Samsung Galaxy A52

Samsung Galaxy A52 Review: Still a Solid Choice in a Crowded Mid-Range Market?

I've spent the past few weeks putting the Samsung Galaxy A52 through its paces, and it's an interesting device to revisit, especially considering its position in the current smartphone landscape. Launched at a price point aiming squarely at the mid-range, the A52 promised a blend of key features without breaking the bank. My testing involved daily usage across various scenarios – from media consumption and casual gaming to photography and general productivity. My initial impressions are that this phone still holds its own in several key areas, even if time has moved on.

Market Context: A Reliable Veteran in the Mid-Range Battle

The Galaxy A52 arrived at a time when the mid-range market was – and still is – fiercely competitive. Samsung has consistently aimed to offer feature-rich devices in this segment, and the A52 was a prime example of that strategy. From my perspective, Samsung was trying to offer a taste of their flagship experience at a more accessible price point, focusing on core features like a good display, capable camera, and reliable battery life. While the initial price was competitive, the passage of time has undoubtedly made it even more appealing for budget-conscious buyers. However, it's essential to view it within the context of newer competitors and Samsung's own subsequent offerings in the A-series.

Design & Hardware: Familiar and Functional

Picking up the Galaxy A52, the first thing I noticed is its reassuring solidity. At 189 grams, it feels substantial without being overly heavy. While the design isn't groundbreaking – it's a fairly standard Samsung aesthetic – the build quality feels decent for its class. The plastic back, while not as premium as glass or metal, offers a comfortable grip and I appreciate the reduced worry about shattering. Throughout my testing, the phone felt durable enough for everyday use, and the in-hand feel is generally pleasant. It's clear that practicality was a key consideration in its design.

Display: Still a Visual Treat

The 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display is where the A52 truly shines, even by today's standards. In my experience, the colors are vibrant and punchy, and the deep blacks make watching videos and browsing photos a genuinely enjoyable experience. The brightness is also commendable; I had no issues with visibility even under bright sunlight during my outdoor testing. Media consumption on this display is a delight, and even casual gaming benefits from the rich colors and smooth visuals. The 90Hz refresh rate, while not the 120Hz found on some newer mid-rangers, still provides a noticeable improvement in smoothness compared to standard 60Hz panels, making scrolling and navigating feel fluid in daily use.

Performance: Capable for Everyday Tasks

Under the hood, the Snapdragon 720G processor handles everyday tasks with relative ease. In my testing, switching between apps, browsing the web, and handling social media feeds was smooth and responsive. While it's not a powerhouse for demanding graphics-intensive games, I was able to enjoy casual gaming sessions without significant lag or stuttering. Multitasking felt comfortable with the 6GB of RAM in my test unit. During extended use, I didn't observe any significant overheating, suggesting decent temperature management for its class. It's worth noting that this isn't a cutting-edge processor, but it's more than adequate for the typical user's needs.

Camera System: A Versatile Performer

The camera system on the Galaxy A52 is surprisingly capable for its price point. In my experience capturing photos in various scenarios, the 64MP main sensor delivered good detail and accurate colors in well-lit conditions. I was particularly impressed with the clarity of daylight shots. The 12MP ultrawide lens is a welcome addition, allowing for creative perspectives and capturing broader scenes, which proved useful during my outdoor photography tests. While the 5MP macro and depth sensors felt somewhat less impactful in my daily usage, the main and ultrawide lenses are the stars of the show. Video recording is decent, with the option for 4K at 30fps, though low-light performance can be a bit grainy, as one might expect in this segment. Comparing it to other phones in its class, the A52 holds its own, offering a versatile camera setup for everyday photography.

Battery & Charging: Reliable Endurance, Slower Charging

Battery life on the Galaxy A52 has been consistently solid in my testing. The 4500mAh battery easily got me through a full day of moderate use, including browsing, social media, and some media consumption. On heavier days, a quick top-up might be necessary, but overall, I was satisfied with its endurance. The 25W fast charging is a welcome feature, but I have to point out that the included charger isn't actually a 25W adapter, which is a bit of a letdown. Using a proper 25W charger does noticeably speed up the charging process, but the out-of-the-box experience could be better. Power management seems efficient, contributing to the phone's good battery life.

Software: Familiar and Feature-Rich

The Galaxy A52 runs on Android with Samsung's One UI on top. From my daily usage, the interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, especially for those familiar with Samsung's ecosystem. The phone has received several updates, which is commendable for a mid-range device. One UI offers a wealth of features and customization options, which some users appreciate, although it can feel a bit cluttered at times. The under-display fingerprint sensor is convenient and responsive in my experience, and the inclusion of a dual SIM option is a useful feature for many users.

Value Analysis: A Solid Choice for the Right User

Analyzing the value proposition of the Galaxy A52 in today's market requires considering its age and current pricing. While it may not boast the latest cutting-edge technology, it offers a well-rounded package for its price. I believe this phone is a great fit for users who prioritize a good display, a capable camera, and reliable battery life without needing top-tier performance or the most premium build materials. Those looking for the absolute best gaming performance or a flagship-level camera experience might want to look elsewhere. Compared to newer competitors, the A52 might be slightly behind in terms of processing power and charging speeds, but it still holds its own in core areas.

Conclusion: A Dependable Mid-Ranger Worth Considering

Overall, my time with the Samsung Galaxy A52 has been positive. It's a solid mid-range phone that gets the essentials right. The vibrant display, capable camera, and dependable battery life are its key strengths. While it's not the flashiest phone on the market, it offers a reliable and enjoyable user experience. I would recommend the A52 to anyone seeking a dependable smartphone for everyday use, particularly those who appreciate a good screen and a versatile camera, and aren't overly concerned with having the absolute latest technology. It remains a strong contender in the mid-range segment, especially at its current price point.