Introduction
The latest Samsung Galaxy A16 5G model may not hold the title of most affordable available option, but it’s certainly a close contender. While this setup may be grounded in more modest financial considerations, the reality is that certain concessions had to be made. So we need to identify potential flaws and determine whether the cell phone’s drawbacks outweigh its benefits at this price point?
Before delving into the evaluation itself, it’s essential to note that we are actually assessing the 5G variant, and our findings may not be applicable to the standard Galaxy A16 4G model due to its utilization of a different chipset.
The Galaxy A16 5G’s chipset situation is peculiar, featuring either a Samsung Exynos 1330 or MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor, depending on the region and availability.
The Exynos 1330 has been featured before, but so far, no device with the Dimensity 6300 processor has surfaced through official channels. That’s fairly unfortunate, as we won’t have the opportunity to inspect the two chips, even superficially.
The Galaxy A16 5G evaluation unit is powered by an Exynos 1330 processor. Unfortunately, we’re working with a base model featuring just 128GB of storage, but there is a silver lining – it’s equipped with expandable storage capabilities. Despite being a relatively affordable option, the 4GB of RAM raises concerns about future-proofing.
Here are the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G specs at a glance:
• Processor: Octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 480
• Display: 6.5-inch HD+ Super AMOLED
• RAM: 3GB, 4GB
• Storage: 32GB, 64GB, 128GB (expandable up to 1TB via microSD)
• Rear camera: Triple-camera setup – 13MP primary sensor, 2MP macro lens, 2MP depth sensor
• Front camera: 8MP
• Battery: 5,000mAh
• Charging: Fast charging support
• Operating system: Android 11
• Biometric security: Fingerprint reader, facial recognition
- Physique: Approximately 164.4 mm in length, 77.9 mm in width, and 7.9 mm in thickness, weighing approximately 200 grams; featuring a glass-fronted design with plastic casing on the sides and rear; rated IP54 for resistance to dust and water splashes, as well as mud and other liquids.
- Show: 6.7-inch extraordinary AMOLED display, boasting a 90Hz refresh rate and peak brightness of 800 nits with High Brightness Mode; featuring a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, a 19.5:9 aspect ratio, and an impressive pixel density of 385 ppi.
- Chipset: Exynos 1330 (5 nm) or Mediatek Dimensity 6300 (6 nm): Octa-core (2×2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) or Octa-core (2×2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6×2.0 GHz Cortex-A55); Mali-G68 MP2 or Mali-G57 MC2.
- Reminiscence: Available storage options include a 128GB model with 4GB of RAM and a 256GB variant featuring 8GB of RAM, both of which can be expanded via microSDXC card, utilizing the device’s shared SIM slot.
- OS/Software program: The next wave of innovations in mobile technology is just around the corner with Android 14, promising a plethora of enhancements across multiple facets of the ecosystem. This significant update represents the culmination of six major Android upgrades under the One UI 6.1 umbrella.
- Rear digital camera: Extensive (essential): 50 MP, f/1.8, AF; Extremely broad angle: 5 MP, f/2.2; Macro: 2 MP, f/2.4.
- Entrance digital camera: 13 MP, f/2.0, (broad).
- Video seize: Rear digital camera: 1080p@30fps, gyro-EIS; Entrance digital camera: 1080p@30fps.
- Battery: 5000mAh; 25W wired.
- Connectivity: Futuristic Connectivity: 5G, Dual-SIM Functionality with Enhanced Compatibility; Fast and Reliable Wi-Fi 5; Seamless Bluetooth 5.3 Experience; Secure Near Field Communication (NFC) Connection.
- Misc: Integrated fingerprint reader mounted discreetly on the side; Advanced digital proximity sensing technology.
Unboxing
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G arrives in a standard two-piece cardboard box, boasting a predominantly white hue. While its trustworthiness was somewhat questionable, this item still managed to provide adequate support during transportation, particularly for items placed at an incline. The absence of plastic in this environment is a welcome sight from an ecological perspective. The company’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its decision to use soy-based ink for all printing needs.
Currently, the existing development appears to lack significant advancements in terms of infrastructure. The Galaxy A16 5G ships with a single, standard, 3A white USB-C to USB-C charging cable and a SIM eject tool. There are no chargers available within the field, nor is there a protective case.
