Googlr Pixel 4a 5g Review: A Budget 5G Phone

The Google Pixel 4a 5G is a budget-friendly 5G phone that's packed with impressive features. It has a 6.0-inch OLED display with a 1080 x 2220 resolution, making it perfect for watching movies or browsing the internet on the go.

The phone's camera is one of its standout features, with a 12.2-megapixel primary sensor and an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle lens. It also supports 4K video recording at 60fps.

This phone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G processor, which provides a smooth and efficient performance. The Pixel 4a 5G comes with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, making it suitable for everyday use.

The battery life of the Pixel 4a 5G is impressive, lasting up to 24 hours on a single charge.

Consider reading: Pixel 9 Features

The Google Pixel 4a 5G has a plastic back and sides, but they're textured, so it doesn't feel cheap in the hand. This texture is a nice touch, making the phone feel more premium than it actually is.

The phone's design is fairly standard, with a fingerprint sensor on the rear and a camera bump at the top-left. The fingerprint sensor is placed low enough to be easily reached, but it means you can't unlock the phone while it's face-up on a surface.

The Pixel 4a 5G's display is 6.2 inches across, making it the largest of the 2020 Pixel lineup. It uses OLED tech, which makes colors look vibrant and accurate, with a good contrast ratio.

The Pixel 4a 5G has a plastic back and sides, but they're textured, making the phone feel more premium than many other plastic phones.

It's not as luxurious as the aluminum of the Pixel 5, but it's still a comfortable phone to hold.

The rear of the phone houses a fingerprint sensor, which is relatively easy to reach, even when the phone is face-up on a surface.

However, this placement can make it inconvenient to unlock the phone without picking it up.

The phone is available in only one color option, Just Black, when buying from the Google Store, and the same is true for U.K. buyers.

Verizon offers a choice between black and white, but these colors aren't particularly vibrant.

The phone is lightweight, weighing in at just 5.9 ounces (168 grams), making it easy to carry around.

However, it's actually heavier than the Pixel 5 (151g) and Pixel 4a (143g), although the difference isn't huge.

The phone's size can make it a bit harder to use one-handed, especially for those with smaller hands.

It's worth noting that the Pixel 4a 5G is currently the smallest 5G phone on the market, although this title won't last long with the imminent launch of the iPhone 12 mini.

The Pixel 4a 5G has a 6.2-inch AMOLED display with an FHD resolution, making it the largest in the 2020 Pixel lineup.

This display is quite colorful, covering 128.3% of the sRGB color spectrum, but it can't match the Pixel 5's 90Hz refresh rate, which makes scrolling and other content more immersive.

The Pixel 4a 5G's display is actually quite bright, reaching a maximum of 638 nits with Adaptive Brightness turned on, but it can't quite match the Pixel 4a's 681-nit rating.

The display's brightness is a bit of a mixed bag - it's great indoors, but outdoors it can be tricky to see details in the bright sun, especially if you don't have Adaptive Brightness enabled.

The Pixel 4a 5G's display resolution is 1080 x 2340, which is fairly standard, but its pixel-per-inch count is fairly high due to its smaller screen size compared to other phones.

The display uses OLED tech, which means colors look vibrant and accurate, but the max brightness is a bit low compared to some other phones.

For more insights, see: Google Identity Check Pixel Phones

The Google Pixel 4a 5G has the same two rear cameras as the Pixel 5, a 12.2MP f/1.7 main camera with optical image stabilization, and a 16MP shooter with an ultra-wide f/2.2 lens.

Expand your knowledge: Pixel 2 Imei

Pictures taken with the Pixel 4a 5G seemed a little desaturated and dim compared to those from other Pixel phones.

The lack of effective AI optimization is hard to fathom, especially considering Google's strength in camera software.

In low-light settings, there's a fair amount of noise, especially for ultra-wide snaps.

Night Sight mode sometimes made a modest improvement to dark pictures, but other times had little impact.

The front-facing camera is 8MP and f/2.0, which is pretty low-res for such a camera.

Selfies looked a little better than pictures taken with the main camera, with more vibrancy.

The 12.2MP main sensor is the same one seen in every generation since the Pixel 2, and it shoots a bit warmer than previous models.

The camera spec sheet is identical to that of the Pixel 5, and it retains the same balanced yet moderately high contrast look.

The ultra-wide sensor is a 0.6X ultra-wide sensor, which is perfectly average in terms of quality.

The Pixel 4a 5G comes with three new stabilization modes, allowing you to shoot locked off shots, cinematic slow-mo pans, or extreme stabilized shots with just a few taps.

Videos actually seemed to look better than photos, with scenes appearing brighter with better contrast.

A fresh viewpoint: Pixel Watch 2

The Google Pixel 4a 5G's processor is a Snapdragon 765G, which is a 5G-ready chip that's also used in the LG Velvet and Motorola Edge. This chip is not the most powerful, but it's a good balance between performance and cost.

In terms of performance, the Pixel 4a 5G trailed behind other Snapdragon 765/765G-powered phones in our tests, including the Pixel 5, LG Velvet, and Motorola Edge. The Pixel 4a 5G's multicore score on Geekbench 5 was 1,614, which is lower than the other phones mentioned.

You won't notice a huge difference in performance for basic tasks like social media, email, and web browsing, and even demanding games like PUBG Mobile run just fine on the Pixel 4a 5G. However, it's a little disappointing that the Pixel 4a 5G appears to be at the back of the class for Snapdragon 765G-powered devices.

The Pixel 4a 5G's battery life is a bit of a mixed bag. On our battery test, it averaged 8 hours and 12 minutes, which is well below the average for smartphones. However, in daily use, the phone held up well and was often able to make it through a day without needing to recharge.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Pixel 9 Chip

The Pixel 4a 5G uses a Snapdragon 765G processor, which is a mid-range mobile processor.

It's not the most powerful chip, but it's a good option for a 5G-ready device without breaking the bank.

The Pixel 4a 5G's performance is comparable to other devices with the same chipset, like the Motorola One and LG Velvet.

However, it trails behind them in graphics testing, scoring a 2,885 in 3DMark's SlingShot OpenGL test.

In contrast, the LG Velvet scored 4,644 and the Motorola Edge scored 4,237.

But don't worry, basic apps like social media, email, and web browsing will run just fine on the Pixel 4a 5G.

Demanding games like PUBG Mobile also run smoothly, although graphics might not be as sharp as on more powerful phones.

The phone's performance is not ideal for gaming, with slow loading and occasional stuttering on more intensive titles.

It's also worth noting that the Pixel 4a 5G scored a surprisingly low 1,565 in the Geekbench 5 benchmark test.

This is one of the lowest scores we've seen, even compared to other Snapdragon 765 handsets.

In fact, the Realme 7 with a MediaTek Helio G95 processor scored slightly higher, at 1,625.

On a similar theme: Does Xfinity Mobile Have 5g

The Pixel 4a 5G has a 3,885mAh battery, which is a decent capacity but on the smaller side for a phone.

You can expect the phone to last a full day with medium and heavy use, but 4K video recording can quickly drain the battery.

The phone's battery life is admirable, and it's likely due to Google's software optimization.

However, the charging speed is somewhat slow, taking over an hour to go from zero to full charge.

The phone charges at 18W, which is slower than some other phones, but it's still faster than the iPhone SE's 5W charger.

The Pixel 4a 5G also has an Extreme Battery Saver mode that can help it last up to two days on a single charge, but you're unlikely to need it most of the time.

The Google Pixel 4A 5G is a great option for those looking for a device with 5G capabilities. The similarities between the Pixel 4A 5G and the Pixel 5 mean you can check out CNET's Pixel 5 review for more details on both phones' cameras and Android 11 software.

The Pixel 4A 5G has key spec differences that set it apart from other devices. Be sure to check out CNET's review to learn more about the camera and software features.

5G capabilities are a major advantage of the Pixel 4A 5G. This means you can enjoy faster data speeds and lower latency.

The Google Pixel 4a 5G runs on Android 11, the latest operating system from Google. Android 11 introduces some nice improvements, such as the snap of changing apps and swiping between home screens.

You can count on Android updates reaching your Pixel 4a 5G as soon as they're available, a benefit of owning a Google phone. This means you'll get the latest features and security patches right away.

One of the standout features of the Pixel 4a 5G is its Recorder app, which offers automatic transcription and editing features. With Recorder, you can even share a video of your recording, including the transcript.

A unique perspective: Pixel 9 Pro Features

The Pixel 4a 5G also has a feature called Hold for Me, which allows you to task the Google Assistant to listen to hold music on your behalf. This can be a lifesaver when you're stuck on hold for a long time.

Android 11 also introduces easy access to your Google Pay card and smart home settings, built-in screen recording, and improved typing and app prediction. These features make it easier to use your phone and get things done.

The Pixel 4a 5G has a clean and simple software experience, thanks to its "stock" Android setup. This means you won't find any bloatware or divisive design choices on your phone.

The Pixel 4a 5G has its advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider.

The Pixel 4a 5G has a clean Android experience, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and good battery life for a Pixel phone.

On the other hand, the phone has some notable cons, including slow performance and a hit-or-miss camera experience.

You should also consider that the phone has a cheap-feeling build quality, which might be a turn-off for some users.

Here's a quick summary of the pros and cons:

The Google Pixel 4a 5G is a great option for those looking for a 5G phone without breaking the bank. With a large, colorful display and a 6.2-inch screen, you'll have a great viewing experience.

Here are some of the key pros of the Google Pixel 4a 5G:

One of the standout features of the Pixel 4a 5G is its camera system, which is perfect for taking great photos day or night. With features like Night Sight, Astrophotography, and various video stabilization modes, you'll be able to capture stunning images.

The Pixel 4a 5G also offers a great display, with a 60Hz refresh rate that's not quite as fast as the 90Hz panel on the Pixel 5, but still provides a smooth viewing experience.

A unique perspective: Pixel 9 New Features

The Pixel 4a 5G isn't perfect, and there are some downsides to consider.

One of the main cons is the lack of water resistance, which means you'll need to be more careful with your phone in wet conditions.

The phone also doesn't have wireless charging, which might be a drawback for some users.

The Pixel 4a 5G is only available in one configuration, which might limit your options if you're looking for a custom phone.

Slow performance is another issue, making it less suitable for mobile gamers or those who need a phone for demanding tasks.

The camera experience can be hit-or-miss, and some users might find it disappointing.

The phone feels cheap, which might be a turn-off for some buyers.

Here are some key cons to consider:

The Google Pixel 4a 5G is available in a single configuration with 128GB of storage and 6GB of RAM.

You can buy the phone unlocked from Google, and it's also available from the Google Store tied to Verizon and Google Fi. AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon all stock the Pixel 4a 5G themselves too.

The phone is priced at $499 in the U.S., though Verizon customers will need to pay an additional $100 for the Ultra Wideband-compatible model, raising the price to $599.99.

The Pixel 4a 5G is only $20 more than the starting price of the Pixel 3a XL, which doesn't work with 5G.

Google sells the phone in a single color, Clearly White, for the Ultra Wideband-compatible model, while other models are limited to Just Black.

The official Google Pixel 4a 5G release date was October 15, 2020, although pre-orders started when the phone was announced on September 30.

The Google Pixel 4a 5G is an excellent option if you want a large-screened phone with rapid updates, as it has the largest display of Google's 2020 lineup at 6.2 inches.

It's also a great choice if you want a camera that produces pictures to rival what more expensive flagship phones are capable of, with features like Night Sight, Astrophotography, and various video stabilization modes.

However, it's not the best option if you're looking for a phone with the latest and greatest features, as it's priced awkwardly between Google's best and cheapest phones.

The Pixel 4a 5G is also a better buy than the Pixel 5 if you don't need the 90Hz refresh rate or IP68 water resistance, as it offers an excellent camera, 5G connectivity, and no real trade-off in terms of overall performance.

In fact, the Pixel 4a 5G holds up very well against the Pixel 5, and it's clear that it's the better buy.

You should buy the Pixel 4a 5G if you want a phone with great cameras, battery life, and long-term software support, but not necessarily if you're buying strictly for 5G.

It's generally a safer bet to buy based on today's tech rather than the promises of tomorrow, and the Pixel 4a 5G is a worthwhile upgrade if you're just looking for a good, affordable phone with a big screen.

You should also consider buying the Pixel 4a if you're on a tighter budget, as it offers the same core experience for 30% less.

A unique perspective: Why Google Pixel Not Popular in India

The Google Pixel 4A 5G is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable Android phone. The display size is 6.2 inches.

One of the main differences between the Pixel 4A 5G and the Pixel 5 is the display size, with the Pixel 5 sporting a 6-inch screen. This is a noticeable difference, especially for those who enjoy watching videos or browsing the web.

If you're looking for a phone with a headphone jack, the Pixel 4A 5G is the way to go, as it still features this classic feature. The Pixel 5, on the other hand, does not have a headphone jack.

Here's a quick comparison of the two phones:

The Galaxy S20 FE is a strong competitor to the Pixel 4a 5G, priced at $700 but often offered at a $100 discount. This brings it closer to the 4a 5G's price point, especially for Verizon customers.

Samsung's trade-in values are also a significant advantage, making it easy to get the S20 FE for less than the 4a 5G. With it, you get a tertiary telephoto camera and a 120Hz refresh rate.

Outside of the US, the OnePlus Nord is another option to consider, priced at €499 and offering a faster refresh rate and OnePlus's excellent OxygenOS interface.

If this caught your attention, see: OnePlus Nord 2 5G

The Pixel 4A 5G and Pixel 5 have some notable differences. The Pixel 5 has a smaller display at 6 inches, compared to the 6.2 inches on the Pixel 4A 5G.

One key difference between the two phones is the headphone jack. The Pixel 4A 5G comes with a headphone jack, which is a nice feature for music lovers. The Pixel 5, on the other hand, does not have a headphone jack.

The Pixel 4A 5G has a larger battery at 3,800mAh, while the Pixel 5 has a slightly larger battery at 4,000mAh. This could be a deciding factor for people who need a phone that lasts all day.

Another difference is the refresh rate. The Pixel 4A 5G has a 60Hz refresh rate, while the Pixel 5 has a faster 90Hz refresh rate. This could make a big difference for people who play a lot of games or watch a lot of videos on their phone.

Here are the key differences between the two phones:

The Google Pixel 4a 5G is a solid mid-range phone that offers a lot of value for its price. It continues Google's legacy of outstanding camera performance and timely software updates.

One of the standout features of the Pixel 4a 5G is its camera, which produces pictures that rival those of more expensive flagship phones. However, the camera performance was a little weak in some reviews, with pictures looking dim and dull, and specific modes not always working as intended.

The phone's design is fairly standard, with a plastic back and a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor. It's not particularly exciting, but it gets the job done. The battery life is impressive, and the phone even has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is a nice touch.

Ultimately, the Pixel 4a 5G is a fine but unexciting mid-range phone. It's not the most thrilling device, but it's a solid choice if you're looking for a mid-range 5G phone from a proven brand.

For another approach, see: Pixel Camera

User Reviews are a great way to get a feel for how a phone performs in real life. The Google Pixel 4a 5G has received positive reviews from users who have owned the device.

One user mentioned that the battery life is "perfect" for normal usage. They also praised the camera, calling it "classic". This user even went on to say they used the phone for 1.5 years without considering an upgrade, until it got stolen and they upgraded to a Pixel 7.

If you're looking for a 5G phone from Google, the Pixel 4a 5G is a solid option. It has many of the features of the Pixel 5, but at a lower price point.

The Pixel 4a 5G may not be as good a value as the Pixel 4a, but it has many of the features of the Pixel 5 for hundreds less. That makes it a better option if you want a 5G phone from Google.

The real competitor to the Pixel 4a 5G are other Google phones. In fact, the Pixel 4a 5G gets the better of any comparison to the Pixel 5.

If you want a 5G phone from Google, and can't wait for the Pixel 6 or can't get the Pixel 5a, the Pixel 4a 5G is the one to get. The Pixel 4a 5G has a camera that produces pictures to rival what more expensive flagship phones are capable of.

The phone's biggest competitor is actually the Pixel 5, not other mid-range phones. The Pixel 4a 5G holds up very well against the Pixel 5, offering excellent camera performance, 5G connectivity, and no real trade-off in terms of overall performance.

The Pixel 4a 5G is essentially a ‘lite’ version of the Pixel 5, with the same rear cameras, chipset, connectivity specs, and appearance. However, it's priced $200 less than the Pixel 5.

The camera performance of the Pixel 4a 5G is a major strength, but the phone's poor performance in general, including stuttering during use and low benchmark scores, is a notable weakness.

The Google Pixel 4a 5G is essentially a ‘lite’ version of the Pixel 5, with much more in common with the company’s newest flagship than the affordable Pixel 4a.

The rear cameras, chipset, connectivity specs, and appearance of the Pixel 4a 5G and Pixel 5 are identical, making them very similar phones.

The Pixel 4a is a little uninspiring as smartphones go, with no particular features or selling points that are particularly exciting.

The camera performance was a little weak in our experience, with pictures looking a little dim and dull, and specific modes not always working as intended.

The phone has a plastic back, rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a ‘punch-hole’ cut-out in the screen, which is a common design feature this year.

The Pixel 4a 5G doesn’t bring anything new to the party in terms of design, and its poor performance in general is a notable issue, with occasional stuttering during use.

It's not terrible, though – you get a nice, clean Android experience, with the stock operating system looking and running just as Google intended.

The battery life is also impressive for a Pixel phone, lasting a full day of use, and there's even a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature you don't see in many mid-range or top-end smartphones these days.

Despite being an ‘a’ phone from Google, which is supposed to signify affordability, this certainly isn’t what we’d call a ‘cheap’ 5G phone – you can pick up handsets with next-gen connectivity for a lot cheaper in many markets.