If Google had given this a 90+ Hz display, I'd probably be calling this the Pixel 5 XL, regardless of the name Google chose. I'm not crestfallen that Google stuck with a mediocre 60Hz display, either, but it is a bit behind the competition - even OnePlus is managing high refresh rates in cheaper devices. Rating: Total score: 90% price: 90% performance: 70% display: 70% mobility: 90% workmanship: 90%ĩ0% Google Pixel 5a review: The best-kept secret in Android Single Review, online available, Very Long, Date: There’s just one problem: the Pixel 6 is just $150 more expensive, and for that you get a whole lot more for not a lot of extra cash. I’ve enjoyed using it, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone looking for a sub-$1,000 phone that “just works.” At this point, Google has this down to a science.

While the phone is all-around good, it’s that $449 price tag that really makes the Pixel 5a stand out. And let’s be honest, asking Google to add notable camera hardware improvements to a mid-range phone is pretty much out of the question. I, and many others, would have loved to see a more powerful processor and a 90Hz display on this year’s model, but that likely would’ve bumped the price up to $500 or so - then we’d be having a different conversation. No, it’s not the most exciting phone you can find, but it works, and that’s exactly what it’s supposed to do. The Google Pixel 5a is no exception, and it’s made even better thanks to the IP67 rating and gigantic battery. Google has subtly proved a point over the last few years: it is very good at making basic smartphones that work well.

90% Google Pixel 5a review: Still great, but it's not the Pixel 6