Looking for a Samsung phone that’s affordable but lasts. Is the A55 worth it?
It’s a mix of yes and no. Yes, because it’s pretty good value for money. It’s one of the better mid-range phones, but there’s a lot of competition. No, because One UI on it doesn’t feel as smooth or premium as on the S-series. I’m not a fan of One UI, but maybe you’ll like it.
@Harley
What do you dislike about One UI?
Mostly the look of it and all the duplicate apps. I keep going back to Pixel for that reason. Plus, the shutter lag on both the A55 and the S24U was really annoying.
@Harley
Yeah, the camera still struggles with moving shots on the Ultra. The low light photos aren’t great either. I don’t trust YouTube reviews anymore. For the price, I expected way better since I use it for work and don’t have time to play with settings.
@Greer
I had the S24U for two months. Technically, it was great, but the camera was disappointing. Small sensors and weird post-processing just didn’t work for me. I’ve moved on to the Pixel 8 Pro and find it a better fit overall.
@Harley
How’s the Pixel 8 Pro? I’ve been looking at Vivo phones, and the Xperia too, but their hardware is outdated. The Note series used to be for enthusiasts, but the Ultra just doesn’t have that vibe anymore.
@Greer
I like the 8 Pro, though the Tensor chip can slow down a bit, especially with games or heavy video work. I used it on vacation for photos, and it was great. But yeah, the battery life is bad compared to the S24U. Planning to switch next year.
@Harley
I’m really interested in Vivo too. Pixel’s battery life sounds rough. I don’t think the S24 Ultra’s battery life is that amazing either. I’d take a thicker phone if it meant longer battery life.
I just don’t like the look of the UI and all the extra apps.
I just don’t like the look of the UI and all the extra apps.
Yeah, the duplicate apps are annoying. I regret getting a phone with a locked bootloader. It’s like buying a computer where you can’t delete programs!
@Greer
Are you in the US? The international version of the A55 might let you unlock the bootloader.
Teo said:
@Greer
Are you in the US? The international version of the A55 might let you unlock the bootloader.
Yep, I bought the US unlocked model. Wish I’d gotten the international one since I tend to keep phones for five years.
@Greer
The A55 has Exynos in all regions.
Just let him keep complaining about Exynos when he doesn’t know the details…
Depends on your budget… think about what you really need. The A55 is solid for most people, but if you’re after speed and performance, maybe look at the OnePlus 12R.
Miller said:
Depends on your budget… think about what you really need. The A55 is solid for most people, but if you’re after speed and performance, maybe look at the OnePlus 12R.
I have $250-$300, maybe with installments. Which Samsung would you go for?
@Finley
For that price, A55 is a steal! Or try the S23FE, it might last longer due to recent release and software updates.
Paxton said:
@Finley
For that price, A55 is a steal! Or try the S23FE, it might last longer due to recent release and software updates.
A55 actually has a full metal and glass build.
@Miller
The FE is metal and plastic.