Google Nexus 5X review: The best value smartphone you can purchase

Looking for a phone that does not cost as much as an iPhone or a Samsung flagship? The Google Nexus 5X might be the answer. It is priced at $659 for the 16 GB model, which is more than $300 cheaper than many Apple and Samsung phones released at the same time. Yet it still offers a clean Android experience, a decent camera and a modern USB‑C port.

Design and Build

The Nexus 5X is made by LG. The front is glass, while the back is made of polycarbonate plastic. The plastic feels solid in the hand and is not cheap‑looking like some low‑end phones. The phone also has a fingerprint sensor on the back. This sensor works quickly, similar to the iPhone 6s sensor, so you can unlock the phone with a single touch.

Because the sensor is on the back, you naturally place your index finger there while holding the phone. This makes unlocking feel natural. The back also houses the 12.3 MP camera, which we will discuss later.

Display

The screen is 5.2 inches large and uses IPS technology, the same type used in the LG G4. The resolution is higher than the iPhone 6s’s 1080p display, so images look sharp. Colors are not as vivid as those on the Samsung Galaxy Note 5, but they are still clear and pleasant. When you compare the Nexus 5X side‑by‑side with a Note 5, the difference in color richness is noticeable, yet the Nexus still looks good for everyday use.

Because the display is slightly smaller than the Note 5, the phone is easier to hold with one hand. This can be a big plus for people who do not like large phones.

Camera

The rear camera is 12.3 megapixels. In bright daylight, the photos are sharp, with accurate colors and good detail. The large sensor pixels let more light in, which helps a lot in low‑light situations. In many dim rooms, the Nexus 5X can capture images that look better than those from an iPhone of the same era.

The stock Google Camera app, however, sometimes shows a white‑balance problem under indoor lighting. This means the colors can look a little off, especially when the lights are on. Users can fix this by installing a third‑party camera app, such as Manual Camera, which offers better auto mode and full manual controls.

While the camera is not as advanced as the LG G4 or Samsung Galaxy Note 5, it is still one of the best in its price range. For most everyday photos, it works well.

Performance and Software

The Nexus 5X runs Android 6.0 Marshmallow, the latest version at the time of release. Marshmallow brings small speed improvements and a cleaner look. One of the most useful new features is Google Now on Tap. To use it, press and hold the home button while an app is open. The phone will show relevant information based on what you are looking at. For example, if you see a map address, Now on Tap can instantly give you travel time, nearby restaurants, and more.

Because the phone uses “pure Android,” there are no extra skins or bloatware from manufacturers. This makes the system feel fast and simple. The experience is similar to what you would get on a Google Pixel phone, but at a lower cost.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is a mixed bag. The Nexus 5X has a larger battery than the iPhone 6s and Samsung Galaxy S6, yet heavy use can drain it quickly. In a real‑world test, the reviewer started using the phone at 6:30 am and reached a low‑battery warning by 5 pm after making calls, checking social media, messaging, and using apps.

The phone uses a USB‑Type C connector for charging. This is the newer standard that many newer phones and laptops are adopting. However, because USB‑C was still new at the time, you may need to bring your own charger when you travel.

Overall, the battery is decent for normal daily use, but power users should expect to charge before the day ends.

Who Should Buy the Nexus 5X?

If you want the most premium phone with the highest‑resolution screen, the best camera, and the fastest processor, the Nexus 5X is not the right choice. It is slower, has a lower‑resolution display, and its camera is not as strong as the Samsung Galaxy Note 5.

But if you value a clean Android experience, a good camera for the price, and a modern USB‑C port, the Nexus 5X offers excellent value. It is especially appealing to Android purists who want “pure Android” without extra manufacturer skins. Recent articles from CNET and The Guardian have called it a lightweight, affordable choice for Android fans.

In short, the Nexus 5X is the best‑value phone for people who want a reliable, everyday smartphone without paying a premium.

FAQ

Is the Nexus 5X still supported with software updates?

Google stopped official updates for the Nexus 5X in 2017. However, the phone can still run many apps and can be updated with custom ROMs if you are comfortable with that.

Can I use the Nexus 5X with a wireless charger?

No. The Nexus 5X does not support wireless charging. You need to use the USB‑C cable and a compatible charger.

Does the phone have a micro‑SD slot for extra storage?

No. The Nexus 5X comes with fixed internal storage (16 GB or 32 GB) and does not have a micro‑SD slot.

How does the fingerprint sensor compare to other phones?

The back‑mounted fingerprint sensor is fast and reliable, similar to the iPhone 6s. It unlocks the phone in a single touch and works well even when your fingers are slightly wet.

Conclusion

The Google Nexus 5X gives you pure Android, a solid 12.3 MP camera, a clear 5.2‑inch display and a modern USB‑C port—all for $659. While it is not the fastest or most premium phone, it offers great value for anyone who wants a dependable Android phone without paying a high price. If you are looking for a budget‑friendly phone that still feels modern, the Nexus 5X is worth a close look.