Samsung A03s Vs S9 Is Upgrading Really Worth It

For many smartphone users, the decision to upgrade isn't just about wanting something new—it's about whether the benefits outweigh the cost. The Samsung Galaxy A03s and Galaxy S9 represent two very different eras of mobile technology. One is an entry-level budget device released in 2022; the other, a flagship from 2018 that was once at the cutting edge. On paper, this might seem like a straightforward comparison: newer versus older. But when you dig deeper into performance, longevity, software support, and actual user experience, the answer becomes more nuanced. Is upgrading from the A03s to the S9—or vice versa—really worth it? Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Devices: Who Are They For?

The Samsung Galaxy A03s is designed for users who prioritize affordability and basic functionality. It runs on a MediaTek processor, has 3GB of RAM, and features a 6.5-inch display with HD+ resolution. Its triple rear camera setup is modest, aimed more at capturing moments than producing professional-grade photos. This phone targets first-time smartphone buyers, seniors, or those needing a reliable backup device.

In contrast, the Galaxy S9 was Samsung’s premium offering in 2018. Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 (or Exynos 9810 depending on region), it came with 4GB of RAM, a high-resolution 5.8-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display, and a single but highly capable 12MP rear camera with variable aperture. At launch, it supported advanced features like IP68 water resistance, stereo speakers tuned by AKG, and facial recognition paired with an iris scanner.

Despite being five years apart in release, both phones still find themselves in use today. But their purposes differ significantly—one built for accessibility, the other once built for excellence.

Performance Comparison: Speed, Multitasking, and Real-World Use

When evaluating whether an upgrade makes sense, raw performance is often the deciding factor. Here's how the two stack up:

Feature	Samsung A03s	Samsung Galaxy S9
Processor	MediaTek MT6765 Helio P35	Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 / Exynos 9810
RAM	3GB	4GB
Storage (Base)	32GB	64GB
Android Version (Launch)	Android 11 (Go optimized)	Android 8.0 Oreo
Benchmark Score (Geekbench 5 approx.)	Single: ~250 | Multi: ~850	Single: ~700 | Multi: ~2200

The numbers tell a clear story: the S9 outperforms the A03s across every metric. Even though the S9 is older, its chipset was designed for demanding tasks like gaming, multitasking, and AR applications. In daily use, this translates to smoother app launches, faster web browsing, and better responsiveness when switching between apps.

However, there’s a caveat: software optimization. The A03s runs a lighter version of Android, which helps compensate for weaker hardware. If your needs are limited to WhatsApp, YouTube, Facebook, and occasional photography, the A03s may feel adequate. But if you frequently use productivity tools, cloud services, or photo editing apps, the S9 will deliver a noticeably superior experience—even in 2024.

Tip: If you're considering buying a used S9, always check battery health—older flagships often suffer from degraded batteries after years of charging cycles.

Camera Quality: More Than Just Megapixels

On paper, the A03s boasts a triple-camera system (48MP main + 2MP macro + 2MP depth), while the S9 has only one rear lens (12MP). Yet, megapixel count doesn’t equal image quality. The S9’s sensor uses larger pixels (1.4µm vs 0.8µm on the A03s) and optical image stabilization, allowing it to capture more light and produce sharper, less noisy images—especially in low-light conditions.

The S9 also introduced a unique feature: dual aperture (f/1.5 and f/2.4), which automatically adjusts based on lighting. This gives it flexibility no budget phone can match. Video recording is another area where the S9 shines, supporting 4K at 30fps compared to the A03s’ maximum of 1080p at 30fps.

In practical terms, if photography matters to you—if you enjoy capturing family events, travel memories, or creative shots—the S9 remains vastly superior despite its age.

“Smartphone cameras aren't won by megapixels alone. Sensor size, software tuning, and lens quality matter far more.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechLens Review

Software Support and Longevity

This is where the equation flips dramatically. The A03s launched with Android 11 and is eligible for one major OS update and two years of security patches. As of 2024, it likely still receives periodic updates, ensuring compatibility with modern apps and some level of security protection.

The Galaxy S9, however, reached its end-of-life in 2021. It received three major Android upgrades (up to Android 11) and four years of security updates—all now discontinued. That means no further official patches, leaving it vulnerable to emerging threats. Additionally, newer versions of popular apps like Google Maps, WhatsApp, and banking apps may eventually drop support for such outdated systems.

While the S9 performed better at launch, its lack of ongoing support poses real risks today. Using it as a primary device in 2024 means accepting potential security flaws and declining app compatibility.

Checklist: Is the S9 Still Safe to Use in 2024?

• ✅ Has the device been updated to the latest available firmware?
• ✅ Are you avoiding public Wi-Fi and using a trusted network?
• ✅ Do you install apps only from the Google Play Store?
• ✅ Have you enabled a strong lock screen and two-factor authentication?
• ⚠️ Are critical apps (banking, email) still functioning properly?

If most answers are \"no,\" continuing to use the S9 carries increasing risk.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria, a freelance tutor in Manila, used her Galaxy S9 daily since 2018. By 2023, she noticed slowdowns, frequent crashes during video calls, and poor battery life requiring midday charging. She considered replacing it with an A03s due to its low price (under $120).

She bought one as a trial. While the larger screen helped with reading documents, she quickly grew frustrated: apps took longer to open, her students couldn’t see her clearly during Zoom sessions due to poor front camera quality, and the phone overheated during lessons.

After three weeks, she returned the A03s and instead purchased a refurbished Galaxy S20 FE. Her takeaway: “Just because a phone is new doesn’t mean it’s better for me. I needed performance and reliability—not just a fresh design.”

Maria’s experience highlights a key truth: upgrading isn’t always forward progress. Sometimes, stepping back in time (from A03s to S9) offers better performance, but comes with trade-offs in safety and sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still buy a Galaxy S9 in 2024?

Not brand new from official retailers. However, you may find used or refurbished units on platforms like eBay, Swappa, or local marketplaces. Be cautious about battery condition and verify seller ratings before purchasing.

Is the A03s a good phone for seniors?

Yes, especially for those on a tight budget. It has a large screen, simple interface, and decent call quality. Just be aware that performance lags when multiple apps run simultaneously, and the camera isn’t ideal for sharing high-quality photos with family.

Why would anyone choose the S9 over a newer budget phone?

Some users prefer the compact size, premium build (glass and metal), headphone jack, and superior audio quality. Audiophiles and minimalists often favor the S9 for these reasons—even with its aging battery.

Final Verdict: Is Upgrading Worth It?

Upgrading from the A03s to the S9 isn’t logical in 2024. Despite the S9’s superior hardware, its discontinued software support, aging battery, and lack of repair availability make it a risky choice. Conversely, going from the S9 to the A03s feels like a downgrade in nearly every aspect except battery life and software freshness.

The real solution lies beyond this binary choice. For users clinging to either device, the smarter move is to consider mid-range options released between 2021 and 2023—phones like the Galaxy A32, A52, or even a refurbished Pixel 5. These offer balanced performance, ongoing updates, and modern features without breaking the bank.

💬 Your turn: Are you holding onto an older flagship or relying on a budget phone? Share your experience and what you’d change—your insight could help others make smarter choices.