Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8
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Galaxy A5 (2017)
Starting at
£72.10£309.00 new
Galaxy Note8
Starting at
£139.32What's the difference between the Galaxy A5 (2017) and Galaxy Note8?
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy A5 (2017) starts at £72.10, £67.22 less than the Galaxy Note8.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Main camera
- Chipset: Exynos 7880 on the Galaxy A5 (2017), Exynos 8895, Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 on the Galaxy Note8.
- The Galaxy Note8 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 3 GB.
- The Galaxy Note8 has a bigger battery: 3300 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 specs
The Galaxy A5 (2017) and Galaxy Note8 both come from 2017 and run Android, but they target different users. The Galaxy Note8 offers a larger 6.3 inch screen with higher resolution and more RAM, making it suitable for multitasking and media viewing. The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a smaller 5.2 inch display and less RAM, fitting those who prefer a more compact phone for everyday use. The Note8's battery is slightly larger, supporting its bigger screen and performance demands, while the A5 has a front camera with a higher megapixel count, which suits selfie enthusiasts. Both devices are unlocked and support 4G, but the A5 has a dual SIM option and lighter weight, appealing to people who want flexibility and easier handling.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 price
Colour
- BlackSold out
Storage
- 64GBSold out
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and software updates affect how long each phone lasts daily and over time. Both phones run Android and come from the same year, so their basic durability features are similar but with some differences.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy Note8 has a 3300 mAh battery, slightly larger than the Galaxy A5 (2017)'s 3000 mAh. This means the Note8 can support longer use between charges, especially useful for users who run multiple apps or watch video on its bigger screen. The A5 fits those with lighter daily usage who want a battery that matches its smaller display and simpler performance needs.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options. These differences influence how smoothly each phone handles apps, multitasking, and storage needs.
Chipset Power
The Galaxy Note8 uses either the Exynos 8895 or Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 chipset, which are more powerful than the Galaxy A5 (2017)'s Exynos 7880. This makes the Note8 better suited for demanding apps, multitasking, and faster overall responsiveness. The A5 fits users who mainly run everyday apps and value simplicity.
RAM Size
With 6 GB of RAM, the Galaxy Note8 keeps more apps open and running smoothly at once, making it a good choice for multitaskers. The Galaxy A5 (2017) has 3 GB of RAM, enough for basic daily use and fewer open apps at the same time.
Storage Options
The Galaxy A5 (2017) is available in 32GB and 64GB versions, allowing buyers to choose more storage if needed. The Galaxy Note8 comes with 64GB, offering a single larger option that suits users wanting more space without multiple choices.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 screen
Screen size and resolution affect viewing experience for video, reading, and apps. Both phones use Super AMOLED screens, known for bright colours and deep blacks.
Screen Size
The Galaxy Note8 has a larger 6.3 inch screen, providing more space for watching videos, browsing, or using multiple apps at once. The Galaxy A5 (2017)'s 5.2 inch screen suits users who prefer a more compact phone that is easier to hold and use with one hand.
Screen Resolution
The Note8's screen resolution is 1440 x 2960, which offers sharper and more detailed images compared to the A5's 1080 x 1920 resolution. This higher resolution benefits users who watch high-definition content or want extra clarity in photos and text.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 camera
Camera capabilities vary between these two phones, affecting photo quality and video calls. Front and main camera megapixels give a basic idea of detail captured.
Front Camera
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a 16 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail for selfies and video calls. This suits users who prioritise high-quality self-portraits. The Note8's 8 megapixel front camera still offers good quality for everyday use.
Main Camera
The Galaxy Note8 has a 12 megapixel main camera, while the A5 (2017) has a 16 megapixel main camera. The difference means the A5's main camera can capture more detail in photos, which may appeal to those who use their phone camera frequently.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 size and design
Other practical differences include size, weight, SIM card options and expansion capabilities, all of which affect daily convenience and phone handling.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy A5 (2017) supports Dual Physical SIM, allowing use of two phone numbers or networks simultaneously. This suits users who want flexibility for work and personal use or frequent travellers. The Galaxy Note8 supports a single Physical SIM.
Dimensions and Weight
The Galaxy Note8 is larger at 162.5 mm tall, 74.8 mm wide and 8.6 mm deep, weighing 195 g. The Galaxy A5 (2017) is more compact and lighter, measuring 146.1 mm by 71.4 mm by 7.9 mm and weighing 157 g. The A5 fits those who prefer a phone that is easier to carry and handle.
Expandable Storage
Both phones support microSDXC cards, which means you can add extra storage for photos, music or apps beyond the built-in capacity. This is useful for users with growing media collections or large app libraries.
Network and Carrier Compatibility
Both devices are unlocked and support 4G networks, so they can be used with any UK carrier offering 4G service. This offers flexibility for choosing or switching mobile providers.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy A5 (2017) or Galaxy Note8: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy A5 (2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £72.10, £67.22 less than the Galaxy Note8
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (16 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (16 megapixels vs 8 megapixels)
Buy the Galaxy Note8 if
- you want more RAM (6 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3300 mAh vs 3000 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.3 inch vs 5.2 inch)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy A5 (2017) generally find it reliable and good value. Many describe the phone as looking and operating well, with some noting it feels like new. The front camera's high megapixel count is appreciated for selfies. A few customers mention issues with network locking, but most praise the phone's everyday usability and the reasonable price point. The lighter weight and compact size are often seen as positives for ease of use and portability.
Reviews for the Galaxy Note8 highlight satisfaction with the phone's appearance and performance. Customers appreciate the large screen and find it ideal for media and multitasking. The phone's storage and RAM support smooth operation for more demanding apps. Some mention battery life challenges, which can require daily charging, and a few report network lock problems. Overall, users find it a good choice for those wanting a bigger screen and stronger performance.
In summary, if you want a compact, lighter phone with a sharp front camera and dual SIM flexibility, the Galaxy A5 (2017) suits you. If you prefer a larger display, more RAM, and a phone built for higher performance and multitasking, the Galaxy Note8 fits better.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 FAQs
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs Galaxy Note8 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 7880 on the Galaxy A5 (2017), Exynos 8895, Qualcomm MSM8998 Snapdragon 835 on the Galaxy Note8. The Galaxy Note8 has more RAM: 6 GB vs 3 GB.
The Galaxy A5 (2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £72.10 compared with £139.32 for the Galaxy Note8.
The Galaxy Note8 has a bigger battery: 3300 mAh vs 3000 mAh.
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a higher-resolution main camera: 16 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy A5 (2017) ended in Apr 2019. Updates for the Galaxy Note8 ended in Nov 2021.
Refurbished, the Galaxy A5 (2017) comes in 32GB and 64GB, and the Galaxy Note8 in 64GB.
