Samsung Galaxy A54 5G Review

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G Review

The Samsung Galaxy A54 5G ($449.99) is the newest addition to Samsung’s midrange smartphone lineup. As an upgrade to last year’s A53, it offers a compelling package with a spacious display, a versatile triple-camera system, and a solid upgrade path. Despite its impressive features, it faces stiff competition from rivals like the Google Pixel 7a ($499.99), which remains our Editors’ Choice in this price range. While the Galaxy A54 5G is a strong contender, it doesn’t quite surpass Google’s midrange champion.

A Familiar Yet Functional Design
The Galaxy A54 5G sports a conventional design, especially when compared to the Pixel 7a’s distinctive camera bar. It features a sleek, traditional slab-style body with softly rounded edges and a vertical camera array on the back, echoing the aesthetics of Samsung’s premium models. This marks a shift from the boxier design of the A53. While the A54 doesn’t break new ground in terms of appearance, its understated look may appeal to those who prefer subtlety. The phone is available in striking colors like Awesome Violet and Awesome Graphite. The Graphite variant I reviewed has a sleek, understated finish that blends seamlessly into everyday use.

Samsung has opted for Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on both the front and back of the device, a welcome upgrade over plastic rear panels commonly found in this price range. The glass finish not only enhances the phone’s premium feel but also resists fingerprints effectively, maintaining a clean look. However, the decision to use a polycarbonate frame instead of aluminum feels like a missed opportunity, slightly detracting from the overall user experience. In contrast, the Pixel 7a combines an aluminum frame with Gorilla Glass on the front and a plastic back, offering a more balanced build. On the bright side, the Galaxy A54 5G retains an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, matching the Pixel 7a and its predecessor, the A53, in durability.

The Galaxy A54 5G supports wired charging at speeds of up to 25W, which is notably faster than many other midrange devices. For instance, the Google Pixel 7a maxes out at 18W. However, Samsung doesn’t include a power adapter in the box, so you’ll need to provide your own compatible charger. In testing, the A54’s battery reached a full charge in 1 hour and 54 minutes—a respectable time, though it pales in comparison to flagship models like the OnePlus 11, which boasts an impressive 27-minute recharge time thanks to its 80W charging capability. While the A54’s charging speed is solid for its class, it’s clear that premium devices still hold a significant edge in this area.