Looking for an ultra-affordable smartphone? The Samsung Galaxy A01 Core and M01 Core are both contenders, offering basic functionality at a budget-friendly price. But are they truly identical? This comparison dives deep to reveal the subtle differences and help you choose the right one for your needs.
🏆 Quick Verdict
Both phones share the same core chipset and CPU, resulting in similar performance. The A01 Core often edges out slightly in availability and sometimes offers minor software updates. Ultimately, the best choice depends on pricing and regional availability, as they are remarkably similar.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2020, July 21. Released 2020, August 06 | 2020, July 27. Released 2020, July 29 |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic back, plastic frame | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 141.7 x 67.5 x 8.6 mm (5.58 x 2.66 x 0.34 in) | 141.7 x 67.5 x 8.6 mm (5.58 x 2.66 x 0.34 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 150 g (5.29 oz) | 150 g (5.29 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1480 pixels, 18.5:9 ratio (~311 ppi density) | 720 x 1480 pixels, 18.5:9 ratio (~311 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.3 inches, 71.3 cm2 (~74.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.3 inches, 71.3 cm2 (~74.5% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) | Mediatek MT6739 (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | PowerVR GE8100 |
| OS | Android 10 (Go edition) | Android 10 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 1GB RAM, 16GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM | 16GB 1GB RAM, 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.2, AF | 8 MP, f/2.2, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4 | 5 MP, f/2.4 |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh | Li-Ion 3000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Red | Black, Blue, Red |
| Models | SM-A013F, SM-A013F/DS, SM-A013G, SM-A013G/DS, SM-A013M | SM-M013F, SM-M013F/DS |
| Price | About 150 EUR | About 60 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.86 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | 0.64 W/kg (head) 1.18 W/kg (body) | - |
Samsung Galaxy A01 Core
- Potentially better software support
- Wider availability in some regions
- Simple and easy to use interface
- Limited performance
- Basic camera quality
- Slow charging
Samsung Galaxy M01 Core
- Often more affordable
- Simple and easy to use interface
- Decent battery life for light use
- Limited performance
- Basic camera quality
- Slow charging
Display Comparison
Both devices feature a 6.2-inch HD+ (720 x 1520) PLS LCD display. While the resolution is the same, slight variations in color accuracy and brightness may exist depending on the specific panel used. Expect adequate viewing angles and decent clarity for everyday use, but don't expect vibrant colors or exceptional brightness.
Camera Comparison
The A01 Core typically features an 8MP rear camera, while the M01 Core often has a similar 8MP rear camera. Front-facing cameras are usually 5MP on both. Image quality is basic, suitable for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. Low-light performance will be poor on both devices. Video recording capabilities are limited to 720p.
Performance
Performance is virtually identical. The Mediatek MT6739 chipset and quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU provide enough power for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light social media browsing. Don't expect to run demanding games or multitask heavily without experiencing slowdowns. Both phones will likely come with 1GB or 2GB of RAM, further impacting performance.
Battery Life
Both phones typically include a 3000mAh battery. Battery life is generally sufficient for a full day of light use, but heavy users will need to charge before the end of the day. Standby time is respectable, but charging speeds are slow (likely using a standard microUSB port).
Buying Guide
The Samsung Galaxy A01 Core is ideal for users prioritizing slightly better software support and wider availability. The Samsung Galaxy M01 Core is a great option if you find it at a significantly lower price and don't require the latest features. Both are perfect for first-time smartphone users or those needing a basic backup device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are the Samsung Galaxy A01 Core and M01 Core the same phone?
They are very similar, sharing the same chipset, CPU, and many core features. Differences are primarily in availability, pricing, and potentially minor software variations.
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
Neither phone is ideal for gaming. Both struggle with demanding games due to their limited processing power and RAM. Casual games may be playable at low settings.
