Looking for an affordable Samsung smartphone? The Galaxy A03 and A04e are both contenders, offering essential features without breaking the bank. But which one delivers the best value? This detailed comparison will break down the key differences to help you make the right choice.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Galaxy A04e edges out the A03 thanks to its slightly more powerful processor and improved battery efficiency. While both are budget devices, the A04e offers a more responsive experience and potentially longer battery life, making it the better overall pick for most users.
| 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, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2021, November 26 | 2022, October 21 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, January 21 | Available. Released 2022, November 07 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 164.2 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) | 164.2 x 75.9 x 9.1 mm (6.46 x 2.99 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 196 g (6.91 oz) | 188 g (6.63 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.8% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x1.6 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to Android 13, One UI core 5 | Android 12, One UI Core 4.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| | eMMC 5.1 | - |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 48 MP, f/1.8, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | Yes | 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 | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Red | Black, Copper, Light Blue |
| Models | SM-A035F, SM-A035F/DS, SM-A035M, SM-A035G | SM-A042F, SM-A042F/DS, SM-A042M, SM-A042M/DS |
| Price | € 119.90 / £ 88.00 / ₹ 11,990 | ₹ 7,999 |
| SAR EU | 0.20 W/kg (head) 1.35 W/kg (body) | 0.29 W/kg (head) 1.11 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy A03
- Very affordable
- Decent display for the price
- Sufficient storage options
- Underpowered chipset
- Basic camera performance
- Can feel slow at times
Samsung Galaxy A04e
- Better performance than A03
- Improved battery efficiency
- Slightly better camera
- Modern design
- Still a budget phone
- Limited features
- HD+ display isn't ideal
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a 6.5-inch display, likely with an HD+ resolution. The A04e might have slightly improved color accuracy or brightness, but overall, the display experience will be similar. Expect adequate viewing for everyday use, but not a premium visual experience.
Camera Comparison
The A04e likely has a slightly better camera setup, potentially with a higher resolution main sensor and improved image processing. Expect decent photos in good lighting conditions from both, but low-light performance will be limited. Both likely feature a basic depth sensor.
Performance
The A04e's MediaTek Helio P35 chipset generally outperforms the A03's Unisoc T606. The P35's higher clocked Cortex-A53 cores provide a noticeable boost in responsiveness for apps and multitasking. The A03 can feel sluggish at times, especially with demanding apps.
Battery Life
The A04e typically boasts a 5000mAh battery, while the A03 has a similar capacity. However, the more efficient Helio P35 chipset in the A04e should translate to slightly better battery life, potentially lasting a full day with moderate use.
Buying Guide
The Samsung Galaxy A03 is ideal for users prioritizing a very low price point and basic functionality. The Galaxy A04e is a better choice for those needing a bit more performance for everyday tasks, slightly better camera quality, and a longer-lasting battery.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Samsung Galaxy A04e is the better choice for light gaming due to its more powerful processor. However, neither phone is designed for demanding games.
❓ How much storage do these phones offer?
Both the A03 and A04e typically come in 32GB and 64GB storage options, expandable via microSD card.
❓ What operating system do these phones run?
Both phones run on Android, likely with Samsung's One UI on top. The specific version may vary depending on the region and update.
