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Pixel 5 vs Pixel 6 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Google Pixel 6 & Google Pixel 5 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Google Pixel 6 rather than the Google Pixel 5.

Why Do I Recommend The Google Pixel 6?

  • The Google Pixel 6 has a custom-built Google Tensor chip that enables faster processing, advanced machine learning tasks, and enhanced on-device intelligence, compared to the Pixel 5’s Snapdragon 765G.
  • Google Pixel 6 features a 50 MP main camera sensor that captures significantly more detail, improves low-light photography, and enhances dynamic range, compared to the Pixel 5’s 12.2 MP sensor.
  • It features a larger 6.4-inch AMOLED display that provides a more immersive viewing experience with sharper visuals and better color accuracy, compared to the 6.0-inch OLED screen on the Pixel 5.
  • The Google Pixel 6 comes with Gorilla Glass Victus protection that improves scratch resistance and drop durability compared to the Pixel 5’s Gorilla Glass 6 front and bio-resin back.
  • Google Pixel 6 supports faster 21W wireless charging that reduces wait times when topping up the battery, while the Pixel 5 is limited to 12W wireless charging speeds.
  • It features UFS 3.1 storage that delivers faster app launches, quicker data transfers, and smoother multitasking, compared to the UFS 2.1 storage used in the Pixel 5.
  • The Google Pixel 6 includes a more premium design with a bold two-tone finish and camera bar that enhances grip and aesthetics, while the Pixel 5 has a simpler, utilitarian look.
  • Google Pixel 6 supports 5 years of security updates that extend the phone’s usable lifespan and keep it safer for longer, compared to the Pixel 5’s 3 years of updates.

Maybe the Google Pixel 5 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Google Pixel 6. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureGoogle Pixel 6Google Pixel 5
ProcessorGoogle TensorSnapdragon 765G
GPUMali-G78 MP20Adreno 620
RAM Options8 GB8 GB
Storage Options128 GB, 256 GB128 GB
Display Size6.4 inches6.0 inches
Display TypeAMOLED, HDR10+OLED, HDR10+
Glass ProtectionGorilla Glass VictusGorilla Glass 6
Refresh Rate90Hz90Hz
Rear Camera – Main50 MP, f/1.9, 1/1.31″, 1.2µm, OIS12.2 MP, f/1.7, 1/2.55″, 1.4µm, OIS
Rear Camera – Ultrawide12 MP, f/2.2, 114˚16 MP, f/2.2, 107˚
Front Camera8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm8 MP, f/2.0, 24mm
Video Front Camera1080p @ 30fps1080p @ 30fps
Battery Capacity4614 mAh4080 mAh
Wired Charging21W18W
Wireless Charging21W12W
Reverse Wireless ChargingYesYes
Fingerprint SensorUnder-displayRear-mounted
Build MaterialGlass front & back (GG Victus), aluminum frameGlass front (GG 6), aluminum + bio-resin back
Dimensions (mm)158.6 x 74.8 x 8.9144.7 x 70.4 x 8.0
Weight207g151g
5G mmWaveYesYes
Water ResistanceIP68IP68
OS at LaunchAndroid 12Android 11
OS Support Window3 years OS + 5 years security3 years OS + 3 years security
Color OptionsSorta Seafoam, Kinda Coral, Stormy BlackJust Black, Sorta Sage
PriceCheck Pixel 6 PriceCheck Pixel 5 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Operating System (Android + Updates): Both phones run stock Android with Pixel-exclusive features like Call Screen, Hold for Me, and Magic Eraser (Pixel 6 onwards). They also receive regular security and feature updates directly from Google.
  • 5G Connectivity (Sub-6 + mmWave): Each model supports 5G networks, including Sub-6 and mmWave in specific variants, ensuring fast mobile internet for streaming, gaming, and downloads.
  • Ultrawide Rear Camera: Both devices include an ultrawide secondary lens, allowing users to capture broader scenes like landscapes or group photos.
  • 8 MP Front Camera: The selfie camera on both devices has an 8 MP resolution, with support for face retouching, Night Sight, and portrait modes.
  • Rear Camera Features: Pixel 6 and Pixel 5 both support Google’s smart camera software including Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), Night Sight, HDR+, Top Shot, and Portrait Lighting.
  • Video Capabilities: Both can record 4K videos at up to 60fps using the rear camera and Full HD (1080p) videos at 30fps on the front camera, making them suitable for vlogging and content creation.
  • Wireless Charging & Battery Sharing: Each phone supports Qi wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, so users can top up accessories or other phones by placing them on the Pixel’s back.
  • IP68 Rating: Both phones are IP68-rated, which means they’re dustproof and can withstand submersion in water up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.
  • Stereo Audio Output: Dual stereo speakers ensure loud and balanced audio on both phones, enhancing media consumption and speakerphone clarity.
  • No Expandable Storage or Headphone Jack: Neither device includes a microSD slot or 3.5mm headphone jack, which means users rely on internal storage and USB-C/Bluetooth audio.
  • eSIM Compatibility: Both models support eSIM in addition to a physical nano-SIM, enabling users to use dual-SIM functionality or switch carriers more easily.
  • Titan Security Chip: Each phone includes a dedicated security chip (Titan M or M2) for hardware-based protection of sensitive data and secure boot processes.
  • Exclusive Pixel Features: Both devices include exclusive Google tools like the Recorder app with real-time transcription, Now Playing for ambient music detection, and Live Translate for real-time on-device language interpretation.

Common Features

FeatureGoogle Pixel 6Google Pixel 5
Operating SystemAndroidAndroid
5G SupportYesYes
Main Ultrawide CameraUltrawide secondary rear camera includedUltrawide secondary rear camera included
Front Camera Resolution8 MP8 MP
Rear Camera FeaturesOIS, Auto-HDR, Night Sight, Portrait ModeOIS, Auto-HDR, Night Sight, Portrait Mode
Video Recording (Rear)Up to 4K at 60fpsUp to 4K at 60fps
Video Recording (Front)1080p at 30fps1080p at 30fps
Wireless ChargingYesYes
Reverse Wireless ChargingYesYes
Water and Dust ResistanceIP68 certifiedIP68 certified
Stereo SpeakersYesYes
No microSD Card SlotNoNo
No 3.5mm Headphone JackNoNo
eSIM SupportYesYes
Titan Security ChipYesYes
Google Feature SuiteLive Translate, Recorder App, Now PlayingLive Translate, Recorder App, Now Playing
Price Check Pixel 6 Price Check Pixel 5 Price

FAQ

What processor does the Google Pixel 6 use compared to the Pixel 5?
The Google Pixel 6 uses Google’s custom-built Tensor processor, while the Pixel 5 uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G. The Tensor chip significantly improves AI performance, photography capabilities, and overall speed.

Do both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 5 support 5G?
Yes, both phones support 5G connectivity. They are compatible with both Sub-6 and mmWave 5G networks depending on the variant or region.

How do the displays differ between Pixel 6 and Pixel 5?
The Pixel 6 features a 6.4-inch AMOLED display, whereas the Pixel 5 has a smaller 6.0-inch OLED display. Both offer 90Hz refresh rates, but the Pixel 6 provides a larger and more immersive screen experience.

Is there a difference in camera quality between Pixel 6 and Pixel 5?
Yes, the Pixel 6 has a 50MP main sensor that captures significantly more detail and light, while the Pixel 5 has a 12.2MP main sensor. This gives the Pixel 6 a major edge in overall photo quality.

Do both models have wireless charging and reverse wireless charging?
Yes, both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 5 support Qi wireless charging and reverse wireless charging for charging accessories or other phones.

Which phone has better battery life, the Pixel 6 or Pixel 5?
The Pixel 6 has a larger 4614 mAh battery compared to the Pixel 5’s 4080 mAh battery. Combined with the efficiency of the Tensor chip, the Pixel 6 typically provides longer battery endurance.

How do the fingerprint sensors compare?
The Pixel 6 features an under-display optical fingerprint sensor, while the Pixel 5 uses a rear-mounted capacitive fingerprint sensor. User preference may vary, but the rear sensor is generally considered faster and more reliable.

Are both phones water and dust resistant?
Yes, both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 5 are IP68 rated, meaning they can withstand dust and water immersion up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes.

What are the design differences between Pixel 6 and Pixel 5?
The Pixel 6 has a glass back with Gorilla Glass Victus and an aluminum frame, giving it a more premium and bold design. The Pixel 5 uses a bio-resin coated aluminum back, making it lighter and more compact.

Which phone is heavier, and how does that affect usability?
The Pixel 6 weighs 207g, while the Pixel 5 weighs only 151g. The Pixel 5 is more pocket-friendly and easier for one-handed use, whereas the Pixel 6 feels more solid but bulkier.

Do both phones have stereo speakers?
Yes, both the Pixel 6 and Pixel 5 come with stereo speakers, providing balanced and immersive sound for media playback and calls.

Can I expand storage on either phone with a microSD card?
No, neither the Pixel 6 nor the Pixel 5 includes a microSD card slot. You are limited to the internal storage provided at purchase.

Do both phones support eSIM technology?
Yes, both devices support eSIM along with the standard nano-SIM, allowing for flexible carrier options and dual-SIM functionality.

How long will each phone receive Android updates?
The Pixel 6 is promised 3 years of OS updates and 5 years of security updates. The Pixel 5 offers 3 years of both OS and security updates from its 2020 release.

What colors are available for each device?
The Pixel 6 comes in Sorta Seafoam, Kinda Coral, and Stormy Black. The Pixel 5 was available in Just Black and Sorta Sage.