Price and specifications of Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) advantages, disadvantages, and a comprehensive explanation

Overview of Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017)

The Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) is a notable entry-level smartphone released by Samsung in July 2017. Despite being discontinued, it is still appreciated for offering a balanced blend of essential smartphone features at an affordable price point. It was meticulously crafted to cater to users seeking reliability and efficiency without the need for high-end specifications.

Design and Build Quality

The Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) sports a modern and sleek design accentuated by its glass front and aluminum back and frame. Measuring 143.2 x 70.3 x 8.2 mm and weighing just 142 grams, the phone offers a compact and lightweight experience that is comfortable to hold. The choice of materials not only ensures durability but also adds a premium feel to the device.

Display

This device features a 5.0-inch PLS display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels, amounting to a pixel density of approximately 294 ppi. This display performance is commendable for a device in its class, providing respectable clarity and color precision. It offers an adequate screen-to-body ratio of about 68.5%, balancing viewing area with overall device size.

Performance

Under the hood, the Galaxy J3 (2017) runs on the Exynos 7570 Quad chipset, built on a 14 nm process. It consists of a Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU and is paired with a Mali-T720 MP2 GPU. This configuration delivers reliable performance suited to handle daily tasks and basic applications smoothly. Booted with Android 7.0 Nougat, the device is upgradable to Android 9.0 Pie, ensuring users have access to newer software features and enhancements.

Storage and Memory

The phone is equipped with 16GB of internal storage and 2GB RAM, which is modest but adequate for casual use and light multitasking. For users needing additional storage, the Galaxy J3 (2017) supports microSD cards through a dedicated slot, allowing expansion up to more substantial storage solutions based on individual needs.

Camera Capabilities

The main camera of the Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) comprises a 13 MP sensor with an aperture of f/1.9, capable of autofocus. It includes useful features like LED flash, HDR, and panorama mode, and can record videos in 1080p resolution at 30fps. The front-facing 5 MP camera, featuring an aperture of f/2.2 and LED flash, serves adequately for video calls and selfies, catering to basic photography needs.

Battery Life

The device is powered by a non-removable Li-Ion 2400 mAh battery, which provides decent battery life given its efficient hardware. Users can expect up to 15 hours of talk time on 3G and up to 61 hours of audio playback, making it reliable for day-long use without frequent recharges.

Connectivity and Network

The Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) is versatile in connectivity options, supporting GSM, HSPA, and LTE technologies. It covers numerous 2G, 3G, and 4G bands, ensuring broad compatibility with various network providers globally. The device boasts speeds of HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps and LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, providing smooth internet browsing and data access.

Additional Features

In terms of additional features, the device is equipped with essential sensors like an accelerometer and a proximity sensor. While it lacks some advanced sensor technologies found in more expensive models, it supports practical aspects like Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, Bluetooth 4.2, GPS with GLONASS and BDS, and offers an optional NFC function. It includes an FM radio feature for users who enjoy traditional broadcast media.

Sound and Audio

Audio playback on the Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) is facilitated through a loudspeaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack, catering to both vocal and private listening preferences. The sound quality is decent for an entry-level smartphone, sufficient for handling calls, media, and everyday notifications.

Price and Availability

Upon its release, the Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) positioned itself as an affordable choice within the smartphone market, approximately priced at 110 EUR. Despite being discontinued, it remains available through various third-party sellers and markets, often appealing as a budget-friendly option for users requiring a dependable, no-frills smart device.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy J3 (2017) is a testament to Samsung's ability to deliver value-centric devices. Its balanced approach in design, performance, and features aligns well with the needs of users seeking essential functionality without excessive expenditure. While newer devices offer more advanced features, the Galaxy J3’s legacy as a reliable budget smartphone persists in its simplicity and effectiveness.