Samsung’s Galaxy A55 5G is the latest addition to the company’s affordable A-series. Like last year’s Galaxy A54 5G, the A55 aims to offer a solid experience at a lower price point than Samsung’s flagship S24 line. Featuring a 6.6-inch display, an octa-core processor, and a triple rear-camera setup, it’s a well-rounded device housed in a colorful glass and metal body.
While the A55 didn’t stand out during testing, it delivers reliable performance for daily tasks and light gaming. Initially priced at £439 in the UK (approximately $530), the price has dropped significantly, now available for £248 (around $300) on Amazon UK.
Key Takeaways:
- Not Available in the US: Samsung did not release the A55 in the US to avoid competition with its Galaxy S23 and S23 FE models, even though last year’s A54 was a success stateside.
- Large, Vivid Display: The A55’s 6.6-inch display offers bright, punchy colors, ideal for watching videos and gaming. The 120Hz refresh rate ensures smooth performance, but lowering it to 60Hz can help save battery.
- Capable for Gaming: Powered by the Exynos 1480 chip, the A55 handles casual gaming well, performing smoothly with games like Genshin Impact and PUBG.
- Decent Camera Setup: Its triple-camera system, featuring a 50MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide, delivers decent quality for the price. However, the macro lens feels redundant, and images can appear oversaturated.
- Battery Life Falls Short: Despite its 5,000mAh battery, the A55 lags behind competitors in longevity. Adjusting the refresh rate may help extend battery life.
- Expandable Storage: With a microSD slot, you can expand storage affordably, a rare feature in modern smartphones.
- Software Support: Samsung promises four years of Android updates and five years of security patches, ensuring the A55 remains usable until 2029. However, Google’s Pixel 8A offers longer support.
Conclusion:
At its original price of £439 (around $530), the Galaxy A55 struggled to stand out due to its average battery life and camera performance. However, with a reduced price, it becomes a more appealing option for those looking for an affordable phone that can handle day-to-day tasks and casual gaming without breaking the bank. If you’re in need of a solid phone at a lower price, the Galaxy A55 may fit the bill.
