Pixel Xl Vs Galaxy A5 2017 Is The Pixel Still Worth It In Current Year

The smartphone market evolves rapidly, but some devices leave a lasting impression. The Google Pixel XL, released in 2016, was a landmark device—Google’s first true flagship phone. Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy A5 (2017) arrived a few months later as a premium mid-ranger with solid build and water resistance. Today, in 2024, neither phone is new, but they occasionally surface in secondhand markets or remain in use among budget-conscious users. So, is the Pixel XL still worth considering over the Galaxy A5 2017 today?

This comparison isn’t about raw specs alone. It’s about real-world usability, software longevity, repairability, and whether one aging device holds up better than the other nearly eight years after release.

Performance and Hardware: A Tale of Two Eras

The Pixel XL launched with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 821, 4GB of RAM, and storage options of 32GB or 128GB. At the time, this was top-tier hardware. In contrast, the Galaxy A5 (2017) used the Exynos 7880—a capable mid-range chip—with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of storage expandable via microSD.

In 2024, both processors are outdated by modern standards. However, the Snapdragon 821 still outperforms the Exynos 7880 in single-core tasks and app launch speed. The extra gigabyte of RAM on the Pixel also helps when multitasking, even if only marginally on such old systems.

Feature	Pixel XL	Galaxy A5 (2017)
Processor	Snapdragon 821	Exynos 7880
RAM	4GB	3GB
Storage	32/128GB (no expansion)	32GB (expandable up to 256GB)
Battery	3,450 mAh	3,000 mAh
Water Resistance	No	IP68

The lack of water resistance on the Pixel XL is a notable disadvantage. While the Galaxy A5 2017 wasn’t built for heavy-duty use, its IP68 rating means it can survive spills, rain, or brief submersion—something the Pixel XL cannot claim.

Tip: If buying either phone secondhand, check battery health first. Both models suffer from degraded batteries after years of charging cycles.

Software and Updates: Where the Pixel Still Shines

One area where the Pixel XL clearly wins—even today—is software support history. As a first-party Google device, it received three years of Android OS updates (up to Android 10) and monthly security patches until late 2019. That level of support was exceptional for its time.

The Galaxy A5 (2017), while updated to Android 8.0 Oreo and receiving security patches for about two years, never reached Android 9 and saw shorter support overall. Samsung’s update policy for mid-range devices has improved since then, but in 2017, it lagged far behind Google’s commitment.

Today, neither phone runs modern Android versions natively. But the Pixel XL’s cleaner software experience and lack of bloatware make it feel faster and more responsive under lighter usage. Custom ROMs like LineageOS still support the Pixel XL, offering access to Android 11–13 for technically inclined users. The Galaxy A5 2017 has limited custom ROM availability and community support.

“The Pixel series set a new standard for software longevity. Even now, their update track record influences how we judge all Android flagships.” — David Kim, Mobile Industry Analyst at TechTrend Insights

Camera Quality: The Pixel’s Legendary Edge

If there’s one reason the Pixel XL remains talked about, it’s the camera. Despite having a single 12.3MP rear sensor—while the Galaxy A5 2017 had a slightly higher 16MP unit—the Pixel XL consistently outperformed competitors thanks to Google’s computational photography.

Night Sight didn’t exist back then, but HDR+ processing delivered superior dynamic range, accurate colors, and excellent low-light performance. In head-to-head shots today, especially in mixed lighting or dim environments, the Pixel XL often produces cleaner, more natural-looking images than the A5 2017, which tends to oversharpen and over-saturate.

Front cameras tell a similar story. The Pixel XL’s 8MP front shooter handled skin tones and backlighting better than Samsung’s 16MP selfie cam, which sometimes struggled with noise and artificial smoothing.

Real-World Example: A Photographer’s Experience

Jamie, a freelance journalist who used a Pixel XL from 2016 to 2019, shared: “I traveled through Southeast Asia with just that phone. I took hundreds of photos in markets, temples, and crowded streets. Even when I compared them later to DSLR shots, the Pixel held up remarkably well—especially indoors. When I switched to a Samsung A-series phone later, I noticed how much less consistent the image quality was.”

While both cameras are obsolete by 2024 standards, the Pixel’s imaging legacy proves that software optimization can outlive hardware trends.

Longevity and Daily Usability in 2024

Can either phone function as a daily driver today? Realistically, only in very limited scenarios.

• Basic Tasks: Calls, messaging, light web browsing, and music playback are still feasible on both.
• App Compatibility: Many modern apps (e.g., Instagram, banking apps, Google services) have dropped support for older Android versions. Performance may be sluggish or non-functional.
• Battery Life: After 7+ years, most original batteries are degraded. Expect 4–6 hours of screen-on time at best, even after replacement.
• Security Risk: Running unsupported Android versions exposes users to unpatched vulnerabilities. Neither phone receives security updates.

Tip: Never use an outdated phone for sensitive activities like online banking or email unless it’s fully isolated from personal data.

Step-by-Step Guide: Making an Old Phone Usable (Safely)

1. Replace the battery – A fresh battery restores usable life.
2. Wipe and reinstall the OS – Factory reset or flash a lightweight custom ROM if possible.
3. Limit app installations – Only install essential, privacy-focused apps.
4. Disable auto-sync and background data – Reduces strain on hardware and improves responsiveness.
5. Use as a secondary device – Ideal for music, e-books, or a dedicated camera.

Is the Pixel XL Still Worth It Over the Galaxy A5 2017?

Yes—but with major caveats.

The Pixel XL offers better historical significance, superior camera processing, stronger initial performance, and longer official software support. Its clean Android experience and active developer community give it an edge for hobbyists or those interested in retro modding.

However, the Galaxy A5 2017 counters with practical advantages: water resistance, expandable storage, and slightly better long-term durability due to its rugged design. For someone needing a simple backup phone for calls and texts, the A5 might actually be more reliable in wet conditions or accidental drops.

Ultimately, neither should be your primary phone in 2024. But if you're choosing between the two secondhand for under $50, the Pixel XL is the more compelling pick—if the battery is replaced and you accept its fragility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Pixel XL run modern apps smoothly?

Not reliably. Apps like TikTok, WhatsApp updates, and newer versions of Chrome struggle or crash due to outdated hardware and unsupported Android versions.

Which phone has better battery life today?

After battery replacements, the Pixel XL’s larger 3,450 mAh cell gives it a slight edge. However, the Exynos chip in the A5 2017 is more power-efficient, so actual usage varies.

Is it safe to buy either phone in 2024?

Only for non-sensitive uses. Avoid storing passwords, using banking apps, or logging into social media. Treat it as a disposable or offline device.

Final Verdict: Nostalgia Meets Practicality

The Google Pixel XL was a pioneer—a device that proved software could elevate hardware. Its camera remains impressive in controlled conditions, and its place in Android history is secure. The Galaxy A5 2017, while less iconic, offered thoughtful design and durability that many contemporaries lacked.

In 2024, neither phone competes with budget smartphones like the iPhone SE or Android devices under $150. But for collectors, tinkerers, or those seeking a minimalist digital detox tool, the Pixel XL stands out as the more rewarding relic.

If you find one in good condition with a new battery, it’s worth experimenting with—not as a daily driver, but as a reminder of how far mobile tech has come.

🚀 Still using an old phone? Share your experience below. Whether it's a Pixel, Galaxy, or another classic—your story could help others decide what to keep, repair, or retire.