The Samsung Galaxy S3, released in 2012, was a game-changer in the smartphone industry. It boasted impressive specs, a large display, and innovative features that set it apart from its competitors. However, with the rapid pace of technological advancements, the question remains: is the Samsung S3 still a good phone?
Design And Display
The Samsung Galaxy S3 features a sleek and durable design, with a polycarbonate body that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The phone’s dimensions are 136.6 x 70.6 x 8.6 mm, making it a comfortable fit in the hand. The 4.8-inch Super AMOLED display is vibrant and responsive, with a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels.
While the display may not be as sharp as modern smartphones, it still holds its own, especially when considering the phone’s age. The screen is also protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 2, which provides adequate scratch resistance.
Comparison To Modern Smartphones
In comparison to modern smartphones, the Samsung S3’s design may seem dated. The phone’s bezels are thicker, and the screen-to-body ratio is lower than what we see in today’s flagships. However, the S3’s design has a certain charm to it, and the phone’s compact size makes it easy to handle.
Performance
The Samsung Galaxy S3 is powered by a 1.4 GHz quad-core Exynos 4412 processor, paired with 1 GB of RAM. While these specs may seem underwhelming compared to modern smartphones, the S3 still delivers smooth performance for basic tasks such as browsing, emailing, and social media.
However, the phone may struggle with demanding tasks such as gaming and video editing. The S3’s processor is also prone to overheating, which can lead to reduced performance and battery life.
Benchmark Scores
To give you a better idea of the S3’s performance, here are some benchmark scores:
| Benchmark | Score |
|---|---|
| Quadrant Standard | 5,500 |
| AnTuTu | 12,000 |
These scores are significantly lower than what we see in modern smartphones, but they still demonstrate the S3’s ability to handle basic tasks.
Camera
The Samsung Galaxy S3 features an 8-megapixel rear camera with a resolution of 3264 x 2448 pixels. The camera is capable of capturing decent photos, especially in well-lit conditions. However, the camera may struggle in low-light conditions, and the lack of optical image stabilization (OIS) can lead to blurry photos.
The S3 also features a 1.9-megapixel front camera, which is adequate for video calls and selfies.
Camera Features
The S3’s camera app offers a range of features, including:
- Autofocus
- Touch focus
- Face detection
- Smile detection
- Geo-tagging
These features are basic compared to modern smartphones, but they still provide a decent camera experience.
Software
The Samsung Galaxy S3 originally shipped with Android 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich), but it has since received updates to Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean). The phone’s software is outdated, and it no longer receives security updates or patches.
However, the S3’s software is still functional, and it provides a decent user experience. The phone’s interface is intuitive, and the TouchWiz UI is responsive.
Custom ROMs
For those who want to breathe new life into their S3, custom ROMs are available. These ROMs can provide updated software, new features, and improved performance. However, installing a custom ROM can be a complex process, and it may void the phone’s warranty.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy S3 features a 2100 mAh battery, which provides adequate battery life for basic tasks. However, the phone’s battery life may not be sufficient for heavy users, especially those who use demanding apps or games.
Battery Life Comparison
To give you a better idea of the S3’s battery life, here’s a comparison with modern smartphones:
| Phone | Battery Life (hours) |
|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S3 | 8-10 |
| Samsung Galaxy S21 | 12-14 |
As you can see, the S3’s battery life is significantly lower than what we see in modern smartphones.
Verdict
So, is the Samsung Galaxy S3 still a good phone? The answer depends on your needs and expectations. If you’re looking for a basic smartphone for tasks such as browsing, emailing, and social media, the S3 may still be a good option.
However, if you’re looking for a smartphone with modern features, improved performance, and better camera capabilities, you may want to consider a newer model.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Compact design
- Decent camera
- Functional software
Cons:
- Outdated software
- Limited performance
- Poor battery life
- No modern features
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy S3 is still a good phone for basic tasks, but it may not be the best option for those who want a modern smartphone experience.
Is The Samsung Galaxy S3 Still A Good Phone In Today’s Market?
The Samsung Galaxy S3 was a flagship device when it was released in 2012, and it had impressive specs for its time. However, the smartphone market has evolved significantly since then, with newer devices offering better performance, cameras, and features. While the Galaxy S3 may not be able to compete with the latest flagships, it can still be a good option for basic use, such as making calls, sending texts, and browsing the web.
That being said, the Galaxy S3’s hardware and software may not be able to handle demanding tasks, such as gaming or running multiple apps simultaneously. Additionally, the device may not receive the latest security updates or software patches, which can leave it vulnerable to security threats. Therefore, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether the Galaxy S3 is still a good phone for your needs.
What Are The Key Specs Of The Samsung Galaxy S3?
The Samsung Galaxy S3 features a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 720×1280 pixels. It is powered by a 1.4GHz quad-core processor, paired with 1GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage. The device also has an 8-megapixel rear camera and a 1.9-megapixel front camera. In terms of connectivity, the Galaxy S3 supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.0, and 4G LTE.
The Galaxy S3 also has a removable 2100mAh battery, which can provide up to 11 hours of talk time. The device runs on Android 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich) out of the box, but it can be upgraded to Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean). Overall, the Galaxy S3’s specs were impressive for its time, but they may not be able to compete with the latest smartphones.
Can The Samsung Galaxy S3 Still Receive Software Updates?
The Samsung Galaxy S3 is an older device, and it has already received several software updates since its release. However, it’s unlikely that the device will receive any further major updates, as Samsung typically only supports its devices for a few years. The Galaxy S3’s last major update was to Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean), and it’s unlikely that it will receive any updates beyond that.
That being said, some carriers may still release minor updates or security patches for the Galaxy S3, but these updates will likely be few and far between. Additionally, the device may still be able to receive updates from third-party developers or custom ROMs, but these updates may not be officially supported by Samsung.
Is The Samsung Galaxy S3 Compatible With The Latest Apps?
The Samsung Galaxy S3 can still run many popular apps, but its compatibility may be limited due to its older hardware and software. Many apps require a minimum version of Android to run, and the Galaxy S3’s Android 4.3 (Jelly Bean) may not meet these requirements. Additionally, some apps may not be optimized for the device’s screen resolution or processor, which can result in poor performance.
That being said, many popular apps, such as social media and messaging apps, can still run on the Galaxy S3. However, more demanding apps, such as games or video editing apps, may not be compatible or may not run smoothly on the device. It’s essential to check the app’s compatibility before downloading it to ensure that it will work on the Galaxy S3.
Can I Still Buy A Samsung Galaxy S3 Today?
The Samsung Galaxy S3 is an older device, and it’s no longer widely available for purchase from major retailers or carriers. However, it’s still possible to find the device for sale from third-party sellers or online marketplaces, such as eBay or Amazon. Be cautious when purchasing from third-party sellers, as the device may be used or refurbished, and it may not come with a warranty.
Additionally, be aware that the device may not be compatible with the latest networks or services, and it may not receive any further software updates. It’s essential to carefully consider the pros and cons before purchasing a Galaxy S3, especially if you’re looking for a device that will meet your needs for the next few years.
Is The Samsung Galaxy S3 Worth Buying As A Budget Phone?
The Samsung Galaxy S3 can be a good option as a budget phone, especially if you’re looking for a device for basic use. The device can still make calls, send texts, and browse the web, and it’s available at a relatively low price. However, it’s essential to consider the device’s limitations, such as its older hardware and software, and its limited compatibility with the latest apps.
Additionally, be aware that the device may not receive any further software updates, which can leave it vulnerable to security threats. If you’re looking for a budget phone, it’s worth considering other options that may offer better performance, cameras, and features. However, if you’re looking for a device for basic use and don’t mind its limitations, the Galaxy S3 can be a good option.
What Are Some Alternatives To The Samsung Galaxy S3?
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Samsung Galaxy S3, there are many options available in the market. Some budget-friendly options include the Samsung Galaxy A series, the Google Pixel 3a, or the Motorola Moto G series. These devices offer better performance, cameras, and features than the Galaxy S3, and they’re available at a relatively low price.
If you’re looking for a device with more advanced features, you may want to consider a mid-range or flagship device, such as the Samsung Galaxy S21, the Google Pixel 6, or the OnePlus 9. These devices offer better performance, cameras, and features than the Galaxy S3, and they’re available at a higher price. Ultimately, the best alternative to the Galaxy S3 will depend on your needs and budget.