Samsung has been busy rolling out new phone releases throughout 2024. In January, they unveiled the flagship Galaxy S24 lineup, which garnered much attention. However, not everyone can splurge on the latest and greatest flagship models. Fortunately, Samsung caters to budget-conscious consumers with alternatives like the new Galaxy A55.
For those unfamiliar with Android phones, Samsung offers two main series: the Galaxy S series and the A series. While the Galaxy S range boasts high performance and cutting-edge features, the A series focuses on affordability while still offering some of the latest innovations.
The Galaxy A55 is the successor to last year’s Galaxy A54. Sporting a fresh design and improved specifications, it begs the question: how significant of an upgrade is it? Let’s delve into the details.
| Specifications | Samsung Galaxy A54 | Samsung Galaxy A55 |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 158.2 x 76.7 x 8.2 mm | 161.1 x 77.4 x 8.2 mm |
| Weight | 202 grams | 213 grams |
| Frame | Plastic | Metal |
| Screen | 6.4 inches AMOLED | 6.6 inches AMOLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 pixels | 1080 x 2340 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Vision Booster | Not available | Available |
| Colors | Awesome Blue | Awesome Black |
| Awesome Pink | Awesome Pink | |
| Awesome Yellow | Awesome Yellow | |
| Awesome Graphite | Awesome Graphite | |
| Awesome White | Awesome White | |
| Awesome Violet | Awesome Violet | |
| Awesome Lime | ||
| Processor | Exynos 1380 | Exynos 1480 |
| RAM/Storage | 6GB/128GB | 8GB/128GB |
| 6GB/256GB | 8GB/256GB | |
| 8GB/256GB | 12GB/256GB | |
| Cameras | 50MP main | 50MP main |
| 12MP ultrawide | 12MP ultrawide | |
| 5MP macro | 5MP macro | |
| Selfie camera | 32MP | 32MP |
| Battery | 5,000mAh | 5,000mAh |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C |
| 25W wired | 25W wired | |
| Wireless charging | No | No |
Samsung Galaxy A54 vs A55: Display and Design
Typically, Samsung’s Galaxy A series doesn’t undergo major changes in appearance from year to year. However, the Galaxy A55 breaks this trend.
The Galaxy A55 boasts a slightly larger display compared to its predecessor, measuring 6.6 inches, while the A54 had a 6.4-inch screen. Additionally, the A55 is a tad heavier at 213 grams, contrasting with the 202 grams of the A54.
The variation in weight is partially attributed to the materials used for each device. The older Galaxy A54 featured a plastic frame, while the new Galaxy A55 adopts a metal frame. Consequently, the A55 offers a more “premium” feel compared to its predecessor.
Both the Galaxy A54 and A55 sport a similar vertical three-camera setup on the rear glass. In essence, the A55 resembles the S24 lineup, while the A54 bears more resemblance to the S23 series.
A noticeable design departure in the Galaxy A55 from its forerunner is the adoption of the new “key island,” borrowed from the Galaxy A15 and A25. This slight protrusion on the right edge of the phone accommodates the volume and power buttons, facilitating easy differentiation from the flagship S24 devices.
Although the Samsung Galaxy A55 shares the same IP67 certification as the Galaxy A54, the front glass now boasts Gorilla Glass Victus instead of Gorilla Glass 5. This enhancement promises improved durability against drops and scratches.
Samsung has also expanded the color palette for the A55 this year, offering it in four vibrant colors: Awesome Blue, Awesome Black, Awesome Pink, and Awesome Yellow. Conversely, the A54 comes in four hues as well, including Awesome Graphite, Awesome White, Awesome Violet, and Awesome Lime.
Despite the differences in size, both devices feature Super AMOLED displays with a 120Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 1,000 nits. Moreover, the A55 boasts slightly narrower bezels around the display, and Samsung has introduced a new feature called Vision Booster, designed to enhance screen clarity and brightness under various lighting conditions.
Samsung Galaxy A54 vs A55: Battery And Performance
Samsung has made significant strides in enhancing the performance of the Galaxy A55 by incorporating a new chip. Unlike its predecessor, the A55 utilizes the newer and more potent Exynos 1480 chip, while the A54 is equipped with the older Exynos 1380.
While Samsung hasn’t divulged specific details regarding the extent of improvement offered by the new chipset compared to the previous one, users can expect noticeable enhancements. This is further bolstered by the A55’s increased RAM capacity — starting at 8GB for the 128GB variant, with the option to upgrade to the 256GB model featuring either 8GB or up to 12GB RAM. In contrast, the A54 starts with 6GB of RAM and peaks at 8GB.
In terms of software, the Galaxy A55 ships with Android 14 complemented by One UI 6.1 layered on top. Samsung has committed to providing the A55 with four years of major software upgrades and five years of security patches. While this aligns with the promise for the A54, the A55 is set to outlast its predecessor by at least one major software version.
Both devices are equipped with a robust 5,000mAh battery and support wired charging speeds of up to 25W. However, neither device offers wireless charging capabilities.
Samsung Galaxy A54 vs A55: Cameras
At first glance, Samsung appears to have left the triple-lens camera system on the Galaxy A55 unchanged compared to the Galaxy A54. Both devices boast a 50-megapixel main camera, a 12MP ultrawide camera, and a 5MP macro lens. Additionally, the front-facing selfie camera maintains a resolution of 32MP on both models.
While the camera hardware remains consistent, potential disparities may arise from the implementation of Samsung’s new advanced AI image signal processing (ISP). With this upgraded ISP, Samsung asserts that the A55 is capable of capturing superior low-light images. Furthermore, the inclusion of a new Night Portrait mode and Super HDR video support adds further intrigue to the A55’s camera capabilities.
These assertions by Samsung carry significant weight, yet their veracity can only be ascertained once the Galaxy A55 undergoes thorough testing. Therefore, it remains to be seen whether the A55 genuinely delivers improved photographic performance compared to its predecessor.
Samsung Galaxy A54 vs A55: Availability And Price
Although the Galaxy A54 is an older model, it remains readily available for purchase through various channels, including Samsung.com, carrier stores, and major retailers such as Best Buy.
Initially priced at $450 upon its release, the Galaxy A54 offered competitive specifications at a reasonable cost. However, as it has aged, discounts have become common, often allowing consumers to acquire one for less than $400. In the United States, the Galaxy A54 is offered in two color options: Awesome Graphite and Awesome Violet, with Awesome White and Awesome Lime exclusively available in Europe.
In contrast, the availability of the Galaxy A55 is more limited. Scheduled for release on March 20, it will only be accessible in select markets. Additionally, Samsung has clarified that the A55 will not be available in the United States. For those able to purchase the Galaxy A55, it will be priced starting at 439 British pounds, approximately equivalent to $564.
Samsung Galaxy A54 vs A55: Upgrade Or Not
If you’re currently using a Samsung Galaxy A54, there’s no urgent need to upgrade, as it should continue to serve you well for the next few years. While the Galaxy A55 offers some improvements, its limited availability in the U.S. makes it challenging to obtain for what amounts to a relatively minor upgrade. Additionally, if you prefer a smaller phone, the Galaxy A54’s compact size may be more appealing to you.
However, for consumers in the U.K. or Europe who are in the market for a new midrange phone at an affordable price point, the Galaxy A55 presents a compelling option.
With the Galaxy A55, you’ll enjoy a larger 6.6-inch AMOLED display enhanced by the new Vision Booster feature, providing improved clarity and brightness. The inclusion of the new Exynos 1480 processor paired with 8GB-12GB of RAM promises better performance and, hopefully, enhanced power efficiency. Despite sporting an identical camera system to its predecessor, the A55’s new image signal processor (ISP) should result in better low-light photography capabilities.
If you’re in the U.S. and already own a Galaxy A54, stick with it. However, if you’re in need of a new budget-friendly smartphone, the Galaxy A54 remains a solid choice in 2024. If you’re willing to wait for the Galaxy A55 to become available—and you reside in a market where it will be released—your patience may be rewarded with a worthwhile upgrade.
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