Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7
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Galaxy A5 (2017)
Starting at
£72.10£309.00 new
iPhone 7
Starting at
£66.24£179.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy A5 (2017) and iPhone 7?
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the iPhone 7 starts at £66.24, £5.86 less than the Galaxy A5 (2017). The Galaxy A5 (2017) is the newer model, released in 2017.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 7880 on the Galaxy A5 (2017), Apple A10 Fusion (16 nm) on the iPhone 7.
- The Galaxy A5 (2017) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB.
- The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 1960 mAh.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 specs
The Galaxy A5 (2017) and iPhone 7 differ in ways that suit different types of users. The Galaxy A5 offers a larger, sharper Super AMOLED screen, more RAM, a bigger battery, and dual SIM support with expandable storage, making it suitable for those who want a roomier display and more flexibility with storage and network use. The iPhone 7 has a smaller Retina IPS LCD screen and runs iOS with a powerful Apple A10 Fusion chipset. It comes with higher maximum storage options and a slightly lighter body. Both phones are unlocked and support 4G, so choice depends on whether you prefer Android or iOS and what you prioritise in screen size, memory, and camera capabilities.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 price
Colour
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 battery life and software updates
These affect how long the phone lasts on a charge and which software ecosystem it uses.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a 3000 mAh battery, which offers more capacity than the iPhone 7's 1960 mAh battery. This suits users who want longer battery life between charges, especially if you use your phone heavily throughout the day.
Operating System
The Galaxy A5 runs Android, while the iPhone 7 uses iOS. Your choice here depends on whether you prefer the Android or Apple ecosystem for apps, interface, and device integration.
Software Updates
This means both devices run older versions of their operating systems, which might affect access to the newest features.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Year of release
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 performance
Performance is shaped by chipset power, memory, and storage options. These affect how smoothly apps run and how much data you can keep on your phone.
Chipset Power
The iPhone 7 features the Apple A10 Fusion chipset, while the Galaxy A5 (2017) uses the Exynos 7880. Both chipsets provide capable performance, but the iPhone's chipset is known for efficient processing in iOS, suiting users who want a responsive experience in that ecosystem.
Memory (RAM)
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has 3 GB of RAM compared to the iPhone 7's 2 GB. More RAM helps keep more apps open and running smoothly, which benefits users who multitask frequently on Android.
Storage Options
The Galaxy A5 (2017) is stocked with 32GB and 64GB options and supports microSDXC cards for expandable storage. The iPhone 7 offers 32GB and 128GB versions but does not support expandable storage. This means Galaxy A5 users can increase storage with a card, while iPhone 7 users choose their storage size upfront.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 screen
Screen quality influences how clear and large images and text appear. This affects watching videos, browsing, and reading.
Screen Size
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a 5.2 inch screen, larger than the iPhone 7's 4.7 inch display. A bigger screen suits users who prefer more space for media and multitasking.
Resolution
With a resolution of 1080 x 1920, the Galaxy A5 (2017) offers sharper and more detailed images than the iPhone 7's 750 x 1334 resolution. This makes text and pictures appear clearer on the Galaxy A5.
Screen Type
The Galaxy A5 uses a Super AMOLED screen known for vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone 7 has a Retina IPS LCD screen which provides accurate colours and good viewing angles. Your preference depends on whether you value vivid contrast or colour accuracy.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 camera
Audiovisual features include front and main cameras. These determine the detail and quality of photos and video calls.
Front Camera
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a 16 megapixel front camera, more than double the iPhone 7's 7 megapixels. This suits users who prioritise high-detail selfies and video calls.
Main Camera
The Galaxy A5 also has a 16 megapixel main camera compared to the iPhone 7's 12 megapixels. Higher megapixels can capture more detail, which benefits photography enthusiasts looking for clearer images.
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 size and design
Miscellaneous features cover carrier compatibility, physical dimensions, SIM options, and storage expandability. These affect how you use the phone daily and how it fits your needs.
Carrier Compatibility
Both phones are unlocked and support 4G networks. This means you can use either device with most UK carriers without restrictions.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy A5 (2017) supports dual physical SIM cards, which is ideal if you want to use two numbers or plans on one phone. The iPhone 7 supports a single physical SIM.
Expandable Storage
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a microSDXC slot, allowing you to increase storage with a memory card. The iPhone 7 does not have this feature, so storage depends on the built-in capacity you select.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy A5 measures 146.1 mm in height, 71.4 mm in width, and 7.9 mm in depth, weighing 157 g. The iPhone 7 is 138.3 mm tall, 67.1 mm wide, 7.1 mm deep, and weighs 138 g. The iPhone is slightly smaller and lighter, which may suit those who prefer a more compact phone.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy A5 (2017) or iPhone 7: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy A5 (2017) if
- you want more RAM (3 GB vs 2 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 1960 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (5.2 inch vs 4.7 inch)
Buy the iPhone 7 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £66.24, £5.86 less than the Galaxy A5 (2017)
- you want a lighter build (138 g vs 157 g)
What our customers say
Customers who chose the Galaxy A5 (2017) often mention the phone looks and operates well, with many saying it feels like new and is a good value. Some note issues with network compatibility, but many recommend the phone. The larger screen and battery capacity seem appreciated by those who want a reliable daily device with more features like dual SIM and expandable storage.
Reviews for the iPhone 7 highlight its good battery life and smooth performance. Customers find it suitable as a simple, everyday phone and describe it as looking like new with excellent condition. Some users experienced data transfer challenges or minor cosmetic imperfections but generally are happy with the device's speed and screen. The smaller size and iOS system suit those who prefer Apple's ecosystem and a compact phone.
Overall, the Galaxy A5 (2017) fits users who need a bigger screen, more RAM, and flexible storage, while the iPhone 7 appeals to those wanting a smaller, lighter phone with iOS and higher storage options.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 FAQs
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone 7 comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 7880 on the Galaxy A5 (2017), Apple A10 Fusion (16 nm) on the iPhone 7. The Galaxy A5 (2017) has more RAM: 3 GB vs 2 GB.
The iPhone 7 is cheaper refurbished, from £66.24 compared with £72.10 for the Galaxy A5 (2017).
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 1960 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 iPhone 7 ended in Mar 2025. Its last version is iOS 15.
Refurbished, the Galaxy A5 (2017) comes in 32GB and 64GB, and the iPhone 7 in 32GB and 128GB.
