Samsung's A-series continues to dominate the budget smartphone space, but navigating the options can be tricky. We're putting the recently released Galaxy A15 head-to-head with the Galaxy A05 to determine which offers the best blend of features and performance for cost-conscious buyers. This comparison focuses on the core differences impacting everyday use, from processing power to display quality.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Samsung Galaxy A15 is the superior choice. Its more efficient Mediatek Helio G99 chipset, coupled with a significantly brighter 808 nit display and impressive 15:28 hour active use battery life, justifies the price difference over the A05. The A05 remains a viable option for those on the absolute tightest budget.
| 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, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, September 25 | 2023, December 11 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, October 15 | Available. Released 2023, December 16 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 168.8 x 78.2 x 8.8 mm (6.65 x 3.08 x 0.35 in) | 160.1 x 76.8 x 8.4 mm (6.30 x 3.02 x 0.33 in) |
| SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 195 g (6.88 oz) | 200 g (7.05 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~262 ppi density) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~396 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~82.1% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.5 inches, 103.7 cm2 (~84.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | PLS LCD | Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| OS | Android 13, up to 2 major Android upgrades, One UI 7 | Android 14, up to 4 major Android upgrades, One UI 7 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 6GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.8", 0.64µm, AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.8", 0.64µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 17mm (ultrawide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 13 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.12µm |
| Video | Yes | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | Unspecified | FM radio (market/region dependent) |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0 | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| 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 |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 25W wired | 25W wired |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Silver, Light Green | Brave Black, Optimistic Blue, Magical Blue, Personality Yellow |
| Models | SM-A055F, SM-A055F/DS, SM-A055M, SM-A055M/DS | SM-A155F, SM-A155F/DSN, SM-A155M, SM-A155M/DS, SM-A155P, SM-A155R |
| Price | $ 100.00 / C$ 119.94 / £ 67.98 / € 96.07 | € 168.99 / $ 125.00 / £ 113.00 |
| SAR EU | 0.41 W/kg (head) 1.19 W/kg (body) | 0.42 W/kg (head) 1.29 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy A05
- Most affordable option
- Functional for basic tasks
- 25W fast charging
- Less powerful processor
- Likely lower display brightness
- Shorter battery life
Samsung Galaxy A15
- More powerful and efficient processor
- Significantly brighter display
- Excellent battery life (15:28h active use)
- Smoother user experience
- Higher price point
- Still a budget device with limitations
- Camera performance likely only marginally better
Display Comparison
The Galaxy A15 boasts a considerably brighter display, reaching a measured peak of 808 nits, compared to the A05 which lacks published brightness data but is expected to be significantly lower based on its market positioning. This difference translates to much better visibility outdoors and a more vibrant viewing experience. While both likely utilize LCD panels, the A15’s higher brightness is a key advantage. We anticipate the A05 will struggle in direct sunlight, while the A15 remains usable. Bezels are expected to be similar on both devices, reflecting their budget nature, and color accuracy is unlikely to be a standout feature on either.
Camera Comparison
Detailed camera specs are unavailable for both devices, but given their market segment, expectations should be tempered. Both will likely feature a primary camera accompanied by depth and macro sensors (the usefulness of the latter is questionable). The A15’s image processing, powered by the more capable G99 chipset, is likely to produce slightly better results in terms of dynamic range and noise reduction. Without knowing sensor sizes or apertures, it’s difficult to make definitive claims, but the A15’s processing advantage gives it an edge. We expect both to perform adequately in good lighting conditions but struggle in low light.
Performance
The core difference lies in the chipsets: the A05 uses the Mediatek Helio G85 (12nm), while the A15 features the Helio G99 (6nm). This process node difference is crucial; the 6nm G99 is significantly more power-efficient, leading to better battery life and reduced thermal throttling. The CPU configuration also favors the A15, with a 2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 core pairing versus the A05’s 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75. While both are octa-core designs, the A76 cores in the G99 offer a noticeable performance uplift in demanding tasks. The A15 will handle multitasking and gaming with greater ease, while the A05 may exhibit lag with multiple apps open.
Battery Life
The Galaxy A15 shines in battery life, achieving an impressive 15 hours and 28 minutes of active use. While the A05’s battery capacity isn’t specified, the less efficient Helio G85 chipset will likely result in significantly shorter runtimes. Both phones support 25W wired charging, meaning 0-100% charge times will be comparable – around 1.5 to 2 hours. However, the A15’s superior efficiency means you’ll spend less time tethered to a charger.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy A05 if you prioritize absolute affordability and only need a phone for basic tasks like calls, texts, and light social media. It's a functional device for minimal smartphone usage. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A15 if you value a smoother user experience, a brighter and more enjoyable display for media consumption, and longer battery life to get you through a full day of moderate use. It's a worthwhile upgrade for anyone who uses their phone beyond the basics.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio G99 in the A15 handle demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty?
The Helio G99 is capable of running PUBG and Call of Duty, but you'll likely need to lower graphics settings to achieve a smooth frame rate. It's not a gaming powerhouse, but it's a significant step up from the Helio G85 in the A05, offering a more playable experience.
❓ Is the 25W charging speed on both phones actually fast in real-world use?
While 25W is marketed as 'fast charging,' it's not exceptionally quick compared to higher-wattage solutions found on more expensive phones. Expect a full charge to take around 1.5 to 2 hours. However, the A15’s more efficient chipset means it will spend less time plugged in overall.
❓ How much of a difference will the 6nm process node of the Helio G99 make in everyday use?
The 6nm process node is a significant advantage for the A15. It translates directly to improved power efficiency, meaning longer battery life and less heat generation. This results in a smoother, more consistent user experience, especially during prolonged use or when running demanding apps.
❓ Are there any significant differences in software features between the A05 and A15?
Both devices run Samsung's One UI, but the A15 may receive software updates for a longer period due to its newer chipset and higher position in Samsung's lineup. The A15 also benefits from the more powerful processor, allowing for smoother animations and faster app loading times within the One UI interface.
