Tag: 5G

  • Samsung Galaxy A55 5G

    Samsung launched the Galaxy A55 5G in India in March 2024 at Rs 39,999 for 8 GB/128 GB. For the first time an A5x phone got an aluminium frame, and it introduced the Exynos 1480 with AMD-based Xclipse 530 graphics. Samsung also added its Knox Vault security hardware, previously limited to flagships.

    The 6.6-inch Super AMOLED is larger than the A54's, with 120Hz refresh and high brightness for outdoor use. The metal frame and glass back make it feel genuinely premium, though at 213 g it is heavy. The Key Island design raises the power and volume keys. Performance improves noticeably over the A54, yet the OnePlus 12R and Nothing Phone (2) still outperformed it for gaming.

    Cameras are a 50 MP main with OIS, 12 MP ultrawide and 5 MP macro, plus a 32 MP selfie camera. Night shots and video are reliable rather than exciting. Battery life from the 5000 mAh cell is strong, but 25W charging continues to lag. IP67 protection and four years of OS upgrades keep it competitive for buyers who prefer Samsung software.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 39,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2024
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.6-inch, Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2340
    ProcessorExynos 1480
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 12 MP ultrawide + 5 MP macro
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, One UI 6.1
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP67
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight213 g
    ColoursAwesome Iceblue, Awesome Lilac, Awesome Navy

    What we like

    • Aluminium frame and premium build
    • Knox Vault security
    • Bright 120Hz AMOLED
    • IP67 and long updates

    What could be better

    • Heavy
    • 25W charging
    • Faster rivals at the same price

    Who should buy it

    Samsung fans who want a premium-built mid-ranger with strong security and long support.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (March 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy A56 5G

    The Galaxy A56 5G launched in India in March 2025 at Rs 41,999 for 8 GB/128 GB. It is the most premium A-series model of its year, with the new Exynos 1580, an aluminium frame and a much slimmer profile than the A55. Samsung also extended six years of OS and security updates and brought several Galaxy AI tools to it.

    The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED runs at 120Hz with strong brightness, and the phone is noticeably thinner and lighter at 198 g. A new pill-shaped camera island matches the A36. Exynos 1580 is a clear step up over the 1480 in CPU and graphics, comfortable for gaming at medium-high settings, though rivals like the Nothing Phone (3a) Pro and OnePlus Nord 5 competed hard on price.

    Charging jumps to 45W, which is the most practical upgrade for daily use. Cameras are a 50 MP main with OIS, a new 12 MP ultrawide and a 5 MP macro, with a 12 MP selfie camera that supports 10-bit HDR video. Like the A36 it drops the microSD slot. IP67 and Samsung's after-sales network remain strong selling points.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 41,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2025
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2340
    ProcessorExynos 1580
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 12 MP ultrawide + 5 MP macro
    Front camera12 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging45W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 15, One UI 7
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP67
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight198 g

    What we like

    • 45W charging
    • Slimmer, lighter premium build
    • Six years of updates
    • Faster Exynos 1580

    What could be better

    • No microSD slot
    • Pricey against rivals
    • Macro camera is filler

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want Samsung's best mid-range phone with long support and faster charging.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (March 2025). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy M14 5G

    Samsung launched the Galaxy M14 5G in India in April 2023 at Rs 13,490 for 4 GB/128 GB, sold primarily through Amazon and Samsung's own store. It shared much of its hardware with the Galaxy A14 5G but swapped the battery for a larger 6000 mAh cell, a classic M-series move aimed at online buyers who prioritise endurance.

    The 6.6-inch PLS LCD has a 90Hz refresh rate and full HD+ resolution. It is fine indoors but less vibrant than the AMOLED screens found in the Redmi Note 12 at slightly higher prices. The Exynos 1330 chip, built on a 5 nm process, gives smooth basic performance and excellent efficiency, though it is not meant for demanding games.

    On the back is a 50 MP main camera with 2 MP depth and 2 MP macro sensors, and a 13 MP selfie camera on the front. Battery life routinely extends to two days of light use, and 25W charging support helps, though the charger was not included in the box. A headphone jack and microSD slot add practical value for the target audience.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 13,490 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.6-inch, PLS LCD, 90Hz, 1080 x 2408
    ProcessorExynos 1330
    RAM4 GB / 6 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, One UI 5
    5GYes
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursBerry Blue, Icy Silver, Smoky Teal

    What we like

    • Massive 6000 mAh battery
    • Efficient 5 nm chip
    • 128 GB base storage
    • Headphone jack and microSD

    What could be better

    • LCD screen
    • No charger in the box
    • Weak secondary cameras

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who want a 5G Samsung that comfortably lasts two days on a charge.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy M34 5G

    The Galaxy M34 5G launched in India in July 2023 at Rs 18,999 for 6 GB/128 GB, sold online. It offered features that the pricier Galaxy A series charged more for, including a 120Hz Super AMOLED display and optical image stabilisation, with Samsung's typical M-series 6000 mAh battery. It was briefly one of Samsung's best-selling online models.

    The 6.5-inch Super AMOLED screen with a waterdrop notch is bright and smooth, with Gorilla Glass 5 protection. The plastic body feels sturdy if plain. The Exynos 1280 chip handles everyday multitasking well and runs popular games at medium settings, though rivals like the iQOO Z7 and Redmi Note 12 Pro offered stronger chips at the same price.

    The 50 MP main camera with OIS is the highlight, delivering steadier video and better night shots than most phones in its segment, backed by an 8 MP ultrawide and a 2 MP macro. Samsung's Monster Shot feature captures multiple images and videos at once. Battery life is excellent, comfortably two days for moderate users, and 25W charging is supported with a charger sold separately.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 18,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.5-inch, Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2340
    ProcessorExynos 1280
    RAM6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, One UI 5.1
    5GYes
    ColoursMidnight Blue, Prism Silver, Waterfall Blue

    What we like

    • 120Hz Super AMOLED
    • OIS main camera
    • Excellent two-day battery
    • Samsung update support

    What could be better

    • Exynos 1280 trails rivals
    • No charger in the box
    • Waterdrop notch

    Who should buy it

    Online shoppers who want a Samsung with a great screen and battery under Rs 20,000.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy M35 5G

    Samsung launched the Galaxy M35 5G in India in July 2024 at Rs 19,999 for 6 GB/128 GB, through Amazon and Samsung's store. It borrowed the Exynos 1380 from the Galaxy A35 and A54, which meant a clear performance step over the M34, along with a vapour chamber for better heat management during games.

    The 6.6-inch Super AMOLED panel has a punch-hole cutout and a 120Hz refresh rate, protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+. The plastic build is functional and the phone is on the heavier side, partly due to the large battery. Exynos 1380 runs daily tasks smoothly, but the Redmi Note 13 Pro and CMF Phone 1 offered strong alternatives for less money.

    Its camera system includes a 50 MP main sensor, 8 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro, plus a 13 MP selfie camera; photos are dependable in daylight. The 6000 mAh battery lasts a very long time, and 25W charging remains slow for a cell this large. Samsung Wallet with tap-to-pay support and four years of OS upgrades added appeal for long-term users.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.6-inch, Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2340
    ProcessorExynos 1380
    RAM6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, One UI 6.1
    5GYes
    Headphone jackNo
    ColoursMoonlight Blue, Daybreak Blue, Thunder Grey

    What we like

    • Exynos 1380 with vapour chamber
    • Huge 6000 mAh battery
    • Punch-hole 120Hz AMOLED
    • Long update promise

    What could be better

    • Slow charging for the battery size
    • Heavy plastic build
    • Macro camera adds little

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want long battery life and a smooth AMOLED in a Samsung under Rs 20,000.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy A14 5G

    Samsung launched the Galaxy A14 5G in India in January 2023 at Rs 16,499 for 4 GB/64 GB. It was one of the first phones to use Samsung's own 5 nm Exynos 1330, and its main promise was reliable 5G with long software support at a price where many rivals offered only two years of updates.

    The design is plain plastic with a flat back and separate camera lenses. The 6.6-inch PLS LCD runs at 90Hz with full HD+ resolution, a solid choice for budget buyers but dimmer than AMOLED screens on the Redmi Note 12 5G. Performance from the Exynos 1330 is fine for social apps and calls; heavy games run at modest settings. A side-mounted fingerprint reader handles unlock.

    The triple rear camera is a 50 MP main backed by 2 MP depth and 2 MP macro sensors, so in practice only the main camera is worth using. The 5000 mAh battery comfortably lasts more than a day, though charging at 15W is slow. A headphone jack and microSD slot keep it practical, and Samsung's service network was a major reason it sold well in smaller towns.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 16,499 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.6-inch, PLS LCD, 90Hz, 1080 x 2408
    ProcessorExynos 1330
    RAM4 GB / 6 GB / 8 GB
    Storage64 GB / 128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP depth + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging15W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, One UI 5
    5GYes
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursDark Red, Light Green, Black

    What we like

    • Long battery life
    • Efficient 5 nm Exynos chip
    • Headphone jack and microSD slot
    • Good software update promise for the price

    What could be better

    • LCD instead of AMOLED
    • Slow 15W charging
    • Filler depth and macro cameras

    Who should buy it

    First-time smartphone or 5G buyers who want a dependable Samsung with a long-lasting battery.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy A15 5G

    The Galaxy A15 5G arrived in India in December 2023 at Rs 19,499 for 8 GB/128 GB. Its biggest step up over the A14 5G was the screen, moving to a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED at 90Hz, and Samsung also promised four generations of Android updates and five years of security patches, unusual at this price.

    Samsung's new design language with a flat frame and a raised Key Island on the side for the power and volume keys makes it look closer to the pricier A series. The MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ chip is efficient but modest, handling everyday use and light gaming without fuss. The AMOLED panel has deep blacks and good outdoor visibility compared with LCD rivals.

    Cameras include a 50 MP main with a 5 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro, a useful upgrade from the A14's depth sensor. The 5000 mAh battery delivers long endurance, and 25W charging is faster though still not quick by Indian market standards, where the Redmi Note 13 5G and Realme 11x offered more speed. The update policy remains its strongest argument.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 19,499 (base variant)
    India launchDecember 2023
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.5-inch, Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 1080 x 2340
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 6100+
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 5 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, One UI 6
    5GYes

    What we like

    • Super AMOLED display
    • Four OS upgrades promised
    • Long battery life
    • Includes an ultrawide camera

    What could be better

    • Modest processor for the price
    • 90Hz rather than 120Hz
    • Rivals charge faster

    Who should buy it

    Budget buyers who prioritise a good screen and long software support over raw speed.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (December 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy A16 5G

    Samsung launched the Galaxy A16 5G in India in October 2024 at Rs 18,999 for 8 GB/128 GB. Its headline was software: six generations of Android upgrades and six years of security updates, a promise previously seen only on flagships. It is aimed at buyers who keep a phone for many years and value support over specifications.

    The screen grows to 6.7 inches with a 90Hz Super AMOLED panel at full HD+, good for video and reading. Samsung added IP54 splash resistance, uncommon at this price, but dropped the 3.5 mm headphone jack. Performance in India comes from the Exynos 1330, which is efficient for daily tasks but clearly slower than the Snapdragon and Dimensity chips in rivals like the Redmi Note 14 or Moto G85.

    The camera setup is a 50 MP main, 5 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro, with a 13 MP selfie camera. Results are decent in daylight and average indoors. A 5000 mAh battery with 25W charging gives long endurance but slow refills. The phone is thin at about 7.9 mm and feels more premium than earlier entry-level Galaxies.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 18,999 (base variant)
    India launchOctober 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.7-inch, Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 1080 x 2340
    ProcessorExynos 1330
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 5 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, One UI 6
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo

    What we like

    • Six years of OS and security updates
    • Large Super AMOLED screen
    • IP54 splash resistance
    • Slim design

    What could be better

    • Exynos 1330 is slow for the price
    • No headphone jack
    • Only 90Hz

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a budget phone they can keep using and updating for many years.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (October 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy A25 5G

    Samsung launched the Galaxy A25 5G in India in December 2023 at Rs 26,999 for 8 GB/128 GB, alongside the A15 5G. It positions itself as a step up with a smoother 120Hz screen, optical image stabilisation and Samsung's older but proven Exynos 1280 chip, the same family that powered the Galaxy A53 and M34.

    The 6.5-inch Super AMOLED runs at 120Hz with full HD+ resolution, giving smooth scrolling and good contrast. The design matches the A15 with a Key Island on the frame and a plastic body. Exynos 1280 handles multitasking and casual gaming acceptably, but it was already aging next to the Snapdragon 7 series chips in rivals like the Redmi Note 13 Pro and Poco X6.

    The 50 MP main camera has OIS, which helps low-light photos and video stability, paired with 8 MP ultrawide and 2 MP macro sensors. The 5000 mAh battery and 25W charging give long life with average refill times. Its price was its biggest problem at launch, as the Galaxy M34 and later Galaxy F-series offered similar hardware for less.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 26,999 (base variant)
    India launchDecember 2023
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.5-inch, Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2340
    ProcessorExynos 1280
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide + 2 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, One UI 6
    5GYes

    What we like

    • 120Hz Super AMOLED
    • OIS on the main camera
    • Four OS upgrades promised
    • Good battery life

    What could be better

    • Aging Exynos 1280 chip
    • Overpriced against rivals at launch
    • No water resistance rating

    Who should buy it

    Samsung buyers who want a smooth AMOLED screen and stabilised camera on a mid-range budget.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (December 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Samsung Galaxy A34 5G

    Samsung introduced the Galaxy A34 5G in India in March 2023 at Rs 30,999 for 8 GB/128 GB, launched alongside the A54. Interestingly, it used MediaTek's Dimensity 1080 instead of an Exynos chip, which turned out to be a strong match for everyday performance and gaming at this price. That combination made it a dependable everyday pick.

    Its 6.6-inch Super AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and waterdrop notch is bright and vivid, with stereo speakers adding to the media experience. The plastic back has a glossy prism-like finish, and IP67 water and dust resistance is a real advantage in Indian monsoons, something many competitors such as the Redmi Note 12 Pro did not offer at the same level.

    The 48 MP main camera has OIS and is joined by an 8 MP ultrawide and 5 MP macro. Images are natural with Samsung's typical bright processing. A 5000 mAh battery gives very good endurance, though 25W charging is slow. With four OS upgrades promised, it became a sensible middle ground for buyers who did not want to pay for the A54.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 30,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2023
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.6-inch, Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2340
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 1080
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras48 MP main (OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide + 5 MP macro
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging25W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 13, One UI 5.1
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP67
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight199 g
    ColoursAwesome Lime, Awesome Graphite, Awesome Violet, Awesome Silver

    What we like

    • IP67 water and dust resistance
    • Smooth 120Hz AMOLED and stereo speakers
    • Capable Dimensity 1080
    • Strong battery life

    What could be better

    • Slow 25W charging
    • Plastic build
    • Waterdrop notch looks dated

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a durable, water-resistant mid-range phone with a good screen and long updates.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (March 2023). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.