Samsung Galaxy A54 5G Review

Key Strengths, Weaknesses, and Why It Stands Out in the Mid-Range Market

Check out our Samsung Galaxy A54 5G review! We break down its strengths like excellent performance and display,

plus some weaknesses to help you make the right choice.

Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is a standout in the mid-range smartphone market, offering a solid blend of performance, design, and features at an affordable price. With a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, the A54 5G delivers vibrant visuals and smooth navigation, making it great for media and gaming. Powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, paired with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, it offers reliable performance for everyday tasks and multitasking. The 50MP triple-camera system ensures sharp photos, while the 5,000mAh battery provides all-day use. However, while the device excels in several areas, it does have its drawbacks, such as average low-light camera performance and the absence of flagship-level features like wireless charging. Overall, the Galaxy A54 5G offers excellent value, but it’s important to weigh its strengths against its limitations before making a purchase decision.

Key Features

Great Display, Camera, and Battery for the Price

A list of Key Features for the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

1. Display:

   • 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display

   • 120Hz refresh rate

   • Full HD+ resolution (2340 x 1080)

   • Vibrant colors and deep blacks for enhanced media viewing

2. Processor:

   • Exynos 1380 chipset

   • 5nm process for better performance and efficiency

   • Solid performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming

3. Camera Setup:

   • 50MP main camera (wide)

   • 12MP ultra-wide camera

   • 5MP macro camera

   • 32MP front-facing camera

   • Advanced camera features such as Night Mode, Super Steady video, and more

4. Battery:

   • 5,000mAh battery capacity

   • 25W fast charging support

   • All-day battery life for heavy usage

5. Software:

   • Android 13 with One UI 5

   • Samsung’s One UI offers a smooth, customizable user experience

   • Regular software updates and security patches

6. Design:

   • Premium glass design with Gorilla Glass 5 protection

   • Slim, sleek form factor with a modern, stylish look

   • IP67 rating for water and dust resistance

7. Storage and RAM:

   • Options of 128GB/256GB internal storage

   • Expandable storage via microSD card up to 1TB

   • 6GB or 8GB RAM variants for smooth multitasking

8. 5G Connectivity:

   • Full 5G support for fast internet speeds and future-proofing

   • Enhanced connectivity for smooth streaming, gaming, and browsing

9. Audio:

   • Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support

   • Clear, immersive audio experience

10. Security Features:

• In-display fingerprint scanner

• Face recognition for secure unlock

11. Pricing:

• Affordable pricing for a mid-range device

• Offers great value for features such as a high-quality display and camera system

These features make the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G a well-rounded option for consumers who want a reliable, future-proof smartphone with solid performance, good battery life, and excellent display quality.

Key Features Table

1. Top Features, Performance & Value Explained

Performance Analysis

A Comprehensive Look at Performance, Camera & More

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G offers commendable performance for its price bracket, powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset and available with either 6GB or 8GB of RAM. This combination ensures smooth handling of day-to-day tasks such as app navigation, web browsing, and multitasking. The device's integration with One UI 5 (based on Android 13) provides an intuitive and user-friendly interface, optimized for efficiency and offering robust customization options. For casual users, the Galaxy A54 5G performs seamlessly, with apps opening quickly, smooth animations, and efficient multitasking.

However, when scrutinizing the device’s performance in demanding scenarios, particularly gaming and high-performance tasks, the Exynos 1380 starts to show its limitations. While it can manage moderate gaming sessions with decent frame rates, the chipset lacks the raw power of competing processors such as the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 in the OnePlus Nord 3 or the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 found in some flagship models. As a result, more resource-intensive applications and graphically demanding games, such as Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile, may experience frame drops, reduced settings, or lower graphics quality to maintain smooth performance.

Another performance-related area where the A54 5G falls behind its rivals is in its power efficiency and thermal management. While the device rarely overheats during prolonged usage, it’s less energy-efficient than some competitors equipped with flagship-grade chipsets. This is especially apparent when compared to alternatives like the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, which uses the MediaTek Dimensity 1080. The Dimensity chips offer more efficient processing and better thermal management, contributing to a better gaming experience and more battery efficiency.

In terms of software optimization, Samsung’s One UI remains a highlight, as it enhances system performance by reducing bloatware and providing extended software support, including Android security patches and OS updates. This level of software refinement ensures that the A54 5G remains reliable throughout its lifecycle, but in raw computational tasks, it cannot match the flagship-tier processing power that rivals like the OnePlus Nord 3 provide.

Ultimately, the Galaxy A54 5G’s performance is best suited for users who prioritize reliable and efficient daily use, with occasional gaming and multitasking. While it may not satisfy the needs of power users or those seeking cutting-edge speed for intensive workloads, it remains a balanced option for consumers who seek solid performance at a competitive mid-range price point.

Market Positioning

A Strong Competitor in the Mid-Range Market

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is strategically positioned in the mid-range smartphone market, aiming to offer a balance of premium features at an affordable price point. Its key strengths lie in its brand recognition, reliable performance, and robust feature set, making it an attractive option for consumers who want a solid smartphone experience without the high cost of flagship models. Samsung leverages its established reputation for quality and innovation, ensuring the A54 5G benefits from the trust built over years of delivering high-performance devices. The 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display, 5,000mAh battery, and IP67 water resistance give the phone a premium feel, catering to users who desire a high-end experience but don't want to pay flagship prices.

In terms of market positioning, the A54 5G competes with other strong players in the mid-range category, such as the Google Pixel 7a, OnePlus Nord 3, and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G. One of the A54 5G’s significant advantages is Samsung’s ongoing commitment to software updates, ensuring that the device remains relevant with Android security patches and feature enhancements for a longer period than many of its competitors. The device also stands out with its seamless integration into the broader Samsung ecosystem, making it a compelling choice for users already invested in Samsung’s other products, such as wearables and tablets.

However, the A54 5G does face challenges in this competitive market. While its Exynos 1380 chipset provides decent performance, it trails behind the more powerful processors found in some competitors, such as the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 or Snapdragon 7 Gen 1. This puts the A54 5G at a disadvantage for users who prioritize performance-intensive applications like gaming or heavy multitasking. Additionally, its charging speed (25W) lags behind rivals like the OnePlus Nord 3 (80W charging), which offers faster power-ups. Furthermore, despite being part of Samsung’s trusted lineup, the A54 5G faces stiff competition from devices offering similar features at a slightly lower price point, such as the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, which can sometimes offer a more compelling value proposition.

Overall, the market positioning of the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is strong for budget-conscious users seeking a reliable, well-rounded device with a focus on display quality, battery life, and software longevity. Yet, it faces stiff competition from rivals offering faster performance and more aggressive pricing, which limits its appeal for power users and those prioritizing cutting-edge features.

User Experience

The user experience of the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G stands out for its blend of intuitive design, smooth performance, and customization options. The device runs on One UI 5 based on Android 13, which offers a clean and user-friendly interface, making navigation easy for both new and seasoned Android users. The 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate delivers vibrant, fluid visuals, ensuring a delightful experience when scrolling, gaming, or watching videos. The responsiveness of the display is complemented by the Exynos 1380 processor, which ensures smooth multitasking and handling of everyday tasks, though it may occasionally show limitations when dealing with more resource-heavy apps. The 5000mAh battery provides ample power for a full day’s use, and with 25W fast charging, users can quickly top up without long waits. The device also benefits from 5G support, which enhances download speeds, streaming quality, and overall internet performance, making it future-proof in terms of connectivity. One UI’s customization features allow users to personalize their home screens, widgets, and themes, offering a more tailored experience. However, the camera system, while decent, doesn’t quite compare to flagship devices, with occasional struggle in low-light conditions. Overall, the A54 5G offers a highly satisfying user experience, combining premium features and software with the reliability of Samsung’s long-term software updates, making it a great choice for users seeking a solid, all-around smartphone.

Price Range

The Ultimate Budget-Friendly 5G Smartphone?

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is positioned as a mid-range smartphone, offering a balance of premium features at an accessible price point. As of 2024, the price range for the A54 5G typically starts around $350 for the base model with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The higher-end variant with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage is priced closer to $400. This competitive pricing places the Galaxy A54 5G in direct competition with other popular mid-range smartphones, such as the Google Pixel 7a and OnePlus Nord 3, which offer similar features and 5G connectivity. While the A54 5G is not as affordable as some budget devices, it offers a significant value for the price, especially considering its premium design, high-quality display, and solid camera performance. Additionally, Samsung’s track record of offering long-term software support with regular security updates and Android upgrades adds extra value to the purchase. However, pricing may vary depending on region, ongoing promotions, and retailer discounts, so it’s worth shopping around for the best deals.

Pros and Cons

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G Review 2024: Pros, Cons, and Everything You Need to Know

Pros:

1. Stunning Super AMOLED Display:
   The 6.4-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and smooth scrolling, making it ideal for media consumption and gaming.

2. Solid Camera Performance:
   With a 50MP main camera, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro camera, the A54 5G captures detailed and dynamic photos in various lighting conditions. The 32MP front camera is excellent for selfies and video calls.

3. Long-Lasting Battery Life:
   The 5,000mAh battery provides all-day usage, even with heavy use, and supports 25W fast charging, ensuring you can quickly recharge and get back to your day.

4. 5G Connectivity:
   Full 5G support ensures faster download and upload speeds, making the A54 5G future-proof for network advancements and an excellent choice for streaming, gaming, and browsing.

5. Durability:
   With an IP67 rating, the A54 5G is water and dust-resistant, making it more durable than many mid-range competitors. It can withstand accidental splashes and brief submersion in water.

6. Premium Design:
   Featuring a sleek, modern design with Gorilla Glass 5 on the front and a stylish plastic back, the A54 5G has a premium feel without the premium price.

7. One UI Experience:
   Samsung's One UI 5, built on Android 13, offers a clean, intuitive interface with customization options, regular software updates, and enhanced features like Samsung Knox for security.

8. Expandable Storage:
   The ability to expand storage up to 1TB via a microSD card is a significant advantage for users who need extra space for apps, media, or large files.

Cons:

1. Performance Limitations:
   Powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, the A54 5G offers good performance for everyday tasks but struggles with more demanding applications and gaming. It lags behind competitors with more powerful processors, such as the Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 or Dimensity 9000.

2. No Ultra-Fast Charging:
   While the 25W fast charging is decent, it falls short compared to competitors like the OnePlus Nord 3, which supports up to 80W charging, allowing for significantly faster recharge times.

3. No Telephoto Lens:
   The camera setup lacks a telephoto lens, which limits zoom capabilities compared to other mid-range phones with dedicated telephoto sensors for better long-range shots.

4. Heavy Software Bloat:
   Although One UI 5 offers great features, it can feel a bit bloated with pre-installed apps, some of which cannot be removed. This may result in a slightly slower overall experience compared to cleaner stock Android devices.

5. Limited Low-Light Performance:
   While the camera performs well in daylight, low-light photography could be better. The Night Mode helps, but it’s not on par with premium devices or competitors like the Google Pixel 7a for night photography.

6. Plastic Back Design:
   While the plastic back keeps the cost down, it may not feel as premium or as sturdy as glass backs on other devices, potentially making the phone feel less premium.

7. Limited Gaming Performance:
   The A54 5G is suitable for casual gaming but may struggle with more graphically intense titles like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty Mobile, with lower frame rates and occasional lag.

Conclusion : The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G offers a fantastic blend of features for the price, including an exceptional display, solid camera system, and long-lasting battery life. Its performance is great for everyday tasks, but power users or gamers may find it lacking in raw speed. Overall, it’s a well-rounded smartphone that competes effectively in the mid-range market, with a few drawbacks to consider depending on your priorities.

Features Comparison Table

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G Review

How Does It Compare to Rivals in the Mid-Range 5G Market?

Comparative Analysis of Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is positioned as a mid-range smartphone offering a balance of performance, design, and price. However, it faces stiff competition from other devices in the same segment. Key competitors include the Google Pixel 7a, OnePlus Nord 3, and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G. In this analysis, we will compare the features, strengths, and weaknesses of these devices to help you understand how the Galaxy A54 5G stacks up in the crowded mid-range market.

Key Competitors:

1. Google Pixel 7a

2. OnePlus Nord 3

3. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G

Strengths and Weaknesses Comparison of Competitors

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

Strengths:

• Display: The 6.4-inch Super AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate offers vibrant colors and smooth performance.

• Battery: A large 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging ensures all-day use.

• Water Resistance: IP67 rating makes it water and dust resistant, which is rare for mid-range devices.

• Software Support: Samsung’s long-term software support with regular updates is a significant advantage.

• Expandable Storage: Offers up to 1TB expandable storage via microSD card.

Weaknesses:

• Processor: The Exynos 1380 chipset, while capable, lags behind competitors like the Dimensity 9000 and Tensor G2 in raw performance, especially in gaming and power-heavy tasks.

• Charging Speed: At 25W, charging is slower compared to competitors like the OnePlus Nord 3 (80W).

Google Pixel 7a

Strengths:

• Software Experience: Stock Android with Pixel-exclusive features like Google Assistant integration, high-quality Night Sight photography, and regular updates directly from Google.

• Camera: The 64MP main sensor combined with Google’s computational photography features leads to excellent photos, especially in low-light conditions.

• 5G and Future-Proofing: With the Google Tensor G2 chip, the Pixel 7a offers solid performance and strong AI features for an enhanced user experience.

Weaknesses:

• Battery Life: The 4385mAh battery is smaller than competitors like the A54 5G, potentially requiring more frequent recharges.

• Charging Speed: Slower 18W charging compared to competitors like the OnePlus Nord 3 and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G.

• Price: At around $499, it’s on the higher end of the mid-range market.

OnePlus Nord 3

Strengths:

• Charging Speed: The 80W SuperVOOC fast charging is a standout feature, offering incredibly fast recharges.

• Display: The 6.74-inch Fluid AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate provides a smooth, immersive experience for both gaming and media consumption.

• Processor: The MediaTek Dimensity 9000 provides flagship-level performance for a smoother multitasking and gaming experience.

Weaknesses:

• Camera: Although it offers a 50MP main sensor, the overall camera performance doesn’t match the Pixel 7a, especially in low-light conditions.

• Software: OxygenOS has seen some changes that have received mixed reviews, and it isn’t as clean and feature-rich as Google’s Pixel UI.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G

Strengths:

• Price-to-Performance: Offers solid features at a competitive price, especially with the Dimensity 1080 chip and a 120Hz AMOLED display.

• Charging Speed: 67W fast charging is incredibly fast, providing significant charging speed compared to others in this segment.

• Camera: The camera setup (50MP main, 8MP ultra-wide) offers good versatility, and overall image quality is solid for the price.

Weaknesses:

• Software: MIUI can be a bit heavy on bloatware, which may impact the user experience compared to cleaner software like Pixel UI or One UI.

• Build Quality: With a plastic back and only an IP53 rating, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G feels less premium than the A54 5G, especially regarding water resistance.

Conclusion : The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G holds its ground in the competitive mid-range smartphone market, particularly with its premium display, long battery life, and IP67 water resistance. However, when compared to its competitors, Google Pixel 7a offers superior camera performance and software experience, while the OnePlus Nord 3 excels in charging speed and performance. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 5G, on the other hand, stands out in terms of pricing and fast charging. The A54 5G is ideal for users who want a well-rounded phone with reliable performance, a great display, and long-term software support, but for those seeking faster performance or more advanced photography, other options might be more appealing.

Features Comparison Table

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G: A Strong Competitor in the Mid-Range Market

Evolution from Previous Models

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G marks a significant evolution from its predecessors in the A-series lineup, offering notable upgrades in design, performance, and features. Compared to the Galaxy A53 5G, the A54 introduces a more refined, modern design with a sleeker body and enhanced durability, thanks to its IP67 water and dust resistance and Gorilla Glass 5 protection. In terms of performance, the A54 is powered by the more efficient Exynos 1380 chip, which provides a noticeable improvement in speed and efficiency over the A53's Exynos 1280, making multitasking and gaming smoother. The camera setup also saw an upgrade, with the A54 boasting a 50MP main sensor, offering better photo quality, especially in low light, compared to its predecessor. The 120Hz Super AMOLED display has been improved for richer colors and smoother visuals, making it even better for streaming and gaming. Battery life remains strong with the 5000mAh capacity, offering all-day use, and the addition of 25W fast charging further enhances convenience. Overall, the Galaxy A54 5G builds on the strengths of the A53, while addressing its weaknesses, making it a more polished and powerful choice in the mid-range smartphone market.

Key Decision-Making Factors

When considering the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G, there are several key factors to keep in mind to determine if it’s the right fit for you. First, the display stands out with its 6.4-inch Super AMOLED screen and 120Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling, perfect for media lovers and gamers. If camera quality is important, the 50MP main camera and versatile triple-camera setup deliver solid performance, especially in well-lit conditions. Additionally, the 5000mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage, and the 25W fast charging adds convenience for those always on the go. Consider the performance as well; powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, it handles daily tasks and moderate gaming well, though heavy gaming enthusiasts may want to explore more powerful options. If durability and future-proofing are important, the IP67 water resistance and 5G support make the A54 a reliable choice. Lastly, its price offers a good balance of features for a mid-range device, especially considering Samsung’s reputation for software updates and security. Ultimately, if you're looking for a well-rounded phone with a solid camera, display, and performance, the Galaxy A54 5G is a strong contender.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G proves itself as a well-rounded and reliable mid-range smartphone, striking a solid balance between performance, features, and price. With its stunning 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, a robust 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging, and a capable 50MP camera setup, it offers impressive value for those seeking a feature-packed device without breaking the bank. The Exynos 1380 chip delivers reliable performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming, though heavy users or gamers might find better options in terms of raw power. The A54 5G’s IP67 water resistance, 5G support, and durable design elevate its appeal, while Samsung’s long-term software updates ensure it stays relevant for years. When compared to competitors like the Google Pixel 7a and OnePlus Nord 3, the A54 5G stands strong with its well-balanced feature set, although it does lag behind in terms of camera capabilities and charging speed. The evolution from the A53 brings notable improvements in design, performance, and battery life, making the A54 a more refined and polished device. For users seeking a reliable, mid-range smartphone with strong all-around performance and future-proof features, the Samsung Galaxy A54 5G is a fantastic choice. The combination of its features, market positioning, and competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for anyone looking to upgrade to a solid 5G device without paying premium prices.