Samsung's A-series continues to dominate the ultra-budget smartphone space, but navigating the options can be tricky. The Galaxy A06 represents a slight refresh over the A04e, but the core question remains: are the improvements significant enough to justify the potential price difference? We dive deep into the specifications to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For most users, the Samsung Galaxy A06 is the better choice. Its Mediatek Helio G85 chipset delivers noticeably improved CPU and GPU performance compared to the A04e’s Helio P35, translating to a smoother experience with everyday tasks and light gaming. While the A04e remains a viable option for basic use, the A06’s extra power is worth the investment.
| 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 | 2024, August 16 | 2022, October 21 |
| Status | Available. Released 2024, August 22 | Available. Released 2022, November 07 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 167.3 x 77.3 x 8 mm (6.59 x 3.04 x 0.31 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 | 189 g (6.67 oz) | 188 g (6.63 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~262 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~270 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~83.8% 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 (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.8 GHz Cortex-A53) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G85 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 14, up to 2 major Android upgrades, One UI 8 | Android 12, One UI Core 4.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM | 32GB 2GB RAM, 32GB 3GB RAM, 32GB 4GB RAM, 64GB 2GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, PDAF
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | - | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 1080p@30/60fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide), 1/4.0", 1.12µm | 5 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | Yes | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.3, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS | GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| 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 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 25W wired | - |
| Type | Li-Po 5000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Blue, Gold, White | Black, Copper, Light Blue |
| Models | SM-A065F, SM-A065F/DS, SM-A065M, SM-A065M/DS | SM-A042F, SM-A042F/DS, SM-A042M, SM-A042M/DS |
| Price | € 81.90 / $ 99.99 / £ 66.89 / ₹ 7,749 | ₹ 7,999 |
| SAR EU | 0.44 W/kg (head) 1.08 W/kg (body) | 0.29 W/kg (head) 1.11 W/kg (body) |
Samsung Galaxy A06
- Significantly better performance with the Helio G85 chipset.
- Brighter and higher contrast display for improved visibility.
- Faster 25W wired charging for quicker top-ups.
- May be slightly more expensive than the A04e.
- Camera performance likely only marginally improved.
Samsung Galaxy A04e
- More affordable price point.
- Decent battery life for basic usage.
- Simple and easy-to-use interface.
- Noticeably slower performance with the Helio P35.
- Likely a dimmer and less vibrant display.
- Slower charging speeds.
Display Comparison
The Galaxy A06 boasts a significantly brighter display, reaching a measured 564 nits compared to the A04e’s unspecified brightness (likely lower, based on market positioning). This makes the A06 more usable outdoors. While both likely utilize LCD panels, the A06’s 1484:1 contrast ratio suggests better color reproduction and deeper blacks. The A04e’s display specs are less defined, indicating a more basic viewing experience. Neither phone is expected to feature high refresh rates or advanced panel technologies like AMOLED.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature similar camera setups, with a primary sensor and potentially a depth or macro lens. However, without specific sensor details, it’s difficult to make a definitive comparison. Given the A06’s overall positioning, it’s reasonable to assume a slightly improved primary sensor. The 2MP macro cameras found on many phones in this price range are generally of limited utility on both devices, and image quality will heavily rely on Samsung’s software processing.
Performance
The core difference between these two phones lies in their chipsets. The Galaxy A06’s Mediatek Helio G85 (12nm) features a more modern CPU architecture – two Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz – compared to the A04e’s Helio P35 (12nm) with four Cortex-A53 cores at 2.3 GHz and four more at 1.8 GHz. While the P35’s individual core clock speed is higher, the A75 cores in the G85 offer significantly better single-core performance, crucial for app responsiveness. The G85 also includes a more capable GPU, making it better suited for light gaming. The A04e will struggle with graphically intensive tasks.
Battery Life
The Galaxy A06 achieves an impressive 13:50h of active use, suggesting efficient power management despite the more powerful chipset. While the A04e’s battery life isn’t specified, it’s likely comparable, potentially slightly longer due to the less demanding processor. The A06’s 25W wired charging is a significant advantage, allowing for faster top-ups compared to the A04e’s likely 10W or 15W charging. This faster charging capability reduces downtime and improves overall usability.
Buying Guide
Buy the Samsung Galaxy A06 if you need a phone capable of handling more demanding apps, occasional gaming, and appreciate a brighter, more vibrant display. It’s ideal for students, social media users, and anyone who wants a responsive experience without breaking the bank. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A04e if you prioritize absolute affordability and only need a phone for basic communication – calls, texts, and light web browsing. It’s a good fit for first-time smartphone users or as a reliable backup device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Helio G85 in the A06 handle popular games like PUBG Mobile?
The Helio G85 is capable of running PUBG Mobile, but you’ll likely need to use lower graphics settings to maintain a stable frame rate. The A04e’s Helio P35 will struggle significantly with PUBG, even on the lowest settings.
❓ Is the 25W charging on the A06 a significant improvement over the A04e’s charging speed?
Yes, 25W charging is a substantial upgrade. It will significantly reduce the time it takes to fully charge the A06, potentially cutting charging times in half compared to the A04e’s likely 10W or 15W charging.
❓ Does the A06 have any features that the A04e lacks, besides the chipset and charging?
While not explicitly stated, the A06 is likely to have a slightly more refined software experience and potentially a more durable build quality, reflecting its position as a newer model. The brighter display is also a key differentiating feature.
❓ If I only use my phone for calls, texts, and WhatsApp, is the A06 worth the extra money?
For extremely basic usage, the A04e is sufficient. However, even for these tasks, the A06’s smoother performance will provide a more pleasant user experience, and the brighter screen will be easier to see in various lighting conditions. The A06 offers future-proofing for potential app updates.
