The best 2021 Galaxy A series phone for you

Different Galaxy A series phones lined up next to each other

The Galaxy A series is back in 2021, and it's better than ever with five new phone models! There's a version for everyone, whether you want a phone that's perfect for your everyday needs or a model that will offer a top-of-the-line performance. If you aren’t sure where to even start, we have a basic rundown of the A02s, A12, A32, A42, and A52 and their unique qualities, such as size, battery capacity, cameras, and more.

Note: Available screens and settings may vary by wireless service provider, software version, and phone model. 

Screen size and display

All 2021 Galaxy A phones have about the same screen size, but there are some key differences, such as the type of display or the screen's refresh rate.

You can check out the differences below:

  • A02s has an HD+ LCD Infinity-V display. The screen is 6.5 inches and has a 60Hz refresh rate.

  • The A12 has an HD+ LCD Infinity-V display. The screen is 6.5 inches and has a 60Hz refresh rate.

  • The A32 has an HD+ LCD Infinity-V display. The screen is 6.5 inches and has an adaptive 60Hz to 90Hz refresh rate.

  • The A42 has an HD+ Super AMOLED Infinity-U display. The screen is 6.6 inches and has a 60Hz refresh rate.

  • The A52 has an FHD+ Super AMOLED Infinity-O display. The screen is 6.5 inches and has a selectable 60Hz or  120Hz refresh rate.

Different screen sizes of Galaxy A series

Camera

Great-quality cameras are a cornerstone of Samsung phones, so it goes without saying that the 2021 Galaxy A series has amazing cameras too! Like other specs, the type of camera and its available features will depend on what model you have.

Check out our camera guide to learn more about what each model offers.

A32 5G Camera

Battery power

Note: These A series phones are not compatible with QI wireless charging pads and stands, or the Wireless power sharing feature.

This year's Galaxy A phones all come with an amazing battery, fast charging capabilities, and a charger! However, the available features and accessories will vary depending on the model. Take a look below:

  • A02s has a 5,000 mAh battery that can use Fast Charging. The phone comes with a 7.75W charger.

  • A12 has a 5,000 mAh battery with Fast Charging. The phone comes with a 15W charger.

  • A32 has a 5,000 mAh battery with Fast Charging. The phone comes with a 15W charger.

  • A42 has a 5,000 mAh battery with Fast Charging. The phone comes with a 15W charger.

  • A52 has a 4,500 mAh battery that is compatible with Super Fast Charging. The phone comes with a 15W charger, but you can use a 25W charger instead.

Galaxy A32 displaying 100%

For more details about using a charger with your phone, check out our guide on Wall chargers.

Fingerprint scanner

Note: The A02 does not support Fingerprint security. However, it does support the basic screen lock function and the Facial recognition lock.

You won't have to compromise on security with your 2021 A series phone because almost all of them come with fingerprint security! Some models have the fingerprint scanner on the Side key whereas others have an in-display scanner.

Either way, it's very easy to register your fingerprints and set up the security feature.

  • A02s does not have a fingerprint scanner.

  • A12 and A32 have a fingerprint scanner on the Side key.

  • A42 and A52 have an in-display fingerprint scanner.

Fingerprint scanner on A52

Performance and memory

You'll never have to worry about your 2021 A series phone slowing down or freezing, since each model has good RAM and storage space. Plus, all of the models can use microSD cards to expand their storage capacity by 1TB.

  • A02s has 2GB RAM and 32GB of storage.

  • A12 has 3GB RAM and 32GB of storage.

  • A32 has 4GB RAM and 64GB of storage.

  • A42 has 4GB RAM and 128GB of storage.

  • A52 has 6GB RAM and 128GB of storage.

A52 with SD card

5G connectivity

5G is becoming more accessible, and more phone models are now compatible with this new generation of cell technology. Three of the 2021 Galaxy A series phones can use 5G, so you'll be able to get a great connection wherever 5G is available.

  • A02s uses LTE technology and does not support 5G.

  • A12 uses LTE technology and does not support 5G.

  • A32 supports 5G with Sub-6 capabilities.

  • A42 supports 5G with Sub-6 and mmWave capabilities.

  • A52 supports 5G with Sub-6 capabilities.

5G Connectivity on A series

IP rating

If you're wondering whether or not your phone is water and dust resistant, you can check its IP rating.

Out of the 2021 A series phones, only the A52 has an IP rating, which is IP67. Every other model (A42, A32, A12, and A02s) does not have an IP rating; in other words, they are not water and dust resistant. Either way, you should try to keep your phone dry and use our water resistance guide to keep it running smoothly, even when it's exposed to water.

IP Rating on Galaxy A series phone

Phone cases

Along with the release of the 2021 A series comes all new cases! There are classic clear cases so you can see your phone's original color. Or, you can use the S View Wallet so you'll be able to get a quick view of your notifications and also keep important items stored in your case. Finally, there's the Xcover which will protect your phone from impacts or tough environments. You can purchase these cases separately from the Samsung website.

  • Soft Clear Case: A02s, A12, and A32

  • S View Wallet: A32, A42, and A52

  • Xcover Standing and Xcover Rugged: A52

Phone cases
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