Samsung Galaxy A3 (2017) Specs and Price

Samsung Galaxy A3 (2017) Review: A Compact Premium Smartphone That Punches Above Its Weight

In a world where smartphones are getting bigger and more expensive, the Samsung Galaxy A3 (2017) arrives as a refreshing alternative. Designed for users who prefer compact devices without sacrificing premium features, this smartphone proves that great things really do come in small packages. Launched in January 2017, the Galaxy A3 (2017) is the smallest member of Samsung’s refreshed A-series lineup. Despite its size, it brings impressive upgrades over its predecessor, including water resistance, improved cameras, and a more refined design. Let’s dive deep into what makes this device stand out in 2017.    

Design & Build Quality: Premium Feel in a Compact Body

Samsung has clearly taken inspiration from its flagship Galaxy S series when designing the Galaxy A3 (2017). The device features a glass front and back with an aluminum frame, giving it a premium look and feel that rivals more expensive smartphones. The 4.7-inch form factor makes it incredibly easy to use with one hand, a rare feature in today’s smartphone market.    

Comparison with Samsung Galaxy A3 (2016)

Compared to the earlier Samsung Galaxy A3 (2016), the 2017 model feels more refined and modern:

• The curved glass design is more polished
• It introduces IP68 water and dust resistance, a major upgrade
• The addition of a fingerprint sensor enhances usability
• Slightly thicker but more durable build

While the 2016 version already had a solid design, the 2017 edition takes it closer to flagship quality.    

Display: Bright and Vibrant Super AMOLED Panel

The Galaxy A3 (2017) features a 4.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. Even though it’s not Full HD, Samsung’s AMOLED technology ensures:

• Deep blacks
• Rich colors
• Excellent viewing angles

For everyday use, social media, browsing, and video streaming, the display performs admirably.    

Performance: Reliable for Everyday Tasks

Under the hood, the device is powered by a 1.6GHz octa-core processor paired with 2GB of RAM. This setup delivers:

• Smooth performance for basic tasks
• Decent multitasking capabilities
• Lag-free navigation for most apps

However, it’s not designed for heavy gaming or intensive multitasking. This is clearly a mid-range device focused on efficiency rather than raw power. Storage: Expandable but Limited The phone comes with 16GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 256GB via microSD card. While expandable storage is a plus, the base storage might feel limited for users who install many apps or store large files.    

Camera: Improved Photography Experience

Samsung has made noticeable improvements in the camera department. Rear Camera

• 13MP sensor
• Autofocus and LED flash
• Good detail in daylight

Front Camera

• 8MP selfie shooter
• Clear and sharp selfies

The camera performs well in good lighting conditions, delivering vibrant and detailed shots. Low-light performance is decent but not exceptional, typical for a phone in this category.    

Battery Life: All-Day Reliability

The Galaxy A3 (2017) packs a 2350mAh battery. Thanks to its smaller display and efficient processor, you can expect:

• A full day of moderate usage
• Good standby time
• Reliable performance for calls, browsing, and light media use

 

Software: Clean and Functional

The device runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow out of the box with Samsung’s custom UI. Features include:

• Smooth interface
• Useful Samsung apps
• Customization options

While it’s not the latest Android version, it still provides a solid user experience.    

Connectivity & Features

The Galaxy A3 (2017) comes packed with features that enhance usability:

• 4G LTE support
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2
• NFC for Samsung Pay
• USB Type-C port
• Fingerprint sensor
• IP68 water and dust resistance

These features make it feel like a premium device despite its mid-range positioning.    

Price at Launch

At launch, the Samsung Galaxy A3 (2017) was priced at approximately:

• ₦407,000 (Naira)
• $345 (US Dollars)
• £280 (British Pounds) (approximate conversion at launch)
• ₹23,000 (Indian Rupees) (approximate conversion)

This pricing places it firmly in the mid-range segment, offering premium features at a more accessible cost.    

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Premium glass and metal design
• Compact and easy to use one-handed
• IP68 water and dust resistance
• Solid battery life
• Good cameras for the price
• Expandable storage

Cons

• Only 16GB internal storage
• Not ideal for heavy gaming
• 720p display instead of Full HD
• Older Android version at launch

 

Who Should Buy the Galaxy A3 (2017)?

This phone is perfect for:

• Users who prefer small, compact smartphones
• People looking for premium design on a budget
• Casual users who prioritize battery life and reliability

However, power users and gamers may want to look elsewhere.    

Conclusion: Small Size, Big Value

The Samsung Galaxy A3 (2017) proves that you don’t need a large screen to enjoy a premium smartphone experience. With its elegant design, water resistance, and reliable performance, it stands out as one of the best compact phones of 2017. It may not be the most powerful device on the market, but it excels in delivering a balanced experience for everyday users. If you value portability, durability, and style, this phone is definitely worth considering.  

Full Specifications