Samsung’s Galaxy A-series has always been about offering stylish, feature-rich phones at attractive prices. While the Galaxy A52 checked many boxes, it fell short in performance compared to its competition. Now, with the Galaxy A52s, Samsung seeks to shift the game, equipping it with the powerful Snapdragon 778G SoC, enabling 5G, and aiming to challenge heavyweights like the Realme GT Master Edition and Realme GT. But is a performance boost enough to win over users who value a complete package? I’ve been testing the Samsung Galaxy A52s, and my first impressions reveal a fascinating story that goes beyond mere specs.
A Refined Look, but Familiar Feel
The Galaxy A52s, while sporting a new processor, retains the Galaxy A52’s design language. The plastic frame and polycarbonate back panel are a familiar combination, and the matte finish adds a touch of sophistication. The minimalist camera module, with its prominent cutouts for the lenses, adds a modern edge.
The 6.5-inch full-HD+ Super AMOLED display with a hole-punch for the selfie camera is a standout feature. The refresh rate now hits 120Hz, enhancing fluidity and responsiveness, especially for gamers. While the bezels are thinner on the sides, top and bottom bezels remain noticeable. The speaker setup, featuring stereo speakers with the earpiece doubling as a secondary speaker, delivers immersive audio. Completing the package are a USB Type-C port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a pleasing IP67 rating for water and dust resistance.
Camera Continuity: More of the Same
Samsung has chosen not to tinker with the camera specifications. The Galaxy A52s carries the same 64-megapixel primary camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera, a 5-megapixel macro camera, and a 5-megapixel depth sensor. Selfies are captured on a 32-megapixel front camera. Powering the device is a 4,500mAh battery with 25W fast charging, although the box still ships with a 15W charger. Software-wise, the phone runs on One UI 3.0, based on Android 11.
Performance Meets Style: A Compelling Offering?
With its upgraded processor, the Galaxy A52s sits comfortably between the higher end of the mid-range and the lower end of the premium segment. The Snapdragon 778G is known for its robust performance, as evidenced by the Realme GT Master Edition, and the 5G connectivity is a welcome addition. Priced starting at Rs. 35,999, the Galaxy A52s packs a punch with its performance, design, stereo speakers, and IP67 rating.
However, the landscape is filled with compelling alternatives. The Realme GT, boasting a Snapdragon 888 processor, offers flagship-level performance at a competitive price. Then there are options like the OnePlus 9R and Xiaomi Mi 11X Pro, both delivering powerful processing and impressive features within the Rs. 40,000 range.
The Verdict: Design Takes Center Stage
While the Galaxy A52s is a worthy contender, Samsung appears to be focusing on attracting users who prioritize design. This strategy positions the phone firmly against competitors like the Realme GT Master Edition. The final verdict, however, rests on the camera performance. Can the Galaxy A52s deliver image quality that rivals premium alternatives? Only a detailed review can answer that. Stay tuned for our comprehensive assessment to see if the Galaxy A52s can truly stand out in the fierce mid-range market.
