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Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6

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Galaxy J5 (2017)

Starting at

£60.00
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Galaxy S6

Starting at

£81.32£399.00 new
See options
(56 reviews)
(102 reviews)

What's the difference between the Galaxy J5 (2017) and Galaxy S6?

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 comes down to the battery, screen size and main camera. Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2017) starts at £60, £21.32 less than the Galaxy S6. The Galaxy J5 (2017) is the newer model, released in 2017.

Refurbished from

£60£81.32

Battery

3000 mAh2550 mAh

Screen size

5.2 inch5.1 inch

Main camera

13 megapixels16 megapixels

Front camera

13 megapixels5 megapixels

Software updates

Ended Mar 2019Ended Jun 2018
  • The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2550 mAh.
  • Screen size: 5.2 inch on the Galaxy J5 (2017), 5.1 inch on the Galaxy S6.
  • The Galaxy S6 has a higher-resolution main camera: 16 megapixels vs 13 megapixels.

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 specs

The Galaxy J5 (2017) and Galaxy S6 offer different strengths for different users. The Galaxy S6 has a sharper screen resolution and a more detailed main camera, suited for those who want higher image clarity and a crisper display. The Galaxy J5 (2017) offers a larger front camera for better selfies and supports a microSDXC card for extra storage, making it useful if you want to expand your memory. The Galaxy J5 (2017) is slightly larger and heavier while the Galaxy S6 is lighter and a little more compact. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise screen detail and main camera quality or front camera sharpness and expandable storage.

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 price

Storage

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 battery life and software updates

They share similar basic durability features.

Operating System

Both devices operate on Android, so if you prefer that system, either will suit you.

Battery

3000 mAh2550 mAh

Foldable

NoNo

Software updates

Ended Mar 2019Ended Jun 2018

Wireless charging

N/AYes

Year of release

20172015

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 performance

Chipset

N/AExynos 7420 Octa (14 nm)

RAM

3 GB3 GB

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 screen

Screen quality differs mainly in resolution and size. Both phones use Super AMOLED displays, which deliver vibrant colours and deep blacks, but their resolution and size offer different viewing experiences.

Screen Resolution

The Galaxy S6 has a 1440 x 2560 resolution, giving it a very sharp and detailed display, ideal if you watch a lot of videos or want crisp text. The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a 720 x 1280 resolution, which suits everyday use with good clarity but is less detailed compared to the S6.

Screen Size

The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a 5.2 inch screen, offering slightly more space for viewing and typing, which may appeal if you prefer a larger display. The Galaxy S6's 5.1 inch screen is a bit smaller and more compact, fitting more easily in one hand or pocket.

Resolution

720 x 12801440 x 2560

Screen size

5.2 inch5.1 inch

Screen type

Super AMOLEDSuper AMOLED

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 camera

Camera quality shows notable differences between the two models. The front camera suits those who use selfies or video calls often while the main camera is important for general photography.

Front Camera

The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a 13 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail in selfies and video chats. This is suitable if you take many self-portraits or use video calls regularly. The Galaxy S6's front camera has 5 megapixels, which is sufficient for basic selfie needs.

Main Camera

The Galaxy S6 features a 16 megapixel main camera, offering higher detail for photos and videos, which benefits users who prioritise camera quality for everyday photography. The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a 13 megapixel main camera, suitable for everyday snapshots and casual photography.

Front camera

13 megapixels5 megapixels

Main camera

13 megapixels16 megapixels

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 size and design

Several practical differences can affect daily use, from storage options to size and weight. These details help decide which device fits your needs best.

Storage and Expandability

The Galaxy S6 comes with 32GB of built-in storage, providing more space for apps and media out of the box. The Galaxy J5 (2017) has 16GB storage but supports microSDXC cards, allowing you to add more storage if you need it, which can be useful for photos, music or apps.

Size and Weight

The Galaxy J5 (2017) measures 146.2 mm in height, 71.3 mm in width, and 8 mm in depth, weighing 160 g. It is slightly larger and heavier, which might suit those who prefer a bigger phone. The Galaxy S6 is more compact at 143.4 mm height, 70.5 mm width, 6.8 mm depth, and weighs 138 g, making it easier to use one-handed or carry in smaller pockets.

Carrier and Network

Both devices are unlocked and support 4G networks, giving you the freedom to choose your mobile provider and enjoy fast mobile data speeds.

Carrier compatibility

UnlockedUnlocked

Connector

Micro-USB + Jack 3.5mmN/A

Depth

7.8 mm6.8 mm

Height

146.3 mm143.4 mm

Mobile network

4G4G

Release date

N/A10 April 2015

SD card slot

microSDXCNo

SIM card

Physical SIMPhysical SIM

Weight

160 g138 g

Width

71.3 mm70.5 mm

Galaxy J5 (2017) or Galaxy S6: which should you buy?

Buy the Galaxy J5 (2017) if

  • you want to spend less: it starts at £60, £21.32 less than the Galaxy S6
  • you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 2550 mAh)
  • you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 5 megapixels)

Buy the Galaxy S6 if

  • you want a higher-resolution main camera (16 megapixels vs 13 megapixels)
  • you want a lighter build (138 g vs 160 g)

What our customers say

Customers who bought the Galaxy J5 (2017) often praise its condition and value, saying it looks and works like new for a much lower price. Many highlight its simplicity and reliability, making it a popular choice for beginners and as a first phone for children. Some mention the SIM slot size as a minor issue but overall find it good for everyday use. A few note that it may feel a bit old for some apps now but still meets expectations well.

Reviews for the Galaxy S6 show mixed experiences. Many customers are happy with the phone's condition, noting it looks new and works well once set up. The sharper screen and camera quality receive positive mention indirectly through satisfaction. However, some buyers report issues with unlocked status and incorrect charger types which affects overall satisfaction. Despite these problems, users who get a fully functional S6 appreciate its compact size and screen quality.

The Galaxy J5 (2017) suits buyers looking for a straightforward, simple phone with expandable storage and a strong front camera. The Galaxy S6 appeals to those who want a sharper display and higher-resolution main camera in a lighter, more compact frame.

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 FAQs

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S6 comes down to the battery, screen size and main camera. The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2550 mAh. Screen size: 5.2 inch on the Galaxy J5 (2017), 5.1 inch on the Galaxy S6.

The Galaxy J5 (2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £60 compared with £81.32 for the Galaxy S6.

The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2550 mAh.

The Galaxy S6 has a higher-resolution main camera: 16 megapixels vs 13 megapixels.

Updates for the Galaxy J5 (2017) ended in Mar 2019. Updates for the Galaxy S6 ended in Jun 2018.

The Galaxy J5 (2017) adds a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 2550 mAh), a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 5 megapixels) and a memory card slot. Refurbished, it costs £21.32 less (from £60 vs £81.32).

Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2017) comes in 16GB, and the Galaxy S6 in 32GB.

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