Google's Pixel 4a (5G) and Pixel 5 are both 5G phones. However, since 5G comes in different varieties, it’s important to consider the capabilities of any new 5G phone before purchasing to make sure what is supported. An explanation of 5G will help shoppers understand the key factors and differences between these two new Google 5G phones.
5G is considered better than LTE as it is both faster and has wider coverage, when taken as a whole. However, the 5G specification bundles together several varieties with different strengths and weaknesses. There are two basic types, mmWave and Sub-6. mmWave offers the incredible speeds that have been touted by 5G enthusiasts, but has very short range and will take longer to reach consistent widespread coverage. In contrast, Sub-6 reaches further and is more available at the moment.
The Pixel 4a (5G) and Pixel 5 have quite a number of shared features. The OLED screens are nearly identical with the budget model measuring 6.2-inches and refreshing the screen 60 times per second. The Pixel 5 has a 90Hz refresh rate with a slightly smaller 6.0-inch display. Both offer all-day battery life and an Extreme Battery Saver option that stretches life up to 48 hours. Each is equipped with dual rear cameras, one wide, the other ultra-wide. In addition, the best Google camera features are included in both new 5G Pixel phones.
Pixel 5 Exclusives & 5G Compared
Google’s two new Pixel phones support the latest cellular network protocol, 5G. Only one model of Pixel 5 is available in the US and it works with both the mmWave and Sub-6 varieties. There are two groups of Pixel 4a (5G) models. The G025E, G025I and G025H models only support Sub-6, the slower, but more available and far-reaching type of 5G. Pixel 4a (5G) model G6QU3 supports mmWave currently, but Sub-6 will be available soon. This model works only on Verizon networks according to Google’s support page covering 5G network details.
Besides the 5G differences, the Pixel 5 has these exclusive features: waterproof (IP68), Gorilla Glass 6, aluminum body, additional 2-gigabytes RAM (8GB total), 185 mAh added battery capacity (4080 mAh total) and a faster display refresh rate (90Hz). The two phones are close enough in specs, it may have made more sense to call the lower cost model the Pixel 5a. the Pixel 5 is priced at $699, while the Pixel 4a (5G) is $499. Clearly, the Pixel 5 is worth the extra cost with its higher build quality and exclusive features. Choosing between them is really a matter of budget. The bigger concern is for those that want to save $200 with the Pixel 4a (5G) but are expecting both 5G options, as that isn’t available currently for the lower priced Pixel phone.
Source: Google