Is Samsung S7 Still Worth Buying in 2023?
The Samsung S7, a mid-2016 flagship, is often reconsidered for budget-conscious users. It is an older model that continues to attract interest for its solid capabilities and relatively affordable price point. Here’s a detailed analysis to help you decide if the Samsung S7 is still worth it in 2023.
Current Performance and Features
The Samsung S7, while released several years ago, still offers a decent performance experience, especially for users who need a device that doesn't break the bank. Its 4GB RAM and a decent processor make it a capable device for everyday use. Additionally, it was originally designed to be waterproof and dustproof, making it durable and reliable in different environments.
Wireless charging is another notable feature of the S7, providing a backup in case the charging port gets damaged. While the phone may struggle slightly with memory constraints at 32GB, users can easily add a fast memory card to extend storage. The S7 also benefits from still receiving security updates, ensuring that it is protected against the latest security threats. The battery, though not as powerful as current models, can still provide a reasonable amount of use, albeit not as much as it did when new.
Camera Quality and Overall User Experience
The camera on the Samsung S7 is satisfactory, taking images that compare well with its contemporaries. Features like contrast, sharpness, and color reproduction are all good. While it lacks advanced features such as personal assistants like Bixby, the overall user experience remains solid. For users who do not require the latest AI-driven features, the S7 delivers.
Price is another factor; a well-preserved S7 can be found for around 80 GBP, making it a very budget-friendly option. For this price, you get a good phone that still functions well in 2023.
Comparison with newer Samsung Models
There are better options in the same price range, but the Samsung M or A series provides a more recent experience at a similar cost. These phones come with more up-to-date features, making them more attractive for those who want the latest technology. However, for users who prioritize durability and performance over the newest features, the S7 remains a strong choice.
Many users have found that the S7 performs well when compared to newer models. I, for instance, recently purchased an S7 for less than 200 GBP, and its performance is only marginally less than an S8, with the main difference being Bixby and hardware tweaks that can be easily ignored. The S7 still has all the primary features of any newer phone and will continue to work well for several years.
Upgrades and Customizations
While the S7 does not receive major software updates anymore, it can still be customized to some extent. It received an update to Android Oreo and will get security updates in the future. Portrait mode and similar features are no longer provided by Samsung, but users can access these through custom solutions. Websites like XDA Developers offer ports of third-party applications that can enhance the S7 with modern features. For example, downloading a pixel camera port like Google’s Pixel camera app can provide better portrait shots without the need for rooting or flashing the device.
Considering all these factors, the Samsung S7 remains a solid choice for users who value reliability, performance, and budget. While newer models may offer the latest features, the S7 provides a balance between cost and capability that is still hard to beat.