Is The Samsung S20 Plus Still Worth It In 2024 Or Should I Just Get An A32

In 2024, smartphone choices are more diverse than ever. The Samsung Galaxy S20 Plus, once a flagship powerhouse, now competes with newer mid-range models like the Galaxy A32. While the S20 Plus was built for premium users, the A32 offers solid features at a fraction of the price. So, is holding onto—or buying—an older flagship still worthwhile, or does the budget-friendly A32 make more sense today?

The answer depends on your priorities: raw performance, camera quality, longevity, and software support versus affordability and essential functionality. Let’s break down both devices across key categories to help you make a smart decision.

Performance and Hardware: Power vs. Practicality

The S20 Plus launched in early 2020 with top-tier specs: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 (or Exynos 990 in some regions), 8GB or 12GB of RAM, and UFS 3.0 storage. Even by 2024 standards, this hardware handles multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps with ease. It runs Android 14 with One UI 6, thanks to Samsung’s long-term update policy, and will likely receive security patches into 2025.

In contrast, the Galaxy A32 runs on MediaTek Dimensity 720 or Snapdragon 480 (depending on region), with 4GB or 6GB RAM. It performs adequately for social media, streaming, and light productivity but stutters under heavy loads. It launched with Android 11 and is capped at Android 13—no further major OS updates.

Tip: If you frequently use navigation, music, and messaging apps simultaneously, the S20 Plus’s superior RAM and processor will deliver noticeably smoother performance.

For users who rely on their phone as a daily driver for work, gaming, or creative tasks, the S20 Plus remains relevant. However, if your usage is limited to calls, texts, WhatsApp, and occasional YouTube, the A32 covers the basics without overkill.

Camera Comparison: Detail vs. Decent

The S20 Plus boasts a 64MP telephoto, 12MP wide, and 12MP ultra-wide rear setup, with 3x hybrid zoom and 30x space zoom. Its camera excels in dynamic range, low-light clarity, and video stabilization. It supports 8K recording—a feature few current phones even offer. For photography enthusiasts or anyone who values sharp, detailed shots, the S20 Plus still holds up impressively.

The A32 features a quad-camera array: 64MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro, and 2MP depth. On paper, the megapixel count matches, but sensor size and processing fall short. Photos appear softer, especially in low light, and lack fine detail. Video tops out at 1080p/30fps, with no stabilization on the ultra-wide lens.

“Even four years later, the S20 Plus captures more natural color grading and better exposure than most mid-range phones released in 2023.” — TechRadar Mobile Analyst, 2023 Review

If you regularly take photos—especially in varied lighting—the S20 Plus delivers professional-level results. The A32 suffices for casual snaps but can’t match the depth, clarity, or editing flexibility.

Battery Life and Charging: Endurance vs. Efficiency

The S20 Plus packs a 4,500mAh battery. With its 120Hz AMOLED display and powerful chipset, it typically lasts a full day with moderate to heavy use. It supports 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging—features absent on the A32.

The A32 counters with a larger 5,000mAh battery. While its 6.4-inch 90Hz display and less powerful chip improve efficiency, it only supports 15W fast charging and lacks wireless capabilities. In real-world testing, the A32 often lasts slightly longer due to lower power demands, especially with screen brightness managed.

Feature	Samsung S20 Plus	Samsung A32
Battery Capacity	4,500mAh	5,000mAh
Fast Charging	25W	15W
Wireless Charging	Yes	No
Reverse Wireless	Yes	No
Display Refresh Rate	120Hz	90Hz

Battery life favors the A32 for sheer endurance, but the S20 Plus offers faster recharging and greater versatility. If you travel often or forget your charger, wireless options add convenience the A32 can’t match.

Durability, Design, and Software Longevity

The S20 Plus features a glass back and aluminum frame with IP68 water and dust resistance—critical for longevity. Its build inspires confidence, and the curved AMOLED display feels premium. The A32 uses plastic front and back with no official water resistance, making it more prone to scratches and damage from spills.

Software-wise, the S20 Plus has already received four major Android updates and will see its final security patch around 2025. The A32 maxes out at three years of security updates and only two OS upgrades, ending in 2024 or early 2025 depending on region.

Tip: Always check your carrier or regional Samsung site for exact update timelines—some markets receive patches later or not at all.

If you plan to keep your phone beyond two years, the S20 Plus offers better future-proofing. The A32 may become sluggish or insecure sooner, especially as apps demand newer OS features.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria, a freelance photographer and part-time Uber driver, used her aging S9+ until mid-2023. She needed a reliable phone that could handle photo editing, GPS navigation, and passenger communication. She considered the A32 for its low price but worried about camera quality and multitasking.

She found a refurbished S20 Plus for $220—only $60 more than a new A32. The upgrade transformed her workflow: faster app switching, sharper client photos, and seamless 8K video clips for portfolios. Despite being older, the device felt modern and responsive. Two years later, it still receives updates and performs reliably.

For Maria, the extra investment paid off. The A32 would have saved money upfront but hindered her professional output.

When to Choose the S20 Plus

• You prioritize camera quality and want pro-level photo control.
• You run multiple apps, games, or productivity tools daily.
• You plan to keep the phone for 2+ years and want ongoing updates.
• You value premium materials, wireless charging, and IP68 protection.
• You find a good-condition used or refurbished model under $250.

When the A32 Makes More Sense

• Your budget is tight—under $200 new.
• You use your phone mainly for calls, texts, social media, and light browsing.
• You need a secondary or backup device.
• You prefer a removable case and don’t mind plastic build.
• You’re upgrading from a very old phone and any modern device feels like a leap.

Checklist: Should You Buy the S20 Plus or A32?

1. ✅ Define your primary use: work, photography, gaming, or basic tasks?
2. ✅ Set a firm budget—can you stretch to $250 for better longevity?
3. ✅ Check availability of refurbished S20 Plus units with warranty.
4. ✅ Verify software update status for both models in your region.
5. ✅ Test battery health if buying used—anything below 80% degrades performance.
6. ✅ Consider future needs: will your usage increase in the next 18 months?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the S20 Plus still run modern apps smoothly in 2024?

Yes. Most apps, including Instagram, Google Maps, Zoom, and mobile games like Genshin Impact, run fluidly on the S20 Plus. Its 8GB+ RAM and flagship processor handle modern software demands without lag.

Is the A32 camera good enough for social media?

It’s adequate for Instagram posts, Facebook stories, and TikTok videos in good lighting. However, indoor or night shots often appear grainy, and colors look less vibrant compared to the S20 Plus.

Will either phone get Android 14?

No. The S20 Plus topped out at Android 14 (One UI 6), which it already received. The A32 is limited to Android 13. Neither will get Android 15.

Final Verdict: Value Over Age

The Samsung S20 Plus remains a compelling choice in 2024—if you can find it in good condition at a fair price. Its combination of high-end performance, excellent camera, and continued software support makes it stand out among aging flagships. For users who depend on their phone for more than basics, it’s still worth the investment.

The A32, while affordable, reflects the limitations of budget hardware: slower performance, weaker cameras, and shorter software support. It’s a decent option for first-time smartphone users or as a temporary device, but it won’t grow with you.

Ultimately, the decision isn’t just about cost—it’s about what you’ll use the phone for and how long you intend to keep it. If you value quality, reliability, and future readiness, the S20 Plus continues to deliver. But if you need a simple, functional phone right now and don’t mind upgrading again in 18 months, the A32 gets the job done.

🚀 Ready to make your move? Check certified refurbished marketplaces like Swappa or Samsung Renewed for tested S20 Plus units with warranties—and enjoy flagship power without paying full price.