What’s behind Samsung’s most affordable 5G smartphone? The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is the latest addition to the company’s budget-friendly lineup. With a starting price of just under $200, this device aims to bring premium features to the masses. Key specifications include a quad-core processor, 32GB internal storage (expandable up to 1TB via microSD), and a 6.5-inch HD+ display. The phone also boasts a dual-camera setup with a 13-megapixel primary sensor and a 2-megapixel depth sensor, as well as a 5000mAh battery that supports quick charging. The Galaxy A16 5G runs on Android 11 out of the box, offering seamless integration with other Samsung devices. You’ll also get access to Google services like Google Assistant and Google Photos. In terms of security, the phone features fingerprint recognition and facial unlock for added protection. With a thickness of just 9.4mm and a weight of around 191g, it’s surprisingly compact considering its long battery life. The Galaxy A16 5G is available in three colors: black, blue, and white.

The highly anticipated device has arrived at our headquarters, ahead of schedule, allowing us to conduct an early review. Let’s kick things off with a swift unboxing to uncover the features and offerings inside.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G arrives in a sleek white retail box, accompanied by essential accessories, including documentation, a SIM ejector tool, and a USB-C charging cable. You’ve secured the classic blue mannequin, but why settle for just one when you could choose from among three additional vibrant hues?

The device features a 6.7-inch Full HD+ 90Hz AMOLED display, boasting a distinctive notch housing the 13-megapixel front-facing camera. Although there isn’t a fingerprint scanner located underneath, as it’s discreetly integrated into the power button.

Rotate the phone around, and you’ll also notice a plastic cover sporting a vertical triple-camera setup aligned in the top-left corner. The device features a trifecta of camera capabilities: a primary 50MP sensor, supplemented by a versatile 5MP ultra-wide-angle lens, and a dedicated 2MP macro module for capturing intricate details.

Beneath its exterior lies a robust foundation: the Exynos 1330 system-on-chip, bolstered by up to 8 gigabytes of memory and a generous 256-gigabyte storage capacity. The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G debuts with Android 14-based One UI 6.1, featuring a notable commitment to six years of Android version upgrades and five years of security patches, making it an attractive offering in the market.

The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G boasts an IP54 rating, and to keep it running seamlessly, you’re equipped with a robust 5,000mAh battery that supports rapid 25W charging capabilities. When purchasing a new smartphone without a compatible energy adapter, you’ll incur additional expenses since it won’t be included in the bundle.

Let’s quickly get started on reviewing the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G – will it be worth buying?