Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Smart Android And Trik-Commenting on Andorid indeed never endless, because smart devices this one is often updated every certain amount of time. So that the market can always be garapnya menerinya with pleasure. And it is not denied if this device has become the lifestyle of each society. To not wonder if the 6th business information and many are turning to mobail smartphone. With Android which thoroughly dominated the mobile industry, choosing the best Android smartphone is almost identical to choose the best smartphone, period. But while Android phones have few real opponents on other platforms, internal competition is intense.

From the sleek devices impress with the design premium, up to a full plant furniture features, to a very good device, and affordable mobile phone has a heavy weight, the Android ecosystem inhabited by a diverse range of attractive mobile phone Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review,But "oversize" are subjective, and sometimes pieces of the specification and a list of features is not enough to get an idea of how good a phone. In this roundup, we look at the absolute best-the Android phone you can't go wrong with. The habits of young people or to accentuate trand blindly lifestyle, make this a medoroang this clever device industry vying to do modifications to the device, with a distinctly vitur vitur-tercanggihnya. So it can be received over the counter Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Introduction

Samsung did an unquestionably great job with the latest batch of Galaxy A phones. The Korean giant clearly decided to focus its efforts on what is officially its best-selling line. The new "Awesome is for everyone" tagline fits like a glove. Devices like the Galaxy A32, A52 and even the slightly extraneous A72, with its extra telephoto, bring plenty of value to the table.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

In its quest to be as trendy and appealing as possible, Samsung also went ahead and made 5G versions of the A52 and A32. These 5G variants tend to target roughly the same price point as their 4G counterparts, which inevitably means that some compromises are in place to accommodate the processor with 5G support. We already dug extensively into the matter of the Galaxy A52 5G and its slight yet still noticeable downgrades over the regular Galaxy A52 in those respective reviews. Now it's time to do the same for the A32 5G, which, by all accounts, has suffered a much worse downgrade.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G specs at a glance:

  • Body: 164.2x76.1x9.1mm, 205g; plastic body.
  • Display: 6.50" TFT, 720x1600px resolution, 20:9 aspect ratio, 270ppi.
  • Chipset: MediaTek MT6853 Dimensity 720 5G (7 nm): Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55); Mali-G57 MC3.
  • Memory: 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM; microSDXC (uses shared SIM slot).
  • OS/Software: Android 11, One UI 3.1.
  • Rear camera: Wide (main): 48 MP, f/1.8, 26mm, 1/2.0", 0.8µm, PDAF; Ultra wide angle: 8 MP, f/2.2, 123-degree, 1/4.0", 1.12µm; Macro: 5 MP, f/2.4; Depth: 2 MP, f/2.4.
  • Front camera: 13 MP, f/2.2, (wide).
  • Video capture: Rear camera: 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/120fps; Front camera: 1080p@30fps.
  • Battery: 5000mAh; Fast charging 15W.
  • Misc: Fingerprint reader (side-mounted); FM radio; 3.5mm jack.

In fact, we would go as far as to say that the Galaxy A32 5G is an entirely different device than the vanilla A32. The price point is roughly the same, which was clearly Samsung's main goal, but for that to happen, the A32 5G comes with an LCD display instead of an OLED. A lower-res HD+ one, at that, stuck at 60Hz refresh rate. The panel is so different, in fact, that it even has a bigger diagonal at 6.5 inches. The entire A32 5G is bigger in every dimension, measuring 164.2 x 76.1 x 9.1 mm and tipping the scale at 205 grams. A whole 20, or so, grams more than the regular A32, yet still with the same 5,000 mAh battery.

The camera department has also experienced some changes, including a main camera swap to a lower-res 48MP unit. Interestingly enough, though, the A32 5G gets an extra 2MP depth sensor over its vanilla sibling. Also, it can do 4K@30fps video capture. That final intriguing bit comes courtesy of the MediaTek Dimensity 720 5G chipset found in the Galaxy A32 5G. An all-round upgrade over the MediaTek Helio G80 inside the regular A32.

So, it's pretty clear how the budget was relocated to make the Galaxy A32 5G a reality. Now the question remains whether the downgrades were worth it to make room for a slightly better chipset, with 5G connectivity.

Unboxing

As a budget offer, the Galaxy A32 5G understandably comes in a rather plain box. It is a basic cardboard bottom piece, with a sleeve on top. You should definitely be careful about applying pressure to the top of said sleeve. Perhaps Samsung can do a bit better for protection during transit. On a more positive note, at least the A32 5G itself comes well wrapped in plastic all around, including thin layers stuck right on to the plastic frame, for extra protection.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Speaking of protection, or lack thereof, the Galaxy A32 5G does not have a pre-applied screen protector, nor is there a case in the box. Both common with budget phones from other manufacturers. What you do get is a basic 15W wall charger (9V@1.67A or 5V@2A) and a simple and fairly short USB Type-A to Type-C cable. At last, there is no proprietary charging scheme at play here, so you don't necessarily need to stick to the included cable to get the full 15W.

Design and materials

Samsung isn't overly chatty regarding the bill of materials on the Galaxy A32 5G. That's pretty understandable since, from what we can tell, it's just plastic all around. Mind you, that's not necessarily a bad thing by definition. Plastic has plenty of advantages in its own right. The one used here is mostly unremarkable. Still, the middle frame feels pretty sturdy and has a decent shiny finish on it.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

The back panel is even less eye-catching. The surface is a grease magnet. Plus, it doesn't feel as sturdy as the middle frame. This is mostly because there is an air gap on the inside between it and the phone's internals. Tapping on it makes it clear there is a hollow cavity underneath. And if that is the case indeed, we have to wonder why Samsung didn't try a bit harder to reduce the pretty big 9.1mm profile of the A32 5G.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

On a more positive note - at least the main cameras don't stick out too bad, which makes sense on a thicker device. And even though the materials are not particularly sturdy here either, we appreciate the addition of tiny lips around the camera pieces, so the glass does not directly rub against surfaces.

The thick bezels all around the 6.5-inch display are an instant giveaway for the budget nature of the A32 5G. A feeling only solidified further once the LCD, HD panel is turned on. But more on that later. Given that the chin is already as wide as it is, we kind of wish Samsung just embraced the look and made room for the 13MP selfie camera outside of the display instead of digging into it with a shallow but still present teardrop notch.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Samsung does not divulge what type of glass the front of the A32 5G is made of either. It feels smooth and has a decent oleophobic layer that makes it feel smooth and clean easily. There was no pre-applied screen protector on our unit, which is a thing on most other budget phones and an unfortunate omission. No case in the box either.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Another thing that appears to be missing from the A32 5G but is attainable in its price bracket is any form of ingress protection. There is no official rating, not even for splashes and dust. There is no rubber gasket on the SIM tray either.

Controls

The Galaxy A32 5G has a standard and quite rich control setup. Most of the I/O is on the bottom. That includes a Type-C port with a USB 2.0, OTG-capable connection behind it and 15W of maximum charging. On its sides - the singular, bottom-firing loudspeaker and the main microphone. Also - a trusty old 3.5mm audio jack. Since it often comes up - the Galaxy A32 5G does have an FM radio. A headset needs to be plugged into the 3.5mm jack to double as an antenna, as usual.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

The volume rocker and power button are both on the right side of the A32 5G and actually quite high up. The power button is easily reachable, but if you have a shorter thumb, then the volume rocker will require some hand shuffling. The volume rocker is a bit stiff, but still has a pretty satisfying tactile feedback to it. Same goes for the power button.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

The power button also doubles as a fingerprint reader.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

The fingerprint reader is speedy and reliable. You can also decide for yourself whether you want the reader to be always-on, which allows you to unlock without actually pressing the key, or require the press instead.

Security and fingerprint settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Security and fingerprint settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Security and fingerprint settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Security and fingerprint settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Security and fingerprint settings

The SIM tray is on the left frame of the phone. The A32 5G exists in both a Single SIM and Dual SIM variant. You should make sure you are getting the one you want. Both of these have a microSD card slot. On the Dual-SIM model, the second tray is a hybrid affair and can either take a second Nano SIM or a microSD.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

The top side is mostly empty, just a secondary noise-cancelling microphone up there. There is no notification LED on the Galaxy A32 5G. That's kind of the norm nowadays, rather than an exception, though.

Basic 720p LCD display

Arguably, the most unfortunate downgrade on the 5G Galaxy A32, compared to its vanilla sibling, is in the display department. The modern, smooth and power-efficient 90Hz Super AMOLED FHD+ panel that the A32 4G has been swapped for a 720p 60Hz LCD on the 5G model. Quite unfortunate.

The display diagonal of the A32 5G is ever so slightly bigger at 6.5 inches, compared to the 6.4 inches on the vanilla (both 20:9). That doesn't really result in more noticeable screen real estate, but it does contribute further to the unfortunate pixel density calculation, which works out to 270 ppi on the Galaxy A32 5G, compared to 411 ppi on the vanilla A32. That being said, it's not like the display looks particularly fuzzy. The difference only becomes noticeable if you put it next to a higher-res display.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

The move away from AMOLED on to LCD is also rather disappointing. To be clear, there are amazing LCD displays out there, the one on the Galaxy A32 5G is just not one of them. Besides skipping out on certain nice extras, like the higher power efficiency of OLED with darker colors and its true blacks, there is also a lot to be said about the colors on this particular panel. Simply put - they aren't good.

The overall palette is a bit dull and lacks saturation—especially when compared to the typical OLED "pop" on other phones.

The color reproduction is quite inaccurate as well. Samsung's target for the panel seems to be the sRGB color space, but the individual color points aren't even close to being considered color-accurate. The blues are particularly off, and indeed there is a cold hue all-around on the A32 5G.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

That might have actually been a fixable issue with some slight color temperature adjustment; however, the Galaxy A32 has no color profiles or controls at all. No sliders, no adjustments. What you see is what you get. That's an unfortunate and not easily-justifiable omission in our view.

Display settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Display settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Display settings

Brightness and contrast are hardly spectacular either. The Galaxy A32 5G tops out at 426 nits of brightness with the slider cranked to max. There is a max auto mode that boosts brightness a bit further, but just to 497 nits. That's not enough to be comfortably usable on a sunny day. Usable, but not pleasant. It is also potentially interesting to note that there doesn't seem to be a conventional light sensor on the A32 5G. At least none of the apps we tried managed to get raw readings out of one. However, auto-brightness, including the ability to reach the max auto output both work reliably.

Display test 100% brightness
Black,cd/m2 White,cd/m2 Contrast ratio
Samsung Galaxy A32 (Max Auto) 0 814
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 (Max Auto) 0 682
Realme 8 (Max Auto) 0 657
Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC (Max Auto) 0.515 631 1225:1
Realme 8 5G (Max Auto) 0.408 577 1414:1
Poco M3 Pro 5G (Max Auto) 0.366 536 1464:1
Poco X3 Pro (Max Auto) 0.4 534 1335:1
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G (Max Auto) 0.338 497 1470:1
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G (Max Auto) 0.275 492 1789:1
Samsung Galaxy A21s (Max Auto) 0.384 491 1279:1
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 0 475
Samsung Galaxy A12 (Max Auto) 0.349 472 1352:1
Realme 8 5G 0.334 472 1413:1
Xiaomi Poco X3 NFC 0.354 460 1299:1
Poco X3 Pro 0.327 458 1401:1
Realme 8 0 458
Poco M3 (Max Auto) 0.277 439 1585:1
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G 0.286 426 1490:1
Poco M3 Pro 5G 0.28 413 1475:1
Samsung Galaxy A21s 0.317 408 1287:1
Samsung Galaxy A02s 0.23 406 1765:1
Samsung Galaxy A12 0.292 398 1363:1
Poco M3 0.252 395 1567:1
Samsung Galaxy A32 0 393
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G 0.21 377 1795:1

The panel on the A32 5G has a basic 60Hz refresh rate - not bad in itself. However, pixel response time is pretty poor, as well, which results in noticeable motion fringing and smearing in things like fine text while scrolling. There is no HDR support on the Galaxy A32 5G. Not that we expected any.

Widevine and HDR support - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Widevine and HDR support - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Widevine and HDR support - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Widevine and HDR support

Also, since the display has a native HD+ resolution, the supported Widevine level is mostly irrelevant. Still, we checked, and the A32 5G has the highest L1 certification, meaning that, theoretically, it could be served streams all the way up to 4K by services like Netflix. The latter naturally only offers HD on the A32 5G, though.

Battery life

The Galaxy A32 5G packs a 5,000 mAh battery, just like its vanilla sibling. Pretty good, in terms of raw capacity, but not entirely ideal, considering the A32 5G is considerably thicker at 9.1mm, heavier and overall bigger in every way, without offering more battery capacity.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Our battery tests were automated thanks to SmartViser, using its viSerDevice app. The endurance rating denotes how long the battery charge will last you if you use the device for an hour of telephony, web browsing, and video playback daily. More details can be found here.

That pretty much covers the "salty" bit, but looking at the actual endurance numbers leaves little to be desired. The Galaxy A32 5G makes great use of its battery, scoring a total of 123 hours. That's about as much as we managed to get out of the vanilla A32 at 60Hz and definitely better than its default 90Hz mode.

The individual test numbers are also quite similar between the two, which makes sense. The A32 5G managed to do a bit better in web browsing, since its LCD doesn't have to work as hard to render the mostly white webpage backgrounds. On the flip side, it didn't get any savings from displaying black bars around our 16:9 test video. In any case, the numbers are well in line.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

The A32 5G is one of the first devices to pass through our office with a MediaTek Dimensity 720 5G chipset. To be fair, it is not too dissimilar from the Dimensity 700, nor the 800U, for that matter, in terms of CPU and GPU cores, as well as the 7nm manufacturing process. The latter, however, sets it apart nicely from the MediaTek Helio G80 inside the vanilla Galaxy A32, which is based on a 12nm process. Likely related to that, the A32 5G seems to do markedly better in our standby test. That is to say a bit, but enough to make a noteworthy difference.

All and all - a great all-around showing from the Galaxy A32 5G in the battery department.

All test results shown are achieved under the highest screen refresh rate mode. You can adjust the endurance rating formula manually so it matches better your own usage in our all-time battery test results chart where you can also find all phones we've tested.

Charging speed

As most lower-end Samsungs, the Galaxy A32 5G ships with a 15W adapter with Samsung Adaptive Fast Charging stamped on it, a name (and technology) that dates some 6-7 years back.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Using it, the A32 5G charges from flat to full in 2:24h, with 23% showing in the battery indicator half an hour into the process. It's slower than most in the class, but about on par with other recent Samsung devices with a similar battery capacity and charging rate, which has been known to fluctuate in some lesser Samsung models.

30min charging test (from 0%)

  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10
    65%
  • OnePlus Nord N10 5G
    65%
  • Realme 8
    56%
  • Samsung Galaxy A52 (25W)
    52%
  • Poco X3 Pro
    50%
  • Poco X3 Pro
    50%
  • Samsung Galaxy A52
    34%
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G
    33%
  • Poco M3 Pro 5G
    33%
  • Poco M3 Pro 5G
    33%
  • Samsung Galaxy A02s
    30%
  • Realme 8 5G
    29%
  • Samsung Galaxy A32
    25%
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    23%
  • Samsung Galaxy A12
    20%

Time to full charge (from 0%)

  • OnePlus Nord N10 5G
    0:52h
  • Poco X3 Pro
    1:08h
  • Poco X3 Pro
    1:08h
  • Realme 8
    1:09h
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10
    1:13h
  • Samsung Galaxy A52 (25W)
    1:30h
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G
    2:00h
  • Poco M3 Pro 5G
    2:00h
  • Poco M3 Pro 5G
    2:00h
  • Samsung Galaxy A52
    2:03h
  • Samsung Galaxy A32
    2:19h
  • Realme 8 5G
    2:20h
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    2:24h
  • Samsung Galaxy A02s
    2:36h
  • Samsung Galaxy A12
    3:03h

Speaker test

The Galaxy A32 5G has a single bottom-firing speaker - acceptable in its budget price range, though not ideal, since a stereo setup is attainable at its budget. At the very least, a hybrid stereo setup with the earpiece would have been appreciated.

On the flip side, the speaker on the A32 5G is a bit louder than that on the vanilla A32. Enough so to push it into the Average rating. To be clear, overall, that is still not impressive, but at least Samsung seems to have managed to make good use of the extra space inside the body of the A32 5G.

Frequency response is about on par. That is to say, not overly impressive either. The Galaxy A32 5G doesn't have any built-in equalizers or optimizers for its loudspeaker. There is Dolby Atmos under audio settings, but that is just for headphones.

Use the Playback controls to listen to the phone sample recordings (best use headphones). We measure the average loudness of the speakers in LUFS. A lower absolute value means a louder sound. A look at the frequency response chart will tell you how far off the ideal "0db" flat line is the reproduction of the bass, treble, and mid frequencies. You can add more phones to compare how they differ. The scores and ratings are not comparable with our older loudspeaker test. Learn more about how we test here.

Android 11 with One UI 3.1

It is hardly a secret that a lot of the appeal with Samsung devices lies in the software. Of course, it's not a universal appeal, but there is a reason why One UI is one of the most popular custom Android implementations out there and has been so for quite some time. For many users, the added value proposition of a Samsung phone lies precisely in the software and ecosystem.

In keeping with its new "Awesome is for everyone" slogan, the Korean giant is significantly stepping up its software game with the new Galaxy A family of devices. That includes the Galaxy A32 5G.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

For the most part, the A32 5G gets the same set of features as its Galaxy A52 and A72 siblings, with just a few minor omissions here and there. But even so, the amount of features you get is pretty amazing for a budget device.

Right off the bat, the A32 5G ships with the latest One UI 3.1 and Android 11 setup out-of-the-box. There aren't too many massive differences between One UI 3.1 and its recent predecessors, like 3.0 and 2.5. Still, there are some subtle differences worth going over.

More important still - Samsung has committed to delivering 3 major OS updates and 4 years of security patches. This is actually a fairly new development for Samsung.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

For example, the default lock screen shortcuts - dialer and camera, are now monochrome - they used to match the respective apps' colors. Oddly enough, if you pick different apps, they will keep their colors - it's not a first-party vs. third-party type of differentiation either.

As more of a functional change - the lock screen has a wellbeing widget - you can now keep track of how much time you've spent on your phone without even unlocking it.

Lock screen, shortcuts and widgets - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Lock screen, shortcuts and widgets - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Lock screen, shortcuts and widgets - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Lock screen, shortcuts and widgets - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Lock screen, shortcuts and widgets - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Lock screen, shortcuts and widgets - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Lock screen, shortcuts and widgets - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Lock screen, shortcuts and widgets

One notable omission on the Galaxy A32 5G is the always-on display feature. It is hidden away since it would just waste too much battery on the LCD display.

The side-mounted fingerprint reader will likely be the primary method of unlocking for most users, but you can still use face unlock instead or alongside it. It can be more convenient in certain situations, but it generally is less secure since it's just based on the selfie camera. Iris scanners are sadly a thing of the past now.

Biometrics and security - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Biometrics and security - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Biometrics and security - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Biometrics and security - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Biometrics and security

Another notable change is that pulling the notification shade covers the entire screen underneath, even if there's just one notification card or none at all. Previously, a portion of the screen below the last notification still remained visible, just darkened.

While we're here, the quick toggles can now be edited directly from the plus button at the end of the list instead of going into the menu.

Android 11 includes the nifty Notification history feature. It's accessed from the Settings menu, so it's not within immediate reach, but it's there for those occasions when you dismissed a notification too quickly, and you can't seem to find what it was about. Just make sure to enable it because it's Off by default.

Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Notifications, quick toggles and notification history - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Notifications, quick toggles and notification history

All of the standard layout adjustments and toggles for the quick panel and taskbar are accounted for. Android 11 has a new way of handling notifications for instant messenger apps called Bubbles, and One UI 3 adopts it, too. That's in addition to a previously available similar feature offered by Samsung by the name of Smart pop-up view. You'll find these settings under the 'Floating notifications' submenu, where you can alternatively turn both of them off and opt for the old-school cards-only interface.

Bubbles is an extension of the Conversations feature, another new development. You tap on an icon in the initial incoming message notification. It turns into a conversation that you can then minimize to a bubble, or what was known as a 'chat head' - originally Facebook Messenger's default way of dealing with chats.

Smart pop-up view is one of One UI's lesser-known proprietary features. In the pre-Bubbles days, it used to add the chat head functionality to any application of your choosing. Tapping the hovering 'head' icon opens the app in a floating window, which you can further maximize to fullscreen or minimize again to an icon. Sort of like Bubbles, only slightly different.

Floating notifications - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Floating notifications - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Floating notifications - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Floating notifications - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Floating notifications

Android 11's refined multimedia controls have made their way on to One UI. You get the active audio playback apps in a stack right below the quick toggles and swiping to the side switches between the apps.

The Media screen was already available on One UI 2.5 pre-Android 11, and it offers similar functionality for picking the output device or using Samsung's Music share feature. The volume control panel has gotten a makeover too, and now the four sliders are vertical instead of the horizontal ones of One UIs past.

Media controls - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Media controls - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Media controls - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Media controls

Samsung's Music Share is just one example of a fairly advanced software feature that originally launched as a flagship one and is now bringing a lot of added value to the mid-range. It fits right in with the new "Awesome' campaign for the Galaxy A family - a fact the PR team has instantly picked up on. The feature allows you to play music through Bluetooth accessories connected to a friend's Samsung phone. It is pretty nifty.

Samsung Music Share - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Music Share - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Music Share - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Music Share - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Music Share

Yet another of the native Android 11 improvements that Samsung also includes in One UI 3 is the ability to pin apps to the top of the sheet with Share options. It's one of those things that make you wonder how come it had to wait until v11 for us to get there. Things are much better now, but still, we'd like to be able to remove some of the options, too, because that list could sure use some decluttering.

One more thing that Google tweaked in this year's release is the permission handling, and Samsung's implemented it in One UI 3. With this version, you will now see a new prompt for permissions every time an app requests it, letting you deny permission, allow it only while using the app, or just for this one time. If an app requires constant access to permission, you also get a fourth option that takes you to a setting page where you can provide it. This is done to prevent the user from accidentally selecting this option while blazing through the permission dialogs.

Share options pinning and permissions handling - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Share options pinning and permissions handling - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Share options pinning and permissions handling - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Share options pinning and permissions handling - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Share options pinning and permissions handling

The settings menu has seen a subtle but meaningful makeover. Subcategories are made more legible by using a dot separator and extra intervals, while recent searches are now shown as bubbles instead of a list. Additionally, there's a newly added feature to search settings by hashtags - for conceptually related things found in different places in the menu.

One UI settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review One UI settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review One UI settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
One UI settings

The One UI dialer app lends itself to plenty of customization. There are two different layouts for the in-call screen to choose between. You can also set up a background image or video for that screen, though it's going to be all the same for all of your calls - you can't have a different one on a per-person basis.

Samsung dialer - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung dialer - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung dialer - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung dialer - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung dialer - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung dialer - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung dialer

There are plenty of other smaller visual changes scattered all throughout One UI 3.1. Samsung's excellent theme support and rich online selection are present, as well. The same goes for the system navigation options, with a few tweaks and layouts available for gestures, as well as old-school button controls, even the really-old original style, with the back button on the right side.

One UI 3.1 and navigation options - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review One UI 3.1 and navigation options - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review One UI 3.1 and navigation options - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review One UI 3.1 and navigation options - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review One UI 3.1 and navigation options - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review One UI 3.1 and navigation options - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
One UI 3.1 and navigation options

There are plenty of additional extra features in the Galaxy A32 5G as well. Like we said, most things present on the A52 and A72 made it over, like the Edge panels interface, as well as Game launcher - the hub for all your games, which also provides options for limiting distraction when gaming is here to stay as well.

Additional software features - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Additional software features - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Additional software features - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Additional software features - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Additional software features - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Additional software features - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Additional software features

There are some omissions, though. For instance, there is no mention of Bixby anywhere in the UI, which is kind of weird, since you do get it on the A52 and A72. Another thing missing out of the box is SmartThings. Though, the system-level integration for it within the Devices tab in the notification shade is present. All you need to do is download the SmartThings app to get it working.

Samsung Dex is nowhere to be found. But it is absent from the entire Galaxy A lineup, which we get - some things still need to be flagship exclusives. Even in its absence, though, you can still get a lot of its functionality through the Link to Windows feature that has been implemented in cooperation with Microsoft.

Synthetic benchmarks

The Galaxy A32 5G is based on the MediaTek Dimensity 720 5G chipset. It's not a particularly popular part, and this is practically the first time it is passing through our usual set of benchmark tests. That being said, the Dimensity 720 isn't all that different from its Dimensity 700 sibling. Nor the Dimensity 800U, for that matter.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

All of these are based on an efficient 7nm manufacturing process and use a pair of Cortex-A76 big cores and six Cortex-A55 ones. In the Dimensity 720 inside the Galaxy A32 5G, these are clocked at up to 2.0 GHz. Oddly enough, slightly lower than both the 800U and the Dimensity 700.

In terms of GPU, all three chips use Mali-G57 cores, with the Dimensity 700 and 800U rocking three cores. For reference, the Dimensity 700 just has two. Speaking of which, the Dimensity 800 is not too dissimilar from the Dimensity 720 inside the Galaxy A32 5G either - it gets an extra GPU core. It has a symmetrical four by four CPU core setup with two bigger cores. That should put the expected performance into perspective. Especially in the CPU department, which we kick things off with.

GeekBench 5 (multi-core)

Higher is better

  • Poco X3 Pro
    2574
  • Samsung Galaxy A42 5G
    1910
  • OnePlus Nord N10 5G
    1848
  • Realme 7 5G
    1794
  • Realme 8 5G
    1784
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
    1780
  • Poco X3 NFC
    1777
  • Realme 8
    1690
  • Realme 8 Pro
    1678
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    1673
  • Samsung Galaxy A72
    1627
  • vivo V21 5G
    1600
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10
    1599
  • Samsung Galaxy A52
    1577
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S
    1576
  • Poco M3
    1398
  • Samsung Galaxy A32
    1277
  • Samsung Galaxy A12
    1034
  • Samsung Galaxy A02s
    495

GeekBench 5 (single-core)

Higher is better

  • Poco X3 Pro
    735
  • Samsung Galaxy A42 5G
    643
  • OnePlus Nord N10 5G
    608
  • Realme 7 5G
    598
  • vivo V21 5G
    574
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
    569
  • Realme 8 5G
    569
  • Poco X3 NFC
    568
  • Realme 8 Pro
    566
  • Samsung Galaxy A72
    537
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10
    534
  • Realme 8
    533
  • Samsung Galaxy A52
    525
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    505
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S
    502
  • Samsung Galaxy A32
    361
  • Poco M3
    308
  • Samsung Galaxy A12
    169
  • Samsung Galaxy A02s
    131

There really isn't a major difference between the Dimensity 700, 720 and 800U chips in terms of actual performance numbers either. That applies to the chip found inside the Galaxy A32 5G as well, which is a great thing. It means that everything is working as expected, and Samsung is making the most out of the hardware at hand.

The Dimensity 720 is what we would describe as a solid mid-range option in 2021. In CPU terms, it is pretty comparable to chips like the Snapdragon 720G, 732G, 678 from Qualcomm, as well as the Helio G95. The Snapdragon 690 5G and the 750G 5G tend to score slightly higher on average in tests, but not by a whole lot.

AnTuTu is a bit less favorable towards the particular hardware setup in the Galaxy A32 5G. It is a much more compound benchmark that takes into account other aspects of the device. We do, however, have a theory that a big part of the lower score could be due to the HD resolution of the phone's display.

AnTuTu 8

Higher is better

  • Poco X3 Pro
    453223
  • vivo V21 5G
    336699
  • Samsung Galaxy A42 5G
    324686
  • Realme 7 5G
    318535
  • Realme 8 5G
    302059
  • Realme 8
    298328
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Pro
    295442
  • Realme 8 Pro
    286666
  • Poco X3 NFC
    283750
  • OnePlus Nord N10 5G
    279579
  • Samsung Galaxy A72
    279342
  • Samsung Galaxy A52
    261282
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    226561
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10
    218788
  • Poco M3
    177904
  • Samsung Galaxy A32
    174332
  • Samsung Galaxy A12
    107189
  • Samsung Galaxy A02s
    90811

AnTuTu 9

Higher is better

  • vivo V21 5G
    365055
  • Realme 8 5G
    361505
  • Realme 8
    357488
  • Samsung Galaxy A72
    333668
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S
    330909
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    222125

A 720p display can have its theoretical advantages in testing too, though, particularly when running on-screen graphics benchmarks. The lower resolution puts less strain on the Mali-G57 GPU. To be fair, this is not exactly representative of real-world performance, though, since good modern game engines are adaptable and tend to scale details and even rendering resolution up and down to accommodate any level of available performance.

3DMark SSE ES 3.1 (offscreen 1440p)

Higher is better

  • vivo V21 5G
    3331
  • Realme 7 5G
    3163
  • Samsung Galaxy A42 5G
    2819
  • Poco X3 NFC
    2689
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    2638
  • Realme 8
    2610
  • Samsung Galaxy A52
    2529
  • Samsung Galaxy A72
    2517
  • OnePlus Nord N10 5G
    2166
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10
    1471
  • Samsung Galaxy A32
    1323
  • Poco M3
    1175
  • Samsung Galaxy A02s
    438
  • Samsung Galaxy A12
    365

3DMark SSE Vulkan 1.0 (offscreen 1440p)

Higher is better

  • vivo V21 5G
    3050
  • Realme 7 5G
    3028
  • Realme 8
    2639
  • Samsung Galaxy A42 5G
    2609
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    2509
  • Poco X3 NFC
    2495
  • Samsung Galaxy A52
    2406
  • Samsung Galaxy A72
    2395
  • OnePlus Nord N10 5G
    2012
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10
    1372
  • Samsung Galaxy A32
    1371
  • Poco M3
    1106
  • Samsung Galaxy A12
    612
  • Samsung Galaxy A02s
    489

3DMark Wild Life Vulkan 1.1 (offscreen 1440p)

Higher is better

  • Poco X3 Pro
    3401
  • vivo V21 5G
    1605
  • Realme 7 5G
    1589
  • Realme 8
    1486
  • Samsung Galaxy A32 5G
    1185
  • Samsung Galaxy A42 5G
    1105
  • Realme 8 5G
    1104
  • Realme 8 Pro
    1051
  • Samsung Galaxy A52
    1040
  • Samsung Galaxy A72
    1031
  • OnePlus Nord N10 5G
    811
  • Samsung Galaxy A32
    686
  • Xiaomi Redmi Note 10
    482
  • Poco M3
    368

Unfortunately, we did not manage to run GFXBench on our Galaxy A32 5G review unit since its software trips a "modified or virtualized OS" protection on the benchmark. We aren't quite sure why that is the case, but we just have to live with it and stick to 3DMark.

Its trio of offscreen tuns does, however, conclusively prove that the Galaxy A32 5G is performing as expected in GPU tasks, as well.

All things considered, the Dimensity 720, as found inside the Galaxy A32 5G is not a chart-topping performer by any stretch of the imagination. However, it was never meant to be. It is a solid and modern mid-range product. It has more than enough horsepower to chew through most tasks and is plenty for most users. At the same time, it is based on an efficient 7nm process, which makes good use of the available battery and also has a sensible set of modern features to offer. 5G, of course, being the headlining one, but also things like 4K video capture.

A slightly-downgraded quad-camera setup

The main camera setup on the Galaxy A32 5G unfortunately also follows the persistent "downgrade" trend. That is to say, compared to its vanilla A32 sibling. 5G on a slim budget takes its toll again. To be fair, though, the downgrade isn't too harsh, with the main change being the main camera on the back. The selfie cam is also a bit cut-down.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

At the helm of the Galaxy A32 5G we find a 48MP, f/1.8 camera. It is based on the Samsung S5KGM2 sensor, also known as the ISOCELL Bright GM. It's a Tetrapixel design (used to be called Tetracell in Samsung speak, Sony calls them Quad Bayer), with 0.8µm individual pixels and a total sensor size of 1/2.0". It works in the traditional Quad-Bayer manner, using 4-to-1 binning to produce brighter 12MP photos, by default. Alternatively, it can use remosaicing algorithms to shoot in the full 48MP resolution for more detail. The S5KGM2 has phase detection autofocus. In particular, it uses something Samsung calls "Super-PD" which is a high-performance variant of the phase. There is no OIS. The GM2, as it is colloquially known, is actually a popular sensor, found in many other Samsung devices, as well as Xiaomi ones, and we feel pretty confident in its abilities.

Moving on to the ultrawide camera, the Galaxy A32 5G appears to borrow it straight from the vanilla A32. At 8MP, it's the nearly perfect middle ground between the ones on the A12 (5MP) and the A52 (13MP). It uses a 1/4" sensor with 1.0µm pixels and an f/2.2 aperture lens covering a 123-degree field of view. The OS features a "sr846d" model identifier for the particular sensor, which yields no search results in Google. There's no software distortion correction on this one, just like there wasn't on the A12 - the A52 does have it, though.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Moving on to the two "supplementary" cameras on the back, so to say, we first have a 5MP dedicated macro snapper. It uses a GalaxyCore GC5035 sensor, with fixed focus and an f/2.4 aperture lens up front.

Last and probably least - a 2MP, f/2.4 depth sensor. As per the reported hardware identifier, this is another GalaxyCore module - the GC02M1B. It is a monochrome 1/5" sensor, with 1.75µm pixels. We've seen this unit as well in devices like the OnePlus 8T and the Poco M3 Pro 5G.

Finally, on the selfie side of things, the Galaxy A32 5G downgrades from the 20MP snapper on its vanilla sibling to a 13MP, f/2.2 one. It uses a Samsung ISOCELL S5K3L6 sensor, which the official specs page claims to support PDAF, but is definitely fixed-focus on the Galaxy A32 5G.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

The camera app on the A32 5G is the latest one you get with One UI 3.1, the biggest improvement being the relocation of the video resolution to the viewfinder. Other than that, it's the same as on any other Samsung pre-One UI 3.1, which is a good thing since it's straightforward and easy to use.

The basics are as usual - swiping left and right will switch between available modes, and there's an option to re-arrange, add or remove some of the modes from the viewfinder. Vertical swipes in either direction will switch between front and rear cameras.

The familiar tree designation for zoom control is here too, and with no telephoto on board, you get three trees for ultra-wide and two trees for the main cam. You could zoom in with a pinch gesture, at which point additional preset zoom levels appear at 2x, 4x, and 10x.

The viewfinder has the standard set of icons with the settings cog wheel located in the upper left corner of the screen. The usual stuff like grid lines, location data, etc., can be found in the menu.

Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Camera app and settings - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Camera app and settings

There's a Pro mode, but it's the very basic implementation that only lets you pick ISO (100-800) and white balance (by light temperature with icons for common light sources), as well as dial in exposure compensation (-2EV to +2EV in 0.1EV increments). A metering mode selector also made the cut (center-weighted, matrix and spot). There's no manual focusing option, sadly. The Galaxy A52 and A72 have more Pro controls at their disposal.

Pro photo mode - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Pro photo mode - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Pro photo mode - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Pro photo mode - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Pro photo mode

Speaking of missing things, Pro video also didn't make the cut. What is present, however, is Samsung's new integration with Snapchat, called FUN MODE. It is basically a collaboration with Snapchat that puts some of the app's fun AR filters in the native Samsung camera app. It's just a bit of extra trendy "flare" to have around.

Samsung FUN MODE - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung FUN MODE - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung FUN MODE - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung FUN MODE - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung FUN MODE - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung FUN MODE - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung FUN MODE

FUN MODE works for both photos and videos (captured by long-pressing the shutter key). The filter selection consists of 7 "basic" lenses, one of which gets changed out daily, as well as an additional menu of 9 more effects that also get "changed regularly".

Additional FUN MODE filters - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Additional FUN MODE filters - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Additional FUN MODE filters

FUN MODE requires an active network connection to work, which makes sense, considering all the "swapping" that's going on. Seeing how the filter selection is constantly subject to change, you can't exactly pick your favorites and use them regularly. Hence, the whole feature is more of a promotional one than anything else, meant to ultimately grab your attention and direct you to the Snapchat app for the full experience. We don't particularly mind that, even if the lack of a static filter selection is a bit annoying.

Daylight image quality

Still shots from the main camera are very good overall. Like we said, the Samsung GM2 sensor has proven its worth time and time again, and it definitely does not disappoint when paired with Samsung's solid processing. Detail in the 12MP shots is plenty, and everything looks nice and sharp. Well, perhaps with the exception of the very extreme corners of the frame, which can be slightly softer on occasion.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/729s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/512s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/432s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/637s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/162s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/564s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples

Colors are nice and vibrant, without being oversaturated. Samsung has been known to crank the saturation way more in the past, making this kind of processing a bit more mature. There are no weird color casts. Dynamic range, too, is respectable, though not quite as wide as on higher-end models. We should point out that these shots were taken in the default camera mode, with Scene optimizer and Auto HDR enabled. Both kick in reliably and consistently, and we see no reason to disable either.

In fact, you can easily see how much of a difference these additional computational systems make when shooting in 48MP mode. Neither is available in this mode, and it shows, especially in scenes with more complicated lighting. You can clearly see highlights and shadows look a lot better in the default 12MP auto mode in general.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 12MP - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/212s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 48MP - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/201s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 12MP - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/469s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 48MP - f/1.8, ISO 40, 1/595s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 12MP - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/383s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 48MP - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/390s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 12MP - f/1.8, ISO 50, 1/100s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 48MP - f/1.8, ISO 64, 1/100s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G main camera samples: 12MP • 48MP

48MP shots, however, definitely offer more resolved detail. If that is a priority for you and individual files of over 20MB in size are not a problem, then go for it. You do have to live with a bit more noise, as well.

There is no dedicated zoom camera on the Galaxy A32 5G. What you get are crops from the main 64MP sensor. You can pinch to zoom at any level you want up to 10x, with convenient buttons for 2x, 4x and 10x available in the camera UI. At 2x level, you'll get good enough images for social sharing, with the same global properties as 1x. Upon 1:1 examination, you'll see some sharpening halos along contrasting edges and aliasing for diagonal lines, as well as reduced per-pixel detail.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP 2x zoom main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/763s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP 2x zoom main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/558s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP 2x zoom main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/367s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP 2x zoom main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/683s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP 2x zoom main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/231s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP 2x zoom main camera samples - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/432s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP 2x zoom main camera samples

Sharpening artifacts are much more noticeable with higher zoom levels. The max 10x one is not what we would consider usable. Still, we've seen a lot worse out of digital zoom.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/729s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/610s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/529s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/457s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/412s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/403s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/683s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/621s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/234s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/192s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/195s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/160s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera samples: 4x • 10x

Before we move past the main camera, we need to also look at portrait mode shots. These pretty great for a budget device. The background bokeh effect is particularly nice. You can adjust its intensity via a slider in the camera UI.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples - f/1.7, ISO 320, 1/33s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples - f/1.7, ISO 400, 1/24s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples - f/1.7, ISO 500, 1/24s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples - f/1.7, ISO 32, 1/100s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples - f/1.7, ISO 32, 1/100s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples - f/1.7, ISO 40, 1/100s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples

Subject detection and separation are good but could be better. Stray hairs and busier backgrounds can trip it up. That being said, the dedicated 2MP depth sensor seems to be pulling its own weight here, so we can't complain too much. Auto HDR is available in portrait mode.

The algorithm also works well on non-human subjects, which is nifty.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples: non-human subjects - f/1.7, ISO 800, 1/24s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples: non-human subjects - f/1.7, ISO 800, 1/20s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples: non-human subjects - f/1.7, ISO 320, 1/24s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples: non-human subjects - f/1.7, ISO 320, 1/33s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera portrait samples: non-human subjects

Before we move past the main camera, here are our standardized posted shots from it in both its default 12MP and full-res 48MP modes.

Photo Compare Tool Photo Compare Tool Photo Compare Tool
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G against the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 and the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro in our Photo compare tool

Photo Compare Tool Photo Compare Tool Photo Compare Tool
64MP: Samsung Galaxy A32 5G against the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 and the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro in our Photo compare tool

The modest 8MP ultrawide shooter delivers decent images. There's a fair bit of noise in these if you zoom in, but the level of detail is okay for the hardware. Dynamic range, too, isn't half bad for a mid-range ultrawide.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 40, 1/2801s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 40, 1/1760s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 40, 1/1644s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 40, 1/2160s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 40, 1/526s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 40, 1/2439s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera samples

Colors are not particularly consistent across the ultrawide and main cameras. This is hardly a surprise and was also the case with the vanilla Galaxy A32. However, this time around, the ultrawide color rendition seems to be a bit punchier and saturated, instead of more muted, compared to the main snapper. That does depend on the particular scene and lighting, though.

The lack of software distortion correction on the ultrawide camera is two-fold - you get extra wide coverage, but with prominently warped corners and straight lines along the edges. That last bit could be of use for creative purposes, but we'd still prefer to have the option to enable correction in software.

Here is a set of shots of the same scene at various zoom levels, as well as from the ultrawide for easier comparison purposes.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G camera samples: 0.5x - f/2.2, ISO 40, 1/2611s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G camera samples: 1x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/729s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G camera samples: 2x *4x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/541s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G camera samples: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/507s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G camera samples: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 32, 1/467s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G camera samples: 0.5x • 1x • 2x *4x • 10x

The 5MP 'macro' camera of the Galaxy A32 5G takes some of the better close-ups in the budget segment, in no small part thanks to the resolution advantage against the bulk of 2MP units. You still need to get the subject distance within a reasonably tight range due to the lack of autofocus.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 5MP macro camera samples - f/2.4, ISO 64, 1/100s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 5MP macro camera samples - f/2.4, ISO 50, 1/100s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 5MP macro camera samples - f/2.4, ISO 250, 1/33s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 5MP macro camera samples - f/2.4, ISO 160, 1/33s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 5MP macro camera samples

The 13MP selfie camera captures very decent photos, especially for a budget phone. There is no autofocus available, but the fixed focus plane is decently wide, so most selfies end up fine. The resolved detail is great, and we quite like the warm color rendition for skin tones.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/710s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/874s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/1531s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/466s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/101s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/466s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/377s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/377s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 80, 1/50s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 13MP selfie camera samples

The Scene optimizer is not available for the selfie cam, but auto HDR is helping deliver a nicely wide dynamic range for these shots.

In typical Samsung fashion, the selfie cam has a narrow and a wide mode. The latter shoots at the full 13MP of the selfie camera, while the former produces 9MP, or so, stills.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/754s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/942s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/1531s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/500s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/105s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/437s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/377s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/352s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/50s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 9MP selfie camera samples

We appreciate that the option is there, but would still prefer if Samsung made 13MP selfies the default, out of the box. At least you can set the camera app to remember your last selection and restore it when opening the camera app, which is something.

The Galaxy A32 5G produces surprisingly-competent selfie portraits. The background bokeh continues to look natural and convincing, just like on the main cam.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: selfie camera portrait samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/874s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: selfie camera portrait samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/816s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: selfie camera portrait samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/942s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: selfie camera portrait samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/1000s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: selfie camera portrait samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/500s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: selfie camera portrait samples - f/2.2, ISO 64, 1/408s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: selfie camera portrait samples

Subject separation is not half bad either, especially since there is not additional depth sensor on this side. Of course, stray hairs and things like glasses will almost definitely trip it up. But, that's all expected.

Video recording

All things considered, the Galaxy A32 5G has been as good as or a bit worse in the camera department compared to the vanilla Galaxy A32. Pretty justifiable, given the hardware downgrade. All, of course, for the sake of fitting 5G connectivity without breaking the bank.

An interesting consequence of squeezing in the MediaTek Dimensity 720 5G chipset into the Galaxy A32 5G is, however, the availability of 4K video capture. A feature that the vanilla Galaxy A32 notably lacks, topping off at FullHD. It's a bit counterintuitive to think about, for sure, yet here we are.

The Galaxy A32 5G can record 4K@30fps from its main camera in either h.264 of h.265 (HEVC) format. Going for the former for its lower compression rate results in MP4 files with a solid AVC video stream of around 50 Mbps and stereo, 48kHz AAC audio. Not too shabby at all.

The video itself is naturally a lot better than the 1080p on the regular Galaxy A32. In fact, even in more absolute terms, 4K clips from the A32 5G look surprisingly competent. Detail is plenty, and the colors look good, even if a bit on the saturated side. Dynamic range isn't ideal, with highlights in particular often getting clipped. There is a bit more noise in finer patterns, like grass, than we would have preferred. Nothing major, though and overall a great all-around showing.

You can do zoomed videos, with 2x, 4x and 10x presets available in the UI, just like for stills. The footage quickly becomes soft as the zoom level goes up, though. We would say that 2x is usable, but anything past that is more "artist rendition", courtesy of the algorithm than actual footage.

Videos from the ultrawide camera look very rough. Especially in comparison. The maximum resolution here is 1080p@30fps, as is typical of ultrawides. Even for FullHD, though, the level of detail here is low. Plus, there is a general softness all around the frame. Dynamic range is quite visibly limited, with shadows suffering in particular, since the A32 5G tends to underexpose its ultrawide videos and produce dark clips.

At least colors aren't all that bad. Though, definitely different from those on the main cam. And noise is kept at bay reasonably well. But that's about all of the positives we can see. We would shy away from using the ultrawide for any sort of video.

Electronic stabilization is available at 1080p for both the main and the ultrawide camera. You can check both in the following playlist.

It has notable issues in both cases, though. For the ultrawide, it tends to leave a lot of the motion and jitters behind. The main camera seems to be doing a bit better in this department, but for some reason, EIS often introduces nasty focus-hunting, which looks just as bad as the other camera jitter, if not worse. Overall, we are underwhelmed by the available stabilization.

Here is how the Galaxy A32 5G stacks up against competitors in our extensive video compare database. You can pixel-peep away.

Video Compare Tool Video Compare Tool Video Compare Tool
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G against the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 and the Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro in our Video compare tool

Low-light camera quality

In low-light conditions, the main camera on the Galaxy A32 5G offers largely unimpressive performance, though still perfectly decent for a budget device. Shots are generally soft and noisy, and dynamic range is narrow. Detail in shadows gets crushed more often than not, and light sources are often clipped.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 800, 1/20s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/10s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 1600, 1/17s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 2000, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera low-light samples

To be fair, we've seen worse, even from other Samsung devices. You can get plenty of resolved detail, especially if you are patient and persistent enough and get a few shots in.

Speaking of detail, the traditional reasoning for using 48MP mode to get more detail kind of falls apart in low-light conditions. Even with the extra resolution, shots still come out looking similarly soft. Not much benefit in our opinion.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 48MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 1000, 1/20s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 48MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 48MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 48MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 1600, 1/17s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 48MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 2000, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 48MP main camera low-light samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 48MP main camera low-light samples

Zooming with the main camera quickly degrades overall sharpness and level of detail. We would say that past 2x, shots are more of a painting, courtesy of the sharpening and noise suppression systems than anything else.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 2x - f/1.8, ISO 800, 1/20s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 640, 1/25s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 640, 1/25s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 2x - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 4000, 1/10s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 4000, 1/10s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 2x - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 4x - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 10x - f/1.8, ISO 4000, 1/10s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G zoom samples: 2x • 4x • 10x

Predictably, the ultrawide cam does not perform at its best after dark. At dusk, it will take barely usable shots, with noise evident even at fit to screen magnification. At night, it can't expose bright enough to develop any shadows and has a narrow dynamic range, so your highlights will be clipped as well.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera low-light samples - f/2.2, ISO 400, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera low-light samples - f/2.2, ISO 800, 1/7s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera low-light samples - f/2.2, ISO 640, 1/13s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera low-light samples - f/2.2, ISO 1000, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera low-light samples - f/2.2, ISO 640, 1/10s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera low-light samples - f/2.2, ISO 640, 1/8s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera low-light samples

The Galaxy A32 5G has Night mode for both its main and ultrawide cameras. Starting with the main cam, the effects of night mode are on the subtle side, but definitely noticeable and beneficial. Mostly for dynamic range and handling highlights in particular. Light sources are handles consistently better, and most highlights are no longer clipped.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera night mode samples - f/1.8, ISO 800, 1/24s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera night mode samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera night mode samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera night mode samples - f/1.8, ISO 1600, 1/16s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera night mode samples - f/1.8, ISO 2000, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera night mode samples - f/1.8, ISO 2500, 1/14s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 12MP main camera night mode samples

Shadows get a bit of a boost as well, but not nearly as much. The really encouraging bit is that Night mode works much better on the Galaxy A32 5G, compared to the vanilla A32, back when we reviewed it. In its earlier state, the algorithm had plenty of issues, including crashing and just boosting exposure all around the frame instead of selectively. This is not the case here. Night mode is working as intended.

The ultrawide cam benefits from night mode in a very similar and subtle way as the main cam. That is to say - the overall exposure remains mostly unchanged, shadows and details within just get a slight boost, and it's the highlights and light sources that really benefit.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera night mode samples - f/2.2, ISO 640, 1/19s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera night mode samples - f/2.2, ISO 800, 1/6s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera night mode samples - f/2.2, ISO 800, 1/6s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera night mode samples - f/2.2, ISO 640, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera night mode samples - f/2.2, ISO 640, 1/9s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera night mode samples - f/2.2, ISO 640, 1/8s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G: 8MP ultrawide camera night mode samples

Given that night mode on the A32 5G is not terribly slow, as well, and never actually managed to make a shot worse for us, we can't ask much more of it.

The selfie cam holds up reasonably well in low-light conditions, though shots are quite soft and noisy overall.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie low-light samples: 13MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie low-light samples: 9MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie low-light samples: 13MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/8s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie low-light samples: 9MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/8s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie low-light samples: 13MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/12s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie low-light samples: 9MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/12s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie low-light samples: 13MP • 9MP

Night mode is just as subtle and consistent on the selfie cam as on the main ones. It tends to just come in and fix highlights and light sources a bit.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie night mode samples: 13MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/9s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie night mode samples: 9MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/11s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie night mode samples: 13MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/8s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie night mode samples: 9MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/8s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie night mode samples: 13MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/12s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie night mode samples: 9MP - f/2.2, ISO 1600, 1/12s - Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G selfie night mode samples: 13MP • 9MP

Finally, we took a few low-light videos with the Galaxy A32 5G. The main cam actually holds up very well. It can capture 4K@30fps, with plenty of detail and noise kept well at bay. Of course, dynamic range is far from ideal, and both shadows and highlights suffer. All low-light samples are in the following playlist.

We are also including ultrawide and zoom video samples in the low-light playlist. All of these clips are not what we would consider usable, due to insufficient details and excessive softness. One noteworthy detail regarding zoomed low-light video capture is that the Galaxy A32 5G limits resolution to 1080p for some reason. Or at least we didn't manage to get 4K zoomed, low-light clips. Not that the extra resolution would have likely made much of a difference.

Competition

The Samsung Galaxy A32 5G can currently be had for a bit under €250, which is about as much, or just slightly more than the vanilla Galaxy A32. And, in fact, the vanilla is a viable option if you don't particularly care about 5G and would much rather get the much better 90Hz Super AMOLED panel and slightly better cameras. Though, with video capture capped at 1080p. Otherwise, you would still be getting the same in-depth and feature-rich Samsung One UI experience, as well as the Korean giant's newfound promise for longer software support.

The Samsung Galaxy M42 5G also should not be glanced over, but unfortunately, it has limited availability. Otherwise, it successfully patches up the single biggest issue on the A32 5G - the display - by offering an HD Super AMOLED panel.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

It is hardly surprising that Xiaomi has plenty of competing offers to pit against the Galaxy A32 5G. The Redmi Note 10 series instantly springs to mind. The clear direct competitor has to be the Redmi Note 10 5G. It is based on a very similar Dimensity 700 chipset, which brings the 5G connectivity to the table. It is also priced nearly identically to the A32 5G. Its main camera is also a quite similar 48MP Quad-Bayer one, but you will be losing an ultrawide going for the Xiaomi. On the flip side - the Redmi Note 10 5G has a noticeably better 90Hz IPS display. Honestly, however, Xiaomi had to downgrade strategically to fit 5G into that phone. Not unlike Samsung. If you don't particularly care about 5G, you can get a lot more value for a significantly lower price with the vanilla Redmi Note 10. This includes a jump to a Super AMOLED display and a stereo speaker setup. Also, an official IP53 rating.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro Realme 8
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 • Xiaomi Poco M3 Pro 5G • Xiaomi Poco X3 Pro • Realme 8

Then there is also Xiaomi's Poco line. It is truly hard to beat its value propositions. The Poco M3 Pro 5G is a great all-around competitor to the Galaxy A32 5G. It is essentially the same phone as the Redmi Note 10 5G we mentioned earlier while managing to cost less on many markets. A no-brainer, really. If you would rather substitute 5G for a larger still 6,000 mAh battery and a stereo speaker setup, then the vanilla Poco M3 is worth considering. It gets totally upstaged by the Poco X3 Pro, though. No 5G on this one either, but what you do get at a shockingly low price includes a 120Hz, HDR10, IPS display, stereo speakers, IP53 and definitely not least - a powerful Snapdragon 860 chipset that almost seems unattainable in this price bracket. Looking for a great budget gaming experience - look no further.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

Realme currently has a pretty strong budget lineup as well. The Realme 8, in particular, will set you back a bit less than the Galaxy A32 and yet brings a great Super AMOLED, HDR10 display to the table and an otherwise quite comparable set of other specs. Minus 5G, that is. If the latter is particularly important to you, you might also be interested in the OnePlus Nord N10 5G.

Verdict

There is a lot to love about Samsung's current Galaxy A family. The "Awesome is for everyone" marketing slogan actually fits the bill quite well. The value proposition is quite strong, especially for devices like the Galaxy A52 and vanilla A32. The design is fresh and trendy, the hardware is mostly on point, and the added-value features in One UI 3.1 are better than ever. Now with the added benefit of longer software support. A lot of that has rubbed off on the Galaxy A32 5G as well. There is plenty to love about it. And it has great battery life even if charging is a bit slow.

Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review

However, the A32 5G biggest folly is that Samsung went about creating it by taking its good-value sibling and cramming 5G into the mix, without really inflating the budget price point. This has resulted in a phone with an unfortunately-downgraded LCD display, in particular, among other things. It is the single biggest gripe we have with the Galaxy A32 5G, since it just fails to live up to current market standards. It's as simple as that. The camera setup holds up surprisingly well too.

All things considered, the Galaxy A32 5G is currently one of the cheapest Samsung phones with 5G on offer. Unless until the Galaxy A22 5G becomes a thing. If it is absolutely imperative for you to get a budget 5G Samsung, in particular, today, then the A32 5G is the way to go. Otherwise, we would probably hold off a bit or consider alternatives for better value.

Pros

  • Excellent battery life.
  • Latest Android and One UI, bright software future.
  • The MediaTek 720 is a modern, efficient and well-equipped chipset, with decent performance for the price.
  • Decent all-round camera performance, including useful Night mode and 4K@30fps video capture.

Cons

  • Body feels a bit hollow and there is no ingress protection. No case in the box and no pre-applied screen protector.
  • Disappointing LCD display, just HD resolution, inaccurate colors and slow pixel response times.
  • Just a single loudspeaker with rather underwhelming performance.
  • No 4K video recording, poor stabilization on the ultrawide camera.

Adblock test (Why?)

Read:


Subscribe to receive free email updates:

0 Response to "Samsung Galaxy A32 5G review"

Post a Comment