Samsung Galaxy A6 2018 Specs Prices Pros & Cons Unveiled

Design and Build Quality

The Samsung Galaxy A6 (2018) boasts a sleek and modern design, offering an attractive look with its glass front and aluminum back, complemented by a sturdy aluminum frame. This combination of materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the device's durability. The dimensions of 149.9 x 70.8 x 7.7 mm ensure a compact form factor that is comfortable to hold, while the weight of 162 grams adds to the device's overall balanced feel in hand.

Display

Featuring a 5.6-inch Super AMOLED display, the Galaxy A6 (2018) provides vivid and vibrant visuals with a resolution of 720 x 1480 pixels. The 18.5:9 aspect ratio and approximately 294 ppi pixel density ensures sharp images and text. The screen-to-body ratio of roughly 75% offers an immersive viewing experience, making it perfect for media consumption and gaming.

Performance

Under the hood, the Galaxy A6 (2018) is powered by the Exynos 7870 Octa-core processor, known for its efficiency and reliability. With a CPU operating at 1.6 GHz and coupled with a Mali-T830 MP1 GPU, the device handles everyday tasks smoothly, from browsing and social media to light gaming. Users can choose between variants with either 3GB or 4GB of RAM, which further bolsters the device's ability to multitask efficiently.

Storage and Expandability

The Galaxy A6 (2018) offers flexible storage options, with internal storage configurations of 32GB or 64GB. This is complemented by a dedicated microSDXC card slot, allowing users to expand storage capacity significantly for photos, videos, and other media files, ensuring that space constraints are rarely an issue.

Operating System and Software

Initially shipped with Android 8.0 Oreo, the Galaxy A6 (2018) provides an upgradable path to Android 10, complete with Samsung's One UI 2.0. This combination offers a user-friendly interface, designed to maximize ease of use and customization. It brings several enhancements, including navigational gestures, improved app interfaces, and a focus on digital wellbeing.

Camera Capabilities

Equipped with a 16 MP rear camera with an f/1.7 aperture, the Galaxy A6 (2018) captures impressive wide-angle photos, even in low light thanks to its PDAF technology. Camera features include LED flash, panorama, and HDR, allowing for creative photography options. The device can record videos at 1080p@30fps, offering clear and smooth footage.

On the front, the 16 MP selfie camera with an f/1.9 aperture ensures high-quality selfies that are bright and detailed. The front camera is also equipped with an LED flash, aiding in capturing selfies in poorly lit environments.

Battery Life

The non-removable 3000 mAh Li-Ion battery of the Galaxy A6 (2018) provides a reliable performance that supports typical day-to-day usage without frequent recharging. The device offers an endurance rating of 83 hours, ensuring that it meets the needs of most users throughout the day under normal usage conditions.

Network and Connectivity

The Galaxy A6 (2018) includes comprehensive connectivity options, supporting GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies, making it versatile for use in various regions. Network capabilities include multiple 2G, 3G, and 4G bands, ensuring robust connectivity for calls, texts, and mobile data access.

Additional connectivity features include Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS, GLONASS, and BDS for navigation, with NFC available depending on the market or region. The microUSB 2.0 port supports charging and data transfer, while the device also retains the classic 3.5mm headphone jack for audio connectivity.

Audio and Multimedia

The audio experience on the Galaxy A6 (2018) is satisfactory, with a loudspeaker that performs well for calls and media playback. It includes a 3.5mm jack for traditional headphone connectivity, catering to users who prefer wired headphones over wireless solutions. Audio quality is decent, with sufficient volume and clarity for an enjoyable listening experience.

Sensors and Additional Features

The rear-mounted fingerprint sensor offers security and ease of access for unlocking the device. The A6 also features an array of sensors, including an accelerometer, gyro, proximity sensor, and compass, which enhance the device's functionality and interactivity with various apps and services.

Availability and Pricing

Released in May 2018, the Samsung Galaxy A6 is available in a variety of colors including Black, Gold, Blue, and Lavender. It was launched at an attractive price point, making it accessible for a wide range of consumers. The device models, such as SM-A600F, SM-A600FN, and others, allow users to choose based on their specific regional requirements and network compatibility.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy A6 (2018) combines a stylish design with solid performance and a robust camera setup, making it a compelling choice in the mid-range smartphone market. Its upgradable software, decent battery life, and comprehensive feature set ensure it remains a valuable device for users seeking reliability without breaking the bank.