Samsung Galaxy A51

Still a Solid Choice? My Take on the Samsung Galaxy A51

I've spent the past few weeks revisiting the Samsung Galaxy A51, a phone that initially hit the shelves back in 2019. It's always interesting to revisit devices a few years down the line, especially in the fast-paced world of smartphone technology. My testing involved using it as a daily driver for typical tasks – browsing, social media, media consumption, and some casual photography – to see how it holds up in today's landscape. My initial impression? While it's certainly not the newest kid on the block, the Galaxy A51 still offers a surprisingly competent experience for the right user. At its current price point, it occupies a space where value and essential features are key considerations.

Market Context: Then and Now

Back in 2019, the Galaxy A51 was a key player in Samsung's strategy to dominate the mid-range market. It aimed to deliver a premium feel and features without the flagship price tag. Looking at it now, the market has shifted significantly, with more competitors offering compelling specs at similar price points. However, Samsung’s brand recognition and established ecosystem still give the A51 an edge for some. The current pricing reflects its age, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize a reliable and well-rounded smartphone experience.

Design & Hardware: Familiar and Functional

Picking up the Galaxy A51, the first thing I notice is its lightweight build. The plastic back, while not exuding the premium feel of glass or metal, makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods. At 172 grams, it won't weigh you down, and the curved edges contribute to a comfortable in-hand feel. While durability is always a concern with plastic, it does offer a bit more resilience against accidental drops compared to glass. The overall design is classic Samsung, with a clean layout and a familiar feel. It’s not going to turn heads with cutting-edge aesthetics, but it’s a functional and practical design that has stood the test of time.

Display: Still a Visual Treat

The 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display is undoubtedly one of the standout features of the Galaxy A51, even today. In my experience, the colors are vibrant and punchy, providing an excellent canvas for watching videos and browsing photos. The Full HD+ resolution ensures that everything looks sharp and detailed. While it lacks the high refresh rates that are becoming increasingly common, I found the scrolling and animations to be smooth enough for everyday use. Media consumption on this display is genuinely enjoyable, with deep blacks and excellent contrast that make videos and images pop. Even under bright sunlight, I found the brightness to be adequate for comfortable viewing, which is crucial for practical daily use.

Performance: Adequate for Everyday Tasks

Under the hood, the Galaxy A51 is powered by Samsung’s Exynos 9611 chipset. From my testing, this processor handles everyday tasks like social media browsing, email, and web surfing without any noticeable lag. Light gaming is also manageable, although you might experience some frame drops in more graphically demanding titles. Pushing it with tasks like video editing, as I experimented with, does reveal its limitations, with occasional stutters and slowdowns. For most users, however, the performance is perfectly adequate for their daily needs. Temperature management seems decent; I didn't encounter any significant overheating during my testing, even during extended use.

Camera System: Surprisingly Capable

The camera system on the Galaxy A51 is surprisingly versatile for its age and price point. The quad-camera setup, featuring a 48MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, a 5MP depth sensor, and a 5MP macro lens, offers a range of shooting options. In my experience, the main camera captures detailed and vibrant photos, particularly in good lighting conditions. I was genuinely impressed with the color accuracy and clarity in some of the shots I took, reminiscent of the enjoyable sunset photo I captured recently, where the hues were beautifully rendered. The ultrawide lens is useful for capturing expansive landscapes, although there's a noticeable drop in detail compared to the main sensor. The macro lens is a fun addition for close-up shots, although it requires steady hands and good lighting. The 32MP front-facing camera delivers decent selfies, even in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. While it won't compete with the latest flagship cameras, the Galaxy A51’s camera system is more than capable for casual photography and social media sharing.

Battery & Charging: Reliable Endurance

Battery life is a crucial aspect of any smartphone, and the 4000mAh battery in the Galaxy A51 has proven to be reliable in my testing. On a typical day with moderate usage, including browsing, social media, and some video streaming, I found it easily lasted a full day without needing a top-up. Heavier usage, such as extensive photography or gaming, will naturally drain the battery faster, but even then, it should get you through most of the day. The included 15W charger isn't the fastest by today's standards, but it gets the job done. It's something you get used to, and planning your charging accordingly becomes part of the routine. Overall, the battery performance is solid and dependable for everyday use.

Software: Keeping Up with the Times

The Samsung Galaxy A51 launched with Android 10, and it's commendable that it has received updates up to Android 13. This ensures access to the latest features and security patches, which is an important consideration for long-term usability. My daily experience with the software has been smooth and intuitive. Samsung's One UI offers a clean and user-friendly interface. While there was some pre-installed bloatware, as is common with many Android phones, most of it could be easily uninstalled. The continued software support is a significant plus for a device of this age, extending its lifespan and value.

Value Analysis: Still a Worthwhile Option?

Assessing the value of the Samsung Galaxy A51 in today's market requires considering its age and the current competition. For users who prioritize a reliable smartphone with a good display, a capable camera, and decent battery life without breaking the bank, the A51 remains a viable option. It’s particularly well-suited for students or individuals who need a dependable device for everyday communication and basic tasks. However, those who demand top-tier performance for gaming or video editing, or who prioritize cutting-edge features like high refresh rate displays or the absolute best camera quality, might find newer devices more appealing. Compared to newer budget options, the A51 might lack some of the latest features, but its established reliability and Samsung's ecosystem are significant advantages.

Conclusion: A Dependable All-Rounder

After spending considerable time with the Samsung Galaxy A51, my conclusion is that it remains a solid and dependable mid-range smartphone. While it doesn’t boast the latest and greatest features, it offers a balanced and reliable experience for everyday users. The excellent Super AMOLED display, capable camera system, and dependable battery life are its key strengths. If you’re looking for a well-rounded smartphone that gets the job done without a hefty price tag, the Galaxy A51 is still worth considering, especially if you can find it at a competitive price. It's a testament to Samsung's ability to create devices that stand the test of time, offering good value and a user-friendly experience even years after their initial release.