Samsung Galaxy A30s Review: A Stylish Mid-Range Upgrade with Triple Cameras
When
Samsung launched the Galaxy A-series refresh in 2019, the goal was clear: dominate the mid-range smartphone market with feature-rich devices at competitive prices. The
Samsung Galaxy A30s arrived as an upgraded version of the popular Samsung Galaxy A30, bringing subtle yet meaningful improvements, especially in camera technology and design aesthetics.
In this detailed review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Galaxy A30s, from design and performance to camera quality, battery life, pricing, and whether it was worth buying in its release year.
Release Date & Overview
The Samsung Galaxy A30s was officially announced in August 2019 and released in September 2019.
It positioned itself as a
mid-range smartphone aimed at users who wanted premium features like AMOLED display, multiple cameras, and sleek design, without paying flagship prices.
Samsung Galaxy A30s Price at Launch
At launch, pricing varied across regions. Based on global and Nigerian estimates:
- 🇳🇬 Nigeria: ₦90,000 – ₦120,000
- 🇺🇸 USA: ~$279 (~₦100,000 equivalent)
- 🇬🇧 UK: ~£250
- 🇮🇳 India: ~₹19,000
This pricing made it a strong contender in the budget-to-midrange category.
Design & Build Quality (Compared with Galaxy A30)
Samsung didn’t completely reinvent the wheel here, but it refined it.
What’s New?
- The Galaxy A30s introduced a “Prism Crush” design, giving it a glossy, reflective back with geometric patterns.
- It retained a plastic back and frame, similar to the Galaxy A30.
- It added an in-display fingerprint sensor, replacing the rear-mounted one on the A30.
Comparison with Galaxy A30
- Galaxy A30: Clean, minimal look with rear fingerprint sensor
- Galaxy A30s: More stylish finish + modern in-display scanner
However, one controversial downgrade:
- Display resolution dropped from Full HD+ (A30) to HD+ (A30s)
Conclusion: Better design and modern feel, but slightly compromised display sharpness.
Display
The Galaxy A30s features a:
- 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display
- Resolution: 720 x 1560 pixels
- Infinity-V notch design
Even with the lower resolution, Samsung’s AMOLED panel ensures:
- Deep blacks
- Vibrant colors
- Excellent viewing angles
Ideal for streaming, social media, and casual gaming.
Performance & Software
Under the hood, the Galaxy A30s runs on:
- Exynos 7904 processor
- 3GB / 4GB RAM options
- 32GB / 64GB / 128GB storage (expandable)
Real-World Performance
- Smooth for everyday tasks like WhatsApp, browsing, and YouTube
- Handles light gaming (e.g., PUBG Mobile on medium settings)
- Not built for heavy multitasking or high-end gaming
Software
- Ships with Android 9 Pie (One UI 1.0)
- Upgradeable up to Android 11 with One UI 3.1
Samsung’s One UI makes one-handed use easier and adds useful customization.
Camera Setup (Major Upgrade)
This is where the Galaxy A30s truly stands out.
Rear Cameras (Triple Setup)
- 25MP (main sensor)
- 8MP (ultra-wide)
- 5MP (depth sensor)
Front Camera
Camera Performance
- Daylight shots: Sharp, vibrant, and social-media ready
- Ultra-wide lens: Great for landscapes and group shots
- Portrait mode: Decent edge detection
- Low light: Average performance
Compared to the Galaxy A30’s dual camera, this is a clear upgrade.
Battery Life
The Galaxy A30s packs:
- 4000mAh battery
- 15W fast charging
Usage Experience
- Easily lasts a full day with moderate use
- Efficient chipset helps conserve power
- Charging is decent, not the fastest
Reliable battery for everyday users.
Security & Features
- In-display fingerprint scanner (optical)
- Face unlock
- Dual SIM support
- USB Type-C
- 3.5mm headphone jack
The in-display fingerprint sensor adds a premium touch rarely seen in this price range in 2019.
Audio & Multimedia
- Single loudspeaker (average output)
- Dolby Atmos support (with headphones)
- Great display for video streaming
Not the loudest, but decent for casual use.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Stylish Prism Crush design
- AMOLED display with rich colors
- Triple camera setup (versatile shooting)
- Long-lasting 4000mAh battery
- In-display fingerprint sensor
- Expandable storage
Cons
- Lower HD+ resolution (downgrade from A30)
- Average gaming performance
- Plastic build (not premium feel)
- Low-light camera could be better
Is Samsung Galaxy A30s Worth It (In Its Release Year)?
At launch, the Galaxy A30s was a
solid mid-range option, especially for users who valued:
- Camera versatility
- Stylish design
- Battery life
However, it wasn’t perfect:
- The display downgrade was a surprising compromise
- Performance was just average
Still, for its price, it offered
excellent value for money in 2019, particularly in markets like Nigeria where affordability meets functionality.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy A30s successfully builds on the foundation of the Galaxy A30 by introducing a better camera system and a more modern design. While it makes a questionable trade-off with display resolution, it still delivers a balanced smartphone experience for everyday users.
If you were buying in 2019, the A30s would have been a
smart choice for budget-conscious buyers who wanted style and camera performance without breaking the bank.
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