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Google is gearing up for a big Pixel 6 reveal later this year, but fans of affordable midrange smartphones already have reason to be excited. Now available to order, the Pixel 5a with 5G hit store shelves August 26th. It looks strikingly similar to the old Pixel 4a, although it brings with it a larger screen and some much-needed waterproofing.
If you’re looking to beat the crowds and be one of the first with Google’s latest smartphone, here’s what you need to know about securing the handheld – along with some of the changes made from the Pixel 5 to the Pixel 5a.

The Best Pixel 5a Deals

As is often the case with newly released Pixel products, the Pixel 5a can only be found on Google’s own storefront. Expect to see AT&T, Verizon, Best Buy and other popular retailers add the smartphone to their catalogs in the coming weeks.
As far the deals Google is offering, it’s pretty standard fare. You can trade in your old device and earn up to $642 in credit – although you’ll only need $449 for the Pixel 5a. For example, you can trade in your old iPhone 12 mini (64GB) to earn $357 toward your purchase or swap out your old Pixel 4a for $120 in savings.
These aren’t the most lucrative trade-in values we’ve seen, but right now they’re the cheapest way to order the Pixel 5a. You can also pick up three months of Google Fi for free – a value of $210 – when purchasing your new phone through Google. If you’re not keen on either, it might be best to wait and see if other retailers launch their own Pixel 5a promotion over the next few days.

Google Store

Remember, this sale price is only valid for customers with an eligible trade-in device. Regardless of whether you’re trading in your old phone, however, you can get three months of Google Fi for free.

google pixel 5a held in someones hand over a blue chair

Credit: Google

Pixel 5a Full Specifications

  • Display: 6.34-inch FHD+ (2400 x 1080) OLED
  • Storage: 128GB
  • RAM: 6GB LPDDR4x RAM
  • Battery: 4680 mAh
  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G
  • Rear Cameras: 12.2MP dual-pixel, f/1.7 aperture; 16MP ultrawide, f/2.2 aperture
  • Front Camera: 8MP, f/2.0 aperture
  • 5G Capable: Yes
  • Water Resistant: IP67 water and dust resistance
  • Wireless Charging: No
google pixel 5a held by woman with city behind her

Credit: Google

Pixel 5a vs. Pixel 5: What’s Changed?

Despite its affordable price, Google didn’t cut too many corners with the Pixel 5a. Many of the same features that made the Pixel 5 great have found their way to the tech giant’s latest smartphone. However, there are still a few big differences between the two products. Here’s what you should be aware of:

Pixel 5a Doesn’t Support Wireless Charging

While the Pixel 5a did pick up a slightly larger battery, it lost the ability to charge wirelessly. It’s not a huge loss, but if you’re one of the many people who love the added functionality, you might want to think twice before picking up the midrange handset.

Minor Differences in Display

Pixel 5a brings a few improvements to its display – namely, a larger 6.34-inch footprint – but also downgrades from a 90Hz refresh rate to 60Hz. It also uses lower quality Gorilla Glass than the Pixel 5, but that’s not something most users are likely to notice.

Pixel 5 is More Water Resistant

Both smartphones are water and dust resistant, but the more expensive Pixel 5 earned an IP68 rating compared to the Pixel 5a’s IP67. On paper, this means the Pixel 5 can withstand a bit more water pressure than the Pixel 5a, but in reality, it means both phones will be perfectly fine if you happen to get trapped in a summer rainstorm.

google pixel 5a in someones hands wearing a mask

Credit: Google

Wired Headphones Are Welcomed With the Pixel 5a

Still lugging around an old pair of wired headphones? Or are you an audiophile that can notice the drop in performance when using wireless earbuds? If so, consider the Pixel 5a when looking for a new phone – Google’s latest handset features an elusive 3.5mm jack.

Both Pixels Sport the Same Camera Specs

Here’s one thing that hasn’t changed – the Pixel 5a still boasts a robust camera setup. Consistently ranking as one of the best smartphones for shutterbugs, Google managed to pack some impressive lenses into the midrange handheld, although you’ll miss out on a telephoto lens. Still, there’s not much else on the market at this price point that’ll give you similar performance.

Pixel 5a is Much More Affordable

While some of the specs have changed from the Pixel 5, so too has the Pixel 5a’s price tag. At just $449, many of the cut corners immediately become more palatable. A slightly downgraded screen, a lower IPX rating and the lack of wireless charging are minor inconveniences for such a massive price drop.
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JB

Jon Bitner

Jon is a freelance writer who primarily focuses on topics related to video games, science, medicine and technology. Before starting his career as a writer he worked in the Biotechnology industry. He has a degree in Biology, and when he isn't writing he can usually be found traveling, playing video games or hunting down the latest deals.