A Closer Look at the Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) Series
The Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) series is an impressive range of mid-range smartphones, and we've covered almost every aspect of the smaller A8 thoroughly in our extensive review. If that's not quite enough for you, let's take a deep dive at some of the most notable features of the Galaxy A8 and A8+ – some of which are quite a rarity for mid range devices.
First, specifications. Let's start with the smaller device of the two, the Galaxy A8. It features a 5.6-inch Full HD+ 2220 x 1080 Super AMOLED Infinity Display, a Samsung Exynos 7885 chipset paired with 4GB of RAM, 32GB of expandable storage, a 16MP f/1.7 rear camera with phase detection autofocus, 16MP + 8MP f/1.9 dual front cameras, and a 3,000mAh battery. Of course, the new Galaxy A8 is also IP68-rated.
As for the bigger Galaxy A8+, it shares many of the Galaxy A8's hardware, but it comes with a larger 6-inch display, more RAM and storage at 6GB and 64GB respectively, as well as a bigger 3,500mAh battery.
Dual Front Cameras
The Galaxy A8 series' dual front cameras may be similar to the Galaxy Note 8's dual rear cameras, but there are some unique hardware differences here. The A8 phones' primary 16MP front shooter is made for closeup shots, while the secondary 8MP sensor is fitted with a wider lens to capture more of the background – ideal for group selfies.
These two shooters can work independently, but together, they can emulate a shallow depth of field for bokeh-like shots in Live Focus mode. Not only can the cameras separate the subject from the background well, you can capture some really good-looking selfie shots too. And just like the Note 8, you can also adjust how blurry you want the background to be.
These are some sample shots with the different selfie modes on the Galaxy A8 (2018):
Standard mode
Live Focus mode
Shines in Low Light
Aside from the dual front cameras, the Galaxy A8 and A8+'s 16MP rear camera is quite impressive too. It performs admirably in daytime, and in low-light conditions, it is surprisingly capable too. The camera interface doesn't feel sluggish at all either – definitely a plus point.
On top of that, thanks to the bright f/1.7 aperture, low-light shots taken with both phones look very impressive. Judge for yourself with these sample shots.
Do More With Water Resistance
Last but certainly not least is the Galaxy A8 series' IP68 rating. Not only is this a feature not commonly found on mid-range smartphones – heck, several flagship phones don't even sport this level of water and dust resistance – you have peace of mind knowing that your Galaxy A8 or A8+ won't suffer from water damage in normal, everyday use.
Both the Galaxy A8 and A8+ can also be immersed up to 1.5 meters underwater for as long as 30 minutes, thanks to their IP68 rating. This means you can be extremely creative with the cameras – perhaps some underwater selfies? Or if you're the type who runs with your phone to measure your vitals and it starts raining – you don't have to worry about your Galaxy A8 phones getting damaged from the rain.
Even better, if you ever spill some food or drinks on the phone, you no longer need to carefully wipe them off with a damp cloth and hope for the best. Just rinse the whole phone over some water, wipe it dry, and it'll be good as new.
At an age where a smartphone is a rather expensive investment, having water and dust resistance on your smartphone isn't really a luxury anymore. It offers peace of mind in the event when we are just a tad too clumsy, and unlocks users to do bold things with their smartphones.
Mid-Range Phone With Flagship Spirit
The Samsung Galaxy A8 (2018) series has some exemplary mid-range smartphones. They trickle down features previously found only on Samsung's flagship phone, and they're polished, premium devices through and through. Retailing at RM1,799, the Galaxy A8 is priced rather competitively as well. The Galaxy A8+, on the other hand, goes for RM2,499.
If you're looking for a well-designed, feature-rich mid-range smartphone, the new Galaxy A8 series definitely fits the bill to a tee. If you'd like to learn more about the smaller phone of the two, our comprehensive review should help.
Disclosure: This article was sponsored by Samsung Malaysia.
