Samsung Galaxy S5

Samsung Galaxy S5 Review: A Feature-Packed Flagship

Released in 2014, the Samsung Galaxy S5 was a standout flagship smartphone that brought significant improvements in design, performance, and features over its predecessor. Known for its vibrant display, strong performance, and durable design, the Galaxy S5 remains a memorable device in the Galaxy lineup.

Design & Build

  • Durable and Water-Resistant: The Galaxy S5 features a plastic body with a textured, dimpled back panel, which adds to its grip and comfort. While the design may not feel as premium as metal-bodied phones, it’s IP67-rated, making it water-resistant (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes) and dustproof. The removable back gives access to a removable battery and a microSD slot, adding flexibility that many modern devices lack.
  • Slightly Larger: At 5.1 inches, the Galaxy S5 strikes a balance between screen size and comfort, offering enough real estate for media consumption while still being manageable in one hand.

Display

  • 5.1-inch Super AMOLED Display: The Galaxy S5 sports a Full HD display with a 1920×1080 resolution and 432 ppi. Samsung’s Super AMOLED technology delivers deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. The screen remains one of the phone’s most praised features, making it perfect for watching videos, gaming, and browsing.

Performance

  • Snapdragon 801 Processor: Powered by a 2.5GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor with 2GB of RAM, the Galaxy S5 provides smooth performance for everyday tasks, multitasking, and even demanding games. Whether browsing the web, streaming content, or switching between apps, the Galaxy S5 holds up well. It also features 32GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card up to 128GB.

Camera

  • 16MP Rear Camera: The Galaxy S5 comes with a 16MP rear camera, which was one of the best in its class at the time. It includes phase detection autofocus, HDR mode, and 4K video recording capabilities. The camera excels in bright conditions, capturing sharp, detailed images, while low-light performance is decent thanks to advanced image processing. The Selective Focus feature lets you blur the background of your photos after they’re taken.
  • 2MP Front Camera: The 2MP front-facing camera is basic by today’s standards but works well for video calls and selfies.

Battery Life

  • 2800mAh Removable Battery: The 2800mAh battery provides solid battery life, lasting a full day of moderate use. The Galaxy S5 also includes an Ultra Power Saving Mode, which can significantly extend battery life by turning the screen to grayscale and limiting background apps when you’re running low on power.

Software & Features

  • Android 4.4.2 KitKat (upgradable to Android 6.0 Marshmallow) with Samsung’s TouchWiz UI offers a customizable, feature-rich experience. The Galaxy S5 introduced several unique features:
    • Heart Rate Monitor: Located next to the rear camera, it allows users to measure their heart rate via the S Health app.
    • Fingerprint Scanner: Built into the home button, the fingerprint scanner provides an extra layer of security.
    • Water Resistance: With its IP67 rating, the Galaxy S5 can withstand being submerged in water, making it more durable for outdoor use.

Connectivity & Sensors

  • The Galaxy S5 includes 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, Bluetooth 4.0, and NFC for contactless payments and data transfers. It also features IR blaster support, allowing it to control home appliances like TVs.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S5 remains a feature-packed device, notable for its excellent display, strong camera performance, and durable, water-resistant design. With expandable storage and a removable battery, it offered flexibility that many modern smartphones lack. While newer devices have since outpaced the Galaxy S5 in terms of performance and design, it remains a solid option for those seeking a reliable smartphone with strong multimedia capabilities and lasting durability.

Pros:

  • Vibrant 5.1-inch Super AMOLED display
  • Water-resistant and dustproof design
  • 16MP camera with 4K video recording
  • Expandable storage and removable battery
  • Power-saving features like Ultra Power Saving Mode

Cons:

  • Plastic build feels less premium
  • TouchWiz UI can feel bloated
  • Front camera is basic