Comprehensive Review Samsung Galaxy Tab A 70 2016 Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Overview of Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0 (2016)

The Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0, released in March 2016, was designed to offer a balanced mix of functionality and affordability. Although discontinued now, it served as a reliable option for users seeking a basic tablet with essential features for everyday use. The device was aimed at users who required a lightweight, portable tablet with decent multimedia capabilities and a solid build quality.

Design and Build Quality

The Galaxy Tab A 7.0 features a practical design with a focus on portability. Its dimensions, 186.9 x 108.8 x 8.7 mm, make it easy to handle and carry around. Weighing 283 grams, it's not the lightest tablet but strikes a reasonable balance between sturdiness and portability. The device includes a glass front and plastic back, held together by a plastic frame. This combination provides adequate durability for everyday use, although it might not feel as premium as metal-bodied alternatives.

Display

The 7.0-inch screen of the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0 is an IPS LCD display, which offers decent color reproduction and viewing angles. With a resolution of 800 x 1280 pixels at approximately 216 ppi density, the display is suitable for web browsing and video streaming, though it does not support full HD content. The screen-to-body ratio of around 69.9% ensures a reasonable bezel size, though not as minimal as more modern devices.

Performance

The Galaxy Tab A 7.0 is powered by the Qualcomm MSM8916 Snapdragon 410 chipset, with a quad-core 1.3 GHz Cortex-A53 CPU. It includes an Adreno 306 GPU, providing sufficient performance for basic tasks such as browsing, video playback, and running simple applications. However, it's not designed for demanding applications or gaming. The device’s 1.5GB RAM is sufficient for running Android 5.1.1 (Lollipop) smoothly, though multitasking capabilities are limited.

Memory and Storage

In terms of storage, the Galaxy Tab A 7.0 comes with 8GB of internal storage, which is minimal by today's standards. Thankfully, it includes a dedicated microSDXC slot, allowing users to expand storage capacity significantly—ideal for those needing to store more apps, photos, and multimedia files.

Camera Capabilities

On the camera front, the device is equipped with a 5 MP rear camera with an aperture of f/2.2. This camera includes autofocus and a panorama mode, capable of capturing video at 720p@30fps. While it cannot compete with today's high-end smartphone cameras, it suffices for basic photo needs and video calls. The 2 MP front camera also serves as a functional tool for video conferencing and casual selfies.

Battery Life

Battery performance is one of the strong suits of the Galaxy Tab A 7.0. It boasts a 4000 mAh Li-Ion battery, non-removable, offering up to 11 hours of multimedia usage. This makes it a reliable companion for long commutes or flights. Music lovers will appreciate up to 100 hours of continuous music playback, reducing the need for frequent recharging.

Network and Connectivity

The Galaxy Tab A 7.0 supports a range of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE bands, ensuring a broad appeal. It features Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, and hotspot capabilities for seamless internet access. Bluetooth 4.0 and a 3.5mm audio jack enhance connectivity options further. However, the absence of NFC and FM Radio may be a downside for some users. Positioning is done via GPS and GLONASS, adequate for navigation apps.

Audio and Multimedia

The audio experience on the Galaxy Tab A 7.0 is decent, thanks to its built-in loudspeaker and 3.5mm audio jack. While it does not offer stereo speakers or advanced audio features, it is perfectly adequate for casual listening and family video viewing.

Miscellaneous Features

The tablet incorporates an accelerometer sensor, which is standard for monitoring motion and orientation in various applications. It was available in two color options: Pearl White and Metallic Black, catering to different aesthetic preferences. With a price point of around 130 EUR at launch, it targeted budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable secondary device.

Conclusion

In summary, the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 7.0 (2016) is characterized by its balanced blend of portability, battery life, and basic functionality. While it may not stand out in today's crowded marketplace of premium tablets, it served its purpose well during its time. It remains a device suitable for light users, including students or individuals looking for a straightforward digital companion. The tablet’s ability to cover essential tasks without much fuss makes it a pertinent option for specific user segments, even as it may not meet the expectations of power users seeking cutting-edge performance or features.