Samsung's A-series offers a wide range of options for budget-conscious consumers. The Galaxy A04 and A13 (SM-A137) represent two of the most affordable choices, but a significant difference in their core processing power exists. This comparison dissects the key specifications to determine which device offers the best value for everyday tasks and beyond.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Samsung Galaxy A13 (SM-A137) is the superior choice. Its Helio G80 chipset, featuring Cortex-A75 performance cores, provides a noticeably smoother experience for multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications compared to the A04’s Helio P35. While the A04 is cheaper, the A13’s performance uplift justifies the price difference.
| 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 | 2022, August 24 | 2022, June |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, October 10 | Available. Released 2022, July |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 76.3 x 9.1 mm (6.47 x 3.00 x 0.36 in) | 165.1 x 76.4 x 8.8 mm (6.5 x 3.01 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 192 g (6.77 oz) | 195 g (6.88 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | - | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.5 inches, 102.0 cm2 (~81.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~83.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769V/CU Helio G80 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, upgradable to Android 13, One UI Core 5.0 | Android 12, upgradable to Android 14, One UI 6.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB 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 | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Quad | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 123˚ (ultrawide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro)
Auxiliary lens |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 8 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, 28mm (wide), 1/5", 1.12µm | 8 MP, f/2.2, (wide) |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.2, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | Unspecified | No |
| USB | USB Type-C 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 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, compass |
| | - | Virtual proximity sensing |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 15W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Green, White, Copper | Black, White, Blue |
| Models | SM-A045F, SM-A045F/DS, SM-A045M | SM-A137F, SM-A137F/DSN, SM-A137F/DS |
| Price | About 70 EUR | About 180 EUR |
| SAR EU | 0.32 W/kg (head) 1.10 W/kg (body) | 0.35 W/kg (head) 1.22 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy A04
- Most affordable option
- Decent battery life for basic use
- Functional for essential tasks
- Slow processor struggles with demanding apps
- Limited gaming capabilities
- Likely slower charging speeds
Samsung Galaxy A13 (SM-A137)
- Faster and more responsive performance
- Better for gaming and multitasking
- 15W fast charging support
- Slightly higher price point
- May not offer significant camera improvements
- Still a budget device with limitations
Display Comparison
Both the A04 and A13 likely feature LCD panels, typical for this price segment. Specifics like resolution and peak brightness are not provided, but the A13’s slightly higher price point *could* indicate a marginally better panel. However, the real difference lies beneath the surface. Neither device is expected to offer high refresh rates or advanced features like LTPO, focusing instead on cost-effectiveness. Bezels are likely comparable, prioritizing maximizing screen real estate within the budget constraints.
Camera Comparison
Without detailed sensor information, a direct camera comparison is difficult. However, both phones likely feature a primary camera accompanied by auxiliary lenses (often a depth or macro sensor). The A13’s slightly higher price suggests a potentially larger primary sensor, which would improve low-light performance. The Helio G80’s image signal processor (ISP) is also more advanced than the P35’s, potentially leading to better image processing and dynamic range. The often-included 2MP macro cameras on both devices are unlikely to deliver significant detail and should be considered a marketing feature rather than a practical benefit.
Performance
The core distinction between these phones is the chipset. The Galaxy A04 utilizes the Mediatek Helio P35 (12nm), an older processor with a CPU configuration of four Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.3 GHz and another four at 1.8 GHz. The A13, however, boasts the Helio G80 (12nm), a more modern chipset with a heterogeneous architecture: two Cortex-A75 cores at 2.0 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz. This is a crucial difference. The Cortex-A75 cores in the G80 offer significantly higher single-core performance, translating to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. The A13 will handle graphically intensive games with greater ease, while the A04 will struggle with more demanding titles. The A13 also benefits from potentially faster RAM speeds, though this isn't explicitly stated.
Battery Life
Battery capacity isn't specified, but both phones likely house batteries in the 5000mAh range, common for budget smartphones. The A13 gains an advantage with its 15W wired charging support, allowing for faster top-ups compared to the A04, which likely supports a slower charging rate. While both phones should offer all-day battery life with moderate usage, the A13’s faster charging will be appreciated by users who frequently need to recharge.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy A04 if you prioritize absolute affordability and only need a phone for basic communication – calls, texts, and light social media. It’s a functional device for those on a very tight budget. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A13 (SM-A137) if you want a more responsive and capable smartphone experience, especially if you enjoy mobile gaming or frequently switch between apps. The A13’s faster processor and 15W charging offer a tangible improvement in usability.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Galaxy A13 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty Mobile?
The Helio G80 in the A13 is capable of running PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, but you’ll likely need to use medium or low graphics settings for a smooth experience. The A04’s Helio P35 will struggle with these titles, even on the lowest settings.
❓ Does the Galaxy A13’s 15W charging make a significant difference in real-world use?
Yes, 15W charging on the A13 is noticeably faster than the likely 10W or slower charging on the A04. You can expect to go from 0% to 100% in around 2-2.5 hours with the A13, while the A04 could take 3+ hours.
❓ Is the difference in processor performance between the Helio P35 and Helio G80 noticeable for everyday tasks like browsing and social media?
Absolutely. While both phones can handle basic tasks, the A13’s Helio G80 provides a much smoother and more responsive experience when switching between apps, scrolling through webpages, and opening applications. The A04 may exhibit noticeable lag in these scenarios.
