The Google Pixel 5a was launched in 2021 as an affordable mid-range option with great battery life, solid camera performance, and Google’s clean Android experience. But in 2025, is it still worth buying?
According to the UpTrade Price Tracker, a Certified Refurbished Pixel 5a now starts at $130. However, Google officially ended software support in November 2024, meaning no more Android updates or security patches.
Meanwhile, the Pixel 6 has dropped to the same price point—but unlike the Pixel 5a, it’s still receiving software updates, has a much better processor, and features a more advanced camera system.
If you’re considering a budget Pixel in 2025, let’s take a closer look at how the Pixel 5a holds up today and why the Pixel 6 is the better alternative at the same price.
Google Pixel 5a in 2025: What Works & What Doesn't
The Pixel 5a was praised for its battery life, compact build, and clean Android experience. However, after Google ended software support, its value in 2025 has dropped significantly.
✅ What’s Still Good About the Pixel 5a
- ✔ 6.34-inch OLED Display – The Full HD+ OLED panel still delivers vibrant colors and deep blacks, although it lacks a high refresh rate.
- ✔ Great Battery Life – With a 4,680mAh battery, the Pixel 5a outlasts many mid-range phones, making it a good choice for long-term battery use.
- ✔ Reliable Camera Performance – The 12.2MP main sensor and 16MP ultrawide lens produce solid images with Google’s computational photography.
- ✔ Stock Android Experience – The bloat-free UI ensures a smooth and simple user experience.
❌ Why the Pixel 5a Isn’t Worth It in 2025
1️⃣ No More Software Updates
Google stopped software support in November 2024, meaning:
- ❌ No Android 15 or future updates.
- ❌ No security patches, increasing vulnerability to hacks and malware.
- ❌ App compatibility issues over time, as some apps drop support for older Android versions.
2️⃣ Outdated Snapdragon 765G Processor
The Snapdragon 765G chip was solid for mid-range performance in 2021, but in 2025:
- ❌ Slower app performance and multitasking.
- ❌ Struggles with high-end gaming and AI-based tasks.
- ❌ Less efficient compared to newer chipsets like Google Tensor.
3️⃣ Declining Resale & Trade-In Value
- With Google discontinuing software support, the Pixel 5a’s resale value will continue to drop.
- Trade-in offers for the Pixel 5a will likely be lower than for the Pixel 6.
4️⃣ Same Price as a Pixel 6, But Weaker
Why buy a Pixel 5a for $130 when you can get a Pixel 6 for the same price with much better features?
Pixel 5a vs. Pixel 6: Why the Pixel 6 is the Smarter Choice
The Pixel 6 has dropped to the same price as the Pixel 5a ($130), making it a no-brainer upgrade for those looking for better performance and long-term software support.
Pixel 5a vs. Pixel 6: Specs Comparison
| Feature |
Google Pixel 5a |
Google Pixel 6 |
| Price (Certified Used) |
$130 |
$130 |
| Software Support |
Ended Nov 2024 |
Updates until 2027 |
| Chipset |
Snapdragon 765G |
Google Tensor |
| Display |
6.34" OLED, 60Hz |
6.4" OLED, 90Hz |
| Camera |
12.2MP main + 16MP ultrawide |
50MP main + 12MP ultrawide |
| Battery |
4,680mAh |
4,614mAh |
| 5G Support |
Yes |
Yes |
Why Pixel 6 is the Better Choice at the Same Price
- ✅ Longer Software Support – The Pixel 6 will receive updates until 2027, while the Pixel 5a stopped in 2024.
- ✅ Stronger Performance – The Google Tensor chip is significantly faster than the Snapdragon 765G, offering smoother performance and AI enhancements.
- ✅ Better Camera System – The Pixel 6’s 50MP sensor produces sharper, more detailed photos with improved Night Sight for low-light photography.
- ✅ Higher Refresh Rate (90Hz Display) – The Pixel 6’s 90Hz screen offers smoother scrolling and a more fluid experience than the Pixel 5a’s 60Hz display.
How to Get the Best Deal on a Certified Used Pixel 6
If you're considering upgrading from the Pixel 5a to the Pixel 6, the best way to find a Certified Used or Refurbished Pixel 6 at the lowest price is through UpTrade’s Price Tracker. Instead of searching multiple websites, UpTrade allows you to compare real-time prices from trusted sellers like Amazon, BestBuy, and Apple—all in one place.
Why Use UpTrade?
- 🔎 Real-Time Price Tracking – Find the latest Pixel 6 pricing without manually checking different sites.
- ✅ Trusted & Verified Sellers – Only certified resellers are listed, helping you avoid scams and low-quality listings.
- 💰 Compare phones with the same standard – Although each seller has a different standard, UpTrade aligns all sellers to the same UpTrade standard (Pristine, Excellent, Good, Fair).
Steps to Buy a Certified Used Pixel 6 on UpTrade
- 1️⃣ Visit UpTrade and search for Pixel 6.
- 2️⃣ Compare listings from multiple certified resellers based on specs, condition, and price.
- 3️⃣ Choose the best deal and complete your purchase.
By using UpTrade, you can save time, get the best deal, and avoid the risks of buying from unreliable sellers.
Conclusion: Should You Buy the Pixel 5a in 2025?
❌ No – The Pixel 5a is NOT worth buying in 2025.
While the Pixel 5a was a great mid-range device when it was launched, the lack of software support, weaker performance, and lower resale value make it a bad investment in 2025. Google officially ended updates in November 2024, leaving it vulnerable to security risks and app compatibility issues.
Better Alternative: Pixel 6
- ✅ Google Pixel 6 (Starting at $130) – The best choice if you want:
- ✔ Better performance with the Google Tensor chip.
- ✔ Longer software support until 2027.
- ✔ A superior 50MP camera with Night Sight & AI-powered enhancements.
- ✔ A smoother 90Hz OLED display.
👉 Find the best deals on a Certified Used Pixel 6 today! 🚀
