Galaxy A05 Vs Galaxy S20 5G

Galaxy A05
Galaxy A05
Starting at

Refurbished price:£89.00

Versus £144.96 new

See options
Galaxy S20 5G
Galaxy S20 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£133.00

Versus £899.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A05, released in 2023, is an entry-level smartphone designed for essential daily use, while the Samsung Galaxy S20 5G, launched in 2020, was a flagship device offering advanced features and performance. These two Android-based smartphones cater to different user needs, primarily differing in their processing power, display technology, camera capabilities, and overall build quality.

Scores

Durability

The practical lifespan and software support differ significantly between these two devices due to their original market positioning and release timelines.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy A05 was released in 2023, making it a newer device, while the Galaxy S20 5G debuted in March 2020.
  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy A05 launched with Android 13 and is expected to receive updates up to Android 15. The Galaxy S20 5G, originally on Android 10, received updates up to Android 13, and is unlikely to receive further major OS upgrades. This means the A05 will benefit from newer software features and security patches for a longer period.
  • Build and Durability: The Galaxy A05 features a plastic back and a glass front, without an official IP rating for water and dust resistance. The Galaxy S20 5G offers a more robust construction with Gorilla Glass 6 on both the front and back, an aluminum frame, and an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, indicating a higher level of protection against environmental elements.

Year of Release

2023

2020

Compatible with latest Update

No

No

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance capabilities vary considerably, reflecting the different market segments each device was designed for.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy A05 is equipped with an entry-level processor, suitable for basic tasks such as messaging, web browsing, and light gaming. Users may experience some slowdown when multitasking with multiple applications. The Galaxy S20 5G features a high-performance processor, enabling smooth operation for demanding applications, intensive gaming, and efficient multitasking.
  • Memory and Storage: The Galaxy A05 typically comes with 4GB or 6GB of RAM and 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card. The Galaxy S20 5G generally offers 12GB of RAM (with some regional variants having 8GB) and 128GB of internal storage, also expandable with a microSD card. The higher RAM in the S20 5G contributes to more fluid multitasking and app handling.
  • Battery Performance: The Galaxy A05 houses a 5000 mAh battery, which users report can easily last a full day, and potentially up to two days, with typical usage. The Galaxy S20 5G has a 4000 mAh battery, which generally provides a full day of use, though enabling the 120Hz refresh rate can lead to more frequent charging for heavy users. Both support 25W wired fast charging.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The display experience is a key differentiator, with the Galaxy S20 5G offering a more premium visual interface.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The Galaxy A05 features a 6.7-inch PLS LCD display with an HD+ resolution (720 x 1600 pixels). The Galaxy S20 5G boasts a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a significantly higher QHD+ resolution (3200 x 1440 pixels), providing deeper blacks, more vibrant colors, and sharper details.
  • Refresh Rate and Brightness: The Galaxy A05 has a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which is adequate for everyday scrolling. Its brightness levels are suitable for indoor use but may struggle under direct sunlight. The Galaxy S20 5G offers a smoother visual experience with a 120Hz refresh rate (at FHD resolution) and higher peak brightness, enhancing visibility in various lighting conditions, including outdoors.
  • Design Elements: The Galaxy A05 features a waterdrop notch for its front camera and noticeable bezels. The Galaxy S20 5G has a more modern design with a punch-hole cutout for the front camera and minimal bezels, contributing to a more immersive viewing experience.

Resolution

720 x 1600

1440 x 3200

Screen type

PLS LCD

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities vary significantly, with the Galaxy S20 5G offering a more advanced and versatile photography system.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy A05 features a dual rear camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor and a 2MP depth sensor. The Galaxy S20 5G comes with a triple rear camera system, comprising a 12MP wide-angle lens, a 64MP telephoto lens with 3x hybrid optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens, all supported by optical image stabilization.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy A05 performs adequately in well-lit conditions, capturing detailed and vibrant shots, but its performance in low-light environments and its portrait mode can be inconsistent. The Galaxy S20 5G delivers strong photography performance across various lighting conditions, with features like Bright Night mode for improved low-light imaging.
  • Video and Audio: The Galaxy A05 records video at up to 1080p at 30 frames per second and lacks optical or electronic image stabilization. It includes dual microphones and a mono speaker. The Galaxy S20 5G is capable of recording up to 8K video and features Super Steady Video for smoother footage. It offers a more immersive audio experience, typically with stereo speakers.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

8 megapixels

10 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements distinguish these two smartphones.

  • Connectivity: The Galaxy A05 supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), and Bluetooth 5.3. The Galaxy S20 5G offers advanced connectivity with 5G support, Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), and Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Ports and Sensors: Both devices feature a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The Galaxy A05 retains a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is absent on the Galaxy S20 5G. For security, the A05 may include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor in some regions, while the S20 5G utilizes an ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor.
  • Physical Characteristics: The Galaxy A05 is slightly larger and heavier, measuring 168.8 x 78.2 x 8.8mm and weighing 195g. The Galaxy S20 5G is more compact and lighter at 151.7 x 69.1 x 7.9mm and 163g. The S20 5G also supports wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, features not found on the A05.

Weight

195 g

163 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.2

Mobile network

4G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback indicates distinct strengths for each device. The Samsung Galaxy A05 is frequently praised for its exceptional battery life, often lasting a full day or more, and its large screen, which is beneficial for media consumption. However, common criticisms include its slower performance during multitasking, a dated display design with a notch, a 60Hz refresh rate, and inconsistent camera performance in challenging lighting conditions.

Conversely, the Samsung Galaxy S20 5G receives acclaim for its vibrant and high-resolution AMOLED display, powerful performance for demanding tasks, and a versatile camera system capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos. Its premium build quality and IP68 water resistance are also frequently highlighted. Some users note that its battery life, especially when utilizing the 120Hz refresh rate, may require more frequent charging, and as an older flagship, its software update cycle has concluded.

Users prioritizing extended battery life, a large display for casual viewing, and basic smartphone functionality will find the Galaxy A05 well-suited to their needs. It is a practical choice for those who do not require high-end performance or advanced camera features. For individuals seeking a more premium experience with robust performance, a superior display, advanced photography capabilities, and a more durable build, the Galaxy S20 5G remains a compelling option. Both devices are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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