The LG K51S and Samsung Galaxy A04 represent the ultra-budget end of the Android spectrum. Both devices aim to deliver smartphone functionality at the lowest possible price point. However, despite sharing the same MediaTek Helio P35 chipset, they cater to slightly different user preferences, primarily through brand loyalty and software experience. This comparison will dissect their similarities and differences to help you choose the right device.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing a familiar Android experience and potential software updates, the Samsung Galaxy A04 is the slightly better choice. While both phones offer identical core performance due to the Helio P35, Samsung's One UI and broader brand support provide a more polished and potentially longer-lasting user experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (2CA) Cat6 300/50 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, February 18. Released 2020, April 27 | 2022, August 24 |
| Status | Discontinued | Available. Released 2022, October 10 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 165.2 x 76.7 x 8.3 mm (6.50 x 3.02 x 0.33 in) | 164.4 x 76.3 x 9.1 mm (6.47 x 3.00 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 194.5 g (6.88 oz) | 192 g (6.77 oz) |
| | MIL-STD-810G compliant*
*does not guarantee ruggedness or use in extreme conditions | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Scratch-resistant glass | - |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~282 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.55 inches, 93.6 cm2 (~73.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 9.0 (Pie) | Android 12, upgradable to Android 13, One UI Core 5.0 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, 25mm (wide), 1/2.51", 0.7µm, AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash |
| Quad | 32 MP, (wide), PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 115˚, (ultrawide)
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Single | - | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 13 MP, 1/3.1", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1/5", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | No | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNAorWi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, DLNA | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 4000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Titanium, Pink, Blue, Red | Black, Green, White, Copper |
| Models | LMK510EMW, LM-K510EMW, LM-K510 | SM-A045F, SM-A045F/DS, SM-A045M |
| Price | About 200 EUR | About 70 EUR |
| SAR EU | - | 0.32 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) |
LG K51S
- Potentially larger display for immersive media viewing.
- LG's simpler software approach may appeal to some users.
- May be available at a slightly lower price point.
- LG's brand support is limited due to its exit from the smartphone market.
- Likely to receive fewer software updates.
- Camera performance may be less refined.
Samsung Galaxy A04
- Samsung's One UI offers a more polished and feature-rich experience.
- Better brand recognition and potential for longer software support.
- Access to Samsung's ecosystem of accessories.
- May be slightly more expensive than the LG K51S.
- Potentially smaller display.
- One UI can be resource-intensive, potentially impacting performance.
Display Comparison
Both the LG K51S and Samsung Galaxy A04 utilize displays that prioritize cost-effectiveness over cutting-edge technology. While specific display resolutions and panel types aren't provided, the K51S's larger size suggests a lower pixel density compared to the A04. Neither device is expected to feature high brightness levels or advanced features like HDR support. The absence of information regarding PWM dimming rates makes it difficult to assess potential eye strain for sensitive users, but given the price point, higher frequencies are unlikely. The A04 may benefit from Samsung's display calibration expertise, potentially offering slightly more accurate colors.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar on both devices, relying heavily on software processing to enhance image quality. Without specific sensor details, it's difficult to make a definitive judgment. However, the inclusion of multiple cameras (often including 2MP macro and depth sensors) on both phones is a common tactic to inflate specifications without significantly improving image quality. The primary sensor's aperture and size will be the most critical factors, but this information is unavailable. Expect adequate performance in well-lit conditions, but struggles in low-light scenarios. Samsung's image processing algorithms may offer a slight advantage in color reproduction and dynamic range.
Performance
The core performance of both devices is identical, powered by the MediaTek Helio P35 (MT6765) chipset with an octa-core CPU configuration of 4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 and 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53 cores. This chipset is designed for basic tasks like web browsing, social media, and light app usage. Gaming performance will be limited to less demanding titles at lower settings. The 12nm manufacturing process is relatively efficient, but thermal throttling could become a factor during sustained workloads. RAM configurations are not specified, but both devices likely feature 2GB or 3GB, which will impact multitasking capabilities. The lack of a dedicated GPU means graphics performance will be handled by the integrated PowerVR GE8320.
Battery Life
Battery capacity and charging wattage are not specified for either device. Given the Helio P35's efficiency and the target market, both phones likely feature batteries in the 4000mAh to 5000mAh range. Charging speeds are expected to be slow, likely utilizing 10W or 15W chargers. Real-world battery life will depend heavily on usage patterns, but both devices should be capable of lasting a full day with moderate use. The absence of fast charging technology means topping up the battery will take several hours.
Buying Guide
Buy the LG K51S if you prioritize maximizing screen real estate within a limited budget and prefer a less cluttered software experience. Its larger display offers a more immersive media consumption experience. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A04 if you value brand recognition, a more refined user interface with Samsung's One UI, and the potential for longer software support, even if it's limited. The A04 also benefits from Samsung's established ecosystem of accessories.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio P35 struggle with popular apps like TikTok and Instagram?
The Helio P35 is a basic chipset, and while it can run apps like TikTok and Instagram, expect some lag and slowdowns, especially when multitasking. Optimizing app usage and closing background apps will help improve performance.
❓ How long will software updates be supported on the Samsung Galaxy A04?
Samsung typically provides two years of major Android updates and three years of security patches for its A-series devices. However, given the A04's position as an entry-level model, the actual update support may be shorter. Expect at least one major Android update.
❓ Is the LG K51S a good choice if I'm concerned about privacy?
LG's exit from the smartphone market means there's less incentive for long-term security updates, potentially raising privacy concerns. Samsung generally offers more consistent security patches, making the A04 a slightly better choice for privacy-conscious users.
❓ Can either of these phones handle mobile gaming beyond casual titles?
Neither the LG K51S nor the Samsung Galaxy A04 are designed for serious mobile gaming. While you can play less demanding games, expect low frame rates and graphical settings. More intensive games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile will likely be unplayable or require significant compromises.
