Google Pixel 5 Review - Redefining the Flagship?

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This is the Pixel 5, what Google calls the Ultimate 5G Google Phone, and what I'm gonna call proof to the theory I had earlier this year. See, as I revisited the Pixel 4 XL with Android 11 in June, I came to the conclusion that Google no longer cares to compete. Forget the curves, forget the glass, forget the flagship; I think Google has realized that the number's game is unsustainable. None of it makes common sense if the phone doesn't sell.

We saw how the company tested the waters and succeeded with the Pixel 3a, and then confirmation with the Pixel 4a, but I don't think anything prepared us for what the Pixel 5 represents. See, this is not what many of us would call a flagship, but I think we all have misconception of what the word means. The OnePlus 8T is proof that you can launch a phone with all the best specs, and that doesn't guarantee the best experience. If you search for the definition of flagship, it's really just a representation of the best a company has to offer, and not necessarily a list of specs.

Google is the software company, and it seems that this is Google telling the world that you don't need to pay four figures to get a flagship experience, so long as the software is tuned right. I'm Jaime Rivera with Pocketnow, and let's find out if that's true in our review of the Google Pixel 5.

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[sellitman]

I've had my Pixel 5 for a few days now and I am thrilled with my purchase. They improved the battery, the screen refresh rate, the Ram, the video, added a wide angle lens, added water proofing gorilla glass 6, an aluminum body and wrapped it in a size that could be the most perfect fit ever and people are complaining. I don't get it. It's a wonderful phone and I look forward to using it for years with fresh software upgrades that will make my phone better year to year for the next 3. All for only $700.

[Ans.knnnnn]

Jaime switches on the Eminem mode while describing the social media handles at end of all videos !!

[BadAndy]

Love my pixel 5. Usually get a flagship but this year I wanted to finally try a google phone. Its not the best at everything but it's really good at most things.

[TheFourthWinchester]

Pixels just work. My OG Pixel is still going strong with no signs of slowing.

[moinfahad]

Saying Jaima Rivera is still the most fun part

[pedrouribe]

I think that for the price, compared to "ultras and apples" in the camera department, it's a killer phone.

[andreipop]

We need more aluminum phones. That can be used without cases. And for affordable prices.

[lost]

I will never put that ugly case on my phone

[sumitbali]

Agreed Jaime. Specs mean nothing if software is buggy and lags every now and then

[connnaz]

I switched from my note 10 plus to the pixel 5. I will miss that over saturated beautiful display of Samsung and a few other things but, I'm loving this pixel. The camera can perform amazingly with the shots that I've taken. I don't use video much or zoom so this works perfectly for me. The software works great. Even tho it's not the latest chip set, it still performs great. I really can't tell the difference in performance using this phone to my note with speed. The screen looks great on this with the 90hz, the sound quality isn't horrible with videos and phone calls and the build feels great. That little cold touch of this reminds me of my old M8 and the inspire. Some will never conciser this device because it doesn't have the top specs or display but I'm not upset with this. Even tho girlfriends 120hz display on her Samsung looks better than mine 🙄🙄 I love this device. Great review tho!

[raghudbzz]

I love the fact that pocket now is one of the few channels that include software and UI discussions in their review

[rhaibi]

I've had mine 4 days. This phone is amazing. PHENOMENAL battery, amazing camera (including video), great display, the best software experience, solid build, perfect size. The only area it lacks slightly is the speakers. This phone is an absolute home run...easily the best Pixel yet.

[SystemRichie]

I ordered my Pixel 4a since October 15th and they didn't even ship it out from Google yet. Its delayed and they're not telling me why.
*Don't order directly from Google guys* . Get it from amazon or something.

[brianwj]

I skipped the pixel 4 after loving the pixel 3xl. Now that I have the 5, I'm happy with it. It's refreshing to have a device that doesn't show finger prints or has a glass back that will brake like my pixel 3 did twice and my iphone 11 had done also. Speed has been great. I'm getting 5G on T-Mobile which isn't anything to cheer about but it doesn't suck. I was nervous about the size but it's fine. I kinda like the extra space in my pocket and this device fits in every pocket I place it in. Since it's a pixel. I have had no issues with lag or slow downs. The speakers are not good compared to most phone but coming from the 3xl to this let's me know Google just checked the box on sound and video. Not sure why we can't get a telephoto AND wide angle lens? 🤷🏾‍♂️

For the specs and the money I ma pleasantly surprised and happy with the pixel 5.

[LeeWoods]

I just received my Pixel 5 three days ago and I really enjoy using it. The only thing I'm really missing so far as a long time Pixel ussr is the squeeze functionality for Google Assistant. Some people may not like this feature and due those users they could simply disable it completely. But as someone who uses the Google Assistant frequently throughout the day I really miss the convenience.

There was some discussion about the being a back tap functionality in Android 11 beta that was removed, so hopefully it comes back and allow users to customize it for Google Assistant or other functionality.

[mohammadhamadeh]

I've been waiting for your coverage, love your videos sir ❤️

[baconfries]

Great review Jaime. As always your perspective is a much needed one when talking usage and everyday use.

[yuan-chunlo]

Just came across your video, must say I like it quite much, easy to understand and straight to the point. Keep up the great work!!

[dcltr]

Great review, had my phone almost 2 weeks now and came from a Mate 20 Pro. This is not what I'd call a flagship phone but does everything I need/want. Couldn't be happier 👍🏻

[anniieliin]

i love this review! feels modest and content. in this day and industry, it's much needed.