Choosing between mid-range smartphones can be tough. The Samsung Galaxy C7 (2017) and Galaxy J7 (2016) were popular choices, offering a blend of features and affordability. But which one holds up better today? Let's dive into a comprehensive comparison.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Galaxy C7 (2017) generally edges out the J7 (2016) thanks to its slightly faster processor and potentially better display. However, the J7's exceptional battery life remains a significant draw. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities: performance or endurance.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only) |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 40 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2017, September. Released 2017, October | 2016, March 29. Released 2016, April |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, aluminum back, aluminum frame | Glass front, plastic back, aluminum frame |
| Dimensions | 152.4 x 74.7 x 7.9 mm (6.00 x 2.94 x 0.31 in) | 151.7 x 76 x 7.8 mm (5.97 x 2.99 x 0.31 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Single SIM (Micro-SIM) or Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 180 g (6.35 oz) | 170 g (6.00 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 1920 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~401 ppi density) | 720 x 1280 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.5 inches, 83.4 cm2 (~73.3% screen-to-body ratio) | 5.5 inches, 83.4 cm2 (~72.3% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | Super AMOLED | Super AMOLED |
| | Always-on display | - |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz & 4x1.7 GHz) | Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.0 GHz Cortex-A53)Octa-core 1.6 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | - | Qualcomm MSM8952 Snapdragon 617 (28 nm)Exynos 7870 Octa (14 nm) |
| GPU | - | Adreno 405Mali-T830 MP1 |
| OS | Android 7.1 (Nougat) | Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), upgradable to Android 8.1 (Oreo) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 32GB 4GB RAM | 16GB 2GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 13 MP, f/1.7, AF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | LED flash, panorama, HDR | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/1.9, 28mm (wide), AF |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | - | LED flash |
| Single | 16 MP, f/1.9, 26mm (wide), 1/3.06", 1.0µm | 5 MP, f/1.9 |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.2, A2DP, LE | 4.1, A2DP |
| NFC | No | Yes (market dependent for dual-SIM model) |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS, BDS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio, RDS, recording |
| USB | microUSB 2.0, OTG | microUSB 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 (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Accelerometer, proximity |
| | - | ANT+ |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 78 h | Up to 96 h |
| Talk time | Up to 16 h (3G) | Up to 23 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 3000 mAh, non-removable | Li-Ion 3300 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Gold, Black, Pink | White, Black, Gold, Rose Gold |
| Models | SM-C710F, SM-C7100, SM-C7108 | SM-J710FN, SM-J710F, SM-J710H, SM-J710M, SM-J710GN, SM-J710MN, SM-J710K, SM-J7108, SM-J710FQ |
| Price | About 230 EUR | About 230 EUR |
| SAR | - | 1.10 W/kg (head) 1.01 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.98 W/kg (head) 1.47 W/kg (body) | 0.35 W/kg (head) 1.39 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -92.4dB / Crosstalk -92.3dB |
| Battery life | - |
Endurance rating 101h
|
| Camera | - |
Photo / Video |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: Infinite (nominal), 3.902 (sunlight) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
Voice 64dB / Noise 71dB / Ring 68dB
|
| Performance | - |
Basemark OS II 2.0: 1007Basemark X: 11199 |
Samsung Galaxy C7 (2017)
- Faster Processor
- Potentially Better Display
- Sleek Design
- More Modern Chipset
- Battery Life Not as Exceptional as J7
- Availability May Be Limited
- Potentially Higher Price (when new)
Samsung Galaxy J7 (2016)
- Exceptional Battery Life
- Reliable Performance
- Affordable
- Good Sunlight Readability
- Slower Processor
- Older Design
- Limited Software Updates
- Lower Resolution Display (likely)
Display Comparison
Both phones feature Super AMOLED displays, known for vibrant colors and deep blacks. The C7 (2017) likely has a slightly higher resolution and potentially better color accuracy, though specific details are hard to confirm without detailed testing. Both boast excellent sunlight readability with a contrast ratio of approximately 3.902.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is a mixed bag. Both phones offer Photo/Video capabilities, but detailed specifications are lacking. The C7 (2017) likely has a slightly better sensor and image processing, potentially resulting in sharper and more detailed photos, especially in good lighting. Low-light performance is likely comparable.
Performance
The C7 (2017) has a clear advantage here. Its Octa-core processor (4x2.4 GHz & 4x1.7 GHz) is noticeably faster than the J7 (2016)'s Octa-core (4x1.6 GHz & 4x1.0 GHz). This translates to quicker app loading times, smoother multitasking, and a more responsive user experience. The C7's chipset is also likely more efficient.
Battery Life
The J7 (2016) shines in this category. Its endurance rating of 101h is exceptional, significantly outperforming most phones of its era. The C7 (2017) offers good battery life, but it doesn't reach the J7's impressive levels.
Buying Guide
Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy C7 (2017)? Users prioritizing a smoother experience for everyday tasks and slightly better performance. Who should buy the Samsung Galaxy J7 (2016)? Those seeking incredible battery life and a reliable, budget-friendly option, even if it means sacrificing some processing power.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Galaxy C7 (2017) still worth buying?
If you can find one in good condition, it's a decent option for basic tasks and light gaming. However, newer phones offer significantly better performance and features.
❓ How does the battery life of the J7 (2016) compare to modern smartphones?
Even today, the J7 (2016)'s battery life is impressive, often exceeding that of many modern budget phones. It's a major selling point.
