With fewer attention-grabbing features than previous models, and hardware that's a distinct step down from today's flagships, the Pixel 5 is about as mainstream as Google's phones have been for some time. It still takes excellent photos, is quick enough for most users and does the basics extremely well. 5G support also ensures it's fairly future-proof - but rivals offer the tempting choice of more cutting-edge hardware or unbeatable performance. A OnePlus Nord packs almost as much punch for nearly half the price, while Samsung's Galaxy S20 5G FE gets a top-end CPU for only £100 more. For the truly budget-conscious, a Pixel 4a 5G seems to make more sense. For some, the appeal of fast and guaranteed software updates will outweigh the Pixel's limitations - but we think they'll probably be in the minority.

Consistent camera quality; Uncluttered take on Android; Gets the essentials right;

Performance only average; Hardware doesn't excite like previous Pixels; No 3.5mm jack, expandable storage;

For £599 (or $699) the Pixel 5 is a surprisingly excellent deal, especially for those who desire a smaller phone and put camera prowess over gaming performance.

Typically fantastic Pixel camera; Improved video recording features; Far better battery life than Pixel 4; Small design is refreshing; The price is great;

Design a little bland; An XL version would have been a nice option; Cameras lack the versatility of some rivals; No face unlock;

The Pixel 5 doesn't pretend to compete with the most powerful phones on the market, because it doesn't have to. It's perhaps the most balanced Android phone to date, not to mention a great choice for those after a capable small phone, 5G phone or camera phone.

Compact, clean, lightweight design; Outstanding camera features; Superb user experience;

Lacklustre loudspeaker; Finish scratches easily; Slow 'fast' charging;

Google's 2020 flagship is something of an oddball. Sure, it's a very competent phone with the power, camera, performance and build quality. But there are downsides - such as the poor ear speaker, and the larger and cheaper Pixel 4a 5G being much the same - that detract from the overall package.

IP68 dust/water protection; Great display; Plenty of power; Free from bloat; All-round camera performance;

Its larger sibling - the 4a 5G - is cheaper and much the same; Speaker quality is poor; No zoom camera;

Google goes back to its old tricks, mostly for the better

Excellent photos, especially in the dark, Clean, simple Android software experience, Good battery life

Slow image processing, The mmWave tax increases the price, Panel audio “speaker” is weak and tinny for video and games

I’m going to be totally honest with you. I don’t really understand Google’s phone strategy right now. And for what it’s worth, I’m not really sure Google does either. I wrote about it here , but I’ll save you from having to read an additional 800 words on top of all these.

Rather than raise the price and stakes, the follow-up to last year's Pixel 4 drops a few thrills, learns a few new tricks and tries to position itself as the no-compromise candidate for those who want a premium Android experience but don’t want to spend upwards of $1000. It’s a soft reboot that’s iterative and familiar enough to satisfy fans but still cheap enough to entice newcomers.

Google’s latest Pixel is more interested in being better value than just plain better.

Great price; Stunning camera; Sleek software;

Softcore specs; No Face Unlock;