Samsung Galaxy A51 5G

Samsung Galaxy A51 5G in 2024: Still a Contender or Showing its Age?

I've spent the better part of a couple of weeks now putting the Samsung Galaxy A51 5G through its paces, and given its 2020 launch, it's a particularly interesting device to revisit in today's landscape. At its current price point – you can find it hovering in the budget-friendly territory these days – it’s clearly aimed at those who want a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank. After some thorough testing, I've formed a pretty clear picture of where this phone stands in 2024.

Market Context: A Blast from the Recent Past

It’s important to remember the context in which the A51 5G was released. It was Samsung’s play to bring 5G connectivity to a more accessible price point. From my perspective, it was a smart move, aiming to democratize the then-new networking standard. Looking at the market now, that initial push feels like it was just yesterday, yet the smartphone world moves fast. The A51 5G finds itself in a space where newer budget and mid-range options offer stiff competition. Its current pricing reflects this, and it makes you wonder if it can still hold its own against the fresh contenders.

Design & Hardware: Familiar and Functional

Picking up the A51 5G, my initial impression is one of familiarity. It’s distinctly Samsung, with a design language that was prevalent a few years back. The "prism cube" effect on the back, especially on the white model I've been using, is subtle but adds a touch of visual interest. It feels comfortable enough in hand, though at 8.7mm thick, it's not the slimmest phone out there. The build quality feels decent for its class, though the plastic back is definitely a fingerprint magnet, as I found myself constantly wiping it down – a minor annoyance, but worth noting. While it doesn't exude the premium feel of its flagship siblings, it’s a practical and well-assembled device.

Display: The Enduring Appeal of AMOLED

The 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display is undoubtedly a standout feature, even by today’s standards. In my testing, the brightness was more than adequate for outdoor use, and watching videos on this screen is a genuinely enjoyable experience. The colors are vibrant, the blacks are deep and inky – it’s the kind of display that makes your media pop. Gaming on it is also quite engaging; while it lacks a high refresh rate that’s becoming more common, the inherent smoothness of AMOLED technology still makes for a fluid visual experience. For everyday use, scrolling through social media or browsing the web, the display is crisp and clear, making it a pleasure to consume content.

Performance: Solid for the Essentials

Under the hood, the Exynos 980 chipset is showing its age a little, but it still manages daily tasks without much fuss. In my experience, navigating through apps, checking emails, and browsing the internet felt smooth. When it comes to gaming, it's capable, but don't expect flagship-level performance. I ran a few graphically intensive games, and while it handled them, I did notice some occasional frame drops and a bit of warmth after extended play sessions. Multitasking is generally handled well, though pushing it with too many demanding apps open simultaneously can introduce some lag. It’s a testament to the optimization that even a chip from a few years back can still deliver a usable experience.

Camera System: Versatility in Focus

The camera system on the A51 5G is quite versatile for its class. The 48MP main lens captures some impressive shots in good lighting conditions, and I found the wide-angle lens genuinely useful for capturing broader scenes, like landscape shots during a recent hike. The macro lens is there for those close-up moments, though I didn't find myself using it extensively. Video recording in 4K is a welcome addition, although the electronic image stabilization (EIS) does its best, you might still notice some shakiness, especially when walking. The 32MP front-facing camera is more than capable for selfies and video calls, producing sharp and clear images. Compared to newer mid-range phones, the image processing might not be as sophisticated, but it's still a competent setup for everyday photography.

Battery & Charging: A Day's Worth, Mostly

Battery life is where the A51 5G can feel a bit inconsistent. The 4500mAh battery is a decent size, and on most days, I could get through a full day of moderate use. However, on days with heavier usage, involving more gaming or GPS navigation, I definitely found myself reaching for the charger earlier than I'd like. Charging speeds, while not the fastest by today's standards, are acceptable. It won't win any races, but it gets the job done. Effective power management is crucial with this phone, so keeping an eye on background app activity can help extend its endurance.

Software: Showing its Age

The software experience is where the A51 5G's age is most apparent. While it has received updates up to Android 13, it’s unlikely to see much further support. In my daily use, the interface feels a bit dated compared to Samsung’s latest offerings, and I did encounter some occasional lag when pushing the phone. While it’s still functional and feature-rich, it lacks the polish and some of the newer features found on more recent Samsung devices. It's a reminder that software support is a crucial factor to consider, especially for long-term usability.

Value Analysis: A Budget Option with Lingering Appeal

Analyzing the value proposition of the Galaxy A51 5G in 2024 is interesting. At its current discounted prices, it offers a solid smartphone experience for those on a tight budget. If you prioritize a good display for media consumption and a capable camera for everyday shots, it still delivers. However, those seeking top-tier performance or the latest software features might find it lacking. Compared to newer budget options, it may not have the cutting-edge specs, but the quality of its AMOLED display gives it a distinct advantage. This phone is ideal for someone who wants a reliable and well-rounded device for basic smartphone tasks without spending a fortune. Those who need the latest and greatest should definitely look elsewhere.

Conclusion: A Sensible Choice for the Right User

Ultimately, the Samsung Galaxy A51 5G in 2024 is a device that reflects its age but still offers decent value for the right user. Its standout feature remains the vibrant Super AMOLED display, and the camera system is versatile enough for everyday photography. While performance and battery life are adequate, they aren't class-leading. I would recommend this phone to budget-conscious buyers who prioritize a quality screen for media consumption and are not demanding users. If you need the latest performance and software, you'll need to look at newer options. But for a reliable and affordable entry into the Samsung ecosystem with 5G connectivity, the A51 5G is still a sensible choice.