The Pixel 5 doesn’t get enough credit for making the best of a bad situation

In 2020, Google Pixel faced a challenging situation. The flagship smartphone was struggling, its central feature was compromised by the pandemic, and severe supply shortages were rampant. Releasing a smartphone in such circumstances was always challenging, but the Pixel 5 seems to have made the best of the situation. Damien Wilde, reviewing the Pixel 5, described it as an "exercise in compromise," which might have been an understatement.

On the surface, the Pixel 5 appeared to be an odd step forward after the Pixel 4 series. Its use of a plastic "bio-resin" and a less powerful chipset was unusual for a flagship device. However, it also addressed some issues from the Pixel 4, such as returning to a fingerprint sensor, packing a larger battery, and providing a more familiar experience.

Ironically, looking back today, this device aged remarkably well. It might have been better suited for the mid-range market, but it managed to excel in hardware fundamentals. The Pixel 5 felt good in its own unique way, unlike the Pixel 4a which had a similar design but lacked the same premium feel. Although the exact reasons behind Google's decision are unclear, it is believed that the Tensor was originally intended for the Pixel 5.

Even without major changes, the Pixel 5 was born out of tough circumstances, and overall, it wasn't half bad.