Samsung Galaxy A03s in 2024: Still a Smart Buy at ₹8,390 or an Outdated Choice?

Introduction: A 2021 Phone in a 2024 World

The Samsung Galaxy A03s presents a curious case study in today’s budget smartphone market. Originally launched in August 2021, this device continues to sell in 2024 at around ₹8,390. But does a three-year-old budget phone still make sense when newer competitors offer fresher specs at similar prices? We’ve spent two months with the A03s to answer precisely that question.

The Reality Check: While Samsung’s brand power keeps the A03s relevant, buyers need to understand they’re purchasing 2021’s technology at 2024’s entry-level price point. This isn’t necessarily bad—just different from newer alternatives.

• Overall Rating: 6.5/10

• Best For: First-time smartphone users, seniors, or those needing a reliable backup device

• Avoid If: You multi-task heavily, play games, or prioritize camera quality

• Last Updated: August 2024

Pros

• Exceptional 2-day battery life

• Familiar Samsung One UI experience

• Expandable storage up to 1TB

• Reliable brand with good service network

Cons

• 2021 processor struggles in 2024

• No Android version updates expected

• Charging is painfully slow

• Low-light camera performance is poor

Design & Build: Practical But Dated

First Impressions: The A03s feels exactly like what it is: a budget phone. The plastic back and frame are durable but lack premium touches. At 9.1mm thickness and weighing 196 grams, it has substantial heft—partly due to that massive 5000mAh battery.

What We Liked:

• Textured back provides good grip

• Headphone jack is a rarity in 2024

• Dedicated SD card slot (not hybrid)

• All buttons are responsive and well-placed

What Disappointed:

• The thick bezels look outdated

• White and Blue variants show scratches easily

• No case included in the box

Daily Use Note: The rear-mounted fingerprint sensor works reliably but requires a deliberate press. Face unlock is faster but less secure in bright light.

Display Analysis: Adequate, Not Amazing

The Numbers: 6.5-inch PLS LCD, 720×1600 resolution (269 PPI), 60Hz refresh rate

Real-World Experience:

• Indoor Use: Perfectly adequate for YouTube, browsing, and reading

• Sunlight Visibility: Struggles at maximum brightness; find shade for outdoor use

• Color Accuracy: Washed out compared to AMOLED competitors

• Touch Response: Good for basic navigation, occasional lag in games

Comparative Insight: Phones like the Redmi 12C (₹7,999) offer similar displays, while the Realme C55 (₹9,999) provides a 90Hz refresh rate—a noticeable upgrade for scrolling.

Performance Deep Dive: The Aging Helio P35

Benchmark vs Reality

Specification: MediaTek Helio P35 (12nm, 2018 architecture)
Geekbench 5: Single-core 150, Multi-core 900
Real Competition: Redmi 12C's Helio G85 scores 40% higher

Daily Performance Breakdown:

Good For:

• WhatsApp, Facebook, light browsing (1-2 apps at a time)

• YouTube at 720p without stuttering

• Music streaming with screen off

• Basic photo editing

Struggles With:

• Switching between 3+ apps (3GB RAM version)

• Heavy websites with multiple ads

• Gaming beyond casual titles (Asphalt 9 runs at low settings)

• Video calls while using other apps

RAM Reality Check:

• 3GB Version: Requires frequent app reloading in 2024

• 4GB Version: Worth the extra ₹1,600 for smoother multi-tasking

Storage Truth: The 32GB version leaves just 15GB free after system files. The 64GB model or immediate SD card investment is essential.

Camera Review: Daylight Only Performer

Rear Camera Setup

• Primary: 13MP f/2.2 (main sensor)

• Macro: 2MP (largely useless)

• Depth: 2MP (helps portrait mode)

Daylight Photos (8/10):

• Colors are accurate if slightly muted

• Detail is good for social media sharing

• HDR handles shadows reasonably well

Low-Light Photos (3/10):

• Significant noise even with night mode

• Slow shutter causes blur without steady hands

• Details disappear in shadows

Video Capability:

• 1080p at 30fps maximum

• No stabilization means shaky footage

• Microphone picks up wind noise easily

Front Camera Reality: The 5MP sensor works for video calls but selfies lack detail. Portrait mode struggles with hair edges.

Comparative Camera Performance:

Software Experience: One UI Core’s Limitations

Android 11 in 2024: This is the A03s’s biggest liability. While the August 2024 security patch is available, no Android version updates are expected.

One UI Core 3.1 Benefits:

• Clean interface similar to premium Samsung phones

• Useful features like Samsung Free (news aggregator)

• Good parental controls and digital wellbeing tools

• Reliable notifications management

Missing Features:

• No Android 12’s Material You theming

• Limited customization compared to full One UI

• Some Samsung apps are lighter versions

• No guarantee of security patches beyond 2024

Performance Impact: The lightweight software helps the aging hardware but can’t overcome fundamental limitations.

Battery Life: The Undisputed Champion

Our Testing Results (4GB Model)

Usage Pattern: Mixed (Social, Calls, YouTube)
Screen-on Time: 8-9 hours
Total Duration: 42-48 hours
Charging Time: 0-100% in 2 hours 45 minutes

Real-World Scenarios:

• Light Users: 2 full days easily achievable

• Moderate Users: 1.5 days with 6-7 hours screen time

• Heavy Users: Still reaches bedtime with 20% remaining

The Charging Reality: “Proprietary fast charging” means 15W—slow by 2024 standards. An overnight charging habit is essential.

Long-Term Concern: Like all budget phones, battery degradation hits harder. Expect 15-20% capacity loss after 18 months.

Competition Analysis: 2024 Alternatives

Direct Competitors (August 2024 Prices)

1. Redmi 12C (₹7,999)

• Better: Processor (Helio G85), newer Android 13

• Worse: Software experience, brand perception

• Verdict: Better value for performance seekers

2. Realme C55 (₹9,999)

• Better: 90Hz display, faster charging, design

• Worse: Battery life (5000mAh but less efficient)

• Verdict: Worth ₹1,600 more for most users

3. Samsung Galaxy A05 (₹9,499)

• Better: Newer processor, Android 13, design

• Worse: Frequently out of stock, similar camera

• Verdict: The natural upgrade if available

Value Comparison Matrix:

Long-Term Considerations

Software Support: Security patches may continue into 2025 but don’t expect Android version updates.

Repair Costs:

• Battery replacement: ₹1,200-1,800

• Screen replacement: ₹2,500-3,500

• Official service quality: Generally good in metro cities

Resale Value: Samsung phones hold value better than Chinese brands. Expect 40-50% value after 1 year.

E-Waste Considerations: A 2021 phone in 2024 means shorter usable life—consider if sustainability matters to you.

Who Should Buy the Galaxy A03s in 2024?

Buy If You:

1. Need a simple phone for elderly family members

2. Want a reliable backup/second device

3. Prioritize battery life above all else

4. Are deeply familiar with Samsung’s ecosystem

5. Have a strict budget of ₹8,500

Avoid If You:

1. Play mobile games regularly

2. Use multiple apps simultaneously

3. Take photos in low-light conditions

4. Want latest Android features

5. Can stretch budget to ₹10,000

Final Verdict: A Niche Choice in 2024

Rating: 6.5/10

The Samsung Galaxy A03s occupies a shrinking niche in 2024’s budget market. Its exceptional battery life and Samsung reliability are compelling, but the aging processor and software limitations make it hard to recommend over newer alternatives.

The ₹8,390 Question: Should you buy it today? Only if battery endurance is your absolute top priority and you’re comfortable with 2021 performance levels. For just ₹1,600 more, the Realme C55 offers a significantly better experience that will age more gracefully.

Bottom Line: The A03s is competent but dated. It serves specific needs well but feels like a compromise in 2024. Unless you find it below ₹7,500 or desperately need that 2-day battery, consider stretching your budget slightly for a much better contemporary device.

Quick Decision Guide

Your Priority → Recommended Choice
-------------------→----------------------
Longest Battery → Samsung Galaxy A03s
Best Performance → Redmi 12C
Overall Value → Realme C55 (₹9,999)
Future-Proofing → Samsung Galaxy A05

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the A03s get Android 12?
A: Almost certainly not. Samsung has moved on to newer A-series models.

Q: Is the 4GB version worth ₹9,999?
A: Only if buying today. At that price, newer phones offer better value.

Q: How does it handle WhatsApp video calls?
A: Adequately for 1:1 calls. Group calls may stutter on weak networks.

Q: Can it run mobile banking apps securely?
A: Yes, with current security patches. This will become a concern in 2025.

Q: What’s the best alternative under ₹9,000?
A: The Redmi 12C offers better performance but worse software experience.

Price Alert: The A03s frequently drops to ₹7,999 during sales. At that price, it becomes a more compelling choice for specific use cases.

Last Updated: August 2024 – Prices and availability subject to change. Check current market status before purchasing.