If the midrange Pixel 4A isn’t enough for you, you only have a couple of months to wait to find out more about the higher-specced Pixel 5 and 5G-capable 4A.
The Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5 are the other two Google phones for 2020. But how will we differentiate these two seemingly very similar devices?
The most straightforward way Google can differentiate between the two phones is through their build quality differences. By using “cheaper” materials like plastic on the Pixel 4a and more “premium” materials like glass and aluminum on the Pixel 5.
Pixel 4a vs Pixel 5
The Pixel 4a is an upper mid-range phone with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 730G SoC and 6GB RAM. According to Android Police, Google usually goes with a flagship-class Snapdragon 800-series SoC on its leading Pixel phones, but this year, it seems likely that the Pixel 5 will use a Snapdragon 765G chipset instead.
Google’s strategy for changing the hardware means that the Pixel 4a will likely be much closer in performance to the Pixel 5 compared to last year’s Pixel 3a was to the Pixel 4. Without a massive leap in speed, significant differences between the phones will likely be in the design.
It seems the camera feature is also slightly different between the Pixel 4a and Pixel 5. We all know that Pixel 4 that was released last year has two rear cameras, a 12MP rear, and a 16MP telephoto, while the Pixel 4a has a single 12MP camera.
The Snapdragon 765G supports more than two cameras. Another extra function is that it can even use two of them simultaneously, so nothing is stopping Google from continuing to offer two lenses on the flagship Pixel this year.
Which is worth buying?
The Pixel 4a 5G will start at $499 when it is released later this year. If you care deeply about 5G support, it might be worth buying over the other 2020 smartphones. However, the 4a 5G likely won’t have multiple cameras, IP68 water protection, or any of the other “wow” features.
Are you looking for Google’s most valued Pixel phone this year? Then go with the Pixel 4a. It’s a fantastic device for $350 with an excellent upgrade option for anyone using a Pixel 1 or 2.
If you’re the type of Android user who can’t live without features like IP68 water protection or wireless charging, it’s probably best to wait for the Pixel 5. Compared to lots of other big phones coming soon, like the iPhone 12, we haven’t heard too many leaks and rumors on Pixel 5.
Image used courtesy of Marques Brownlee/YouTube Screenshot