Samsung Galaxy S5 In 2021! (Still Worth It?) (Review)

TL;DR

The Samsung Galaxy S5 is outdated and not recommended for purchase in 2021.

Transcript

welcome back everyone let's go ahead and talk about none other than the samsung galaxy s5 and see how this phone holds up in 2021 now what i can tell you is is that for sure as i always state i really don't think anybody should be using the galaxy s5 i think you know specifically you should probably be focusing more on like the galaxy s8 or newer i... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤕 Despite its age, the Galaxy S5's removable battery and microSD slot are still functional features valuing user customization and repairability.
• 💦 The build quality of the Galaxy S5, especially its water resistance, remains notable compared to other phones from its generation.
• 🥺 Although capable of running custom ROMs, the S5 suffers from hardware limitations that lead to a fragmented user experience post-modification.
• 😥 The entry price point for used Galaxy S5 devices is appealing but should be weighed against the far better performance of newer smartphones.
• 🤕 Performance and speed remain crucial factors, and the Galaxy S5 feels noticeably slower when compared to modern smartphones with similar age metrics.
• 👋 Features like IP certification and good battery life highlight the S5’s durability, which appeals to budget-conscious users.
• 😤 While outdated software hinders its capability, tech-savvy individuals might enjoy exploring custom ROM possibilities as a way to modernize the device.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does the display of the Galaxy S5 compare to modern smartphones?

The Galaxy S5 features a 5.1-inch Super AMOLED display with Full HD resolution, which remains decent today. However, when compared to modern devices, its plastic screen and overall design feel outdated. Today's flagship smartphones offer better display technology, including higher resolutions and improved durability through glass constructions.

Q: What are the key pros and cons of using the Galaxy S5?

Pros include a removable battery, expandable storage via microSD card, and still respectable camera capabilities for casual use. Cons encompass outdated software, sluggish performance, and potential issues with software stability on custom ROMs, making it less practical for daily tasks and modern applications.

Q: Is the camera on the Galaxy S5 still relevant?

The Galaxy S5 features a 16-megapixel rear camera capable of shooting 4K video, which was impressive for its time in 2014. While it can still produce decent images today, especially under good conditions, the front-facing 2-megapixel camera lacks the quality expected from today's standards, limiting its relevance for selfies and video calls.

Q: How does custom ROM installation affect the Galaxy S5's usability?

Installing custom ROMs can breathe new life into the Galaxy S5, allowing users to run Android 10 or beyond. However, this process may introduce glitches, affect basic functionalities like camera or Bluetooth, and can lead to a less reliable user experience, making it a trade-off for those seeking a more modern OS.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Samsung Galaxy S5, despite its age and outdated specifications, retains some functionality, including a decent camera and a removable battery, but it still falls short for daily use compared to newer alternatives.

• Custom ROM capabilities present unique enhancements, allowing users to run more recent versions of Android; however, performance remains hindered by hardware limitations and potential software glitches.

• Given the availability of superior options like the Galaxy S8 or Pixel 4a, purchasing the S5 in 2021 is generally unadvised, with a recommendation for newer devices for a better experience.