Google Pixel 5a smartphone
Google

Google Pixel 5a

August 26, 2021 8/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Google Pixel 5a with 5G is a mid-range Android smartphone known for its exceptional camera performance, long-lasting battery, and clean software experience. It features a durable build with IP67 water resistance and a vibrant OLED display, making it a strong contender in its price segment upon release.
Display6.34-inch OLED, 1080x2400 pixels.
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 765G 5G.
Main Camera12.2 MP wide + 16 MP ultrawide.
Battery4680 mAh with 18W fast charging.
Starting from $150

💰 Google Pixel 5a Price

The Google Pixel 5a lowest price is $150, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeOLED, HDR
Size6.34 inches
Resolution1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~415 ppi density)
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 3

Platform

OSAndroid 11, upgradable to Android 14
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 765G 5G (7 nm)
CPUOcta-core (1x2.4 GHz Kryo 475 Prime & 1x2.2 GHz Kryo 475 Gold & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 475 Silver)
GPUAdreno 620

Memory

RAM6GB LPDDR4X
Internal Storage128GB UFS 2.1
Card SlotNo

Main Camera

Dual12.2 MP, f/1.7, 27mm (wide), 1/2.8", 1.4µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS; 16 MP, f/2.2, 107˚ (ultrawide), 1.0µm
FeaturesDual-LED flash, Pixel Shift, Auto-HDR, panorama
Video4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps, OIS

Selfie Camera

Single8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm
FeaturesAuto-HDR
Video1080p@30fps

Battery

TypeLi-Po 4680 mAh, non-removable
Charging18W wired, PD2.0

Body

Dimensions154.9 x 73.7 x 7.6 mm (6.10 x 2.90 x 0.30 in)
Weight183 g (6.46 oz)
BuildAluminum unibody with a thick plastic coating, Gorilla Glass 3 front
SIMNano-SIM and eSIM
Water & Dust ResistanceIP67 (up to 1m for 30 min)

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
Bluetooth5.0, A2DP, LE
PositioningGPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, QZSS
NFCYes
USBUSB Type-C 3.1

Launch

AnnouncedAugust 17, 2021
StatusReleased August 26, 2021

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Outstanding camera quality for its price point.
  • Excellent battery life.
  • IP67 water and dust resistance.
  • Clean, bloatware-free Android experience.
  • Includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Cons

  • 60Hz display refresh rate, lower than some competitors.
  • No wireless charging.
  • Limited availability (initially US and Japan only).
  • Outdated chipset compared to newer phones (as of 2025).
  • Software support ended in November 2024, no more security updates.
★ Our Verdict

The Google Pixel 5a received high praise for its camera, battery life, and overall value at launch, despite lacking some premium features like a high refresh rate display or wireless charging.

The Google Pixel 5a was a highly recommended mid-range smartphone at its release, offering an exceptional camera and strong battery life for its price. However, as of late 2024, Google has ended software support for the device, meaning it will no longer receive Android version updates or critical security patches. While it still offers a solid hardware experience, the lack of ongoing software support makes it a less advisable purchase for new buyers seeking long-term usability and security. If you prioritize a clean Android experience and a great camera on a budget, consider newer Pixel 'a' series models or other mid-range alternatives that still receive updates. For those considering a used device, be aware of the discontinued software support and potential security vulnerabilities.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Google Pixel 5a with 5G smartphone
  • 18W USB-C power adapter.
  • USB-C to USB-C cable.
  • Quick Switch Adapter (USB-A to USB-C adapter).
  • SIM ejector tool.
  • Quick Start Guide and documentation.

The Google Pixel 5a came with a limited warranty, and an extended repair program for certain issues ended on June 30, 2024.

❓ Questions & Answers

When was the Google Pixel 5a released?

The Google Pixel 5a with 5G was officially released on August 26, 2021.

Does the Google Pixel 5a have 5G connectivity?

Yes, the Google Pixel 5a supports 5G connectivity, specifically sub-6 GHz networks.

Is the Google Pixel 5a waterproof?

The Google Pixel 5a has an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, meaning it can withstand immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.

What kind of camera does the Google Pixel 5a have?

The Google Pixel 5a features a dual-camera system on the rear, consisting of a 12.2 MP wide lens and a 16 MP ultrawide lens, known for its excellent computational photography. It also has an 8 MP front-facing camera.

Does the Google Pixel 5a still receive software updates?

No, Google officially ended software support for the Pixel 5a in November 2024, meaning it will no longer receive Android version updates or security patches.

What are the main alternatives to the Google Pixel 5a?

Alternatives to the Google Pixel 5a include the Google Pixel 6a, Samsung Galaxy A53, OnePlus Nord 2, and the Apple iPhone SE (2022), especially considering the Pixel 5a's discontinued software support.