Best Older Google Pixel Models Still Worth Buying in 2024

Google’s Pixel lineup has long been celebrated for its exceptional camera performance, clean Android experience, and timely software updates. While newer models like the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro dominate the market, older Pixel phones remain excellent choices for budget-conscious buyers who still want premium features. These devices offer great value, especially for those who don’t need the latest hardware.

Below, we explore the best older Google Pixel models that are still worth buying in 2024, considering factors like performance, camera quality, software support, and overall value.

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1. Google Pixel 6 & Pixel 6 Pro (2021)

Why They’re Still Worth It

The Pixel 6 and Pixel 6 Pro marked a significant shift in Google’s smartphone strategy, introducing the company’s first custom Tensor chip. While not as powerful as Snapdragon or Apple’s A-series chips, Tensor excels in AI and machine learning, enhancing features like real-time translation, voice typing, and computational photography.

Key Features

• Display:
• Pixel 6: 6.4-inch FHD+ 90Hz OLED
• Pixel 6 Pro: 6.7-inch QHD+ 120Hz LTPO OLED (adaptive refresh rate)
• Processor: Google Tensor (5nm)
• RAM & Storage:
• Pixel 6: 8GB RAM, 128GB/256GB storage
• Pixel 6 Pro: 12GB RAM, 128GB/256GB/512GB storage
• Cameras:
• Pixel 6:
  • 50MP main (f/1.9)
  • 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2)
  • 8MP front (f/2.0)
• Pixel 6 Pro:
  • 50MP main (f/1.9)
  • 12MP ultrawide (f/2.2)
  • 48MP telephoto (4x optical zoom, f/3.5)
  • 11.1MP front (f/2.2)
• Battery:
• Pixel 6: 4,614mAh (18W wired, 21W wireless)
• Pixel 6 Pro: 5,003mAh (23W wired, 23W wireless)
• Software: Android 14 (with updates until October 2026)
• Extras: IP68 water resistance, under-display fingerprint sensor, wireless charging

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:
– Excellent camera performance (especially in low light)
– Smooth 90Hz/120Hz displays
– Long-term software support
– Premium build quality
– Great value for money (now significantly cheaper)

❌ Cons:
– Tensor chip is not as power-efficient as Snapdragon
– Battery life is decent but not outstanding
– No expandable storage

Who Should Buy?

The Pixel 6 series is ideal for users who want a flagship-level camera experience without paying flagship prices. The Pixel 6 Pro is the better choice for those who want a larger screen, higher refresh rate, and telephoto zoom, while the Pixel 6 is a more compact and affordable option.

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2. Google Pixel 5 (2020)

Why It’s Still Worth It

The Pixel 5 was Google’s last “compact” flagship before the shift to larger displays. It remains one of the best small premium phones available, offering a 90Hz OLED display, excellent cameras, and long-term software support in a sleek, lightweight body.

Key Features

• Display: 6.0-inch FHD+ 90Hz OLED
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G (7nm)
• RAM & Storage: 8GB RAM, 128GB storage (no expandable storage)
• Cameras:
• 12.2MP main (f/1.7)
• 16MP ultrawide (f/2.2)
• 8MP front (f/2.0)
• Battery: 4,080mAh (18W wired, 12W wireless, reverse wireless charging)
• Software: Android 14 (with updates until October 2023—last major update)
• Extras: IP68 water resistance, rear fingerprint sensor, 5G support

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:
– Compact and lightweight design
– Smooth 90Hz display
– Great battery life
– Excellent camera performance
– 5G support
– Reverse wireless charging (unique feature)

❌ Cons:
– Snapdragon 765G is outdated for heavy gaming
– No telephoto lens
– No expandable storage
– Software updates ending soon

Who Should Buy?

The Pixel 5 is perfect for users who prefer smaller phones without sacrificing performance. It’s also a great choice for those who want 5G, a clean Android experience, and a reliable camera at a lower price.

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3. Google Pixel 4a (2020) & Pixel 4a 5G (2020)

Why They’re Still Worth It

The Pixel 4a and Pixel 4a 5G were Google’s budget-friendly offerings, delivering flagship-level cameras and software at a fraction of the cost. While they lack premium features like high refresh rates and wireless charging, they remain excellent mid-range devices for everyday use.

Key Features (Pixel 4a 5G)

• Display: 6.2-inch FHD+ OLED (60Hz)
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G (7nm)
• RAM & Storage: 6GB RAM, 128GB storage (no expandable storage)
• Cameras:
• 12.2MP main (f/1.7)
• 16MP ultrawide (f/2.2)
• 8MP front (f/2.0)
• Battery: 3,885mAh (18W wired charging)
• Software: Android 14 (with updates until October 2023—last major update)
• Extras: Rear fingerprint sensor, 5G support (Pixel 4a 5G only)

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:
– Best-in-class camera for the price
– Clean Android experience with long-term updates
– Compact and lightweight (Pixel 4a)
– 5G support (Pixel 4a 5G)
– Great battery life

❌ Cons:
– 60Hz display (no high refresh rate)
– No wireless charging
– Snapdragon 765G is outdated for gaming
– Software updates ending soon

Who Should Buy?

The Pixel 4a series is ideal for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize camera quality and software experience over premium features. The Pixel 4a 5G is the better choice for those who want future-proof 5G connectivity, while the Pixel 4a is perfect for users who prefer a smaller, more affordable phone.

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4. Google Pixel 3a (2019)

Why It’s Still Worth It (For the Right Buyer)

The Pixel 3a was Google’s first true budget Pixel, offering flagship camera performance at a mid-range price. While it’s now several years old, it remains a solid choice for basic smartphone needs, especially for those who don’t need 5G or high-end performance.

Key Features

• Display: 5.6-inch FHD+ OLED (60Hz)
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 670 (10nm)
• RAM & Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB storage (no expandable storage)
• Cameras:
• 12.2MP main (f/1.8)
• 8MP front (f/2.0)
• Battery: 3,000mAh (18W wired charging)
• Software: No longer receiving major Android updates (last update: Android 12)
• Extras: Rear fingerprint sensor, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:
– Excellent camera for the price
– Clean Android experience (though updates have ended)
– Compact and lightweight
– 3.5mm headphone jack
– Very affordable

❌ Cons:
– No 5G support
– Outdated processor (struggles with modern apps)
– No longer receiving major updates
– Small battery (may not last a full day)

Who Should Buy?

The Pixel 3a is best suited for users who need a secondary or backup phone with a great camera. It’s also a good option for kids, seniors, or anyone who wants a simple, no-frills smartphone without spending much.

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Final Verdict: Which Older Pixel Should You Buy?

Model	Best For	Price Range (Used/Refurbished)	Software Support
Pixel 6 Pro	Flagship camera, premium features	$250–$400	Until Oct 2026
Pixel 6	Balanced performance, great value	$200–$350	Until Oct 2026
Pixel 5	Compact size, 5G, clean software	$150–$250	Until Oct 2023
Pixel 4a 5G	Budget 5G phone with great camera	$120–$200	Until Oct 2023
Pixel 4a	Small, affordable, great camera	$100–$180	Until Oct 2023
Pixel 3a	Ultra-budget, secondary phone	$80–$150	No major updates

Best Overall Value: Google Pixel 6

If you want the best balance of performance, camera quality, and software support, the Pixel 6 is the best choice. It offers flagship-level features at a mid-range price and will receive updates for years to come.

Best Budget Pick: Google Pixel 4a 5G

For those who want 5G and a great camera without spending much, the Pixel 4a 5G is an excellent option. It’s still capable for everyday use and will receive updates until late 2023.

Best Compact Phone: Google Pixel 5

If you prefer smaller phones, the Pixel 5 is the best older Pixel in that category, offering 5G, a 90Hz display, and great battery life in a compact form factor.

Best for Camera Enthusiasts on a Tight Budget: Google Pixel 3a

While outdated, the Pixel 3a still delivers one of the best cameras in its price range, making it a great secondary or backup phone.

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Where to Buy Older Pixel Phones

• Google Refurbished Store (best for warranties and condition)
• Amazon Renewed (reliable refurbished options)
• eBay (good for used deals, but check seller ratings)
• Swappa (trusted marketplace for used phones)
• Best Buy, Gazelle, Back Market (refurbished options with warranties)

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Conclusion

Older Google Pixel phones remain some of the best value smartphones available, especially for users who prioritize camera quality, software experience, and long-term updates. While newer models offer better performance and features, the Pixel 6, Pixel 5, and Pixel 4a series still provide excellent performance for most users at a fraction of the cost.

If you’re in the market for a reliable, well-supported Android phone without breaking the bank, any of these older Pixel models is a smart choice. Just be sure to check software update timelines and buy from a reputable seller to ensure a good experience.