As we've seen over the past decade with the latest flagship smartphones, entry-level and mid-range devices also see regular year-over-year updates. Although their release schedule isn't as well planned, the devices are receiving key improvements, often technologies that have become more affordable since they were first released on flagship smartphones. Samsung has a range of such smartphones in its stable, offering excellent value for money and exciting features in its A series smartphone range. Released in early 2023, the Samsung Galaxy A24 is an entry-level model.
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Conception and design
Being an entry-level smartphone, I was surprised by its size when unboxing it. Most often, entry-level smartphones have much smaller bezels. However, with its larger screen, the Samsung Galaxy A24 is large, measuring 162.1×77.6×8.3mm. Therefore, it is also heavier, weighing in at 195g.
However, the large size has its merits, with its 6.5-inch screen. It is a Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate and 1,000 nits brightness. Additionally, it displays a resolution of 1080×2340 px, which corresponds to a pixel density of 396 ppi. Additionally, the screen-to-body ratio is 82.4%. Although it doesn't support HDR, the specs are similar to the Galaxy S23 Plus, which is quite impressive.
What's great about the A24 is that it offers classic features like the 3.5mm auxiliary jack for those who still use wired headphones or their car's audio system. Even though more and more people are using Bluetooth, this option is welcome. It also has a triple card slot, which accommodates two nanoSIM cards and a microSD card.
If there's one feature that's missing, it's the protective case. Unlike the S23 range with its Gorilla Glass protection, the A24 doesn't offer much protection. I'd like to say it's one of those features you can do without, but screen protection is essential, even if you have a case. This means you'll have to double down and buy a screen protector.
Overall, the design is quite impressive, especially the screen.
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Performance and battery life
The Samsung Galaxy A24 is equipped with a MediaTek MT8781 Helio G99 SoC (6nm) with an Octa-core CPU (x2 2.2GHz Cortex-A76 and six 2.0GHz Cortex-A55). It's also equipped with a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU, 128GB internal storage, and a range of 4GB, 6GB, and 8GB RAM options, however, if you have the intention to multitask quite often.
The great thing is that it offers the latest firmware version with Android OS 13 and One UI 5.1. You get all the standard software features like other flagship smartphones.
Its 5,000 mAh battery has an incredible capacity to last you almost two full days with normal use. Its less powerful processor allows you to use less battery and save a few extra hours. If you also adjust the screen resolution, you will have a smartphone capable of lasting almost three days, which is even more impressive.
It supports 25W charging, which is decent for an entry-level smartphone. This means that you will be able to charge the device to around 25% in 15 minutes and around 50% in half an hour. Like other modern smartphones, the A24 also doesn't come with a charger in the box, only the USB Type-C cable.
One of the missing aspects is 5G support. Although it is not as widespread outside of metropolises, or even certain mobile networks, it would be good to have it to ensure the future.
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Overall, the Galaxy A24 offers decent performance without breaking the bank. It performs its functions by providing a quality visual display, without problems while streaming or gaming. With a battery test lasting around a day, you can go without your charger for much longer.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy A24 is a great little smartphone. Although it is not that small with its 6.5 inch screen. The A24 can easily be compared to the Galaxy S23 Plus, if not for its less powerful but more affordable processor. While there is a noticeable difference in sharpness in use, it's still a great buy at just $4,499. This is a feature-rich option for users on a budget and looking for a fantastic visual display.
Review
Samsung Galaxy A24
BENEFITS
- 6.5-inch Super AMOLED screen clocked at 90 Hz
- Similar design to the flagship Galaxy range
- Very good battery life
- 3.5mm auxiliary jack
CONS
- Surprisingly no 5G
- The camera is random
- No Gorilla Glass