A Comprehensive Review of the Samsung Galaxy F06 5G Smartphone
A Comprehensive Review of the Samsung Galaxy F06 5G Smartphone
Abstract---------------
The Samsung Galaxy F06 5G, introduced in 2024 as a budget-oriented 5G smartphone, represents the South Korean tech giant's attempt to balance affordability and performance within the Indian mid-range market. With a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ processor, a 6.5-inch 90Hz PLS LCD display, and a massive 5000mAh battery, the Galaxy F06 aims to deliver solid everyday functionality and seamless 5G connectivity. This report provides an in-depth review of the device, covering design, display, performance, user interface, camera quality, network capabilities, battery performance, competitive positioning, and long-term usability. The discussion is supported by empirical tests, user feedback, and comparative analysis
1. Introduction---------------
The global smartphone market has seen tremendous growth in 5G adoption, even within the budget and mid-range segments. Samsung’s Galaxy F-series has emerged as an affordable line aimed at youth and value-conscious consumers. Positioned under ₹10,000 in India, the Samsung Galaxy F06 5G challenges conventional assumptions about what a budget smartphone can offer, particularly in terms of software updates and 5G readiness.
Samsung promises 4 years of security updates and 2 years of Android OS upgrades, a rare commitment at this price point. These long-term updates, along with the minimalistic One UI Core 5 interface, suggest Samsung is serious about providing enduring value in the sub-₹10,000 category.
2. Unboxing and First Impressions-------------------------
2.1 Box Contents
Samsung Galaxy F06 5G handset
USB Type-C to Type-C cable
SIM ejector tool
Quick start guide
No included charger (to reduce e-waste, per Samsung's policy)
2.2 Initial Observations
The phone has a clean and straightforward design, with a dual-camera setup and minimalist rear branding. It feels lightweight in hand, and while the build is entirely plastic, it doesn’t feel cheap.
3. Design and Build Quality---------------------------
3.1 Materials and Finish
Constructed with a polycarbonate (plastic) back and frame, the Galaxy F06 5G aims for durability over luxury. It weighs about 194 grams and has a thickness of 8.8 mm, providing a reasonably slim profile for the price.
The textured rear panel improves grip and helps avoid fingerprints. Available in Jazzy Green, Eclectic Blue, and Stardust Silver, the colors are vibrant and youthful, catering to a younger demographic.
3.2 Ports and Buttons
USB Type-C port at the bottom
3.5mm headphone jack (a major plus for budget users)
Volume rocker and power button (also serves as a fingerprint scanner)
Triple-slot SIM tray (2 SIMs + 1 dedicated microSD)
4. Display Performance--------------------------
4.1 Specifications
Size: 6.5 inches
Type: PLS LCD (Samsung’s proprietary alternative to IPS)
Resolution: HD+ (720 x 1600 pixels)
Refresh Rate: 90Hz
4.2 Real-world Experience
Despite being a 720p panel, the screen is decently sharp for its size. The 90Hz refresh rate ensures smoother scrolling and improved visual responsiveness. Samsung's PLS LCD offers slightly better viewing angles and brightness than standard IPS displays.
However, colors are not as punchy as AMOLED panels. Brightness levels are adequate indoors (~480 nits) but slightly underwhelming under direct sunlight.
4.3 Multimedia and Gaming
For media consumption on YouTube or OTT platforms (like Netflix or Hotstar), the device supports HD playback, but lacks Widevine L1 certification, restricting streaming quality on some platforms. Audio output via the single bottom-firing speaker is loud but lacks depth.
5. Performance and Hardware----------------------------------
5.1 Processor
Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (6nm)
CPU: Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Cortex-A76 + 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU: Mali-G57 MC2
5.2 RAM and Storage
RAM: 4GB or 6GB LPDDR4X
Storage: 128GB UFS 2.2
Expandable: Up to 1TB via microSD
5.3 Benchmarks
AnTuTu: ~320,000
Geekbench 6:
Single-core: ~735
Multi-core: ~1850
5.4 Day-to-Day Use
In daily tasks such as calling, messaging, browsing, and social media, the phone remains fluid. The 6nm architecture ensures efficient multitasking. The 90Hz refresh rate complements this by offering smooth visuals.
5.5 Gaming
Casual gaming is possible on low to medium settings:
Call of Duty: Mobile – Playable at low graphics with medium frame rate
BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) – Smooth + Balanced settings
Subway Surfers and Clash of Clans – No issue
Thermal performance is stable. The phone doesn’t overheat under sustained load, thanks to the energy-efficient chipset.
6. Software Experience-------------------------------
6.1 Operating System
OS: Android 13 out of the box
UI: One UI Core 5.0 (a lightweight version of Samsung’s flagship interface)
6.2 Features and Usability
No Samsung Pay or Secure Folder (limited by Core edition)
App drawer, Dark mode, Digital Wellbeing, and Privacy Dashboard
RAM Plus (uses internal storage as virtual RAM)
Software updates: 2 years of OS + 4 years of security updates
The user interface is clean and optimized for budget hardware. While some high-end features are stripped down, the overall experience remains coherent and bug-free.
7. Camera Review--------------------------------------------
7.1 Rear Cameras
Main Sensor: 50MP (f/1.8, PDAF)
Secondary Sensor: 2MP Depth sensor
7.2 Front Camera
Selfie: 5MP (f/2.2)
7.3 Daylight Photography
In ample light, the 50MP sensor captures respectable detail with natural color tones. The dynamic range is acceptable, though shadows sometimes appear underexposed.
Portrait mode works decently, especially for the price. Edge detection is fair, but blur separation can be inconsistent.
7.4 Low Light and Night Mode
Low-light images show grain and lack clarity. There’s no dedicated night mode, which is understandable at this price range. Indoor lighting yields better results with steady hands.
7.5 Video Recording
Resolution: 1080p @ 30fps (rear), 720p @ 30fps (front)
Stabilization: Electronic only
Video output is acceptable for casual use, with decent audio capture. There's noticeable jitter due to lack of optical image stabilization (OIS).
8. Battery Life and Charging---------------------------------
8.1 Battery Capacity
Size: 5000mAh
Type: Lithium polymer, non-removable
8.2 Screen-on Time (SoT)
Up to 8–9 hours with mixed use (browsing, social media, calls, and some YouTube)
Lasts 1.5 to 2 days for moderate users
8.3 Charging
Supports: 25W fast charging
Charger not included
Full charge time: ~90 minutes with a compatible charger
Charging speeds are decent, though the omission of an in-box adapter may inconvenience first-time buyers.
9. Connectivity and Network Performance------------------------------
5G Bands: n1/n3/n5/n7/n8/n20/n28/n38/n40/n41/n66/n77/n78
4G/VoLTE support
Dual SIM 5G standby
Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3
GPS/GLONASS/Beidou/Galileo
Call quality is excellent, with loud and clear earpiece output. The phone latches onto 5G and 4G networks quickly. Internet speed and signal strength are consistent in most urban areas.
10. Security and Sensors----------------------
Side-mounted fingerprint scanner: Fast and reliable
Face unlock: Software-based, less secure but functional
Other sensors: Accelerometer, virtual proximity, light sensor
No gyroscope or compass—might affect AR and navigation apps slightly.
11. Comparative Analysis----------------------------------
11.1 Against Poco M6 Pro 5G
Verdict: Galaxy F06 5G wins on pricing, software commitment, and charging speed.
12. Strengths and Weaknesses---------------------------------------
12.1 Pros
Excellent value under ₹10,000
5G-ready with wide band support
90Hz display for smooth UI
Long battery life and decent fast charging
Clean software with long-term update promise
12.2 Cons
No charger in box
Average low-light camera performance
No ultra-wide or macro camera
Only 720p display
No gyroscope or compass
13. Target Audience-----------------------------
Students and first-time smartphone buyers
Users seeking 5G on a budget
Elderly users needing a reliable and simple device
Secondary phone seekers
14. Final Verdict-----------------------------------------
The Samsung Galaxy F06 5G defies the typical trade-offs expected in the budget smartphone market. For under ₹10,000, it provides:
Reliable 5G performance
Long-term software support
Dependable day-to-day usage
Sturdy build and modern design
It does cut corners with a 720p screen and minimal camera versatility, but its software stability, hardware efficiency, and trusted Samsung after-sales support make it an exceptional pick for entry-level users.
Final Rating: 8.5/10
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