For users still holding onto their Samsung Galaxy S8, the question of whether to upgrade has become more pressing as software support winds down and newer mid-range models like the Galaxy A51 offer compelling features. Released in 2017, the S8 was a flagship powerhouse—revolutionary at its time with its edge-to-edge display and advanced biometrics. Fast forward to 2024, and the landscape has changed dramatically. The Galaxy A51, launched in early 2020, may not be the newest model on the market, but it represents a significant leap in everyday usability, longevity, and value over aging flagships. So, is making the switch from the S8 to the A51 worthwhile today?
Design and Build: From Premium Glass to Practical Plastic
The Galaxy S8 set a design benchmark with its sleek glass body, metal frame, and curved AMOLED display that felt luxurious in hand. It was one of the first phones to truly minimize bezels and introduce an immersive screen experience. In contrast, the A51 uses a polycarbonate (plastic) back and frame, which immediately feels less premium. However, this shift brings real-world benefits: lighter weight, better grip, and increased durability against drops.
The A51’s flat 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display is larger than the S8’s 5.8-inch curved panel, offering more screen real estate for media and multitasking. While the S8’s resolution (1440p) technically surpasses the A51’s Full HD+ (1080p), the difference is negligible in daily use. What matters more is that both devices deliver vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent outdoor visibility thanks to Samsung’s OLED technology.
Performance and Software: Flagship Past vs Modern Efficiency
Under the hood, the comparison shifts dramatically. The S8 launched with either the Snapdragon 835 or Exynos 8895—both high-end chips in 2017. At the time, they handled everything effortlessly. But by 2024 standards, these processors struggle with modern apps, multitasking, and even routine system animations. Updates have slowed too; the S8 reached its end of major Android version support after Android 9 Pie, leaving it vulnerable to security risks and incompatible with many new app features.
The A51, while powered by the mid-tier Exynos 9611 (or occasionally Snapdragon 730G in select regions), runs far more efficiently in 2024. It supports up to Android 13 with One UI 5.1, meaning better app compatibility, improved background management, and access to recent security patches. With 4GB or 6GB of RAM (depending on variant), the A51 handles social media, streaming, light gaming, and productivity apps smoothly—something the S8 can no longer guarantee consistently.
“Even modest hardware refreshes can restore responsiveness and extend device usability by two to three years.” — Lin Zhao, Mobile Systems Analyst at TechInsight Asia
Camera Comparison: Evolution in Versatility
The S8 featured a single 12MP rear camera with Dual Pixel autofocus and optical image stabilization—a standout in its day. Its photos were sharp, well-balanced, and excellent in low light. However, it lacked versatility: no ultra-wide lens, no dedicated depth sensor, and limited computational photography.
The A51 introduces a quad-camera array: 48MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro, and 5MP depth sensor. While the main sensor defaults to 12MP pixel-binning for better low-light performance, the real advantage lies in flexibility. You can now capture sweeping landscapes with the ultra-wide lens, take detailed close-ups with the macro camera, and apply portrait effects with greater accuracy.
In daylight, both phones produce pleasing results, though the A51 benefits from newer HDR processing and scene optimization. In low light, the S8 holds up surprisingly well due to its large pixels, but the A51 compensates with Night Mode, which brightens dark scenes significantly. Video recording remains limited to 1080p at 30fps on both devices, so there's no upgrade in that department.
Battery Life and Charging: From All-Day to Over-a-Day Endurance
This is where the A51 shines brightest. The S8 came with a 3000mAh battery—respectable in 2017 but inadequate by today’s standards. Heavy users often needed a midday charge even when the phone was new. After six years of charging cycles, most S8 batteries have degraded significantly, reducing usable capacity by 30–50%.
The A51 packs a 4000mAh battery, nearly 33% larger. Combined with a more power-efficient processor and software optimizations, this translates to reliable 1.5-day usage for moderate users. Even under heavy load—streaming video, GPS navigation, and social media—the A51 typically lasts a full day with some reserve.
Charging speeds are comparable: both support 15W fast charging via Adaptive Fast Charging (AFC). Neither includes wireless charging, though the S8 had it built-in while the A51 does not. However, the A51 supports USB Power Delivery, making it compatible with a wider range of chargers.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S8 | Samsung Galaxy A51 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2017 | 2020 |
| Display | 5.8\" Quad HD+ Curved AMOLED | 6.5\" Full HD+ Flat AMOLED |
| Processor | Snapdragon 835 / Exynos 8895 | Exynos 9611 / Snapdragon 730G |
| Ram | 4GB | 4GB / 6GB |
| Storage | 64GB (expandable) | 128GB (expandable) |
| Rear Camera | 12MP (f/1.7, OIS) | 48MP + 12MP UW + 5MP Macro + 5MP Depth |
| Battery | 3000mAh | 4000mAh |
| Software Support | Ended (Android 9) | Likely ended (up to Android 13) |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Rear (poor placement) | Side-mounted (power button) |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | No official rating |
Mini Case Study: Maria’s Upgrade Experience
Maria, a teacher from Austin, relied on her Galaxy S8 for five years. By late 2023, she noticed frequent app crashes, slow email loading, and inability to use her school’s updated LMS platform. She hesitated to spend hundreds on a new phone but eventually bought a used A51 for $130. Within days, she reported smoother performance, faster boot times, and relief from constant charging anxiety. “I didn’t realize how much I was fighting my phone until I wasn’t,” she said. “The extra camera options also let me scan student work easier.” Her experience reflects what many long-term S8 users face: diminishing returns from aging hardware.
Upgrade Checklist: Is the A51 Right for You?
- ✅ Your S8 feels sluggish during daily tasks
- ✅ Battery dies before evening, even after a replacement
- ✅ You’ve stopped receiving OS or security updates
- ✅ You want better photo flexibility (ultra-wide shots, portraits)
- ✅ You’re on a tight budget but need a functional modern phone
- ❌ You rely heavily on IP68 water resistance
- ❌ You prefer compact, flagship-grade materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the A51 run modern games smoothly?
Yes, for most titles. Games like Genshin Impact will require lower settings, but casual games like Among Us, Call of Duty Mobile (on medium settings), and Subway Surfers run without issue thanks to the Exynos 9611’s Mali-G72 GPU and efficient cooling.
Is the A51 still receiving updates?
As of 2024, Samsung has ended major Android version updates for the A51. It likely won’t receive Android 14. Security patches may still appear sporadically, but regular support has concluded. Still, it remains functional for everyday use.
Will my S8 accessories work with the A51?
Most wired headphones and USB-C chargers will work. However, the A51 lacks headphone detection, so smart pause/resume features may not function. Wireless DeX, HDMI adapters, and gear relying on proprietary S8 docks will not be compatible.
Final Verdict: Yes, It’s Worth Upgrading—With Caveats
Upgrading from the Galaxy S8 to the A51 in 2024 isn't about chasing cutting-edge specs—it's about reclaiming reliability, battery life, and peace of mind. The A51 offers tangible improvements: longer-lasting power, a more versatile camera system, better app performance, and more modern software support. While it sacrifices the premium build and IP68 rating of the S8, it delivers where it counts for most users.
If you're still clinging to your S8 out of loyalty or hesitation, consider this: the marginal cost of an A51 (often under $150 used) buys you another two to three years of dependable service. For students, seniors, or anyone needing a capable secondary device, the upgrade makes practical sense.
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