Cell phone Samsung A 5. Smartphone Samsung Galaxy A5 (2017) Black (SM-A520F) - Reviews. Samsung Galaxy A5 SM-A500F: reviews

Samsung Galaxy A5 is a simplified copy of the flagship S7. The model was created specifically for those users who do not want to purchase an expensive new product. The device is equipped with many useful functions, an excellent display and at the same time can give odds to many competitors from the average price category.

Model
Dimensions, weight	146.1 * 71.4 * 7.9 mm, 159 grams
Screen	5.2" capacitive touch screen Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels
OS	Android version 6.0.1
Chipset	Exynos 7880, 1.9 GHz, eight cores
GPU	Mali 830MP3
RAM/ROM	3/32GB + card support available microSD memory up to 256 GB (dedicated card slot)
Interfaces	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1, GPS, LTE, NFC
Cameras	Main: 16 MP, f/1.9, front: 16 MP, f/1.9
battery	Lithium-ion, 3000 mAh

Design and management

A distinctive feature of the Samsung Galaxy A5 2017 is the volumetric glass surface and solid metal frame. Thanks to these innovations, the smartphone began to look much sleeker than the previous revisions of 2015 and 2016. On a surface back cover There are small bends, so the device lies very comfortably in the hand. The device should be especially praised for that the camera module no longer protrudes from the housing. You can safely place your phone on a table without fear of scratching the optics.

The color scheme is standard: black, blue, gold and pink. Each of the designated colors has its own unique shade. The case can hardly be called thin, but it does not look or feel bulky; rather, it is very elegant, comfortable and well thought out. The weight of the device is also not surprising, considering protection from water and dirt.

Samsung Galaxy A5

Important! The smartphone has IP68 level protection. This means that, despite interesting design, the device is able to survive a fall into a puddle or onto asphalt. The function is very rare in smartphones of this class, but in demand.

Button layout Samsung control The Galaxy A5 is slightly different than last year's models. For example, the speaker moved to the right side. Whether it is convenient or not, everyone will decide for themselves. User reviews claim that this is just a matter of habit.

The design of the device remains true to classical ideas. This is a typical candy bar, made with taste and care. You want to pick up the phone, and its shape is pleasing to the eye.

Screen Features

Samsung smartphone Galaxy A5 2017 is equipped with SuperAMOLED display. Last year's revision of the model also had a similar screen. The screen size is 5.2 inches, which seems quite small these days.

As for the screen characteristics, there can be no complaints here. Brightness can be adjusted either automatically or manually. Automatic settings capable of “machine learning”, adapting to the user’s habits. The screen can be changed according to your taste and discretion: colors, layout of the main controls, customization of themes and much more. Another positive feature of the Samsung Galaxy A5 phone is excellent screen readability. The display does not fade in the sun even under direct rays.

The smartphone has on board popular AoD option. Thanks to this “trick,” the device always leaves the screen on, spending virtually no energy on powering it. This happens due to switching to display mode, similar in principle to a monochrome reader. Accidental pressing will not activate the screen; to do this, you will need to type the appropriate command or enter graphic key. Basic information displayed: clock, date, messages from some instant messengers, etc.

Important! The surface of the screen is covered with durable tempered glass, resistant to scratches. If you carry the device in your pocket with keys and coins, the screen will remain intact thanks to effective protection.

The screen is one of the strengths of the model. Intelligent brightness adjustment for the user, excellent color rendition, good readability and AoD make the device one of the most attractive in its category.

Memory and performance

The characteristics of the Samsung Galaxy A5 2017 inspire optimism. The device is built on the company's own processor, Exinos 7880, and the popular Mali T830 video adapter. However, the technical process used to manufacture the central chip responsible for performance is outdated (14 nm). Maximum frequency eight cores is 1.9 GHz. Many new games will launch and you can play them safely. Of course, it’s better to forget about maximum settings, but you can count on stable FPS without drops in most team battles.

There is no such thing as too much RAM – this opinion is shared by both users and manufacturers. This is probably why the engineers equipped the device with 3 GB of RAM. The phone has 32 GB of internal memory. For those who like to store all their photos on their device, this may not seem enough. Especially for such users there is possibility of memory expansion up to 256 GB inclusive thanks to the card.

The graphical shell is optimized and does not consume many resources, so the available parameters are quite sufficient for comfortable work. The owner will not have to see the browser pages freezing and the desktop scrolling frame-by-frame. Lazy menu and other flaws graphical shell clearly bypassed the model in question.

In benchmarks, the device gains just over 60 thousand points. This is a standard indicator for a mid-level smartphone. The phone's hardware capabilities are enough to solve all basic user tasks.

operating system

The Samsung Galaxy A5 review continues with the software theme: operating system, on which he works. Initially it was Android 6 version with a slightly modified interface. The developers have worked hard and made some changes to familiar things. However, those who are accustomed to using the flagship Samsung line will probably not feel any difference: they have a completely identical shell installed.

The amount of pre-installed software is small, there are no advertising products, most non-system applications can be removed.

In addition to Google Play, there is Samsung's own application store. The performance of the system is respectable: the smartphone quickly boots up from scratch, quickly picks up the network and registers with it.

Important! Thanks to a well-thought-out curtain, access to main applications has become faster. It only takes a couple of clicks to get to the hidden panel icons.

Call and sound quality Samsung Galaxy A5 2017 phone supports two SIM cards in nano-SIM format . Both SIM cards will be able to function in fourth generation networks. The speed of Internet traffic transmission depends entirely on the operator’s bandwidth. cellular communications

. Wi-Fi works great, the speed is fast and stable, and the phone can easily download and play high-definition video streaming. allows you to exchange data much faster. As for navigation, everything is not so simple here. Satellites are caught quickly, but communication with them is not always stable. Fans of contactless payments will be delighted the presence of NFC and the option “ Samsung Pay».

The conversational microphone and speaker do their job perfectly. The phone's speaker, although not the loudest, is of very high quality. In addition, the user is unlikely to miss a call if the speaker volume is set to maximum. The equalizer settings in the built-in player are enough to enjoy acceptable sound. It won't reach the level of a dedicated DAC and a quality headset for the price of an average smartphone, but overall it's very good.

Battery and autonomy

Installed on the Samsung Galaxy A5 2017 smartphone battery size 3000 mAh. This, according to the developer, can be enough for 16 hours of continuous conversation in 3G networks. Of course real figure will be slightly lower than this figure. On average, about 10-12 hours.

Important! A nice innovation is that the phone has fast charging. Thanks to this function, the gadget can be recharged in 1 hour 20 minutes, which guarantees uninterrupted operation.

In general, the autonomy of the device shows fairly average performance. With moderate Internet/calls/games/messenger load, the phone lasts for one working day. But even despite the small margin of autonomy, the user does not live “from socket to socket.” The gadget almost always survives until the evening, when it can be charged.

Camera specifications

The Galaxy A5 smartphone has in its arsenal as many two 16 megapixel cameras. The quality of the pictures is slightly different, but this is due more technical features and the location of the modules themselves.

The main camera produces slightly clearer images thanks to the optical stabilizer. A wide range of settings allows you to customize your photography session to suit your needs.

Front-camera does not have a flash. In addition, the focus still remains fixed, which is not very convenient when taking a self-portrait. However, thanks to a system of filters and other effects, you can take a very nice selfie to please yourself and your friends.

Conclusion

The gadget turned out to be very interesting. It stands out significantly in its class thanks to the unique functions it inherited from the flagship. Interesting and attractive design, successful ergonomics, protection from dust and moisture - the device manages to combine several advantages. The price at the time of sales ranged from 25,990 to 27,990 rubles. It is quite obvious that in 2018, due to the popularity of Samsung, they will release a new revision of this model.

waterproof;
beautiful body;
strong glass protecting the screen;
there is NFC;
high-quality assembly;
high performance;
fast charging.

small battery capacity;
front-camera no flash;
high price at the start of sales.

Samsung Galaxy A5

Specifications

Android 4.4.4, TouchWiz shell
Screen 5 inches, SuperAMOLED, 1280x720 pixels, 294 ppi, light and proximity sensor
Metal, non-separable body
Supports two nanoSIM cards, one radio module
Front camera 5 megapixels, main camera 13 megapixels with autofocus, video recording 1080p (30 frames per second)
Chipset Snapdragon 410 – MSM8916, four A53 64-bit cores, frequency up to 1.2 GHz
RAM 2 GB, internal memory 16 GB
LTE cat. 4, GPS/A-GPS/Glonass
BT 4.0 LE, WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, USB 2.0, microUSB, NFC
Battery Li-Ion 2300 mAh
Dimensions - 139.3x69.7x6.7 mm, weight - 123 grams

Contents of delivery

Telephone
Charger with USB cable
Instructions
Pin for opening the SIM card tray
Wired stereo headset

Positioning

IN Samsung review A3, we looked into the reasons for the appearance of this line of devices, its positioning within Samsung, and also why it can be considered created to compete with the iPhone of previous generations. I see no point in repeating myself; I refer you to the appropriate section of the review.

Within the A line, the A5 model occupies the middle position, below is the A3, the review of which you have already seen, above is the A7 with a 5.5-inch screen and best characteristics, which has not yet been announced. You can consider the A7 as a phablet version with a missing stylus and a metal body.

The A5 model is entering the market at a new price due to the dollar exchange rate, which makes it unprofitable compared to previous models even in its own line, for example, the Galaxy S4 or something similar. At the end of December, Samsung will revise prices for the entire model range, so we can expect the entire market to adjust its prices by 10-15 percent upward in January. There are unlikely to be exceptions. Until this moment, the cost of the A5 will look out of line with the logic of the market and price segments; moreover, the model will be noticeably more expensive than its analogues in Samsung line. This is not the company’s positioning at all, but the fact that all new models are being released taking into account new prices. Here you need to decide whether you are looking for the best price/quality ratio or are you looking at the model itself, its design and contents.

The A5 model, in the full sense of the word, is a fashion device; it is not a device for those who are looking for the best price/quality ratio. Unlike the A3, which can be recommended as a phone for calls, this model should be considered as a device for full-time work, both on the Internet and for conversations. An ordinary smartphone that has a completely metal body.

Design, dimensions, control elements

The design of all A-series devices is absolutely the same, there is no difference from each other. The other day it became known that Samsung had been striving for the maximum output of high-quality cases for a long time; the rejection rate was very high. If you believe these rumors, then the company took this process as responsibly as possible, and therefore the quality of assembly and materials does not cause any complaints.

The metal frame goes around the body, everything here is similar to the Samsung Alpha or Note 4, the edges are exactly the same, they play in the light the same way. But the entire back panel is made of metal, although it is painted in the color of the body. It has several recesses for antennas, but they are not visible due to uniform painting. This is a conscious decision, since the same iPhone uses either a plastic insert (like the iPhone 6) or an insert on the back panel (like the iPhone 5/5s), which stands out from the design of the device. Samsung considered that the appearance of the device should be uniform, and achieved this with this approach.

The color options for the A5 are quite varied - initially the devices will appear in white, black, blue, gold and pink, and other options may appear later. In terms of colors, the model is completely similar to the A3, it has the same set of color solutions.

The white color has a pearlescent tint, it is not matte, and plays well in the light. An attempt to deliberately scratch it shows that scratches appear, but they are not visible unless you look closely.

The fact that Samsung decided to paint the sides of the device in the color of the body, and not leave them entirely metal, has already caused idle speculation about the Note 4; some people “saw” that it was plastic covered with foil; they looked at the 3.5 mm jack, in which they also saw plastic. Both in the Note 4 and in the entire A-series, it is an all-metal frame several millimeters thick. There is no plastic here; the A3/A5 also has a metal back, and is quite durable and massive. The device will easily survive falls, but I haven’t tried it with such a fashionable bend - with force, any metal device can be bent, the only question is what kind of force it will be. In A5 you have to try very hard to bend the device.

By squeezing the phone in your hands, you will not be able to achieve any crunches or any play. Nothing. The assembly, as usual, is excellent, and there is nothing to complain about. The phone dimensions are 139.3x69.7x6.7 mm, weight - 123 grams. Noticeably larger than the A3, but it fits well in the hand and looks average in size for the modern market. It's convenient to use.

Compared to Apple iPhone 5

Compared to Samsung Galaxy S5

Compared to Meizu MX4

The control elements are located traditionally, the paired volume key is on the left side, and the on/off button is on the right. There are also two slots for nanoSIM cards, one slot also has a combined holder for a microSD card. The device has two microphones, they are located at the ends. At the bottom end there is a regular microUSB connector, as well as a 3.5 mm jack for a headset or headphones.

The front camera is located above the screen, and there is also a light sensor and a proximity sensor. Below the screen there are two touch buttons and one mechanical button.

Display

Unlike the A3, where the screen has only qHD resolution at 4.5 inches, there is a SuperAMOLED display with a diagonal of 5 inches and HD resolution (294 ppi). The picture is more contrasty, of higher quality and not bad in every sense. You will see the difference only when compared with older models, which have a FullHD matrix or QHD screens. As usual, there is a maximum number of settings, you can adjust the color scheme and the like.

When automatically adjusting the brightness of the backlight, you can see that it is not always maximum; it can often seem dim. On the other hand, this level is optimal and ensures fairly long operation on a single charge.

Battery

The Li-Ion battery built into the case has a capacity of 2300 mAh, which, by modern standards, is quite a bit. Video playback time is about 12.5 hours (in A3 10.5 hours), which is better than usual in devices from Samsung, where this figure is about 10 hours. With actual use of the phone, you can achieve two days of reliable operation with an hour of calls, two dozen messages, a couple of hours of listening to music. Under a very heavy load, the device will only work for one day, but for example, under the same load, the S5 will run out at about one o'clock in the afternoon. The use of an optimized chipset makes itself felt; this is a new generation device in terms of improved operating time. Although it all depends on what and how you use it, how you configured all the parameters.

The total battery charging time is just under two hours. Fast charging technology, like in Note 4, is not supported here.

Memory, RAM, chipset and performance

In most markets, a model with LTE support will be presented; it is the highest in cost and is built on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 410 chipset – MSM8916, four A53 64-bit cores, frequency up to 1.2 GHz. This chipset is one of the best in the mid-price segment, it is quite productive, and at the same time offers good characteristics for reasonable money. Volume random access memory- 2 GB, built-in - 16 GB, of which approximately 12 GB is available to the user. Memory cards are supported up to 64 GB, which will be enough for most.

The A-series devices are unusual in that it is impossible to use two SIM cards and a memory card at the same time. The second slot can accommodate either a memory card or a SIM card, but not both at the same time. Therefore, you will have to determine what is more important to you - this should be kept in mind when you choose a device.

In synthetic tests, this chipset does not show maximum results, but this does not affect performance in any way; everything works quite well and quickly.

On the plus side, I note that the chipset allows you to achieve a long operating time on a single charge, unlike models of the previous generation.

Communication capabilities

Everything is quite typical, USB version 2, there is support for NFC, Ant+, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0 LE, built-in LTE modem supports LTE Advanced Cat.4.

Camera

The front camera does not have autofocus, but has a resolution of 5 megapixels, which is not bad.

The main camera is 13-megapixel, its characteristics are similar to the cameras that were in last year’s flagships, it produces good picture quality, as you can see for yourself. But in the dark, the camera, like previous models, does not shoot very well.

Sample pictures:

Software

The device has the last one Android version 4.4.4, with the TouchWiz shell, it also latest version, as on the company's flagships. There are almost no differences from the same S5, so I refer you to the corresponding part of the review.

Unlike top models, there is a built-in FM radio, which looks like a nice bonus.

Unlike the A3, where the RAM capacity of 1 GB did not allow the implementation of many features that have become standard for Samsung phones, this device can be downloaded from Samsung App Store apps like S Health, child mode and others, even if they are not preinstalled initially.

If in A3 the quick menu in the curtain was stripped down and there were no icons, then here everything is in place.

Themes change not only the wallpaper, but also the icons in the menu.

You can see the remaining screenshots from various menus.

Photos in the interior

Specifications

Android 6.0.1 with Clean UI, upgrade to Android 7
Screen 5.2 inches, SuperAMOLED, FullHD, 424 ppi, automatic brightness adjustment, automatic brightness adjustment to suit your habits, color profiles, Corning Gorilla Glass 4, AlwaysOn Display
Chipset Exynos 7880, 8 cores up to 1.9 GHz (Cortex A53), GPU Mali-T830MP3
3 GB of RAM, 32 GB of internal memory (about 23 GB of memory is available to the user out of the box)
Battery Li-Ion 3000 mAh, fast charging, operating time in mixed mode - 2 days (test result), in 3G/4G data transfer mode - 13/16 hours, video playback - up to 19 hours, talk time - up to 16 hours
Installing two nanoSIM cards, as well as a microSD memory card (up to 256 GB)
Front camera 16 megapixels, f/1.9, facial enhancements (eyes, skin color, face tone)
Main camera 16 megapixels, f/1.9, LED flash, autofocus
Two microphones, noise reduction system
IP68 water protection, up to 30 minutes at a depth of 1.5 meters
FM radio
Fingerprint sensor located on the front panel
USB Type C 1.0
4G FDD LTE - B1(2100), B2(1900), B3(1800), B4(AWS), B5(850), B7(2600), B8(900), B17(700), B20(800), B28 (700); 4G FDD TDD - B38(2600), B40(2300), B41(2500)
GPS, GLONASS, Beidou
ANT+, 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac 2.4+5 GHz, NFC, USB 2.0, Bluetooth 4.2
Sensors – accelerometer, barometer, fingerprint scanner, gyroscope, geomagnetic sensor, Hall sensor, proximity sensor, light sensor
Samsung Pay
Color options: black (Black Sky), gold (Gold Sand), blue (Blue Mist), pink (Peach Cloud)
SAR value – 0.52 W/kg (head), 1.39 W/kg (body)
Dimensions – 146.1x71.4x7.9 mm, weight – 159 grams

Contents of delivery

Smartphone
Charger with USB Type C cable
Instructions
Wired stereo headset
"Paper clip" for removing the SIM tray

Positioning

Samsung decided that the A-series should offer models in the mid-price segment, and the model range is built based on the size of the phones: smaller screen - smaller index. From this logic it is clear that A3 is the smallest device, and A7 is the largest, while A5 is exactly in the middle. From sales of the A-series in 2016, it is known that the A5 and the 5-inch smartphone form factor became the most popular; this device sold significantly better than others.

A-series models have become iconic for the market and their price segments; during the transition from the first to the second generation, their sales in Russia increased noticeably.

But the most important thing is that these devices can be perceived as somewhat simplified versions of the company’s flagships in terms of filling, but not at all simplified in terms of materials. Not all buyers need the features of flagships; they are willing to spend 2-3 times less money, but get a decent, reliable device.

Considering that Samsung directly competes with Apple in the market, to some extent the A-series is a response to the old iPhone models that are still on the market. So, the 2017 A5 is a clear competitor to the iPhone 6/6s, which also costs less. Comparing with the famous Chinese, we will get competitors from their line with similar positioning, for example, this could be Huawei Nova.

The 2017 A5 model was created for those who want to buy a smartphone from a major manufacturer (read, brand), and at the same time get a good set of characteristics, decent performance and quality materials. To some extent, the 2017 A5 can be considered a universal smartphone that can safely claim to be a business model. It is balanced in its capabilities, is not the most expensive, and, accordingly, it is not a flagship. This is a very smart choice for those who are used to counting money and are buying a smartphone for a long time. In my opinion, the 2017 A5 will become a bestseller in its price segment, as it offers a number of unique finds that other companies do not have. However, let's talk about this in detail.

Design, dimensions, control elements

In the A-series, the design is to some extent inherited from older models, the same body materials, no noticeable simplifications or savings. The A5 model looks expensive and stylish, regardless of what color you choose. There are four color options in total; there are no pink phones in Russia yet.

I have a black A5, it is classic and looks good. The mirror surface reflects the surrounding world, plays in the light, the device looks very interesting, and hand marks are practically invisible. I’ll add here that the screen with a splash screen can always work (AlwaysOn Display function), which none of the competitors have. In the end, we get an unusual device that has no analogues on the market; it can be distinguished from any other at first glance.

If we talk about which color is the best, then I like blue, it is a delicate shade, very unusual, perfect for girls, however, look for yourself.

Please note that the front and back panels in one color, as well as the side metal edging (6000 series aluminum). The device also looks good in pink, but it is definitely only for girls.

The gold phone is somewhat rustic, but everyone has their own tastes.

The fact that the device has a glass back and front does not hinder it at all, since Corning Gorilla Glass 4 is quite reliable and protected from accidental falls, although depending on your luck. This device is completely identical in mechanical protection to the Galaxy S6 EDGE, the quality is at the same level. I once recorded a video about how this phone survives collisions with sharp objects or asphalt, you can watch this video.

The innovation of the A-series in 2017 was water protection, which was taken from the S7/S7 EDGE, the implementation is exactly the same. The SIM card tray is protected by rubber gaskets, the microphones and speakers are protected by membranes, the protection level is IP68, which allows the phone to be kept at a depth of 1.5 meters for up to half an hour. This does not mean that the phone needs to be washed under water, much less with soap or something similar. But if you drop it in water, nothing will happen to it. There are practically no models with water protection in this price segment.

Now about the control elements. Under the screen there is a mechanical key, a fingerprint sensor is included in it, it is simplified compared to the S7/S7 EDGE, it works a little slower, but there are no problems because of this. Good decision, which just works. On either side of it are two touch keys.

On the left side there are two volume keys, on the right side there is an on/off button. There is a microphone at the bottom and top ends, there is a noise reduction system, it does its job perfectly: you can be heard well in any conditions, even when the wind blows strongly in your face.

At the bottom end there is also a 3.5 mm jack for a headset or headphones and a USB Type C connector for charger. On the upper end and left side you can see trays, in the upper one a nanoSIM card and a memory card are installed, in the lower one there is a second nanoSIM card. In the A3, for example, installing two SIM cards and a memory card is impossible; it has a combined slot.

The speaker is located on the right side surface, due to this it can overlap in the pocket, and it will not be heard very well. The speaker itself is average in volume, but very pleasant.

The phone dimensions are 146.1x71.4x7.9 mm, weight is 159 grams. Compact, fits perfectly in the hand due to the small roundness of the body at the back. Not slippery, although from the photographs many people think that it should slip out of their hands, but this does not happen. This size is one of the most popular on the market and is liked by most buyers.

Compared to Samsung Galaxy A3 2017

Display

The presence of a SuperAMOLED screen has always been an advantage of the A-series, specifications This display is as follows: 5.2 inches, SuperAMOLED, FullHD, 424 ppi, automatic brightness adjustment, automatic brightness adjustment to suit your habits, color profiles, Corning Gorilla Glass 4, AlwaysOn Display.

For my taste, the screen quality is excellent for its class, it has a large brightness reserve automatic mode, the display is easily readable in the sun, just like the previous year’s model (in the S7 EDGE the screen has greater brightness, and as a result, it is even better in the sun).

The screen has an AlwaysOn Display option, that is, you can see application icons, clocks or pictures all the time, the screen operation does not drain the battery much, in 12 hours it’s a couple of percent. Until now, this function has not been widely available in the mid-price segment, which makes the 2017 A5 stand out and puts it on par with Samsung flagships.

In terms of all its characteristics, the screen in the 2017 A5 outperforms its competitors; there is nothing better in this segment. As a result, this is one of the strengths of the model. I also like the fact that they brought here automatic brightness adjustment to suit your preferences; in the first two weeks the phone “gets used to” you and is adjusted to your taste.

Battery

Built-in Li-Ion battery has a capacity of 3000 mAh, supports fast charging (1 hour 20 minutes). Built-in wireless charging, which is flagship models, there is no.

In mixed mode, the device lives quietly for two days with 3-5 hours of screen operation, data transmission in LTE and two hours of calls.

Play unconverted video in HD quality in MX Player at maximum brightness - up to 19 hours! This is an excellent indicator considering the size of the battery; many Chinese show comparable results on a 5000 mAh battery.

The operating time of the 2017 A5 becomes its strong point; even with a heavy load, it will not be possible to discharge it faster than in a day; on average, this is two days. Those who use only calls can easily count on 5-6 days of work; of course, it all depends on the operator and the number of these calls. But in general, we can state the fact that operating time is the strong point of this model.

Traditionally, there is a power saving mode, when the screen backlight and processor frequency are limited. In this mode, many will not experience problems with the operation of the device, but the operating time will increase by at least 20 percent. In maximum energy saving mode, everything on the screen turns gray, and the device can provide hours of operation even with a small charge.

Communication capabilities

GPS/GLONASS works perfectly, a cold start takes about ten seconds, navigation works perfectly, there are no problems. By the way, this distinguishes A-brands from many Chinese companies, where the implementation of antennas is such that you can expect anything from typical functions.

Another strong point is the support of almost all necessary LTE frequencies, here the device also shows its strengths (analogs in this price segment cannot boast of this; as a rule, they save on antennas).

Finally, the device has NFC and ANT+ support, which will appeal to those who use sports sensors. Bluetooth version 4.2.

If we talk about Wi-Fi, then it uses 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac 2.4+5 GHz, there is a repeater mode (distributing a Wi-Fi signal to other devices as an access point).

The version is USB 2.0, but the USB Type C (1.0) connector is used, so fans of modern connectors will be happy; for the rest, it’s time to come to terms with the transition to the new standard.

Memory, RAM, performance

Samsung uses its own chipsets in A-series models, which can be considered a plus; they are improving year by year. For example, in 2016, chipsets in the A-series were made at 28 nm, now it is 14 nm, which gives an increase in performance and operating time. The chipset in the A5 2017 is Exynos 7880, 8 cores up to 1.9 GHz (Cortex A53), Mali-T830MP3 graphics processor.

In synthetic tests, this processor performed well. In real life, everything also works perfectly, you will not feel any shortcomings in performance, the model is at the same level, and the safety margin will last for at least a couple of years.

The device has 32 GB of internal memory (23.1 GB available), memory cards can be up to 256 GB. 3 GB of RAM, which is enough for most consumers. And given the screen resolution, everything becomes very good, this solution is balanced, and there are no noticeable compromises.

Camera

The front camera is 16 megapixels (f/1.9), as usual, there is no autofocus, so it’s worth finding the distance from which the pictures are best taken, this is about half a meter, that is, an outstretched arm. The quality of the front camera is good, but don't expect anything special from it; after all, the main camera is better. There is a traditional improvement in skin color and tone, you can enlarge your eyes, and at the same time make your face thinner. Girls will definitely like these “improvements”.

The main camera is 16-megapixel (f/1.9), of course, there is autofocus, as well as additional shooting modes, including PRO, but it differs from the flagships, since the camera is simpler. This camera is on par with the best Chinese manufacturers or a little better, that is, it gives good, rich pictures during the day and indoors; in the dark it is not so good, but this is generally typical for this segment. There is no 4K mode when recording video, but it is unlikely that consumers of this device need it so much, since recording regular FullHD video will completely satisfy them.

Look at the examples of pictures and videos, I think they will all tell you about the quality of the camera.

Software

The model was originally released on Android 6.0.1, but many interface elements are similar to what we see in Android 7 and Clean UI on S7/S7 EDGE. I advise you to read about what appeared in Android 7, since this model will soon receive this version of the OS.

I won’t describe the standard Android functions; you can read about them in a detailed review.

Unlike top models, there is a built-in FM radio, which looks like a nice bonus.

When using KNOX, you can install any program in duplicate, for example, install two WhatsApp messengers on one device and use them for each SIM card (two numbers, two messengers). You can even correspond with yourself. Exactly the same trick can be done with any software; not a single phone allows you to simultaneously work with two instant messengers on one device with different numbers. Today, many Chinese manufacturers offer something similar in their smartphones, but the implementation is different everywhere.

Of course, this model supports the Samsung Pay service.

I will not dwell on standard software from Samsung, for example, S Health, you can find relevant articles on our website.

Impression

The vibration alert is average, the ringer volume is also average - perhaps I would like there to be more headroom, but the phone is still audible, and you can feel it in your pockets when it vibrates. Most likely, there is no reserve in terms of volume, but how will anyone perceive this moment? The device cannot be called quiet.

I liked the 2017 A5, as well as this entire series, and the previous models. Strengths remained exactly the same - excellent materials and design of the case, bright and eye-catching design, which is complemented by AlwaysON Display; competitors have nothing like that. When choosing between models in this series, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that the 2017 A3 is aimed at those who make more calls, spend less time online, and watch movies. An excellent compact phone with a long battery life, I’ll talk about it in a separate review.

You can choose the 2017 A7 for its screen size, 5.7 inches versus 5.2 in the A5. However, in other respects these devices are almost similar, everything is the same. In the table you can see how all A-series devices differ.

The price of the 2017 A5 in Russia is 27,990 rubles; for comparison, the previous year’s model costs 21,990 rubles. In my opinion, the advantage of the 2017 device is obvious: IP68 protection, AlwaysOn Display, updated Android and new operating modes, increased battery life, better performance. In a word, it’s worth finding the money and buying an updated model; it will definitely last longer.

Oddly enough, in model range Samsung has another competitor for this device, the Galaxy S6, a two-year-old flagship that today sells for 30,000 rubles. It doesn't have memory cards or water protection, but it does support Gear VR, which the 2017 A5 doesn't have. Usually previous flagships act as stronger models than the current one middle class, but in comparison of these devices everything is not so simple; I would still recommend the A5 2017.

In the Apple line there is an old iPhone 6, its 16 GB version costs 28,990 rubles (refurbished device) or more than 35,000 rubles. In my opinion, it does not have any advantages, it loses in terms of screen, memory, and service life; there is no protection from water even close. In a word, here you are only buying a brand name and quite old hardware with the worst prospects for updates in the short term. If you want an iPhone, look at the new models, but be prepared to pay more.

A good alternative is the Huawei Nova; this 5-inch model also has 3 GB of RAM, a fingerprint sensor, a similar battery, and comparable cameras. But IPS screen, something to keep in mind, there is also no water resistance, and of course there is no Samsung Pay. The price of this device is 23,000 rubles, which is noticeably cheaper and quite justified, taking into account other characteristics. But the performance of the device is not bad and it looks good.

If you look at models with water protection, then nothing but Sony Xperia X Performance doesn't come to mind. But the price of this device in federal networks is 40 thousand rubles; it belongs to a completely different class of devices, as evidenced by the use of Snapdragon 820. At the same time, other characteristics are very similar to the A5 2017, so they can be compared. It is more profitable to purchase the A5, since Sony does not have any special advantages at a higher price. The model is already a year old, now it will be replaced by an updated version, it will be shown in the coming days. But the price will not be lower, and as a result, it will not be able to become a competitor.

With your permission, I will not take into consideration a huge bunch of Chinese models, after all, their positioning is completely different, these are C-brands with all the ensuing consequences. Samsung has come up with a very interesting, high-quality model that will become a bestseller in the mid-price segment. This device looks good, lasts a long time and offers a set of features that will satisfy anyone who is not ready to buy flagship products. The phone has its own face, moreover, it is easy to remember. You should definitely take a closer look at this device if you are looking for a 5-inch Android smartphone.

Mid-segment smartphone with excellent characteristics and design from Korean manufacturer Samsung– Samsung Galaxy A5. The device was released in 2015 and has been updated twice since then. Thus, now you can find two versions of the A5 model on sale - 2016 and 2017.

A5 2016 (black, white, gold) – 8500 rub.
A5 2017 (black, gold) – 9500 rub.

Samsung Galaxy A5 2016 (A510)

The 2016 Samsung Galaxy A 510 is no longer made of metal, like its predecessor, but of glass. The screen diagonal has increased slightly and is 5.2 inches, and the resolution is 1920 x 1080, 424 ppi. The weight of the device increased to 155g, and the size was 145 x 71 x 7.3 mm. The device's built-in memory is 16GB with a slot for a memory card and remains unchanged. RAM is also 2GB.

The device is equipped with an eight-core processor of its own production, Exynos 7580. The speed on it is much better than on last year’s model.

The main camera has not changed - 13 MP, the front one - 5 MP.

The battery capacity has increased to 2900 mAh. However, this is also enough for the device to operate for a day without recharging. However, the 2016 model has a fast charging function.

A fingerprint scanner also appeared.

Samsung Galaxy A5 2017 (A520)

The 2017 Samsung Galaxy A 520 has become much more solid and stylish in terms of design. The body material is still glass and metal, but now the smartphone has become smoother and more rounded. A new blue color appeared, which replaced white.

The built-in memory on the new device is 32GB, and it is now possible to use a memory card up to 256GB.

The chipset is more powerful and modern – Exynos 7880. And the amount of RAM has increased to 3GB.

The main and front cameras have increased to 16 megapixels, which allows you to take selfies of excellent quality. The battery capacity has increased to 3000 mAh.

The new model is dust and waterproof.

You can buy Samsung Galaxy A 5 in our online store by placing an order through the website shopping cart or by calling us at. Delivery in Moscow is possible on the day of order. The cost of delivery within the Moscow Ring Road is 400 rubles. Delivery to the Moscow region is calculated individually. Pickup from a retail store two minutes from Savelovskaya metro station.