Samsung's A0x Core series represents the entry point into the Android ecosystem. The Galaxy A04 Core and A03 Core are both ultra-budget options, but a significant shift in chipset choice separates them. We dissect the differences to determine which offers the best value for users prioritizing affordability.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Samsung Galaxy A04 Core is the superior choice. Its Exynos 850 chipset, built on an 8nm process, delivers a noticeable performance boost over the A03 Core’s older, less efficient Unisoc SC9863A. While both phones target the same price bracket, the A04 Core offers a more future-proof experience.
| 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 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | Not announced yet | 2021, November 15 |
| Status | Cancelled | Available. Released 2021, December 06 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Plastic back, plastic frame | Plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | - | 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 | - | 211 g (7.44 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 (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | Unspecified | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | microUSB 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Type | Li-Ion 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Green, Rose Gold | Black, Blue |
| Models | - | SM-A032F, SM-A032F/DS, SM-A032M |
| Price | - | £ 74.99 |
| SAR | - | 0.30 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.24 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy A04 Core
- Significantly faster processor (Exynos 850)
- More efficient 8nm chipset
- Improved multitasking capabilities
- Potentially better image processing
- Likely similar display quality to A03 Core
- May be slightly more expensive than A03 Core
Samsung Galaxy A03 Core
- Lowest possible price point
- Functional for basic communication
- Simple and easy to use
- Potentially longer battery life if capacity is higher
- Slow processor (Unisoc SC9863A)
- Inefficient 28nm chipset
- Struggles with multitasking
- Limited gaming capabilities
Display Comparison
Both devices likely feature similar LCD panels, given their market positioning. However, detailed display specs (resolution, brightness) are not provided. The focus here is on internal performance, as display quality is likely comparable and basic on both. Bezels are expected to be substantial on both models, reflecting their budget nature. Color accuracy is unlikely to be a strong point on either device.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature basic camera setups. Without detailed sensor information, it’s difficult to make a definitive comparison. However, the A04 Core’s more powerful chipset could potentially enable slightly better image processing, leading to marginally improved photo quality. The presence of a 2MP macro camera on both devices is largely a marketing feature, offering limited practical benefit due to the small sensor size and lack of optical image stabilization. Expect similar low-light performance from both.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets. The A04 Core’s Exynos 850 (8nm) is a significant upgrade over the A03 Core’s Unisoc SC9863A (28nm). The 8nm process node allows for greater transistor density and improved power efficiency, translating to better performance and reduced heat generation. The A04 Core’s octa-core CPU, while using the same Cortex-A55 architecture, benefits from the faster 2.0 GHz clock speed on all cores, compared to the A03 Core’s split 1.6 GHz and 1.2 GHz configuration. This means the A04 Core will handle multitasking and app launches more efficiently. The larger fabrication process of the Unisoc chip will result in higher power consumption for similar tasks.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified in the provided data. However, the Exynos 850’s improved power efficiency in the A04 Core could translate to longer battery life despite potentially having a similar capacity to the A03 Core. The Unisoc SC9863A’s 28nm process will consume more power, potentially requiring more frequent charging. Charging wattage is also unknown, but both are likely to support slow charging speeds.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy A04 Core if you need a phone capable of handling everyday tasks with more fluidity, and potentially some light gaming. The improved chipset provides a smoother user experience and better app loading times. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core if you prioritize absolute lowest cost and your usage is limited to basic communication – calls, texts, and very light web browsing. It's a functional device for those with minimal smartphone needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 850 in the A04 Core overheat during prolonged use?
The Exynos 850, built on an 8nm process, is relatively efficient. While it can get warm during extended gaming or video recording, it's unlikely to experience significant thermal throttling like more powerful chips. The larger process node helps dissipate heat more effectively than the A03 Core's Unisoc chip.
❓ Is the performance difference between the A04 Core and A03 Core noticeable in everyday tasks?
Yes, the difference is noticeable. The A04 Core’s faster processor and more efficient chipset result in snappier app launches, smoother scrolling, and a more responsive user experience. The A03 Core can feel sluggish when switching between apps or loading demanding websites.
❓ Can the Samsung Galaxy A04 Core handle popular mobile games like PUBG or Call of Duty?
The A04 Core can run PUBG and Call of Duty Mobile, but not at maximum settings. Expect to play at lower graphics settings and potentially reduced frame rates to maintain a playable experience. The Unisoc SC9863A in the A03 Core would struggle significantly with these titles.
❓ What type of storage and RAM does each phone use, and does this impact performance?
Storage and RAM specifications are not provided. However, eMMC storage is likely used in both devices, which is slower than UFS storage. The amount of RAM will significantly impact multitasking performance; more RAM is always better. The A04 Core's faster processor will be able to utilize available RAM more effectively.
