Galaxy A04S Vs Galaxy S25

Galaxy A04S
Galaxy A04S
Starting at

Refurbished price:£99.00

Versus £179.00 new

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Galaxy S25
Galaxy S25
Starting at

Refurbished price:£435.00

Versus £766.13 new

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Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A04s, released in September 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy S25, launched in February 2025, represent distinct segments within Samsung's smartphone lineup. While both operate on the Android platform with Samsung's One UI, they cater to different user expectations regarding performance, camera capabilities, and overall build quality. The Galaxy A04s is positioned as an accessible device for everyday tasks, whereas the Galaxy S25 is a flagship offering designed for advanced users seeking cutting-edge technology and a premium experience.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its physical build and the duration of software support it receives.

  • Release Timeline and Software Support: The Galaxy A04s, released in 2022, typically receives major Android updates for approximately two to three years, with security updates extending slightly longer. It launched with Android 12 and is upgradable to Android 14. [11, 14, 17, 25, 27, 34] In contrast, the Galaxy S25, released in 2025 with Android 15, benefits from Samsung's commitment to providing seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates, ensuring a significantly longer period of current software and security. [2, 5, 13, 15, 16, 26, 37]
  • Build Materials and Durability: The Galaxy A04s features a plastic back and frame with a glass front, offering a practical level of durability for daily use. [6, 22, 27, 28, 34] It does not carry an official IP rating for water and dust resistance. The Galaxy S25, however, is constructed with premium materials, including Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and an aluminum frame, providing enhanced protection against drops and scratches. [2, 5, 24] It also boasts an IP68 rating, signifying robust resistance to dust and water immersion. [2, 5]
  • Expected Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing extended software longevity and physical resilience will find the Galaxy S25 to be a more future-proof device due to its prolonged update schedule and superior build quality. The Galaxy A04s remains a functional device for its intended lifespan, particularly for users who do not require the latest software features or extreme durability.

Year of Release

2022

2025

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone dictates its responsiveness and capability to handle various applications and tasks.

  • Processing Power and Responsiveness: The Galaxy A04s is equipped with an octa-core processor, which capably handles essential daily activities such as messaging, web browsing, and social media. [6, 9, 14, 17, 21, 29] Users engaging in light multitasking or less demanding applications will find its performance adequate. The Galaxy S25, on the other hand, integrates a current-generation flagship processor, delivering exceptional speed and efficiency. [2, 5, 7, 26, 36] This allows for seamless navigation, rapid app loading, and smooth execution of graphically intensive games and complex productivity tools. [2, 7, 24, 35]
  • Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy A04s typically comes with 3GB or 4GB of RAM and storage options up to 128GB, which can be expanded with a microSD card. [3, 4, 6, 9, 14, 17, 21, 22, 25, 27, 29] While sufficient for basic use, heavy multitasking might lead to noticeable slowdowns. The Galaxy S25 offers a minimum of 12GB of RAM and internal storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB, with some configurations reaching 1TB, providing ample space and memory for extensive app usage and large media libraries without performance compromises. [2, 5, 7, 26, 36]
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy A04s features a large 5000 mAh battery, which, combined with its less demanding hardware, generally provides extended usage on a single charge, often lasting a full day for moderate users. [3, 4, 6, 14, 17, 21, 22, 27, 28, 29, 33] The Galaxy S25, with a 4000 mAh battery, [2, 5, 8, 19, 24, 30, 32] is optimized for efficiency through its advanced processor and adaptive display technology, also aiming for all-day battery life for most users, though intensive tasks like prolonged gaming or 4K video recording may require more frequent charging. [19, 35]

Memory (GB)

3 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and its quality significantly impacts the user experience.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy A04s features a 6.5-inch PLS LCD display with HD+ resolution (720 x 1600 pixels). [3, 4, 6, 14, 17, 18, 21, 27, 28, 29] This provides clear visuals for general content consumption and daily tasks. The Galaxy S25 boasts a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2340 pixels). [1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 23, 24, 26, 30] This technology delivers deeper blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colors, enhancing the viewing experience for photos, videos, and detailed applications.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: The Galaxy A04s offers a 90Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and a more fluid feel compared to standard 60Hz displays. [3, 4, 6, 14, 17, 18, 21, 27, 28, 29] Its peak brightness of 400 nits is suitable for indoor use, though outdoor visibility in bright sunlight might be challenging. [6, 28, 29] The Galaxy S25 features an adaptive 120Hz refresh rate, which dynamically adjusts to content for optimal smoothness and power efficiency. [1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 23, 24, 26, 30] With a peak brightness of 2600 nits, [1, 2, 5, 7, 23, 24, 30] the S25's display remains highly legible even under direct sunlight.
  • Viewing Experience: For users who prioritize a large screen for casual browsing and media, the A04s offers a spacious viewing area. However, those seeking a more immersive and visually rich experience with superior clarity, color accuracy, and outdoor performance will find the S25's display to be a significant upgrade.

Resolution

720 x 1600

1080x2340

Screen type

PLS LCD

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

The camera system is a key differentiator for many smartphone users, impacting the quality of captured memories and content creation.

  • Rear Camera Capabilities: The Galaxy A04s features a triple rear camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. [3, 4, 6, 11, 14, 17, 21, 22, 27, 29, 33] This configuration is capable of capturing clear everyday photos in good lighting conditions. The Galaxy S25 is equipped with a more advanced triple camera system, comprising a 50MP wide-angle main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens offering 3x optical zoom. [1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 10, 12] This setup provides greater versatility and detail across various photographic scenarios.
  • Low-Light and Video Performance: The A04s performs best in well-lit environments, with low-light performance being more limited. It records video at up to 1080p at 30 frames per second. [3, 4, 11, 17, 18, 21, 27, 29, 33] The Galaxy S25 excels in challenging lighting conditions, producing brighter and more detailed images thanks to its larger sensors and advanced image processing. [2, 12] It supports video recording up to 8K resolution at 30 frames per second, [1, 5] offering professional-grade video capabilities.
  • Front Camera and Audio: For selfies and video calls, the A04s has a 5MP front camera. [3, 4, 6, 14, 17, 21, 22, 27, 29, 33] The Galaxy S25 features a 12MP front camera, delivering higher resolution and better quality for self-portraits and video communication. [1, 2, 5, 7, 8, 10] Both devices offer standard microphone quality for calls, but the S25's overall multimedia experience is enhanced by its stereo speakers, providing richer audio output for media consumption. [2]

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy A04s supports 4G LTE networks, Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth 5.0, providing reliable wireless connectivity for most users. [14, 27, 28] It includes a USB-C 2.0 port for charging and data transfer, and notably retains a 3.5mm headphone jack. [14, 27, 28] The Galaxy S25 offers advanced connectivity with 5G capabilities, Wi-Fi 7, and Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring faster data speeds and more stable connections. [5, 8, 26] It features a faster USB-C 3.2 port but omits the traditional headphone jack. [5, 26]
  • Security and Biometrics: For security, the Galaxy A04s utilizes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. [14, 18, 21, 27, 29] The Galaxy S25 incorporates an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor, offering a seamless and modern unlocking experience, alongside advanced facial recognition. [5, 23]
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy A04s has dimensions of 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 mm and weighs 195g, [6, 9, 14, 18, 21, 28, 38, 39] providing a substantial feel in hand. Its plastic construction is durable for everyday knocks. The Galaxy S25 is more compact and lighter at 146.9 x 70.5 x 7.2 mm and 162g, [2, 5, 8, 26] featuring a refined design with premium materials that contribute to a more comfortable and sophisticated handling experience.

Weight

195 g

162 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.2

Mobile network

4G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy A04s and Galaxy S25 cater to distinct user needs, reflecting their different market positions and release timelines. Users often praise the Galaxy A04s for its dependable battery life, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize extended usage for basic communication and light applications. [6, 19, 29] However, common criticisms point to its more modest performance and camera capabilities, which may not satisfy users with higher demands for speed or photographic detail. [6, 29]

Conversely, the Galaxy S25 receives acclaim for its cutting-edge performance, exceptional camera system, and vibrant display, making it a strong contender for users who engage in demanding tasks like gaming, content creation, and advanced photography. [2, 7, 24, 35] Its long software support policy is also a significant advantage, ensuring the device remains current and secure for many years. [13, 15, 16] Some users might note that while its charging speeds are good, they are not always the fastest available in the market. [19, 30]

Users prioritizing a straightforward, reliable device for essential smartphone functions and who value a longer battery life for general use may find the Galaxy A04s suitable. This could include students or individuals seeking a secondary device. For those who require top-tier performance, a premium multimedia experience, advanced camera features, and long-term software support, the Galaxy S25 aligns better with their needs, appealing to professionals, tech enthusiasts, and power users. When considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide a sustainable choice that aligns with both budget and environmental considerations.

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