Does the Pixel 6a have 5G? Sub-6 and mmWave settings, defined by ScreenRant

The Pixel 6a has a Google Tensor chip, dual rear cameras and 5G support. But how that 5G works depends on where you get the phone.

The google The Pixel 6a is emerging as one of the best $500 smartphones of 2022, but like the previous Pixel 6, the phone’s 5G support has a problem. Although it is much more available today than it was a few years ago, the full status of 5G is still quite difficult. There are multiple levels of 5G networks, only a few phones will work with them all, and it’s all more confusing than anyone would like.

But things are on the rise. Today, 5G service is available all over the country, not just in major cities. Whether you’re in a small town or across the country, chances are your phone still has 5G connectivity. Likewise, 5G support on smartphones is constantly being improved. In addition to the top flagships that support 5G, the most affordable phones also work with the latest connectivity.

This is the case with the Google Pixel 6a. One of the biggest advantages of the 6a is the Google Tensor chipset, the same one used in the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro. That means the Pixel 6a has equally fast performance, the same software features (like Magic Eraser and Face Unblur), and 5G compatibility. † While it doesn’t clearly have 5G in its name as “Pixel 5a 5G”, the Google Pixel 6a does support 5G connectivity. There is only one small problem you should know.

Unlocked Pixel 6a only has Sub-6 5G

If you buy the unlocked Pixel 6a from the Google Store, this version of the phone will only work with 5G sub-6 networks. Sub-6 5G is the lowest level of 5G coverage. This isn’t a dramatic speed increase over 4G LTE, but it’s also widely available in the same areas where most LTE is already active. Verizon calls its sub-6 5G “National 5G”, T-Mobile calls it “5G Extended Range” and simply sells it as “5G” with AT&T.

What if you really need a 5G mmWave? In that case, you need to buy the Pixel 6a sold by Verizon. The Pixel 6a version of Verizon supports sub-6 and mmWave 5G, but does so at a $50 premium. Where the unlocked Pixel 6a costs $449, the Verizon Pixel 6a will set you back $499. AT&T has confirmed it will have a version of the Pixel 6a that will work with its 5G and 5G+ networks. AT&T hasn’t released pricing information yet, but it’s also expected to be more expensive than the unlocked version.

As confusing as the whole situation is, this isn’t something you need to worry too much about. If you don’t live in a big city and don’t need maximum data speed, the unlocked Pixel 6a 6 5G should be more than enough for most people. The mmWave 5G option is great, but not worth the extra R$50 and sticking to a carrier deal.