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Sit down and get comfy — we've got a lot to talk about.
Google's Pixel lineup has changed and evolved a lot since its inception in 2016, with last year giving us the Pixel 4 series. In some ways, the Pixel 4 and 4 XL stood out as two of the most interesting Pixels ever — introducing 90Hz displays, dual cameras, and more. As we all know by now, however, battery life troubles held the phones back from greatness.
It's now 2020, and in the coming weeks, we're expecting the Pixel 5 to arrive. In preparation of its arrival, here's a look back at the Pixel 4, where it currently stands, and any other information you may be after.
Ready to learn more? Here's everything you need to know!
Pixel perfect
Google Pixel 4a
$350 at Amazon $350 at Best Buy
A great Pixel experience for less
With the Pixel 4 discontinued, the Pixel we recommend buying right now is the Pixel 4a. It's Google's latest budget smartphone offering, but don't let the low price fool you. The Pixel 4a is a joy to use, offering an all-around fantastic user experience without any major compromises. You can wait for the Pixel 5 if you want a proper flagship, but for most people, the 4a is more than enough.
Is Google still selling the Pixel 4?
As of August 6, 2020, the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL have both been discontinued by Google. While some retailers like Amazon are still selling the phone, the official Google Store is not and no additional inventory is being made.
It's certainly an interesting move for Google to kill the Pixel 4 less than a year after its release, though given the sooner-than-expected launch of the Pixel 5 (more on that below), it does make sense.
Have we reviewed the Pixel 4?
Before you do anything else, we recommend reading and watching our reviews of the Pixel 4 and Pixel 4 XL.
Right out of the gate, we need to warn you about the phones' battery life. It's not good. The larger Pixel 4 XL can barely make it through a full day of use, but if you opt for the baby Pixel 4, it'll become a regular occurrence to seek out a charger before you go to bed.
That's a big issue, and things aren't made better by the gimmicky Motion Sense gestures and small RAM/storage configurations considering how expensive the phones are. You will find saving graces with the camera performance, display, and design, but at the end of the day, it ultimately comes down to your willingness to put up with the battery woes.
In addition to our initial reviews, we also went back to revist the 4 XL about six months after its release. It offers a more timely look at where the phone currently stands, so be sure to give it a read.
What specs does the Pixel 4 have?
While the spec sheet for a device doesn't tell the whole story, it's still fun to look at to see all of the various technical aspects of a new phone.
Google's offering a lot of impressive stuff with the Pixel 4 and 4 XL, with some of the highlights being the 90Hz display, dual rear cameras, and Qualcomm's Snapdragon 855 processor.
Here's a miniature version of the specs, with the full sheet with every single detailed found via the below link.
| Category | Pixel 4 | Pixel 4 XL |
|---|---|---|
| Operating system | Android 10 | Android 10 |
| Display | 5.7-inch OLED, 2280x1080 (19:9) 90Hz |
6.3-inch OLED, 3040x1440 (19:9) 90Hz |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Pixel Neural Core |
Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Pixel Neural Core |
| RAM | 6GB | 6GB |
| Storage | 64/128GB | 64/128GB |
| Expandable | No | No |
| Rear camera 1 | 12MP, 1.4µm, f/1.7, OIS, PDAF | 12MP, 1.4µm, f/1.7, OIS, PDAF |
| Rear camera 2 | 16MP telephoto, 1,0µm, f/2.4, | 16MP telephoto, 1.0µm f/2.4 |
| Battery | 2800mAh Non-removable |
3700mAh Non-removable |
Google Pixel 4 & 4 XL Specs: 90Hz display, Motion Sense, and questionable batteries
How does the Pixel 4 compare to other phones?
The Pixel 4 and 4 XL can look like incredible phones in a bubble, but how do they stack up when you start comparing them to the virtually endless competition that exists? We've compared both models with some of the best handsets the market has to offer, allowing you to see how Google holds up to the other options that are out there.
On the Samsung front, the Galaxy S20+ is a striking alternative to the Pixel 4 XL. It is more expensive, but it also offers a more impressive display, performance, and has battery life that isn't absolute trash. Plus, with Samsung's recent commitment to three years of software updates, it's a better Pixel competitor than ever before.
There's also the iPhone 11, which somehow manages to be cheaper than the Pixel 4 and offer just as high-end of an experience. You don't get a 90Hz display or Android, but it's an interesting phone to consider if you're open to the Apple ecosystem.
Is the Pixel 5 coming soon?
As mentioned above, we're expecting the Pixel 5 to arrive very soon. Rumor has it that the phone will be launched on September 30, making it the earliest in the year that Google has ever launched its flagship Pixel.
Even more interesting is the approach Google's reportedly taking with the Pixel 5. Based on everything we know so far, it'll have a lower-end Snapdragon 765G processor, is ditching the Pixel 4's face unlock system for a traditional fingerprint sensor, and will only be available in one size with no XL model. There will also be two cameras, though the telephoto is being replaced by an ultra-wide sensor.
Google Pixel 5: News, Leaks, Release Date, Specs, and Rumors!
What Pixel 4 accessories are there?
While the Pixel 4 and 4 XL are solid devices on their own, thee's no denying that they can be made better with the right accessories.
Sure, the back glass looks good, but it takes just one good drop for it to become a shattered mess. The display is also wildly impressive, but some of the wow factor is bound to go away once it becomes littered with scratches.
There are a lot of options out there when it comes to things like cases, screen protectors, etc., so we've rounded up our favorite picks to make your shopping experience as easy as possible.
Pixel 4
- Best Pixel 4 Accessories in 2020
- Best Pixel 4 Screen Protectors in 2020
- Best Pixel 4 Cases in 2020
- Best Wireless Chargers for Pixel 4 in 2020
Pixel 4 XL
Should I get the Pixel 4a instead?
If the Pixel 4 is discontinued and the Pixel 5 isn't out yet, which phone should you get if you're hankering for a Pixel? The answer is simple — Pixel 4a!
The Pixel 4a is Google's latest budget Pixel, and it offers a very similar experience found with the Pixel 4 for a lot less money. It has solid performance, an OLED display, the exact same 12MP primary camera, and the excellent Pixel software you've come to know and love. Oh, and battery life is actually really reliable.
You'll want to wait for the Pixel 5 if you want features like wireless charging, water resistance, and a more capable processor, but if those things don't really matter to you, the Pixel 4a is a wonderful little handset.
Pixel perfect
Google Pixel 4a
$350 at Amazon $350 at Best Buy
A great Pixel experience for less
With the Pixel 4 discontinued, the Pixel we recommend buying right now is the Pixel 4a. It's Google's latest budget smartphone offering, but don't let the low price fool you. The Pixel 4a is a joy to use, offering an all-around fantastic user experience without any major compromises. You can wait for the Pixel 5 if you want a proper flagship, but for most people, the 4a is more than enough.
by Joe Maring