Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy J5 (2016)
Starting at
£62.00
Google Pixel 3 XL
Starting at
£100.00What's the difference between the Galaxy J5 (2016) and Google Pixel 3 XL?
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2016) starts at £62, £38 less than the Google Pixel 3 XL. The Google Pixel 3 XL is the newer model, released in 2018.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8916 on the Galaxy J5 (2016), Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3 XL.
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3100 mAh.
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL specs
The Galaxy J5 (2016) and Google Pixel 3 XL differ in screen size, resolution, memory, camera features, and storage options, making each suited to different needs. The Galaxy J5 (2016) offers a smaller 5.2 inch Super AMOLED screen with 720 x 1280 resolution, suitable for everyday use and easier handling. The Pixel 3 XL has a larger 6.3 inch P-OLED display with a sharper 1440 x 2960 resolution, ideal if you prefer a roomier screen for video and photos. The Pixel 3 XL also has double the RAM and more storage options, which helps keep more apps open and store more content. Camera preferences depend on whether you prioritise front or main camera megapixels. The Galaxy J5 supports expandable storage via microSDXC, while the Pixel 3 XL uses physical SIM plus eSIM for mobile flexibility.
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL price
Colour
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- 16GBSold out
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- 128GBSold out
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL battery life and software updates
Durability covers software updates, operating system, and physical design dimensions. Dimensions and weight differ slightly, affecting how each feels in your hand.
Software Updates
This means app compatibility and security updates may not be current for either device.
Operating System
Both phones use Android, giving you access to the same app ecosystem and general interface style. Your experience will be consistent across devices with the familiar Android environment.
Physical Dimensions
The Galaxy J5 (2016) measures 145.8 mm tall, 72.3 mm wide, and 8.1 mm deep, weighing 159 g. The Google Pixel 3 XL is slightly taller at 158 mm, wider at 76.7 mm, and deeper at 7.9 mm, with a weight of 184 g. If you prefer a smaller, lighter phone, the Galaxy J5 fits more comfortably in one hand.
Battery
Foldable
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL screen
Screen differences affect how much you see and the sharpness of images. The size, resolution, and screen type influence which device suits your viewing habits best.
Screen Size
The Galaxy J5 (2016) has a 5.2 inch screen, which is easier to hold and use one-handed. The Google Pixel 3 XL offers a larger 6.3 inch screen, providing a roomier display for watching videos or browsing.
Resolution
With a resolution of 720 x 1280, the Galaxy J5 (2016) delivers clear images suitable for everyday use. The Pixel 3 XL has a much higher resolution at 1440 x 2960, which means sharper and more detailed visuals, especially noticeable on its larger screen.
Screen Type
The Galaxy J5 features a Super AMOLED screen known for vibrant colours and deep blacks, which can enhance media viewing. The Pixel 3 XL uses a P-OLED screen that also offers good colour and contrast, supporting a rich viewing experience on its bigger display.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL camera
Camera capabilities differ between these devices, impacting selfies, video calls, and photography. Front and main camera megapixels help indicate photo detail potential.
Front Camera
The Galaxy J5 (2016) has a 5 megapixel front camera, suitable for basic selfies and video calls. The Pixel 3 XL's 8 megapixel front camera captures more detail, which benefits those who prioritise higher quality selfies or clearer video chats.
Main Camera
The Galaxy J5 offers a 13 megapixel main camera, which captures detailed photos suitable for everyday use. The Pixel 3 XL's main camera has 12.2 megapixels, slightly lower in count, but both provide good photo quality for their time.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL size and design
Other differences include storage options, SIM card types, and expandable memory support, which affect how you use and customise each phone.
Storage Options
The Galaxy J5 (2016) comes with 16GB of storage and supports microSDXC cards, allowing you to expand storage easily for photos, music, and apps. The Pixel 3 XL offers larger internal storage options at 64GB or 128GB but does not support expandable memory.
SIM Card Types
The Galaxy J5 uses a physical SIM card only, while the Pixel 3 XL supports both a physical SIM and eSIM, offering more flexibility for managing mobile plans or using multiple numbers.
Weight and Size
At 159 g, the Galaxy J5 (2016) is lighter than the Pixel 3 XL, which weighs 184 g. The Pixel's larger size and weight may suit those who prefer a more substantial device, while the Galaxy J5 fits better in smaller pockets or hands.
Network Compatibility
Both phones support 4G networks and come unlocked, allowing you to choose or change your mobile carrier freely.
Carrier compatibility
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
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Width
Galaxy J5 (2016) or Google Pixel 3 XL: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy J5 (2016) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £62, £38 less than the Google Pixel 3 XL
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (13 megapixels vs 12.2 megapixels)
- you want a lighter build (158 g vs 184 g)
Buy the Google Pixel 3 XL if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3430 mAh vs 3100 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.3 inch vs 5.2 inch)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy J5 (2016) looks like new in many cases and offers good value for the price. Some report the phone runs well until the battery drops below 70 percent, and others appreciate it as a good phone for everyday use. Scratches and wear can appear depending on the condition chosen, but overall users recommend it for its price and simplicity. Some find the phone slow or experience battery drain and occasional hanging, which aligns with its 2 GB RAM and 16 GB storage.
Reviews for the Google Pixel 3 XL highlight excellent condition and reliability even years after release, with customers praising its build and performance. Some report issues with battery life and Bluetooth glitches that resolved over time. The camera is generally well received, though one user experienced a camera failure. The device's 4 GB RAM and larger storage options contribute to a smoother experience for most users. Weight and size are noted but generally accepted for the phone's features.
The Galaxy J5 (2016) suits those wanting a simpler phone with expandable storage and easier handling, while the Pixel 3 XL fits buyers who prefer a larger, sharper screen, more memory, and flexible SIM options.
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL FAQs
Galaxy J5 (2016) vs Google Pixel 3 XL comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm MSM8916 on the Galaxy J5 (2016), Qualcomm SDM845 Snapdragon 845 (10 nm) on the Google Pixel 3 XL. The Google Pixel 3 XL has more RAM: 4 GB vs 2 GB.
The Galaxy J5 (2016) is cheaper refurbished, from £62 compared with £100 for the Google Pixel 3 XL.
The Google Pixel 3 XL has a bigger battery: 3430 mAh vs 3100 mAh.
The Galaxy J5 (2016) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 12.2 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy J5 (2016) ended in Aug 2019. Updates for the Google Pixel 3 XL ended in Oct 2021. Its last version is Android 12.
Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2016) comes in 16GB, and the Google Pixel 3 XL in 64GB and 128GB.
