Samsung A70 Vs S7 Edge Is The Newer Model Really Better Or Is The S7 Edge Still Worth It

When comparing smartphones across generations, it's easy to assume that newer always means better. But in the case of the Samsung Galaxy A70 and the Galaxy S7 Edge, the answer isn't so straightforward. The S7 Edge was a flagship powerhouse in 2016, while the A70 arrived in 2019 as a mid-range contender with modern features. On paper, the A70 has newer hardware, but real-world usability, build quality, software support, and user experience matter just as much. This comparison dives deep into both devices to determine whether upgrading makes sense—or if the S7 Edge still holds its ground.

Design and Build Quality

The Galaxy S7 Edge set a high bar for smartphone design. With its curved dual-edge AMOLED display, glass back, and metal frame, it felt premium in hand. It also featured IP68 water and dust resistance—rare even among flagships at the time. Despite being nearly a decade old, many users still praise its ergonomic feel and luxurious finish.

In contrast, the A70 adopted a more utilitarian approach. It uses a plastic body and a flat Super AMOLED display, which keeps costs down but sacrifices some of the S7 Edge’s elegance. While the A70 is larger and lighter, it lacks the same tactile satisfaction. However, it does offer an under-display fingerprint sensor—a feature absent on the S7 Edge, which used a physical home button with a built-in sensor.

Tip: If you value premium materials and compact ergonomics, the S7 Edge may still appeal despite its age.

Display Comparison

The S7 Edge’s 5.5-inch Quad HD (1440 x 2560) AMOLED display remains impressive. Its pixel density (534 PPI), color accuracy, and deep blacks are still competitive with many current mid-range phones. The curved edges added visual flair and subtle UI enhancements, like quick access panels.

The A70 steps up with a larger 6.7-inch FHD+ (1080 x 2400) Super AMOLED display. While the resolution is lower in absolute terms, the screen-to-body ratio is significantly higher, offering a more immersive viewing experience for videos and gaming. However, the lack of curvature removes some aesthetic distinction, and the lower PPI (393) means slightly less sharpness.

“Even today, the S7 Edge’s display holds up remarkably well in brightness and color reproduction,” says mobile reviewer James Lin. “It’s a testament to how far ahead Samsung was in display tech.”

Performance and Software

This is where the generational gap becomes apparent. The S7 Edge launched with either the Exynos 8890 or Snapdragon 820, depending on region—both high-end chips in their day. In 2016, this meant smooth multitasking, excellent gaming performance, and fast app launches. However, by modern standards, these processors struggle with heavier apps and newer versions of Android. The S7 Edge topped out at Android 8.0 Oreo, meaning no security updates since 2019.

The A70, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 675, benefits from architectural improvements and better power efficiency. Though not a top-tier chip, it handles everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and streaming with ease. It launched with Android 9 and received updates to Android 11, ensuring better app compatibility and longer-term security support.

Feature	Samsung S7 Edge	Samsung A70
Processor	Exynos 8890 / Snapdragon 820	Snapdragon 675
RAM	4GB	6GB / 8GB
Storage	32GB/64GB/128GB (expandable)	128GB (expandable)
Max Android Version	Android 8.0 Oreo	Android 11
Battery	3,600 mAh	4,500 mAh
Charging	Fast charging (adaptive)	Fast charging (25W supported)

While raw benchmark scores favor the A70 for sustained performance, the S7 Edge’s optimization with TouchWiz (and later One UI adaptations via custom ROMs) allowed it to remain usable longer than expected. Still, for anyone relying on Google services, banking apps, or modern games, the A70 is the safer choice.

Camera Capabilities

The S7 Edge featured a 12MP rear camera with Dual Pixel technology, which dramatically improved autofocus speed and low-light performance at the time. Its f/1.7 aperture let in more light than most competitors, making it one of the best low-light shooters of 2016. Video recording maxed out at 4K.

The A70 introduced a triple-camera setup: 32MP main sensor, 8MP ultra-wide, and 5MP depth sensor. On paper, this sounds superior—but megapixels don’t tell the whole story. The A70’s main sensor uses pixel-binning to produce 1.0µm pixels, which helps in daylight but struggles in dim environments compared to the S7 Edge’s larger 1.4µm pixels.

In practical use, the S7 Edge often produces more natural colors and better dynamic range in challenging lighting. The A70 excels in versatility—thanks to the ultra-wide lens—and offers features like scene optimizer and live focus, but processing can oversharpen images or over-saturate skies.

Tip: For photography enthusiasts who shoot mostly in daylight or want creative flexibility, the A70 wins. For night shots and color accuracy, the S7 Edge still impresses.

Battery Life and Charging

The A70’s 4,500 mAh battery significantly outperforms the S7 Edge’s 3,600 mAh unit. Even after years of degradation, original S7 Edge batteries typically last only a full day with moderate use. The A70 easily lasts 1.5 to 2 days, thanks to its efficient processor and larger capacity.

Both support fast charging, but the A70 can utilize 25W charging with compatible adapters (sold separately), reducing recharge time. The S7 Edge supports adaptive fast charging but caps at around 15W. Neither supports wireless charging natively, though the S7 Edge’s glass body made third-party accessories feasible.

Mini Case Study: Daily Driver After Five Years

Mark, a long-time S7 Edge owner, held onto his device until 2021. He praised its compact size, excellent display, and reliable camera but noted increasing lag in messaging apps and inability to update critical banking software. After switching to a refurbished A70, he gained smoother performance, longer battery life, and modern features like face unlock—but missed the S7 Edge’s refined design and tighter integration with Samsung DeX (which the A70 lacks).

His experience reflects a common trade-off: longevity and refinement versus functionality and future-proofing.

Is the S7 Edge Still Worth It in 2024?

Possibly—but only under specific conditions. If you're looking for a secondary phone, a backup device, or a retro collector’s piece, the S7 Edge remains a beautifully crafted phone with a standout display. However, buying it new today is unrealistic; most units are secondhand and likely suffer from battery wear or software obsolescence.

Security is a major concern. Without official updates since 2019, the S7 Edge is vulnerable to modern threats. Apps like WhatsApp have dropped support for devices running below Android 8.1, further limiting usability.

The A70, while not a flagship, delivers a balanced experience: modern software, strong battery, and capable cameras. At its release price (~$450), it competed well. Today, used models go for under $100, making it a cost-effective option for budget-conscious buyers.

Checklist: Should You Choose the A70 Over the S7 Edge?

• ✅ Need updated Android and security patches
• ✅ Want longer battery life
• ✅ Prefer larger screen for media consumption
• ✅ Use modern apps requiring higher RAM or OS version
• ✅ Value camera versatility (ultra-wide lens)
• ❌ Prioritize compact size and premium build
• ❌ Seek water resistance without extra protection

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the S7 Edge run modern apps smoothly?

Basic apps like Gmail or simple browsers will work, but heavier applications (e.g., Instagram, TikTok, Zoom) may lag or fail to install due to minimum OS requirements. Performance degrades noticeably over time.

Does the A70 support expandable storage?

Yes, the A70 includes a dedicated microSD card slot supporting up to 512GB, allowing ample space for photos, music, and apps.

Is the S7 Edge waterproof?

Yes, it has an IP68 rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. However, seals degrade over time, especially on older units, so caution is advised.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

The Samsung Galaxy A70 isn’t objectively “better” than the S7 Edge in every way—but it is more practical for today’s mobile ecosystem. While the S7 Edge was a landmark device, its age limits functionality, security, and compatibility. The A70 may lack the same prestige, but it offers modern conveniences, longer support, and better daily usability.

If you’re choosing between the two in 2024, the A70 is almost certainly the smarter pick—especially if you rely on your phone for communication, productivity, or entertainment. However, if you appreciate engineering excellence and plan to use the device minimally or off-grid, the S7 Edge remains a nostalgic gem.

🚀 Ready to upgrade or revisit your old favorite? Share your thoughts on classic vs. modern Samsung phones—we’d love to hear your experience with either device!