Looking for an affordable Samsung smartphone? The Galaxy A04e and A03 Core 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 Samsung Galaxy A04e edges out the A03 Core thanks to its slightly more powerful chipset and potentially better display. While both are budget options, the A04e offers a more responsive experience and a bit more future-proofing, making it the preferable choice 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, LTE | HSPA 21.1/5.76 Mbps, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, October 21 | 2021, November 15 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, November 07 | Available. Released 2021, December 06 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, 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) | 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 | 188 g (6.63 oz) | 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 (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x1.2 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | IMG8322 |
| OS | Android 12, One UI Core 4.1 | Android 11 (Go edition) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 8 MP, f/2.0, AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2 | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | Yes | - |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 4.2, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | 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-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Ion 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Copper, Light Blue | Black, Blue |
| Models | SM-A042F, SM-A042F/DS, SM-A042M, SM-A042M/DS | SM-A032F, SM-A032F/DS, SM-A032M |
| Price | ₹ 7,999 | £ 74.99 |
| SAR | - | 0.30 W/kg (head) |
| SAR EU | 0.29 W/kg (head) 1.11 W/kg (body) | 0.24 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy A04e
- Slightly better performance
- More efficient chipset
- Potentially better display
- Modern chipset
- Still a budget phone with limitations
- Camera quality is basic
- May lack advanced features
Samsung Galaxy A03 Core
- Very affordable
- Long battery life
- Decent for basic tasks
- Lower performance
- Less efficient chipset
- Basic camera
- May feel sluggish
Display Comparison
Both phones likely feature a 6.5-inch HD+ display, but the A04e *may* have slightly better color accuracy and brightness due to its more modern chipset. Expect similar viewing angles and resolution on both.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a dual-camera setup on the rear, potentially with a 13MP main sensor. Image quality will be adequate for casual snapshots in good lighting, but don't expect stellar results. The A04e *might* have slightly improved image processing due to its chipset.
Performance
The A04e's Mediatek Helio P35 chipset holds a clear advantage over the A03 Core's Unisoc SC9863A. The P35 offers higher clock speeds and a more efficient 12nm process, resulting in noticeably better performance for multitasking and app loading. Expect some lag on the A03 Core with heavier apps.
Battery Life
Both phones are expected to have a 5000mAh battery, offering all-day battery life with moderate usage. However, the A04e's more efficient chipset could translate to slightly better battery endurance.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy A04e? Users prioritizing a smoother experience for basic tasks and occasional gaming. Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy A03 Core? Those seeking the absolute lowest price point and primarily need a phone for calls, texts, and very light usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Which phone is better for gaming?
The Samsung Galaxy A04e is the better choice for gaming due to its more powerful chipset. However, don't expect high-end gaming performance.
❓ Can I expand the storage on either phone?
Yes, both phones support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add more storage for photos, videos, and apps.