Samsung Galaxy A Series Guide: A34, A54, A35, A55 and A73

The Galaxy A range is where most Samsung buyers in Kenya end up. These phones offer bright AMOLED screens, large batteries and Samsung's One UI software at far lower prices than the flagship S series. The model numbers tell you more than you might expect.

How the numbering works

The first digit generally shows the phone's position in the range and the second digit its generation. An A54 is a higher tier than an A34, and an A55 is the next generation after the A54. Higher tiers tend to get better chips, cameras and build materials.

Galaxy A3x: A33, A34 and A35

These phones are the affordable end of Samsung's mid-range. You get a Super AMOLED screen, 5,000mAh battery and water resistance rated IP67 on these models. The A34 raised the screen's refresh rate to 120Hz. The A35 moved to a glass back and a more premium design. For most people who want a dependable phone at a mid-range price, this tier is a very sensible choice.

Galaxy A5x: A54 and A55

The A5x phones add stronger chips, better cameras and more refined bodies. The A55 has an aluminium frame and offers a 50MP main camera with optical image stabilisation, as does the A54. Night shots and video are where the extra cost shows. Samsung promised these models several years of updates, so check the current commitment when comparing them with cheaper models.

Galaxy A73

The A73 has a 6.7-inch screen and a 108MP main camera. It is a good choice for buyers who want a larger display and a high-resolution sensor. It lacks a headphone jack, as do most models here. Because it is an older design, compare it against the newer A55 before deciding.

Where the mid-range still falls short

These phones are not as fast as flagships at demanding games or multi-tasking. Fast charging is modest, at around 25W. Cameras are good in daylight but less consistent at night than an S series phone.

Samsung has also removed the charger from many retail boxes, so include a 25W USB-C charger in your budget.

Ex-UK or brand new?

Ex-UK A-series phones are often great value, but compare the price carefully with the newest model on sale. A fresh battery and a warranty can matter more than one generation of hardware. Read about Ex-UK versus new.

If your budget is lower still, see the budget Galaxy A0, A1 and A2 guide, and for models built around battery life, the Galaxy M and F series.

Our shortlist

• Best value tier: Galaxy A35 or A34.
• Best camera in the mid-range: Galaxy A55 or A54.
• Biggest screen: Galaxy A73.

Prices change often, so check the current listings below, and look at the storage and condition options on each product page.