Google Pixel 5 in the test: Less innovation for a better smartphone
Source: Hardware Luxx added 24th Oct 2020Page 1: Google Pixel 5 in the test: Less innovation to a better smartphone
The Pixel 5 is Google’s new top smartphone. However, Google does without a high-end SoC and has also deleted some of the innovative features of the predecessor. In the test, we show why the Pixel 5 has become a pleasantly coherent smartphone it becomes clear how consistently Google has changed the orientation of the Pixel 5. The Pixel 4 came on the market 2019 in two sizes and in two memory variants. In any case, Qualcomm’s upper-class solution Snapdragon 855 was installed as the SoC. With Face Unlock, the fingerprint reader should become history and Motion Sense promised intuitive gesture control. The main camera was designed as a dual camera solution for the first time.
Google has canceled the claim of high upper-class performance and maximum innovation in the Pixel 5. Instead, the new top model should apparently convince as a coherent and well thought-out overall package with a more attractive price. The Pixel 5 does receive 5G support, but with the Snapdragon 765 G “only” an upper middle class SoC. Face Unlock and Motion Sense have been deleted again. Instead, the fingerprint reader, believed dead, is celebrating its rebirth. And even with the material, Google seems to be taking a bit of the retro path. Instead of the currently typical glass back, the Pixel 5 has an aluminum housing – but with a few special features. At first glance, one might see these measures as a step backwards. But there are good arguments why Google is taking this route. This also applies to the elimination of the XL variant and additional storage variants – Google saves costs and keeps the portfolio clearer.
At the same time, one also addresses perhaps the biggest criticisms of the Pixel 4. The battery capacity increases dramatically: From 2. 800 mAh (or 3. 700 mAh for the Pixel 4 XL) to 4. 080 mAh. And the ultra-wide-angle camera, which many users missed, is now also available. Above all, the Pixel 5 is more attractively priced. While the Pixel 4 in the simplest configuration cost 749 euros, the Pixel 5 is available for 613, 14 Euro (with the currently reduced VAT)