The Ultimate Showdown: Which Google Nexus is Best?

The Google Nexus series has long been the gold standard for Android enthusiasts. With its promise of timely software updates, sleek design, and top-notch performance, it’s no wonder why fans of the platform swear by these devices. But with so many excellent options to choose from, the question remains: which Google Nexus is best? In this article, we’ll delve into the features, pros, and cons of each Nexus device to help you make an informed decision.

A Brief History of the Google Nexus Series

Before we dive into the individual devices, it’s essential to understand the evolution of the Nexus series. The first Nexus device, the Nexus One, was released in 2010 and was manufactured by HTC. Since then, Google has partnered with various OEMs, including Samsung, LG, Motorola, and Huawei, to produce a wide range of devices that showcase the best of Android.

Over the years, the Nexus series has undergone significant changes, from the screen sizes to processor power, and even the removal of the headphone jack in some models. However, one thing has remained constant – the commitment to providing users with a pure, unadulterated Android experience.

The Nexus Devices: A Comparison

In this section, we’ll examine each Nexus device, highlighting their key features, strengths, and weaknesses.

Nexus One (2010)

The Nexus One was the first device in the series, and it set the tone for what was to come. Manufactured by HTC, it featured a 3.7-inch AMOLED display, a 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, and a 5-megapixel camera.

Pros:

• Compact design
• Fast processor for its time
• AMOLED display provided vibrant colors and deep blacks

Cons:

• Limited storage capacity (512MB RAM, 512MB internal storage)
• No LED flash for the camera
• Battery life was mediocre

Nexus S (2010)

The Nexus S, manufactured by Samsung, was the second device in the series. It boasted a 4-inch Super AMOLED display, a 1GHz Hummingbird processor, and a 5-megapixel camera.

Pros:

• Sleek, curved design
• Improved display with higher pixel density
• NFC capabilities for mobile payments

Cons:

• Storage capacity remained limited (512MB RAM, 16GB internal storage)
• No significant upgrade in camera quality

Galaxy Nexus (2011)

The Galaxy Nexus, also manufactured by Samsung, marked a significant upgrade in the series. It featured a 4.65-inch Super AMOLED display, a 1.2GHz dual-core processor, and a 5-megapixel camera.

Pros:

• Larger, higher-resolution display
• Faster processor with improved multitasking capabilities
• Introduction of Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich)

Cons:

• Battery life was still a concern
• No significant improvement in camera quality

Nexus 4 (2012)

The Nexus 4, manufactured by LG, was a game-changer in the series. It boasted a 4.7-inch IPS display, a 1.5GHz quad-core processor, and an 8-megapixel camera.

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• Significant upgrade in processor power
  *Wireless charging capabilities

Cons:

• Limited storage capacity (2GB RAM, 8GB or 16GB internal storage)
• No LTE connectivity in the US

Nexus 5 (2013)

The Nexus 5, again manufactured by LG, built upon the success of its predecessor. It featured a 4.95-inch IPS display, a 2.3GHz quad-core processor, and an 8-megapixel camera.

Pros:

• Even faster processor with improved performance
• Improved camera quality with optical image stabilization
• LTE connectivity in the US

Cons:

• Battery life was still a concern
• No significant upgrade in storage capacity (2GB RAM, 16GB or 32GB internal storage)

Nexus 6 (2014)

The Nexus 6, manufactured by Motorola, marked a significant departure from the traditional Nexus design. It boasted a 5.96-inch AMOLED display, a 2.7GHz quad-core processor, and a 13-megapixel camera.

Pros:

• Larger, higher-resolution display
• Improved camera quality with dual-LED flash
• Faster charging capabilities

Cons:

• Large size may be unwieldy for some users
• No significant upgrade in storage capacity (3GB RAM, 32GB or 64GB internal storage)

Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P (2015)

The Nexus 5X, manufactured by LG, and the Nexus 6P, manufactured by Huawei, marked a significant shift in the series. Both devices featured impressive specifications, including 12.3-megapixel cameras, fingerprint sensors, and fast charging capabilities.

Pros (Nexus 5X):

• Compact design
• Improved camera quality with laser autofocus
• Faster performance with 2GB RAM

Pros (Nexus 6P):

• Larger, higher-resolution display
• Improved camera quality with laser autofocus
• Faster performance with 3GB RAM

Cons (Both):

• No significant upgrade in storage capacity (Nexus 5X: 2GB RAM, 16GB or 32GB internal storage; Nexus 6P: 3GB RAM, 32GB or 64GB internal storage)
• No wireless charging capabilities

Pixel and Pixel XL (2016)

The Pixel and Pixel XL, manufactured by HTC and Google, marked the end of the Nexus series as we knew it. Both devices featured 12.3-megapixel cameras, fast charging capabilities, and timely software updates.

Pros:

• Exceptional camera quality with Google’s image processing algorithms
• Fast performance with 4GB RAM
• Timely software updates directly from Google

Cons:

• No significant upgrade in display quality
• No wireless charging capabilities
• Higher price point compared to previous Nexus devices

Which Google Nexus is Best?

So, after examining each device in the Nexus series, which one stands out as the best? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences.

• If you’re looking for a compact design with a focus on camera quality, the Nexus 5X or Pixel may be the way to go.
• If you prefer a larger display with more storage capacity, the Nexus 6P or Pixel XL may be the better option.
• If you’re on a budget, the Nexus 4 or Nexus 5 may still be a great choice, despite their older hardware.

However, if we had to choose one device that stands out from the rest, it would be the Nexus 6P. With its impressive display, fast performance, and exceptional camera quality, it’s hard to find a better Android device.

Ultimately, the best Google Nexus is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each device, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect Android device for you.

What is the main difference between the Google Nexus 4, 5, and 6?

The main difference between the Google Nexus 4, 5, and 6 lies in their processing power, display resolution, and design. The Nexus 4 is powered by a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, while the Nexus 5 is equipped with a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor, and the Nexus 6 is powered by a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 processor. In terms of display, the Nexus 4 has a 4.7-inch HD LCD display, the Nexus 5 has a 5-inch Full HD LCD display, and the Nexus 6 has a 6-inch Quad HD AMOLED display.

Another key difference is the design and build quality. The Nexus 4 has a plastic body with a glass back, the Nexus 5 has a plastic body, and the Nexus 6 has a metal frame with a plastic back. Additionally, the Nexus 6 is significantly larger than the other two devices, making it a phablet. Overall, each device offers a unique combination of features and design that sets it apart from the others.

Which Google Nexus has the best camera?

The Google Nexus 6 has the best camera among the three devices. It features a 13-megapixel rear camera with optical image stabilization, which helps to reduce blur and shake. The camera is also capable of capturing 4K video at 30fps. Additionally, the Nexus 6 has a 2-megapixel front-facing camera, which is great for selfies and video calls.

In comparison, the Nexus 4 and Nexus 5 have 8-megapixel and 8-megapixel rear cameras, respectively, without optical image stabilization. While they can still take good photos, they may not perform as well as the Nexus 6 in low-light conditions. However, the Nexus 5 has a selfie camera with a higher resolution of 1.3-megapixel compared to the Nexus 4’s 1.3-megapixel front-facing camera.

Which Google Nexus has the longest battery life?

The Google Nexus 6 has the longest battery life among the three devices. It comes with a non-removable 3220mAh battery, which can easily last a day and a half with moderate to heavy use. The Nexus 6’s large battery size is due to its larger display and more power-hungry processor.

In comparison, the Nexus 4 has a 2100mAh battery, while the Nexus 5 has a 2300mAh battery. While these batteries can still provide a full day’s use, they may not last as long as the Nexus 6’s battery. Additionally, the Nexus 4’s battery is non-removable, while the Nexus 5’s battery is removable, giving users the option to replace it when needed.

Is the Google Nexus 4 still worth buying in 2023?

While the Google Nexus 4 is an older device, it is still worth buying in 2023 for users who want a budget-friendly Android device with a smaller screen size. The Nexus 4 is still capable of running the latest version of Android, thanks to its quad-core processor and 2GB of RAM. Additionally, its 4.7-inch display is still a great size for those who prefer a more compact device.

However, users should be aware that the Nexus 4’s processor and RAM may not be able to handle demanding tasks and games as smoothly as newer devices. Additionally, the Nexus 4’s camera and battery life may not be as good as newer devices. Nevertheless, the Nexus 4 is a great option for users who want a budget-friendly device with a smaller screen size.

Can I still get software updates for the Google Nexus 5?

Unfortunately, the Google Nexus 5 is no longer receiving software updates from Google. The Nexus 5 was released in 2013, and Google typically stops supporting devices with software updates after two to three years. This means that the Nexus 5 is no longer receiving the latest security patches and Android updates.

However, users can still install custom ROMs and kernels on the Nexus 5 to keep their device up to date with the latest Android versions. Additionally, the Nexus 5’s open-source nature means that the developer community is still actively supporting the device with custom firmware and ROMs.

Is the Google Nexus 6 too big for single-handed use?

Yes, the Google Nexus 6 is a large device that may be difficult to use with one hand. Its 6-inch display is significantly larger than the Nexus 4 and Nexus 5, making it more suited for two-handed use. While some users may be able to use the device with one hand, others may find it too large and cumbersome.

However, the Nexus 6’s size also offers advantages, such as a larger keyboard and more screen real estate for watching videos and browsing the web. Users who prefer a larger device and don’t mind using it with two hands may find the Nexus 6 to be a great option.

Which Google Nexus is best for gaming?

The Google Nexus 6 is the best for gaming among the three devices. Its quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 processor and 3GB of RAM provide a fast and smooth gaming experience. Additionally, the Nexus 6’s Adreno 420 GPU is capable of handling demanding graphics and games.

In comparison, the Nexus 4 and Nexus 5 have less powerful processors and less RAM, which can result in slower gaming performance and more lag. However, users who prefer lighter games and casual gaming may still be happy with the Nexus 4 or Nexus 5. Ultimately, the Nexus 6 is the best option for users who want a seamless gaming experience on their Android device.