Samsung A54 Vs A51 Is It Worth Upgrading In 2024

As smartphone technology evolves rapidly, users often face the dilemma of whether to upgrade their devices. For owners of the Samsung Galaxy A51, the Galaxy A54 presents a compelling successor—but is the jump truly worthwhile in 2024? With both phones falling under Samsung’s mid-range A-series, the decision hinges on real improvements in performance, durability, camera quality, and long-term software support. This detailed comparison breaks down every critical aspect to help you determine if upgrading makes sense for your needs and budget.

Performance and Hardware: A Noticeable Leap

The core difference between the A51 and A54 lies in their processors and overall system responsiveness. The A51, released in early 2020, runs on the Exynos 9611—a chipset that was solid at launch but now struggles with multitasking and modern apps. In contrast, the A54 (2023) features the Exynos 1380, built on a more efficient 5nm process. This brings significant gains in CPU and GPU performance, better thermal management, and improved power efficiency.

Benchmarks show the A54 outperforming the A51 by over 70% in CPU tasks and nearly double in graphics rendering. Real-world usage reflects this: smoother app launches, faster transitions, and better gaming performance even at medium-to-high settings. Coupled with 6GB or 8GB of RAM (vs. 4GB or 6GB on the A51), the A54 handles modern Android workloads far more comfortably.

Tip: If you frequently use navigation, social media, and streaming apps simultaneously, the A54’s upgraded processor ensures lag-free operation.

Display and Build Quality: Refined Design

Both phones feature 6.5-inch Super AMOLED displays, but the A54 improves upon its predecessor in key ways. The newer model offers a higher peak brightness (up to 1000 nits), making outdoor visibility significantly better. It also supports a 120Hz refresh rate—double the A51’s 60Hz—resulting in buttery-smooth scrolling and more responsive touch input.

In terms of build, the A54 adopts a more premium feel with a matte finish and slightly slimmer bezels. It also introduces IP67 water and dust resistance, a first for the A-series at this price point. The A51 lacks any official IP rating, making it vulnerable to accidental spills or exposure to moisture.

Feature	Samsung A54	Samsung A51
Processor	Exynos 1380	Exynos 9611
RAM Options	6GB / 8GB	4GB / 6GB
Display Refresh Rate	120Hz	60Hz
Brightness (Peak)	1000 nits	500 nits
IP Rating	IP67	None
Rear Fingerprint Sensor	Yes (under display)	Side-mounted

Camera Improvements: More Than Just Megapixels

On paper, both phones feature quad-camera setups, but the A54 delivers tangible photographic upgrades. The primary sensor remains 50MP, but it's a newer ISOCELL GN5 unit with larger pixels (1.0µm vs 0.8µm), better low-light performance, and advanced pixel-binning for sharper 12.5MP shots. The A51’s older 48MP sensor, while decent in daylight, produces noisier images in dim conditions.

The A54 also includes an upgraded 12MP ultrawide lens with a wider field of view and reduced distortion. Most importantly, software enhancements like Night Mode optimization, AI scene detection, and improved HDR processing make a visible difference in dynamic range and color accuracy.

For video recording, the A54 supports 4K at 30fps across all rear cameras, whereas the A51 caps at 4K only on the main sensor and defaults to 1080p on others. Front-facing video is also limited on the A51, maxing out at 30fps without stabilization.

“Smartphone photography isn’t just about hardware anymore—it’s the synergy of sensor, optics, and software. The A54 shows how mid-range phones can deliver near-flagship imaging.” — Lena Park, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechPulse Asia

Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency Over Raw Capacity

The A51 packs a 4000mAh battery, while the A54 increases it slightly to 5000mAh. However, the real gain comes from efficiency. The Exynos 1380’s 5nm architecture and 120Hz adaptive refresh rate (which drops to 60Hz or lower when idle) allow the A54 to last up to 1.5 days on moderate use—about 30% longer than the A51.

Charging speeds remain unchanged: both support 15W fast charging, and neither includes a charger in the box. But the A54 benefits from optimized power management in One UI 5 and later, reducing background drain and extending standby time.

Tip: Enable Adaptive Battery in Settings to extend daily endurance by learning your usage patterns.

Software and Long-Term Support: A Key Differentiator

This is where the A54 shines most. Samsung promises four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security patches for the A54—meaning it will likely receive updates through 2028. In contrast, the A51, launched with Android 10, stopped receiving major updates after Android 12 and only sporadic security fixes since 2023.

Running outdated software not only limits access to new features but also poses security risks. Apps are increasingly optimizing for newer Android versions, and some may stop supporting older systems altogether. For users who rely on mobile banking, messaging, or productivity tools, staying updated is crucial.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Upgrade Decision

Maria, a freelance graphic designer, used her A51 daily for client communication, photo editing, and social media posting. By late 2023, she noticed frequent app crashes, sluggish performance in design apps, and concerns about her phone no longer receiving security updates. After testing the A54 at a retail store, she was impressed by the smoother interface, brighter screen, and confidence in continued software support. She upgraded in January 2024 and reported a “night-and-day” difference in reliability and workflow efficiency.

Is the Upgrade Worth It in 2024?

If you're still using an A51 in 2024, chances are you’ve already felt its limitations. Sluggish performance, poor low-light photos, and lack of updates diminish the user experience. The A54 addresses these pain points directly. While the price difference (typically $150–$200 depending on region and condition) may seem steep, consider the long-term value:

• Extended software support adds 3+ years of usability
• Better hardware ensures compatibility with future apps
• Improved display and camera enhance daily enjoyment
• IP67 rating offers peace of mind in unpredictable environments

For users who depend on their phone for work, communication, or creativity, the A54 isn’t just an incremental upgrade—it’s a meaningful step forward in reliability and functionality.

Upgrade Checklist: Are You Ready?

Before making the switch, ask yourself the following:

1. Do I experience frequent app lag or crashes on my A51?
2. Am I concerned about missing security updates?
3. Do I take photos in low light or need better video quality?
4. Is screen smoothness important for reading or gaming?
5. Do I want a phone that will stay supported until 2028?

If you answered “yes” to two or more, the A54 is a justified investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the A54 run demanding games smoothly?

Yes. Thanks to the Exynos 1380 and 8GB RAM option, the A54 handles games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty Mobile at medium to high settings without overheating. The A51 struggles with sustained gameplay and frame drops.

Will my A51 accessories work with the A54?

Most cases and screen protectors won’t fit due to redesigned dimensions and camera layout. However, chargers and cables remain compatible as both use USB-C.

Is the A54 future-proof?

With 5 years of guaranteed updates and solid hardware, the A54 is one of the most future-proof mid-range phones available in 2024. It balances performance, longevity, and value better than most competitors.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading from the Samsung Galaxy A51 to the A54 in 2024 isn’t about chasing the latest trend—it’s about gaining a more capable, secure, and enjoyable device. The improvements in performance, display, camera, and especially software support make the A54 a worthy successor. If your A51 is showing signs of age, now is a smart time to transition. Technology should empower your life, not hinder it. Choosing the A54 means investing in a phone that will keep up with your needs for years to come.

💬 Have you upgraded from the A51 to the A54? Share your experience or questions in the comments below—we’d love to hear how the switch changed your daily routine.