Galaxy A55 Vs Galaxy S24 Ultra

Galaxy A55
Galaxy A55
Starting at

Refurbished price:230.00

Versus €513.35 new

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Galaxy S24 Ultra
Galaxy S24 Ultra
Starting at

Refurbished price:542.00

Versus €1,141.93 new

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Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A55 (released March 2024) and the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra (released January 2024) are both Android smartphones from Samsung, but they cater to different user expectations. While the A55 offers a balanced experience in the mid-range segment, the S24 Ultra stands as a premium flagship device, distinguished by its advanced camera system, integrated S Pen, and enhanced processing power. Both devices run on the Android operating system with Samsung's One UI.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including software support, physical durability, and repairability.

  • Software Updates: The Galaxy A55 is expected to receive four years of major Android OS updates and five years of security patches from its release date. In contrast, the Galaxy S24 Ultra offers an extended commitment with seven years of both OS and security updates, providing a longer period of software relevance.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy A55 features an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance and is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ on its display, alongside a metal frame. The Galaxy S24 Ultra elevates durability with an IP68 rating, a titanium frame, and Corning Gorilla Glass Armor for its screen, offering a higher degree of protection against environmental elements and accidental damage.
  • Expected Lifespan: Users prioritizing the longest possible software support and robust physical protection will find the S24 Ultra designed for extended practical use. The A55 still offers substantial longevity, making it a reliable choice for several years of consistent performance and security.

Year of Release

2024

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance capabilities of the Galaxy A55 and S24 Ultra differ significantly, impacting how they handle various tasks from everyday use to demanding applications.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy A55 is equipped with an octa-core processor that capably handles daily tasks, multitasking, and moderate gaming, providing a smooth user experience for most applications. The Galaxy S24 Ultra features a more advanced octa-core processor, delivering super smooth performance for highly demanding apps, intensive multitasking, and graphic-heavy gaming.
  • Memory and Storage: The A55 is available with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and offers 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, which can be expanded using a microSD card up to 1TB. The S24 Ultra comes with 12GB of RAM across all configurations and offers larger internal storage options of 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB, though it does not support expandable storage.
  • Battery Performance: Both devices house a 5000 mAh battery. The Galaxy A55 provides up to two days of usage with 25W fast charging. The Galaxy S24 Ultra also offers long-lasting battery performance, with some users reporting up to 48 hours of use, and supports faster 45W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

12 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both smartphones is delivered through high-quality displays, though with distinct differences in technology and specifications.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy A55 features a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. The Galaxy S24 Ultra comes with a slightly larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, which provides enhanced color accuracy and dynamic range.
  • Resolution and Brightness: The A55 has an FHD+ resolution (1080x2340 pixels) and a peak brightness of 1000 nits in High Brightness Mode, ensuring good visibility in various lighting conditions. The S24 Ultra boasts a QHD+ resolution (1440x3120 pixels) and a significantly higher peak brightness of 2600 nits, making it exceptionally clear and readable even in direct sunlight.
  • Refresh Rate and Features: Both phones offer a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The S24 Ultra's display is adaptive, ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, which helps optimize power consumption. The A55 includes Vision Booster for improved outdoor visibility, while the S24 Ultra features Gorilla Glass Armor for enhanced screen protection.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1440 x 3120

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Both devices offer capable camera systems, but the S24 Ultra provides a more versatile and advanced photography and videography experience.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy A55 features a triple rear camera setup with a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 5MP macro lens. The Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts a quad-camera system, including a 200MP main sensor with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, offering up to 100x Space Zoom.
  • Photography Performance: The A55 captures impressive shots in both daylight and low-light conditions, benefiting from features like AI Image Signal Processing. The S24 Ultra delivers exceptional image quality across various shooting conditions, known for its vividness, sharpness, and clarity, further enhanced by AI features for editing and optimization.
  • Video Recording: Both phones support 4K video recording at 30 frames per second (fps) with stabilization. The S24 Ultra extends this capability significantly, offering 8K video recording at 30fps and advanced video features like Dual Recording and Pro video modes.

Main camera

50 megapixels

200 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements differentiate the user experience between these two Samsung smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity and Bluetooth 5.3. The Galaxy A55 features Wi-Fi 6, while the S24 Ultra supports the newer Wi-Fi 7 standard. Both utilize a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer and neither includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy A55 incorporates an in-display fingerprint scanner for secure unlocking. The Galaxy S24 Ultra also uses an ultrasonic under-display fingerprint sensor, known for its speed and accuracy, and includes face recognition.
  • Design and Handling: The A55 has dimensions of 161.1 x 77.4 x 8.2 mm and weighs 213g, featuring a metal frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front. The S24 Ultra is slightly larger and heavier at 162.3 x 79 x 8.6 mm and 232g or 233g, constructed with a titanium frame and Gorilla Glass Armor. The S24 Ultra also uniquely integrates an S Pen.

Weight

213 g

232 g

Screen size (in)

6.6

6.8

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback indicates that the Samsung Galaxy A55 is praised for its premium build quality, reliable battery life, and capable camera system, especially considering its segment. Users frequently highlight its sharp and bright display and solid performance for everyday tasks. Common criticisms are less frequent but sometimes point to the bezels not being the thinnest.

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra consistently receives acclaim for its powerful performance, exceptional battery life, and versatile camera setup. Its vibrant display, integrated S Pen, and advanced AI features are often cited as significant advantages. Some users note its larger size and weight as a factor to consider.

Users prioritizing a device with a long software support lifespan, top-tier performance for demanding applications, and a highly advanced camera system, along with the unique functionality of an S Pen, will find the Galaxy S24 Ultra well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users seeking a balanced smartphone with strong everyday performance, good battery life, and a capable camera in a durable design, without the need for flagship-level features or the S Pen, may prefer the Galaxy A55. Both devices are available as quality-assured refurbished options, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers.

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