Samsung Galaxy A6+ Review: Camera Focused Mid-Range Option

The Samsung Galaxy A6+, available for NPR 45,000, sits between typical mid-range and high-end devices, making it an interesting option for those prioritizing camera quality. This review explores its strengths and weaknesses to help determine if it merits the extra cost over alternatives around the 30,000 NPR range.

Design

The A6+ boasts a premium metal unibody that feels solid and comfortable in hand, with a satisfying weight and a sleek, seamless back. Samsung includes all three card slots, avoiding the hybrid slot compromise found in some competitors. Call quality on 4G networks like NTC and Ncell is excellent, and the device features a loud, clear speaker above the power button. Audio through the 3.5mm headphone jack also delivers respectable quality.

Display

A 6-inch FullHD+ Super AMOLED panel occupies the front, labeled as an “Infinity Display.” While it lacks curved edges or ultra-thin bezels seen in flagships like the Galaxy S9 Plus, the display itself is vivid with deep blacks, high brightness for outdoor use, and responsive touch performance.

Cameras

The A6+ shines with its camera setup. Dual rear cameras include a 16MP primary sensor with a f/1.7 aperture and a 5MP secondary with f/1.9 aperture. Photos show strong detail, natural colors, good dynamic range, and decent low-light performance. The secondary camera effectively handles portrait depth, allowing adjustable blur before and after capture.

Perhaps the biggest highlight is the 24MP front camera with a f/1.9 aperture and LED flash, delivering sharp, detailed selfies that address previous criticisms of Samsung’s selfie camera focus.

Software

Running Android 8 Oreo with Samsung’s Experience UI, the software includes typical Samsung enhancements along with some bloatware. Positive additions include S Health, Samsung Themes, and Always On Display, which is useful given the absence of a notification LED.

Performance

The Snapdragon 450 processor, usually found in lower-priced devices, holds the A6+ back performance-wise. While everyday tasks like social media browsing remain smooth, app launches are slower compared to rivals such as the Oppo F7 or Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 AI. Gaming is acceptable for casual titles but suffers from frame drops in demanding games. The device remains stable without significant throttling or overheating during extended use.

Sensors

A responsive fingerprint sensor and face unlock provide secure biometrics, complemented by a gyro sensor for VR enthusiasts.

Battery

A robust 3500mAh battery easily lasts a day and a half under heavy use. However, charging is slow, requiring around three hours with the included charger, which may feel tedious for users accustomed to fast charging found in other recent flagships.

Conclusion

The Galaxy A6+ positions itself against rising Chinese competition in the mid-range segment. While it falls short on processor performance and charging speed, it excels in camera quality, battery endurance, design, and display quality. For users who value photography and design over raw performance, the A6+ is a compelling option despite its limitations.