Google Pixel 5

Key Highlights

The Google Pixel 5 represents a bold shift in Google’s smartphone philosophy — one that focuses on practicality and user experience rather than raw power or flashy features. After the disappointing run of the Pixel 3 and Pixel 4, both of which struggled to gain traction, Google decided it was time for a reset. With the Pixel 5, the company stepped away from competing directly with heavyweights like Samsung and Apple, opting instead to embrace simplicity and balance at a more affordable price. This change in direction is evident across the board. The Pixel 5 ditches the experimental radar sensors and heavy bezels of its predecessor in favor of a cleaner, sturdier design and more reliable hardware. While it doesn’t boast a top-tier processor, Google compensates with a beautiful 90Hz OLED display, a larger battery, 5G connectivity, and IP68 water resistance. It’s a phone designed to perform smoothly, not to impress with overkill specs. Camera performance remains one of the Pixel line’s strongest suits. Leveraging Google’s renowned computational photography, the Pixel 5 captures stunning photos effortlessly, proving once again that great image quality doesn’t rely solely on hardware. Add to that the refined Android experience, consistent updates, and practical features like wireless charging, and you have a device that simply works — beautifully and reliably. Priced at £599 / $699 and available in “Just Black” and “Sorta Sage,” the Pixel 5 shows that Google isn’t trying to dominate the flagship race. Instead, it’s redefining what a great smartphone should be — a thoughtful blend of simplicity, smart software, and everyday value. In many ways, this strategy makes the Pixel 5 not just Google’s most balanced phone, but arguably its best yet.