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Samsung Galaxy A51

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The Samsung Galaxy A51 was a part of Samsung’s A-series lineup, which is known for offering a blend of solid features at a mid-range price point. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy A51:

Overview:

Launched in late 2019, the Samsung Galaxy A51 was a successor to the popular A50, bringing in several improvements and new features. Positioned in the mid-range segment, the A51 aimed to provide a good mix of performance, camera capabilities, and design without breaking the bank.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, overlaid with Samsung’s One UI 2.
  2. Display: 6.5-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, featuring an Infinity-O design (centered hole-punch).
  3. Processor: Exynos 9611 (10nm).
  4. Memory: Options of 4/6/8 GB RAM with 64/128 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 512 GB.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor, 12 MP ultrawide lens, 5 MP macro sensor, and a 5 MP depth sensor. A 32 MP front camera.
  6. Battery: 4000 mAh non-removable battery with 15W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Under-display optical fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a plastic back with a “prism” design.

Pros:

  1. Display: The Super AMOLED display offered vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good brightness levels.
  2. Camera Capabilities: The versatile camera setup allowed for a variety of photography options, from ultrawide shots to live focus (bokeh) effects.
  3. Design: The “prism” design on the back and the slim bezels, combined with the centered hole-punch, gave the device a modern and appealing look.
  4. Expandable Storage: The inclusion of a microSD card slot was a plus, especially when some competitors were omitting this feature.
  5. One UI: Samsung’s software experience was feature-rich, offering a plethora of customization options and features.

Cons:

  1. Processor Performance: The Exynos 9611 was capable for daily tasks, but it wasn’t the most powerful chipset in its price segment, leading to occasional lags in intensive tasks.
  2. Plastic Build: While the “prism” design was visually appealing, the plastic build felt less premium compared to glass or metal.
  3. Fingerprint Scanner: The under-display fingerprint scanner was not always as fast or consistent as traditional capacitive scanners.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2019 and 2020, the Galaxy A51 faced competition from various mid-range devices:

  • OnePlus Nord: Offering a 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 765G, and a versatile camera setup.
  • Realme X2: Known for its AMOLED display, Snapdragon 730G chipset, and fast charging capabilities.
  • Redmi Note 9 Pro: Xiaomi’s offering with a balanced set of features at a competitive price point.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy A51 was announced in December 2019 and released later that month.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Performance Hiccups: Some users reported occasional stutters or lags, especially when multitasking or running heavy apps.
  2. Camera Low-Light Performance: While the camera was generally good, some users felt that its performance in low-light conditions could be improved.
  3. Battery Optimization: Some users felt that the battery drain was faster than expected, especially with prolonged screen-on time.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy A51 was a well-rounded mid-range device that offered a mix of design, features, and performance. While it had its shortcomings, it provided good value for its price, especially for those looking for a reliable brand with a solid software experience. The A51 continued the A-series’ tradition of offering a balanced smartphone experience for the masses.

Samsung Galaxy A71

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The Samsung Galaxy A71 is part of Samsung’s A-series lineup, which focuses on offering solid features at a more affordable price point compared to its flagship S-series. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy A71:

Overview:

Launched in early 2020, the Samsung Galaxy A71 was a successor to the A70, offering improved specifications and features. Positioned in the upper mid-range segment, the A71 aimed to provide a balanced mix of performance, camera capabilities, and design.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, overlaid with Samsung’s One UI 2.
  2. Display: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SDM730 Snapdragon 730 (8 nm) or Snapdragon 730G for select regions.
  4. Memory: Options of 6/8 GB RAM with 128 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 512 GB.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 12 MP ultrawide lens, 5 MP macro sensor, and a 5 MP depth sensor. A 32 MP front camera.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with 25W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a plastic back with a “prism” design.

Pros:

  1. Display: The Super AMOLED Plus display offered vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good brightness levels.
  2. Camera Capabilities: The 64 MP primary sensor captured detailed shots, and the versatility of the quad-camera setup allowed for a variety of photography options.
  3. Battery Life: The 4500 mAh battery ensured the device lasted through a full day of moderate to heavy use.
  4. Expandable Storage: The inclusion of a microSD card slot was a plus, especially when some competitors were omitting this feature.
  5. One UI: Samsung’s software experience was feature-rich, offering a plethora of customization options and features.

Cons:

  1. Plastic Build: While the “prism” design on the back was visually appealing, the plastic build felt less premium compared to glass or metal.
  2. Processor Performance: While the Snapdragon 730/730G was capable for daily tasks, it wasn’t the most powerful chipset in its price segment.
  3. Weight: At around 179g, some users found the device to be a bit on the heavier side.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2020, the Galaxy A71 faced competition from various mid-range devices:

  • OnePlus Nord: Offering a 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 765G, and a versatile camera setup.
  • Realme X2 Pro: Known for its 90Hz display, Snapdragon 855+ chipset, and fast charging capabilities.
  • Redmi Note 9 Pro: Xiaomi’s offering with a balanced set of features at a competitive price point.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy A71 was announced in December 2019 and released in January 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Fingerprint Scanner: Some users reported that the in-display fingerprint scanner was not always consistent in recognizing fingerprints.
  2. Software Bloat: While One UI offered many features, some users felt that the device came with too many pre-installed apps.
  3. Camera Low-Light Performance: While the camera was generally good, some users felt that its performance in low-light conditions could be improved.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy A71 was a testament to Samsung’s strategy of offering a balanced smartphone experience at a more accessible price point. While it made some compromises, such as the plastic build, it delivered in areas like display quality, camera versatility, and battery life. For users seeking a Samsung experience without the flagship price, the A71 was a compelling option.

Nokia 2.3

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The Nokia 2.3 was part of Nokia’s revamped lineup under HMD Global, targeting the budget segment of the smartphone market. Launched in late 2019, the Nokia 2.3 aimed to provide a reliable and pure Android experience in an affordable package. Here’s an in-depth review of the Nokia 2.3:

Overview:

The Nokia 2.3 was designed for users who wanted a straightforward, no-frills smartphone experience with the assurance of regular software updates, thanks to its Android One certification. With its simple design and decent build quality, it catered to users looking for a budget-friendly yet dependable device.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 9.0 (Pie) as part of the Android One program, ensuring regular updates and a stock Android experience. It was later upgradable to Android 10 and 11.
  2. Display: 6.2-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 720 x 1520 pixels.
  3. Processor: MediaTek Helio A22.
  4. Memory: 2 GB RAM with 32 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
  5. Camera: Dual camera setup – 13 MP primary sensor and 2 MP depth sensor. The front camera is a 5 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: A 4000 mAh non-removable battery.
  7. Other Features: 3.5mm headphone jack, dedicated Google Assistant button.

Pros:

  1. Android One: The device’s Android One certification meant a bloat-free, stock Android experience with the promise of regular security and OS updates.
  2. Build Quality: Despite its budget positioning, the Nokia 2.3 boasted a solid build with a textured back for better grip.
  3. Battery Life: The 4000 mAh battery ensured decent battery life, lasting a day for most users.
  4. Price: Being a budget device, it offered good value for its price point.

Cons:

  1. Performance: The MediaTek Helio A22, combined with 2 GB RAM, was sufficient for basic tasks but could struggle with multitasking and more demanding apps.
  2. Camera Performance: While decent in well-lit conditions, the camera struggled in low-light scenarios.
  3. No Fingerprint Sensor: The device lacked a fingerprint sensor, which was present in some competitors in the same price range.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Nokia 2.3 faced competition from:

  • Redmi 8A: Offering a 6.22-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 439, and a 5000 mAh battery.
  • Realme C3: With its 6.5-inch IPS LCD display, MediaTek Helio G70, and a dual-camera setup.
  • Samsung Galaxy A10: Featuring a 6.2-inch IPS LCD display, Exynos 7884, and a 3400 mAh battery.

Launch Date:

The Nokia 2.3 was announced in December 2019 and became available in various markets shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Performance: Some users reported occasional slowdowns and stutters, especially when running multiple apps.
  2. Camera Quality: The camera, while decent for the price, was not the best in its segment, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Lack of Fingerprint Sensor: Some users missed the convenience of a fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking.

Conclusion:

The Nokia 2.3 was a commendable offering in the budget segment, especially for those who prioritize software experience and build quality. Its Android One certification and solid build made it stand out in a crowded market. While it had its limitations, especially in terms of performance and camera quality, its overall package was quite compelling for its price segment. For users looking for a basic device with a clean software experience and decent build, the Nokia 2.3 was a good choice. However, those looking for better performance, camera capabilities, or additional features like a fingerprint sensor might have considered other options available in the market at the time.

Motorola Moto G8 Plus

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The Motorola Moto G8 Plus was part of Motorola’s G-series lineup, which has been known for offering solid specifications at an affordable price point. Released in 2019, the Moto G8 Plus aimed to provide a balanced smartphone experience with a focus on camera and multimedia capabilities. Here’s an in-depth review of the Motorola Moto G8 Plus:

Overview:

Launched in late 2019, the Moto G8 Plus was designed to cater to users looking for a mid-range smartphone with a particular emphasis on camera performance and multimedia consumption. It built upon the legacy of the G-series, which has been known for its near-stock Android experience and value for money.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 9.0 Pie, upgradable to later versions.
  2. Display: 6.3-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm SDM665 Snapdragon 665.
  4. Memory: 4 GB RAM with 64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
  5. Camera: Triple camera setup with a 48 MP primary sensor, 16 MP ultrawide “Action Cam”, and a 5 MP depth sensor. The front camera is a 25 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4000 mAh non-removable battery with 15W TurboPower fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, stereo speakers, and Bluetooth 5.0.

Pros:

  1. Camera Versatility: The inclusion of the “Action Cam” allowed users to record wide-angle videos while holding the phone vertically, which was unique and useful for certain scenarios.
  2. Battery Life: The 4000 mAh battery combined with the power-efficient Snapdragon 665 ensured impressive battery life.
  3. Stereo Speakers: The stereo speakers provided a better multimedia experience, which was a nice addition at this price point.
  4. Near-stock Android Experience: The Moto G8 Plus provided a clean and bloat-free Android experience, which many users appreciated for its simplicity and smoothness.

Cons:

  1. Build Quality: The device had a plastic build, which, although expected at this price point, didn’t feel as premium as some competitors.
  2. Delayed Software Updates: Motorola’s track record with updates was inconsistent, leading to potential delays in receiving the latest Android versions.
  3. No NFC (in some regions): The absence of NFC in certain regions was a limitation for users who rely on contactless payments.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Moto G8 Plus faced competition from:

  • Redmi Note 8 Pro: Offering a 6.53-inch IPS LCD display, MediaTek Helio G90T, and a quad-camera setup with a 64 MP primary sensor.
  • Samsung Galaxy A50: With its 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display, Exynos 9610, and a triple-camera system.
  • Realme 5 Pro: Featuring a 6.3-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 712, and a quad-camera setup.

Launch Date:

The Motorola Moto G8 Plus was announced in October 2019 and became available shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Camera Software: Some users reported occasional hiccups with the camera software, especially in terms of focus and color accuracy.
  2. Screen Bleeding: A few users noted minor screen bleeding issues at the edges of the display.
  3. Bulky Design: The phone was a bit on the thicker and heavier side, which might not be comfortable for all users.

Conclusion:

The Motorola Moto G8 Plus was a solid offering in the mid-range segment, providing essential smartphone features with the added benefits of camera versatility and a good multimedia experience. While it had its set of drawbacks, especially in terms of build quality and software updates, it served as a reliable option for those looking for a no-nonsense smartphone experience. For users who prioritize camera versatility, battery life, and a clean Android interface in the mid-range segment, the Moto G8 Plus was a strong choice.