The Galaxy A16 and A16 5G have emerged as the latest contenders in the budget phone arena, offering a compelling combination of features at an attractive price point. These devices, released in November 2024 in the UK and Europe before making their way to the US in January 2025, stand out as the most affordable phones with robust specifications.
Both the Galaxy A16 5G and Galaxy A16 (4G) share a sleek design, featuring a slim profile of 7.9mm without compromising on style. Available in Midnight Blue, Turquoise, and Gray, these phones exude a modern aesthetic. Additionally, they come with an IP54 rating, ensuring protection against dust and splashes, although they are not fully waterproof.
In terms of display, both models sport a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED screen with a Full HD+ resolution and a 90Hz refresh rate, promising vibrant visuals and smooth scrolling. The camera setup on these devices is versatile, with a 50MP main camera, a 5MP ultrawide lens, and a 2MP macro lens on the rear, accompanied by a 13MP selfie camera on the front.
Under the hood, the Galaxy A16 5G features different processors based on the region, such as the Exynos 1330 chipset in Europe and the Dimensity 6300 variant in markets like India and Thailand. On the other hand, the Galaxy A16 (4G) utilizes the Mediatek Helio G99 chipset. Both phones come with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1.5TB via a Micro-SD card.
The software department is another area where these devices shine. Running on Android 14 with One UI 6.1, they offer the latest features and security updates out of the box. What sets them apart is Samsung’s commitment to providing six years of Android updates and security patches, ensuring longevity and relevance until at least 2030.
Priced at £199 for the Galaxy A16 5G in the UK and $199.99 in the US, with the 4G version available for £169 in the UK, these phones offer an excellent balance of affordability and performance. With a robust 5,000 mAh battery supporting 25W fast charging, the Galaxy A16 and A16 5G cater to users who seek a reliable and future-proof smartphone experience without breaking the bank.
For those in search of budget-friendly options, the Galaxy A16 series presents a compelling choice with its blend of features, design, and software support. With an eye on the future and a focus on value, Samsung’s Galaxy A16 and A16 5G set a new standard for affordable smartphones in 2025.