, was released in 2020. In the two years since it’s been met with great reviews. But how does it compare to the Pixel 5a, and which smartphone should you buy?
The Pixel 5a was released the following year in 2021 with an impressive battery life as its defining feature. Like its sibling, the Pixel 5a is popular for its camera and OLED display, proving itself as a worthy upgrade from Google’s Pixel 4a. Though the Pixel 5 and 5a remain solid choices in 2023, we can’t help but get excited for the latest and greatest. If you’re excited too, then check out our guide comparing Google Pixel 7 vs Pixel 7 Pro.
You may be weighing up which phone to go for, and how it matches up to what your main usage will be – whether that be for everyday browsing, streaming content, or even gaming.
To help in your decision, we’re comparing what we think are the key comparison areas between Google Pixel 5 and Pixel 5a. Expect a total breakdown from specs to features, including a discussion of design and value for money, all to help you make an informed choice.
So let’s jump in! Here are the differences and similarities between Google Pixel 5 vs Pixel 5a.
Google Pixel 5 vs Pixel 5a – Specs
| Specs | Pixel 5 | Pixel 5a |
| Display | 6 inch OLED | 6.3 inch OLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340p | 1080 x 2400p |
| Refresh rate | 90Hz | 60Hz |
| Chip | Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G | Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G |
| RAM | 8GB | 6GB |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB |
| Rear cameras | 12.2MP wide, 16MP ultrawide | 12.2MP wide, 16MP ultrawide |
| Front camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Battery size | 4,080mAh | 4,680mAh |
| Charging | 18W | 18W |
Each of these phones performs better in different areas, with plenty of overlap between the two as well. The Pixel 5 does have a higher overall performance with 8GB of RAM and a superior 90Hz refresh rate. This is in comparison with the 6GB or 60Hz of the Pixel 5a.
Read More: Best Google Pixel 5 case – our top picks
This superior refresh however is on a screen with essentially the exact same resolution. The Pixel 5a does have a higher pixel count but this is accounted for by the larger screen. Similarly, the CPU is the same Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G making the overall performance of these two phones harder to separate.
The cameras are identical, with an 8MP front one and a 12.2 MP and 16MP pair of cameras on the rear. These are a bit outdated now, but still, excellent considering the reduced price these phones are now going for.
Moving onto where the Pixel 5a has the edge. We’ve already mentioned the larger screen size, and on top of this, there is the significantly larger battery, one that is 4,680mAh, compared to the 4,080mAh display of the Pixel 5.
However, you can charge your Pixel 5 wirelessly while this is not possible for the 5a. On the flip side, the Pixel 5a also has a headphone jack which the Pixel 5 does not.
Google Pixel 5 vs Pixel 5a – Design
Both these phones are from the same Pixel 5 range. this means it won’t come as a shock to find out they are designed and look very similar.
They both have a rounded body, with a square camera protruding from the metal back. this is also where you’ll find the fingerprint scanner.
Read More: Google Pixel 6a vs Pixel 7
There are some subtle differences between the two. For example, the Pixel 5 uses the newer and more durable Gorilla Glass 6, versus the 5a which uses Gorilla Glass 3. This has the potential to cost you significantly should your Pixel 5a’s display crack.
It also contributes to the overall high IP rating which the Pixel 6 receives. It is rated as IP68 for water and dust resistance. the Pixel 5a meanwhile is rated just a bit worse at IP67.
Google Pixel 5 vs Pixel 5a – Price
Comparing these two in price is complicated as they have both been discontinued by Google. This is not because of any fault with the devices but is simply Google’s standard practice when they release an updated version of a phone.
Because of this, unless you are going second-hand, you can only really find these phones refurbished. While in its day the Google Pixel 5 retailed for a higher starting price, you can now find them both for a very similar cost, depending on how hard you are willing to look.
Check Price:
Which one should you go for?
When they were both new phones, I would have recommended going for the Pixel 5a to most people. This is because it managed to actually outperform its flagship counterpart in many areas, as well as matching it in display and camera quality.
The only area where it lags behind is in RAM and refresh rate, both factors which are most important for mobile gaming. What’s key is that it achieved this for a significantly lower price. Now that that price change has largely disappeared, these phones are essentially neck and neck. it comes down to whether you would like a larger battery or a better mobile gaming experience.
- Google Pixel 5 – Amazon
- Google Pixel 5A – Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Why was Pixel 5a discontinued?
Every time Google releases the next generation of devices, it discontinues the previous one. This meant that when the Pixel 6a was released, the Pixel 5a was discontinued, though you can still buy it refurbished.
Does the Google Pixel 5a have wireless charging?
No – unlike the Google Pixel 5, the Pixel 5a is not compatible with wireless charging.
