Samsung Galaxy Alpha The Ultimate Guide Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Design and Build

The Samsung Galaxy Alpha embodies a premium aesthetic that marks a departure from the predominantly plastic designs of its predecessors. At just 6.7 mm thick and weighing a mere 115 grams, it feels incredibly light and sleek in hand. The device’s construction boasts a metal frame that enhances not only the visual appeal but also the structural rigidity, offering an air of sophistication. The front is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 4, which ensures durability against scratches and minor impacts, while the plastic back provides a comfortable grip, though it does not match the premium feel of the aluminum frame.

Display

The Galaxy Alpha features a 4.7-inch Super AMOLED display, known for vibrant colors and deep contrast. With a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels and a pixel density of approximately 312 ppi, the screen produces sharp and detailed images that remain visible even under direct sunlight, thanks to its high contrast ratio. The size is optimal for those who prefer a phone that is easy to use with one hand while still delivering an immersive viewing experience.

Performance

Under the hood, the Galaxy Alpha is powered by the Exynos 5430 Octa processor, which includes a combination of four 1.8 GHz Cortex-A15 cores and four 1.3 GHz Cortex-A7 cores. This configuration allows for efficient power management and robust performance, whether you’re multitasking or gaming. The Mali-T628 MP6 GPU further complements the performance capabilities, ensuring smooth graphics rendering in games and video playback. With 2GB of RAM, the device handles most applications with ease, though it may struggle with more intensive tasks compared to modern standards.

Storage

The device comes with 32GB of internal storage, which should be sufficient for most users' needs, including storing apps, photos, and videos. However, the absence of a microSD card slot limits the expandability of storage, which could be a drawback for users who require more space for their media and files.

Camera

The Galaxy Alpha is equipped with a 12 MP rear camera featuring an f/2.2 aperture and a 31mm focal length, offering clear and vibrant images in good lighting conditions. The camera supports features like autofocus, LED flash, panorama, and HDR, enhancing its versatility. It can also record 4K video at 30fps, offering high-quality video capture. The front camera, at 2.1 MP, is suitable for video calls and selfies, albeit with limited performance in low-light conditions.

Battery Life

The phone is powered by a 1860 mAh removable Li-Ion battery. While the capacity may seem modest by today's standards, it provides adequate endurance for a day of moderate use, thanks to the efficient processing and AMOLED display. The battery supports up to 11 hours of talk time and offers up to 37 hours of music playback, which is respectable performance for its capacity.

Software

Shipping with Android 4.4.4 KitKat, the Galaxy Alpha is upgradeable to Android 5.0.2 Lollipop. The TouchWiz UI overlays offer additional features and customization options that are synonymous with Samsung devices, though it might not be as intuitive for users who prefer stock Android.

Connectivity and Sensors

In terms of connectivity, the Galaxy Alpha supports a wide range of networks including GSM, HSPA, and LTE, with notable network coverage flexibility in several global markets. It features Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with dual-band, providing reliable internet connectivity. The Bluetooth 4.0, GPS with GLONASS, and NFC support are also integrated for enhanced connectivity options. It includes an array of sensors like fingerprint (front-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, and heart rate monitor, offering a range of functionalities that cater to fitness enthusiasts and users who value additional security.

Sound and Multimedia

The Galaxy Alpha comes with a single loudspeaker and retains the 3.5mm headphone jack, which supports a wide array of audio accessories. The sound quality is decent, suitable for everyday multimedia consumption. Furthermore, the audio quality, with noise at -95.7dB and crosstalk at -65.6dB, provides a satisfactory experience for audiophiles.

Colors and Variants

The device is available in a variety of colors including Charcoal Black, Sleek Silver, Dazzling White, Frosted Gold, and Scuba Blue, catering to diverse style preferences. The model variants such as SM-G850F, SM-G850FQ, and others ensure compatibility with varying carrier specifications globally.

Legacy and Market Position

Announced in August 2014 and released in September of the same year, the Samsung Galaxy Alpha marked a pivotal shift in Samsung’s design philosophy and set the stage for future premium models. Despite its eventual discontinuation, the device remains a popular choice among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its design and the benchmark it set in Samsung’s device lineup.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Alpha, while discontinued, remains a significant milestone in the evolution of smartphone design and performance. It offered a balance of form and function that appealed to a wide audience and continues to be remembered for its contribution to the industry's movement towards premium design standards.