Samsung Galaxy A34 5G

Samsung's Galaxy A34 5G offers a balanced mix of performance, style, and connectivity, making it an attractive option in the mid-range smartphone market. With a design that mirrors some of the higher-end models in Samsung's lineup, the A34 5G presents itself as a device that doesn't compromise on essential features while remaining accessible.

The 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display immediately stands out, delivering vibrant colours and deep contrasts that make everything from streaming video to scrolling through social media a visually pleasing experience. The 120Hz refresh rate is a highlight at this price point, ensuring smooth transitions and reducing motion blur. Whether you're gaming or just navigating through apps, the screen responsiveness adds a level of fluidity that enhances everyday use.

In terms of build, the A34 5G is well-crafted, with a polycarbonate back that feels sturdy without adding unnecessary weight. The slim profile and ergonomic design make it comfortable to hold, even during extended use. Available in a variety of colours, including a striking lime option, it caters to those who appreciate a bit of flair in their tech.

Under the hood, the device is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 1080 processor. This chipset, paired with 6GB or 8GB of RAM depending on the variant, ensures that the Galaxy A34 5G handles multitasking with ease. Apps open quickly, and switching between them is seamless, even when running more demanding applications. The 5G capability further future-proofs the phone, allowing for faster download and upload speeds where the network is available. This is particularly beneficial for those who frequently stream content or play online games. 

Storage options include 128GB and 256GB, with the latter being ideal for users who need more space for apps, photos, and videos. Should you need even more storage, the A34 5G supports microSD cards of up to 1TB, providing ample space for your digital life. The phone's software experience is enhanced by Samsung's One UI, which is intuitive and customisable, allowing users to tailor the interface to their preferences. Running on Android 13 out of the box, it also benefits from Samsung's commitment to regular updates, ensuring that the device remains secure and up to date with the latest features.

Photography enthusiasts will find the camera setup on the Galaxy A34 5G versatile enough to handle various shooting conditions. The triple camera array consists of a 48MP main sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro lens. The main camera is capable of capturing detailed shots in good lighting conditions, while the ultra-wide lens expands the field of view, making it easier to take group photos or landscape shots. The macro lens is useful for close-up photography, though its performance may not match that of more expensive models. On the front, the 13MP selfie camera does a commendable job, producing clear and vibrant images, whether you're snapping a quick photo or engaging in a video call.

Battery life is another strong point for the A34 5G. Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, it comfortably lasts through a full day of moderate to heavy usage. Even with the 120Hz display enabled, users can expect reliable endurance, making it a dependable choice for those on the go. When it does need recharging, the phone supports 25W fast charging, which can quickly bring the battery back to a healthy level, minimising downtime.

One of the key considerations for any phone purchase is durability, and the Galaxy A34 5G doesn't disappoint. With an IP67 rating, it's resistant to dust and water, providing peace of mind for users who are prone to accidental spills or who use their phones in less-than-ideal conditions. This durability, combined with the solid build quality, makes the phone a robust option for everyday use.

The A34 5G also features an in-display fingerprint sensor, a feature that adds both convenience and security. It's responsive and accurately recognises fingerprints, ensuring that your data remains protected while still being easily accessible to you. Face recognition is also available as an alternative method of unlocking the device.

In terms of pricing, the Samsung Galaxy A34 5G is positioned competitively. With a starting price of approximately $599, it offers good value for the features it brings to the table. The device was released in Australia in April 2023, making it one of the more recent additions to Samsung's mid-range lineup.

Overall, the Galaxy A34 5G manages to strike a balance between performance, design, and affordability, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable smartphone that doesn’t skimp on essential features. Whether you're upgrading from an older device or looking for a capable second phone, the A34 5G delivers on the key aspects that matter most to everyday users.

This description was last updated August 2024.