Samsung S20 Vs A54 Is It Worth Upgrading In 2024

When Samsung launched the Galaxy S20 in 2020, it set a new standard for flagship Android phones—powerful hardware, 5G connectivity, and a groundbreaking 120Hz display. Fast forward to 2024, and the Galaxy A54 has emerged as one of Samsung’s most compelling mid-range devices, offering flagship-like features at a fraction of the cost. For current S20 owners wondering whether to upgrade, the decision isn’t just about newer specs—it’s about real-world value, longevity, and how your usage patterns have evolved.

This comparison dives deep into performance, camera quality, software support, battery life, and overall user experience to help you determine if stepping down from a flagship to a mid-ranger actually means stepping up in daily usability.

Performance and Hardware: Flagship Power vs Smart Efficiency

The Galaxy S20 was powered by either the Snapdragon 865 (in most regions) or Exynos 990, both high-end chips designed for intensive multitasking, gaming, and smooth 5G performance. At launch, it delivered top-tier speed and responsiveness, with 8GB or 12GB of RAM depending on configuration.

In contrast, the Galaxy A54 runs on the Exynos 1380—a capable but more modest chip built on a 5nm process. It includes four Cortex-A78 cores and GPU performance that handles everyday tasks with ease, including streaming, social media, and even moderate gaming. However, it doesn't match the raw processing power of the S20’s chipset.

For users who once pushed their S20 to its limits—editing 4K videos, playing graphics-heavy games, or using VR apps—the A54 may feel like a step back in peak performance. But for the average user focused on messaging, browsing, photography, and video calls, the difference in day-to-day use is minimal.

Tip: If you’re no longer using your phone for demanding tasks, a mid-range device like the A54 can offer better battery efficiency and smoother long-term software performance due to lighter system load.

Camera Comparison: Evolution Over Revolution

The S20 introduced a triple-lens setup: 12MP main, 64MP telephoto, and 12MP ultra-wide. Its 3x hybrid zoom and 30x space zoom were impressive at the time, and low-light performance benefited from large pixel binning.

The A54 takes a different approach: a 50MP main sensor with OIS (optical image stabilization), 12MP ultra-wide, and a 5MP macro lens. While it lacks a dedicated telephoto lens, the main camera delivers sharper detail in daylight thanks to improved sensor tuning and computational photography. Low-light performance has also seen generational improvements, aided by AI-enhanced Night Mode.

Video recording remains a weak point on the A54, capped at 4K@30fps without advanced stabilization options. The S20 still holds an edge here, supporting 8K recording and superior gyro-based stabilization—though few users actually edit or view 8K content.

“Modern mid-range phones often surpass older flagships in photo consistency because of smarter software, not just better hardware.” — Linus Park, Mobile Imaging Analyst

Battery Life and Charging: Where the A54 Shines

One area where the A54 clearly outperforms the S20 is battery endurance. The A54 packs a 5,000mAh battery compared to the S20’s 4,000mAh unit. Combined with the more efficient Exynos 1380 and optimized One UI 6 on Android 14, this translates to nearly two full days of light use or solid 1.5 days under heavy load.

The S20, while fast-charging at up to 25W, drains quicker due to its higher-refresh AMOLED panel and aging battery chemistry. After four years, even well-maintained S20 units typically see reduced capacity, leading to frequent charging needs.

Charging speeds favor the S20 slightly—25W wired vs. 25W on A54—but the latter supports newer power management protocols. Neither supports wireless charging, though the A54 does offer reverse charging for accessories.

Key Battery Metrics Compared

Feature	Samsung S20	Samsung A54
Battery Capacity	4,000 mAh	5,000 mAh
Screen Refresh Rate	120Hz Adaptive	120Hz Adaptive
Estimated Daily Use	10–12 hours	18–20 hours
Fast Charging	25W	25W
Wireless Charging	Yes	No

Software Support and Longevity

This is perhaps the most critical factor in 2024. The Galaxy S20 originally shipped with Android 10 and received three major OS updates, bringing it to Android 13. Security patches continued through early 2024, but official support has now ended. That means no further Android version upgrades or monthly security fixes—posing potential risks over time.

The Galaxy A54, launched in 2023 with Android 13, is guaranteed **four** major OS upgrades and **five years** of security updates, meaning it will be supported through at least 2028. This extended lifecycle ensures compatibility with future apps, banking platforms, and security standards.

If you rely on your phone for mobile banking, work communication, or health tracking, staying on an unsupported device increases vulnerability. Upgrading to the A54 isn’t just about new features—it’s about maintaining digital safety and reliability.

Real-World Scenario: Maria’s Upgrade Decision

Maria has used her S20 since 2020. She noticed slower app launches, frequent overheating during video calls, and declining battery life. Her bank’s app started warning about outdated Android versions. After researching, she switched to the A54. Though initially skeptical about moving from a flagship, she found the camera produced more consistent photos, the battery lasted all day even with GPS navigation, and the phone felt snappier despite lower specs. Most importantly, knowing she’ll receive updates until 2028 gave her peace of mind.

Design and Display: Similarities With Subtle Differences

Both phones feature glass fronts, plastic backs (on A54), and aluminum frames (S20). The S20 feels more premium with Gorilla Glass 6 front and back, while the A54 uses Gorilla Glass 5 on the front and weaker protection on the back. However, the A54 is IP67-rated for dust and water resistance—a feature missing on the base S20 model.

Display quality is surprisingly close. Both offer 6.5-inch FHD+ Dynamic AMOLED panels with 120Hz refresh rates. The S20’s screen is brighter (up to 1200 nits) and more color-accurate, ideal for HDR content. The A54’s panel is excellent for its class but peaks around 800 nits, making outdoor visibility slightly less crisp.

Is It Worth Upgrading? A Practical Checklist

Use this checklist to evaluate your personal upgrade case:

• ✅ Is your S20 experiencing battery degradation (under 80% health)?
• ✅ Have you stopped receiving OS or security updates?
• ✅ Do you prioritize long battery life over peak performance?
• ✅ Are you using your phone primarily for social media, messaging, and photography?
• ✅ Do you want a device that will stay secure and functional until 2028?
• ✅ Are you open to slightly less premium materials for better value?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, the A54 represents a smart, future-proof upgrade—even if it’s technically a mid-range phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the A54 really last until 2028?

Yes. Samsung officially guarantees four Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates for the A54. As of 2024, it’s already on Android 14, putting it on track to reach Android 17 by 2027, with patches continuing into 2028.

Does the A54 feel slower than the S20?

Not in daily use. While the S20 had a faster processor, the A54 benefits from lighter software demands and better thermal management. Apps launch quickly, and multitasking is smooth for typical workflows. Only intensive tasks like 4K video editing or high-FPS gaming reveal a gap.

Why would I downgrade from a flagship to a mid-ranger?

You’re not downgrading in utility—you’re optimizing. The A54 improves where it matters most: battery life, update longevity, and modern camera tuning. For most users, these gains outweigh the loss of raw power or ultra-premium materials.

Final Verdict: Upgrade for Longevity, Not Just Specs

The decision to move from the Galaxy S20 to the A54 isn’t about chasing the latest tech—it’s about aligning your device with how you actually use it today. The S20 was a powerhouse in its time, but after four years, its hardware is aging, its software support has ended, and its battery can’t keep pace with modern demands.

The A54 may lack the prestige of a flagship badge, but it delivers exceptional value: longer battery, stronger software commitment, improved cameras for everyday moments, and essential durability features like IP67 rating. For users who no longer need cutting-edge performance, this upgrade offers greater peace of mind, reliability, and real-world usability.

🚀 Ready to make the switch? Evaluate your current phone’s health, consider your daily needs, and don’t overlook the importance of long-term software support. The best phone isn’t always the fastest—it’s the one that keeps working well, year after year.