Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy A5 (2017)
Starting at
£72.10£309.00 new
iPhone XS
Starting at
£138.35£559.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy A5 (2017) and iPhone XS?
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy A5 (2017) starts at £72.10, £66.25 less than the iPhone XS. The iPhone XS is the newer model, released in 2018.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
- Chipset: Exynos 7880 on the Galaxy A5 (2017), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS.
- The iPhone XS has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
- The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS specs
The Galaxy A5 (2017) and the iPhone XS differ in key areas that suit different users. The Galaxy A5 offers a larger battery capacity and a microSDXC card slot for storage expansion, making it practical for everyday use and media storage. The iPhone XS also has a larger, higher-resolution screen with a Super Retina OLED display, while the Galaxy A5 has a Super AMOLED screen that benefits users who prefer a slightly smaller display. Camera choices vary as well, with the Galaxy A5 offering higher megapixels on both cameras. Overall, the Galaxy A5 suits buyers focused on straightforward use and flexibility, while the iPhone XS is for those wanting newer software support and stronger performance.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS price
Colour
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery, software updates, operating system, and device dimensions. These factors influence how long the device lasts on a charge, which software it can run, and how it feels in your hand.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a 3000 mAh battery, which is larger than the iPhone XS's 2658 mAh. This means the Galaxy A5 may run longer between charges if usage is similar, suiting users who prioritise battery life.
Operating System
The Galaxy A5 (2017) runs on Android, which offers a wide range of apps and customisation options. The iPhone XS runs on iOS, known for its smooth integration with other Apple products and consistent app performance.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM and storage options. These affect how fast the device runs apps, handles multitasking and stores your data.
Chipset Power
The iPhone XS uses the Apple A12 Bionic chipset, which is designed for high performance and efficient multitasking. The Galaxy A5 (2017) has the Exynos 7880 chipset, suited for everyday tasks and general use.
Memory Capacity
With 4 GB of RAM, the iPhone XS can keep more apps active in the background and handle more demanding apps smoothly. The Galaxy A5 (2017) has 3 GB of RAM, which supports typical apps and moderate multitasking.
Storage Options
The Galaxy A5 (2017) is available in 32GB and 64GB versions, which fits everyday needs and media storage, especially when combined with its microSDXC slot. The iPhone XS offers 64GB and 256GB options, providing more internal storage for apps, photos and videos.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS screen
Screen quality affects how you view photos, videos and apps. Differences in size, resolution and panel type shape your experience with clarity and colour.
Screen Size and Resolution
The iPhone XS has a larger 5.8 inch screen with a resolution of 1125 by 2436 pixels, offering more space and sharper detail for media and multitasking. The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a 5.2 inch screen with a 1080 by 1920 resolution, which provides a compact viewing area suitable for one-handed use.
Screen Type
The Galaxy A5 (2017) uses a Super AMOLED screen, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone XS features a Super Retina OLED display, which delivers high contrast and precise colour accuracy, enhancing video and photo viewing.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS camera
Audiovisual features include front and main cameras, which influence your photos and video calls. Different megapixel counts can affect the level of detail captured.
Front Camera Detail
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a 16 megapixel front camera, offering high resolution for selfies and video chats. The iPhone XS has a 7 megapixel front camera, which still delivers good quality for everyday use.
Main Camera Detail
For the main camera, the Galaxy A5 (2017) provides 16 megapixels, capturing detailed images suitable for casual photography. The iPhone XS has a 12 megapixel main camera, balancing resolution with image processing for vivid photos.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS size and design
Other features include carrier compatibility, network support, physical dimensions, SIM card types and storage expansion, all of which affect convenience and daily use.
Carrier and Network
Both the Galaxy A5 (2017) and iPhone XS come unlocked and support 4G networks, giving you flexibility to use them with various carriers.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy A5 (2017) supports dual physical SIM cards, useful for managing two phone numbers. The iPhone XS has one physical SIM and an eSIM, allowing you to use two numbers without needing two physical cards.
Storage Expansion
The Galaxy A5 (2017) includes a microSDXC slot, letting you add more storage with an SD card. The iPhone XS does not have this feature, so storage depends on the internal capacity chosen.
Size and Weight
The Galaxy A5 (2017) measures 146.1 mm by 71.4 mm by 7.9 mm and weighs 157 g, making it slightly larger and lighter. The iPhone XS is 143.6 mm by 70.9 mm by 7.7 mm and weighs 177 g, offering a marginally smaller and heavier design.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy A5 (2017) or iPhone XS: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy A5 (2017) if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £72.10, £66.25 less than the iPhone XS
- you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh)
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (16 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone XS if
- you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
- you want a bigger screen (5.8 inch vs 5.2 inch)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy A5 (2017) looks and operates well, often noting it feels like new. Many appreciate the price and recommend the company. Some mention issues with unlocking or network locking, but overall the phone meets everyday use needs. The device suits those who want a reliable phone with familiar Android features and expandable storage.
Reviews for the iPhone XS highlight its excellent condition and smooth performance, with several customers praising how it looks like new. Battery life is generally good according to users, and the camera receives positive remarks. A few customers mention minor marks or faults, but most find the phone runs apps smoothly and handles multitasking well. The iPhone XS fits buyers who value software updates, strong performance and a premium screen.
Both phones have their strengths and suit different users: the Galaxy A5 (2017) is ideal for those who want straightforward functionality and expandable storage, while the iPhone XS appeals to those who prioritise up-to-date software and higher performance.
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS FAQs
Galaxy A5 (2017) vs iPhone XS comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Exynos 7880 on the Galaxy A5 (2017), Apple A12 Bionic on the iPhone XS. The iPhone XS has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
The Galaxy A5 (2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £72.10 compared with £138.35 for the iPhone XS.
The Galaxy A5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2658 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 XS ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Galaxy A5 (2017) comes in 32GB and 64GB, and the iPhone XS in 64GB and 256GB.
