Google Pixel Slate i5 A Comprehensive Review and Buying Guide

Introduction

The Google Pixel Slate i5 is a premium 2-in-1 tablet that combines the power of a laptop with the flexibility of a tablet. Designed to compete with the likes of the Apple iPad Pro and Microsoft Surface Pro, the Pixel Slate offers a sleek design, powerful performance, and a user-friendly interface. In this detailed guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the Google Pixel Slate i5 including its specifications, features, performance, and whether it is the right choice for you.

Google Pixel Slate i5: Key Specifications

Before diving into the features and performance, let’s take a look at the key specifications of the Google Pixel Slate i5:

Design and Build Quality

The Google Pixel Slate i5 features a premium anodized aluminum body, giving it a sleek and stylish look. It is ultra-thin and lightweight, making it ideal for portability. With a 12.3-inch Molecular Display, it offers stunning 3000×2000 resolution, ensuring crisp visuals and vibrant colors.

The bezels around the display are slightly thick compared to modern ultra-slim designs, but they provide a comfortable grip when using the device in tablet mode. The power button at the top doubles as a fingerprint scanner, enhancing security and ease of access.

Performance and Speed

Processor and RAM

The Intel Core i5-8200Y processor, paired with 8GB of RAM, delivers solid performance for multitasking, web browsing, and productivity tasks. While it is not a high-end gaming processor, it handles Chrome OS efficiently, providing a smooth experience with multiple apps and browser tabs open.

Storage and OS Optimization

With 128GB SSD storage, users get fast boot-up times and quick file access. However, for users who require additional space, cloud storage options like Google Drive are a great alternative.

The Chrome OS is lightweight and well-optimized, ensuring that the device remains fast and responsive over time. It supports Android apps via the Google Play Store, allowing users to run a variety of applications beyond web-based tools.

Display and Visual Experience

The 12.3-inch Molecular Display is one of the standout features of the Pixel Slate i5. With a 3:2 aspect ratio and 3000×2000 resolution, the display provides sharp details and excellent color reproduction.

Features of the Display:

• High Pixel Density (293 PPI) for ultra-sharp visuals
• Wide color gamut for rich and accurate colors
• Brightness levels that make it easy to use outdoors
• Anti-reflective coating to minimize glare

This display makes the Pixel Slate perfect for watching movies, editing photos, and reading eBooks.

Battery Life and Charging

Google claims the Pixel Slate i5 offers up to 12 hours of battery life, making it an excellent choice for work, travel, and entertainment. Real-world usage may vary, but most users report getting between 8-10 hours with mixed usage, which is still impressive.

The device features USB-C fast charging, which can charge the battery up to 50% in just 30 minutes. This is a great feature for those on the go.

Keyboard and Accessories

While the Google Pixel Slate i5 is a powerful tablet on its own, adding the Pixel Slate Keyboard (sold separately) transforms it into a full-fledged laptop replacement.

Pixel Slate Keyboard Features:

• Backlit keys for comfortable typing in low-light conditions
• Ultra-responsive trackpad for precision control
• Magnetic attachment for a secure connection
• Multiple angles for flexible viewing positions

For creative users, the Pixelbook Pen (sold separately) is an excellent stylus for sketching, note-taking, and digital artwork.

Audio and Sound Quality

The dual front-facing speakers on the Google Pixel Slate i5 provide rich, loud, and clear audio. Compared to many other tablets, the sound quality is superior, making it great for watching videos, listening to music, and video conferencing.

For private listening, the device supports USB-C audio or wireless Bluetooth headphones.

Software and Features

The Chrome OS on the Pixel Slate offers several benefits:

• Fast and secure updates directly from Google
• Android app support via Google Play Store
• Google Assistant integration for voice commands
• Split-screen multitasking for productivity
• Linux support for developers who need a command-line interface

Pros and Cons of Google Pixel Slate i5

Pros:

✅ Premium design and build quality
✅ Sharp 12.3-inch Molecular Display
✅ Smooth performance with Intel Core i5
✅ Long battery life with fast charging
✅ Supports Android and Linux apps
✅ Detachable keyboard and stylus support
✅ Front-facing stereo speakers

Cons:

❌ Expensive accessories (keyboard & stylus sold separately)
❌ No traditional headphone jack
❌ Chrome OS has limitations for professional software (e.g., full Adobe Suite, AutoCAD)
❌ No microSD card slot for expandable storage

Is the Google Pixel Slate i5 Worth Buying?

The Google Pixel Slate i5 is an excellent choice for users looking for a premium 2-in-1 Chrome OS device. It is ideal for:

• Students who need a lightweight device for studying and taking notes
• Professionals who want a productivity-focused tablet
• Casual users who need a sleek, high-performance tablet for entertainment

However, if you need a device for heavy gaming, video editing, or professional-grade software, a Windows laptop or MacBook might be a better option.

Final Verdict

The Google Pixel Slate i5 is a powerful, versatile, and beautifully designed device that bridges the gap between tablets and laptops. While it comes with some limitations, it excels in display quality, battery life, and performance for everyday tasks. If you are looking for a premium Chrome OS device, this could be the perfect choice for you. Would you consider buying the Google Pixel Slate i5, or do you have any questions about its features? Let us know in the comments!