Samsung Galaxy A16 5G Review – The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G delivers a feature-packed smartphone experience at an affordable $199.99 price tag. With its large Super AMOLED display, solid battery life, and smooth everyday performance, it competes well in the budget segment.
Its 50MP camera, eSIM support, water resistance (IP54), and a six-year software update window give it a clear advantage over competitors like the Moto G ($199.99). While it sticks to plastic materials and modest gaming performance, it offers great value for the price, making it our top pick for budget smartphones in 2025.
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G: Key Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 14 |
| Processor | Samsung Exynos 1330 |
| Dimensions | 6.47 x 3.07 x 0.31 inches |
| Screen Size | 6.7 inches |
| Resolution | 2,340 x 1,080 pixels |
| Rear Cameras | 50MP (Main), 5MP (Ultra-Wide), 2MP (Macro) |
| Front Camera | 13MP |
| Battery Life (Tested) | 13 hours 46 minutes |
Design: Large, Lightweight, and Durable
The Galaxy A16 5G is a big phone, measuring 6.47 x 3.07 x 0.31 inches and weighing 7.06 ounces. Compared to the Galaxy A15 (6.30 x 3.02 x 0.33 inches, 7.09 ounces), it’s taller and wider but slightly lighter.
Moto G ($199.99) – 6.58 x 3.0 x 0.32 inches, 6.81 ounces
Samsung Galaxy A16 5G Review – The A16 features a plastic frame and Samsung’s “Glastic” material, which mimics glass for a more premium look. While it doesn’t match the flagship Galaxy S series, the fit and finish are improved over its predecessor.
Water & Dust Resistance: A Rare Perk for Budget Phones
Unlike many phones in this price range, the Galaxy A16 5G has an IP54 rating, making it resistant to dust and moderate water splashes.
Moto G ($199.99) – IP52 rating (less water-resistant)
Galaxy A15 – No official water resistance rating
Display: Bright and Sharp Super AMOLED
The Galaxy A16 5G boasts a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 2,340 x 1,080 resolution, 90Hz refresh rate, and 800 nits brightness.
How it compares to competitors:
✅ Larger than the A15 (6.5 inches) but with same resolution and refresh rate
✅ Brighter and sharper than the Moto G (6.6-inch LCD, 1,604 x 720, 120Hz refresh rate)
Camera: Impressive for the Price
The A16 5G’s camera system includes:
- 50MP (f/1.8) main sensor – Clear and detailed shots
- 5MP (f/2.2) ultra-wide camera – Wide-angle photography
- 2MP (f/2.4) macro lens – Close-up shots
- A 13MP (f/2.0) selfie camera sits on the front. These are the same cameras found in the A15, ensuring decent photo quality for a budget phone.
Performance: Smooth for Everyday Use
Equipped with the Samsung Exynos 1330 processor, the A16 handles daily tasks like browsing, streaming, and email efficiently.
Expect occasional lag when switching between apps or taking rapid bursts of photos
Gaming performance is modest, but casual games run fine
Final Verdict: A Budget Phone That Delivers
For $199.99, the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G delivers great value with its bright AMOLED display, solid cameras, long battery life, and 5G connectivity.
With IP54 water resistance, eSIM support, and a six-year software update window, it outperforms competitors in the budget segment. If you’re looking for an affordable 5G smartphone with a premium feel, the Galaxy A16 5G is one of the best options available in 2025.
