Guide to buying a refurbished Google Pixel 5 - WeSellTek

The Google Pixel 5 was released in 2020 as an affordable flagship smartphone with a compact design and 5G capability.

The Pixel 5 has been lauded for its superb camera performance, clean user interface and lightweight design. In fact, this smartphone has been able to provide flagship features at a lower price point thanks to Google making some clever compromises elsewhere in the device.

Our refurbished Google Pixel 5 is available in multiple colours, specs and variations which we’ll cover in more detail below.

There is a wide range of refurbished Google Pixel smartphones available which can make it difficult to find the perfect fit for you. This guide details exactly what to look for in a refurbished Google Pixel, potential issues to watch out for and what buyers can expect from this model.

Refurbished Google Pixel 5: Key features

The Google Pixel 5, despite being a compact and lightweight entry to the Pixel range, includes advanced features and cutting-edge tech that other devices usually can’t compete with at this price range. Here are some of the key features to note.

Height: 144.7 mm (5.7 inches)

Width: 70.4 mm (2.8 inches)

Depth: 8 mm (0.3 inches)

Weight: 151 g

Screen size: 152 mm (6 inches)

Screen resolution: 1080 x 2340 pixels at 432 ppi

Screen to body ratio: 85.9%

Camera: The Google Pixel 5 uses a dual camera system with a 12.2MP main camera and a 16MP ultra-wide lens. The front (selfie) camera is 8MP.

Video: The Google Pixel 5 is capable of capturing video in 4K at 30/60fps, as well as 1080p at 30/60/120/240fps.

OS: Android 11 as standard, upgradable to Android 12

Internal Memory: 128GB 8GB RAM

This handset includes a simplified (but powerful) camera setup that was received well by critics. This is combined with pre-installed editing software that provides a plethora of options to enhance your images. Simply select an image to edit and browse through the different toggles to brighten, crop and enhance your capture.

The Pixel 5 also uses Bluetooth 5.0, USB type-C, wireless charging and the Full HD Plus display for sharp visuals.

The new display provides a superior screen-to-body ratio when compared to the previous model (Google Pixel 4), which allows the Pixel 5 to offer a more compact and lightweight build.

There are only two available colours for this device:

  • Just Black
  • Sorta Sage

Refurbished Google Pixel 5 specs

The Google Pixel 5 is a compact flagship smartphone with an impressive screen-to-body ratio, powerful camera technology and all the latest features you’d expect from a top range handset.

The Google Pixel 5 measures at: 144.7 x 70.4 x 8 mm (5.7 x 2.8 x 0.3 in).

This is compared to the Pixel 4 which measures at: 147.1 x 68.8 x 8.2 mm (5.79 x 2.71 x 0.32 in)

The Pixel 5 weighs in at 151g which is slightly lighter than the Pixel 4 at 162g.

Listed below are the full dimensions of the Google Pixel 5.

refurbished pixel 5 sizes

Refurbished Google Pixel 5 Performance

A common question from refurbished smartphone customers is whether their device will work just as well as a brand new device.

We can’t speak for other providers but at WeSellTek, we ensure all android devices complete an extensive refurbishment process which includes a thorough 70 point test, battery drain test, and full clean and polish.

This means the performance of your refurbished device should be top-notch. It’s important to keep this in mind as most standard used Google smartphones will not go through any kind of testing procedure which could result in sub par performance.

Refurbished devices will be much more reliable than used devices as they have been subjected to a rigorous testing process.

When it comes to the Google Pixel 5, you can expect great performance. The device is available with one storage option of 128GB but you should also remember that the Pixel 5 does not use a MicroSD slot and therefore cannot hold any additional storage.

The Pixel 5 uses a 4,080 mAh battery that works with fast charging technology and also supports Qi wireless charging. You can expect the battery to fully recharge in just 1-2 hours.

The battery also has an endurance rating of 95h which is a solid improvement on the previous model.

The Google Pixel 5 uses the Android 11 operating system as standard which remains a very capable platform, although this can also be upgraded to Android 12 for the latest OS.

Here are some key performance details:

  • 128GB 8GB RAM
  • Always-on display
  • Wi-Fi hotspot capability
  • 5G capability
  • IP68 water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 mins)
  • (No 3.5mm jack)

Refurbished Google Pixel 5 Camera performance

The camera quality of a refurbished Google Pixel will not be impacted during the refurbishment process. All android devices are subjected to our 70-point diagnostic check, which ensures the camera is of excellent standard.

If a fault with the camera is detected during our refurbishment, the camera is replaced and retested which will ensure perfect working condition.

The Google Pixel 5 benefits from an improved and simplified camera experience when compared to its predecessor. This device uses a dual camera system including a 12.2MP main camera and a 16MP ultra-wide lens. The front (selfie) camera is 8MP.

You can expect bright and sharp snaps even in low light conditions from the Pixel 5. A big improvement on the Pixel 4 comes in the editing software provided with the device. The Pixel 5 uses a powerful and easy-to-use editing suite which can beautifully enhance your images.

Refurbished Google Pixel 5 Video performance

The video quality of a refurbished Google Pixel 5 will not be impacted during the refurbishment process, as the camera will be replaced if any issues are found. Any defects are identified and fixed to ensure that video quality and capture will be reliable, fast and good quality.

The Pixel 5 is capable of capturing video in 4K at 30/60fps, as well as 1080p at 30/60/120/240fps. The front facing (selfie) camera will only capture video in 1080p at 30fps.

Where can I buy a refurbished Google Pixel 5?

When purchasing a refurbished Google Pixel 5, or any refurbished device, it's important to use trusted providers. At WeSellTek, our customers can rest assured that we use a Google refurbishment process that is extensive and meticulous.

This means you’ll always receive a fully functioning Google Pixel smartphone with the latest technology, whether you opt for a brand new device or a slightly cheaper refurbished alternative.

Before purchasing your next handset, it’s important to understand the difference between refurbished and used devices. Refurbished smartphones follow a very comprehensive quality check process, whereas used smartphones will usually come directly from the previous owner.

Used devices will often be sold through a reseller platform such as eBay or Facebook Marketplace and in most cases, have not received any official fixes, refurbishments, blacklist or finance checks.

A refurbished device, on the other hand, will have gone through a rigorous refurbishment process which assesses the condition of all areas within the device, including; aesthetic and performance criteria. Any credited refurbishment retailer will have taken the device through a specific refurbishment process to ensure the device is not only working but safe to use.

When purchasing refurbished phones of any type, we recommend sticking to trusted providers. At WeSellTek, all products come with a 12 month warranty and no hassle 14 day returns.

It’s also worth noting that the first Google Pixel 5 devices were released in late 2020, meaning the technology is still relatively new and, thanks to being a flagship product, this smartphone can still compete with new phones being released years later.

How much does a refurbished Google Pixel 5 cost?

The price of a refurbished Google Pixel 5 will depend on its overall cosmetic condition and age.

Right now, you can pick up a refurbished Google Pixel 5 from only £349.95. This is for a standard model that’s in excellent condition, alternative conditions are available at different price points.

This is a huge saving when compared to their initial RRP of £599 and the Pixel 5’s advanced features means it could easily pass for a phone that costs twice the price. The large screen, slimline design and advanced camera features really set this device apart.

All of our refurbished androids are in perfect working condition internally but may have some external, completely cosmetic defects caused by general wear and tear and previous use. This is what affects the final price as devices with slightly more cosmetic wear will be available at lower prices.

Our Google refurbishment process ensures all Google devices have been restored to at least a cosmetically fair condition, data wiped and fully functioning. We use the same refurbishment process for every Google Pixel device.

All of our refurbished smartphones will be thoroughly tested, battery drain tested, cleaned and polished. Refurbished Google Pixel 5’s are available in good, excellent or pristine condition with WeSellTek, each of which has a different price bracket.

For a detailed description of what to expect from each of our grading criteria, here is an overview.

Does a refurbished Google Pixel 5 come with a new battery?

This is dependent on the results of our refurbishment process and whether a new battery is required. Our refurbishment guarantees that you’ll receive a long-lasting battery for your Pixel no matter what condition or options you select.

If the battery performance of a Google Pixel comes below a certain percentage during testing, then the battery will be replaced and you’ll have a brand new battery when you purchase the phone. However, if tests find the existing battery to be of a good working standard, then the battery will not require replacement.

Refurbished Google Pixel 5 battery life

The Pixel 5 uses a 4,080 mAh battery which is a big improvement compared to the 2,800 mAh battery included in the Pixel 4. Customer feedback pointed to the need for a larger battery with stronger capacity and that’s exactly what Google has provided.

The new battery is compatible with fast charging technology and also supports Qi wireless charging. You can expect the battery to fully recharge in just 1-2 hours.

The Pixel 5's larger battery and lower-power chipset contributed to a significant boost in the battery endurance over its predecessors, reaching an overall rating of 95h.

Does a refurbished Google Pixel 5 have wireless charging?

Yes, our refurbishment process will not impact the Google Pixel’s wireless charging capability. The Pixel 5 is also capable of ‘reverse’ charging another phone or compatible device via wireless technology.

Is a refurbished Google Pixel 5 5G compatible?

Yes, the standard Google Pixel 5 device is 5G ready and our refurbishment process will not impact 5G capability.

Is a refurbished Google Pixel 5 waterproof?

The Google Pixel 5 boasts an impressive water and dust resistance rating. With an IP rating of 68 (ingress protection), the Pixel 5 is water resistant up to 1.5m for 30 mins. This means you can rest easy if you accidentally drop your phone in the rain, although a sturdy case is always recommended for maximum protection from the elements.

How much storage is in a refurbished Google Pixel 5?

All of our smartphones are completely data wiped during the refurbishment process meaning there will be no existing files or applications impacting your storage. The Pixel 5 has a single storage option of 128GB and does not include a MicroSD slot for external storage.

Does a refurbished Google Pixel 5 come in its original box?

Some of our refurbished Google Pixel phones do come in their original box. However, most of our handsets are supplied in a brand new plain white box to offer the best protection during delivery.

Does a refurbished Google Pixel 5 have a headphone jack?

No, the refurbished pixel 5 does not use a 3.5mm headphone jack. This means bluetooth headphones will be required to listen to your device on the go.

Does a refurbished Google Pixel 5 have a fingerprint scanner?

Yes, the Pixel 5 features a centrally-positioned rear fingerprint sensor which is noted as being more responsive and convenient when compared to the Pixel 4's face unlock or in-display sensors.

You can expect a fully functional fingerprint sensor when purchasing a refurbished device of any kind from WeSellTek.

Does a refurbished Google Pixel 5 come with a charger?

Yes, each of our refurbished Google Pixels will arrive complete with a USB charging lead and 3 Pin UK mains plug. You’ll be able to charge your new smartphone from the moment it arrives, without needing to worry about sourcing matching chargers online.

Is a refurbished Google Pixel 5 Dual Sim?

The Google Pixel 5 uses eSIM technology. This means there are two SIM slots within the device, a physical SIM card and an eSIM. Unlike a SIM card, an eSIM is downloaded onto your device.

This means your device can be connected to multiple phone numbers and the Pixel 5 even uses ‘Dual SIM Standby’ which keeps all SIM lines active and allows you to use your different numbers concurrently (rather than switching them every so often).

Does a refurbished Google Pixel 5 come with a SIM card?

No, we do not provide SIM cards, however all refurbished Google Pixel 5’s from WeSellTek are network unlocked. This means you can simply insert any SIM card (your existing SIM if you have one) and away you go.