Google Pixel 5 Deals & Offers
Within its price versus specifications category, the Google Pixel 5 is a definite winner especially for non-techies who simply want a straightforward smartphone with 5G connectivity. It delivers an impressive battery life, crystal clear display and pro-quality camera. Deciding which Pixel 5 model to go for is easy as well - there isn't much of a choice to make. It comes in just one size and features only one storage spec. There are, however, two subtle colours, Just Black and Sorta Mint. Visit hotukdeals, where the best Pixel 5 deals are brought together on one page.
Read MoreGoogle Pixel 5 price comparison from £279.99
Google Pixel 5: Google's Inexpensive 5G Flagship
Google unveiled its Pixel 5 to the world at the end of September 2020 and launched it on the market just a month later. This latest Google flagship is a fast, responsive and affordable smartphone. It features all the fundamentals without extra whistles and bells that push up the price of some of its competitors. Inside is the Snapdragon 765 chipset which is powerful enough for most games and apps. The staying power of the 4080 mAh battery and the superb camera performance are among the best Pixel 5 specs seen to date. It's a phone that bucks the latest trend of having three, four or even five rear cameras. This has only two but they are both excellent!
The Pixel 5 is the direct successor of the Pixel 4 and the Pixel 3 which were launched in 2019 and 2018. The line continues back to Google's first flagship smartphone the Google Pixel which appeared in 2016.
Expert Pixel 5 reviews
The TechRadar Pixel 5 review flags up that the phone is compact and affordable but that these features come with some compromises. It praises the all-in-one metal body, its wireless charging and battery life as well as the camera's performance. It feels, however, that Google should have incorporated a telephoto lens. On balance, Techradar says that if you're looking for a reliable phone without lots of fancy extras than the Pixel 5 is perfect.
Expertreviews compares it to its predecessor, the Pixel 4 and finds it wanting in some areas such as the weaker Snapdragon 765G chipset. The reviewer talks favourably about the wide-angle camera, the video-recording capabilities and the slightly larger screen size. It also mentions that the Pixel 5 is the first Pixel to be 5G compatible and the first smartphone on the market with Android 11 pre-installed. It also reminds us that the Pixel 5 is actually cheaper than the Pixel 4!
WhatHi-Fi? praises the 5G network support, the extended battery life and the Qi-certified wireless charging. This reviewer feels, however, that the flat and uninspiring sound quality lets the Pixel 5 down. And, it is missing a 3.5mm headphone jack. All reviewers feel that for the money, the Pixel 5 is a good buy.
Pixel 5 Specs: At A Glance
Let's have a quick look at the Pixel 5 specs:
Product Type | Google Smartphone |
Model | Google Pixel 5 |
Operating System | Android 11 |
Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G 2.4 GHz Octa-Core with Adreno 620 GPU with Titan M Security Module |
Display | 6-inch FHD + OLED. HD Duo Screen Sharing |
Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels. 432.7 ppi. |
Internal Storage | 128GB |
RAM | 8GB |
Camera | Dual Lens (8 and 16 MP). Night Sight. Ultra-Wide Lens |
Audio | Audio DSP |
Connectivity | 5G. Bluetooth. GPS. Wi-Fi hotspot and tethering for speeding up laptop connectivity on the go |
Battery | 4080 mAh battery with up to 48 hours of life in Extreme Battery Saver mode. Adaptive battery and fast-charging modes |
Charging | Wireless charging (unit sold separately). USB Type-C cable. Reverse wireless charging. |
Security | Password or fingerprint scanner |
Special Features | Google assistant. Auto Call 999. Water resistance IPx8. |
Dimension | 70.4 x 144.66 x 8 mm (W x H x D) |
Weight | 151g |
Colour | Just Black or Sorta Mint |
Launch Date | October 15, 2020 |
The Main Pixel 5 Features
Streamlined, refined and reliable is the common thread of Pixel 5 reviews. The colour choices might be limited but the use of metal rather than glass gives it a refreshing industrial edginess. The camera shoots brilliant shots both day and night and the battery keeps on going. Check out all its major features:
- 5G
The Pixel 5 is compatible with 5G networks when they are available. A contract plan is required for this. When 5G isn't available, Pixel automatically searches for 4G or lower networks.
- Operating System
The OS is Android 11 (also new to the market in October 2020). This upgrade automatically separates conversations from other notifications. There are also conversation 'bubbles' that you can move around the screen letting you multitask more efficiently such as texting while reading a document or playing a game. Other OS upgrades include better media controls, quick access to other smart devices, built-in recording, better screen shots and more flexible permissions.
- Chip and Processor
While the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G 2.4 GHz Octa-Core with Adreno 620 GPU might not be the height of tech fashion it gives more than enough power for day-to-day use. In addition, the Titan M Security Module delivers 'superhero-level' security, constantly scanning for incoming threats. Whether you're working, communicating, watching or gaming, the Pixel 5 has the speed and power you need.
- Display
While the 6-inch screen is slightly smaller than some comparable phones, to many this is a bonus. It sits neatly in the hand for texting and calling when on the move. The FHD + OLED screen (1080 x 2340 pixels, 432.7 ppi) is high definition and crystal clear. The HD Duo Screen Sharing (extra contract cost) allows you to share conversations, sport, TV and games as if you were both in the same room.
- Storage
There are no complicated storage choices to make with the Pixel 5. You get 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. More than enough to run all the apps and programs you want.
- Camera
A new feature of the Pixel 5 is the improved Dual Lens camera with 8 and 16 megapixels. These take perfect shots during the day. Once the sun has set, Night Sight delivers crystal-clear night shots without the need for a flash (although a steady tripod is recommended). HDR automatically enhances photos so they retain permanent clarity and vividness. For shooting film, an ultra-wide lens gives pro-quality video panning.
- Battery Life
The super-powerful 4080 mAh battery can give up to 48 hours of use when in Extreme Battery Saver mode. Ideal for those wild camping trips! The battery is fast charging and adaptive, saving life by cutting power to apps when they're not in active use. Use Battery Share to charge your earbuds or smartwatch.
- Auto 999 Call
Should you have the misfortune to be in a high-impact car crash, this feature automatically alerts the emergency services.
How the Pixel 5 Measures Up
Here's a comparison of the Pixel 5 against the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE and iPhone 12:
Pixel 5 | Samsung Galaxy S20 FE | iPhone 12 | |
Display | 6-inch OLED, 90Hz, 1080 x 2340 pixels | 6.2-inch Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400 pixels | 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED, 1170 x 2532 pixels |
iOS | Android 11 | Android 10 | iOS 14.1 |
Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G | Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 | Apple A14 Bionic |
Connectivity | 5G | 5G enabled | 5G |
Battery | 4080 mAh | 4500 mAh | 2815 mAh |
RAM | 8GB | 6GB or 8GB | 4GB |
Internal Storage | 128GB | 128GB or 256GB | 64GB or 128GB or 256GB |
Size | 70.4 x 144.66 x 8 mm | 159.8 x 74.5 x 8.4 mm | 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.4 mm |
Weight | 150.82g | 190g | 164g |
Colours | Just Black, Sorta Sage | Cloud Navy, Cloud Lavender, Cloud Mint, Cloud Red, Cloud Orange, Cloud White | White, Black, Blue, Green, (Product)Red |
Release Date | October 15, 2020 | October 2, 2020 | October 23, 2020 |
Pixel 5: Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
How to Wireless Charge the Pixel 5
To charge your Pixel 5 wirelessly you will need to purchase the Google Pixel Stand. Then:
Plug one end of the USB-C cable (included with the phone) into the USB-C port on the bottom of the stand.
Plug the other end of the cable into the power adaptor.
Plug the adaptor into the wall.
Centre your phone on the stand with the screen facing outwards.
You can continue to use your phone while it is charging.
Pixel 5 Accessories
Keep your phone safe and undamaged or listen on the move with Pixel 5 accessories. Pick these up from the Google Store and other computer retailers, both online and on the high street. Our accessory recommendations are:
Extend the colour range of your phone as well as protecting it with Google's fabric cases. These are made from recycled water bottles, come in four stylish colours and are machine washable. There is also a clear plastic case for maximum impact protection.
Neat and unobtrusive, the Google Pixel Stand delivers fast wireless charging.
Coming in at the higher end of the earbud price range, Google Ear Buds offer a rich audio sound and all-day battery charge. As you move around, Adaptive Sound adjusts the volume while built-in sensors and mics make every call loud and clear.
Choose from screen protectors made from tempered glass or PET plastic. They help protect from scratching and shattering as well as keeping fingerprints away from the delicate screen.
Pixel 5 FAQs
Yes, where 5G connectivity is available, Pixel 5 will automatically connect to it unless 3G or 4G is selected.
Yes, the Pixel 5 can be charged wirelessly (you will need to purchase the Pixel 5 Stand to do this). There is also a reverse wireless charging feature. When the phone is in the stand, this feature is automatically turned on turning the phone into a Qi charging pad. It's now ready to charge up your earbuds or smartwatch.
Your Pixel 5 box should contain a smartphone, charger, USB cable, SIM card removal tool and Quick Start Guide.
No, the Pixel 5 does not come with a screen protector. These are easily available from phone accessory retailers.
Yes, dual SIM is a useful feature of the Pixel 5. Its Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) system means you can select a SIM for either messaging or calling. When the dual SIM option is switched on, the phone automatically falls back to 4G networks. For 5G connectivity, the Dual SIM not set for data use must be temporarily turned off.
Shopping for Pixel 5 Deals
Buy your Pixel 5 UK from high street retailers such as Carphone Warehouse, Argos and Currys PC World. High street retailers have regular sales at key points throughout the year as well as offering cheap Pixel 5 prices on Black Friday and Cyber Monday in later November. Online, special offers and discounted bargains will be available all year round. As well as the above retailers, check out SmartFoneStore, Amazon and the Mobiles.co.uk. You will also find a regular Pixel 5 sale at the Google Store.
Is The Pixel 5 Right For You?
If you want a highly-functional smartphone at a (reasonably) budget price then the Pixel 5 is definitely the right choice for you. Its compact size is easy to hold and carry as well as fitting neatly into pockets and bags. Colours are discreetly neutral while the battery life and camera performance are tick points in its favour. On the other hand, if listening to music on the move is very important, then the poor audio quality and lack of headphone jack might put you off. If you decide on this phone, make sure to get the best Pixel 5 deals by visiting hotukdeals regularly.