Samsung Galaxy A7 vs A7: What’s the Real Difference?

The short answer: there is no single “Samsung Galaxy A7” — the name covers several distinct models released in different years (2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018), each with different specs, designs, and features. If you’re comparing two phones both labeled “A7,” the differences depend entirely on which generation you have, and this article breaks down each version so you can tell them apart.

Background: The A7 Lineup Explained

Samsung’s Galaxy A series sits between budget J-series phones and flagship S-series devices. The A7 was positioned as a “mid-range premium” phone with a larger screen and better camera than the smaller A3 and A5. Samsung released four distinct A7 generations:

• Galaxy A7 (2015) — model SM-A700, launched December 2014
• Galaxy A7 (2016) — model SM-A710, launched December 2015
• Galaxy A7 (2017) — model SM-A720, launched January 2017
• Galaxy A7 (2018) — model SM-A750, launched September 2018

Each generation brought meaningful upgrades. The 2015 model was the first A7, with a 5.5-inch Super AMOLED display and a Snapdragon 615 processor. The 2016 version added a metal frame and improved camera. The 2017 model introduced IP68 water resistance and a dual-curved glass back. The 2018 model was the biggest redesign, featuring a taller 18:9 display, dual rear cameras, and a larger battery.

Key Differences: Screen, Camera, and Battery

If you’re comparing two A7 phones side by side, the most visible differences are the display, camera setup, and battery capacity:

• Display: 2015 and 2016 models have a 5.5-inch 1080p screen. The 2017 model keeps 5.7 inches but with the same resolution. The 2018 model has a 6.0-inch 1080p display with an 18:9 aspect ratio (taller and narrower).
• Rear camera: 2015–2017 models have a single 16MP rear camera. The 2018 model has a dual camera: a 24MP main sensor and a 5MP depth sensor for portrait effects.
• Front camera: 2015 has 5MP, 2016 has 8MP, 2017 has 16MP, and 2018 has 24MP.
• Battery: 2015 has 2600mAh, 2016 has 3300mAh, 2017 has 3600mAh, and 2018 has 3300mAh (the 2018 model has a slightly smaller battery due to the thinner design).

How to Identify Which A7 You Have

If you have an A7 and aren’t sure which generation it is, check the model number in Settings > About Phone, or look at the physical design:

1. Check the model number: Go to Settings > About Phone > Status. The model number starts with SM-A700 (2015), SM-A710 (2016), SM-A720 (2017), or SM-A750 (2018).
2. Look at the back: The 2015 and 2016 models have a flat metal back. The 2017 and 2018 models have a curved glass back (2018 has a vertical dual-camera bump).
3. Check the screen shape: The 2018 model has a taller, narrower screen with thin bezels, while older models have a more traditional 16:9 shape.

Performance and Software: What You Can Expect

All four A7 models run Android, but with different versions and update support. The 2015 model shipped with Android 4.4 (KitKat) and received updates up to Android 6.0 (Marshmallow). The 2016 model shipped with Android 5.1 (Lollipop) and got Android 7.0 (Nougat). The 2017 model shipped with Android 6.0 and received Android 8.0 (Oreo). The 2018 model shipped with Android 8.0 and received Android 10.

Processors also vary: the 2015 model uses a Snapdragon 615, the 2016 uses either a Snapdragon 615 or Exynos 7580 (depending on region), the 2017 uses an Exynos 7880, and the 2018 uses a Snapdragon 660. In everyday use, the 2018 model is noticeably faster, but none of these phones are suitable for heavy gaming or multitasking by modern standards.

Common Problems and Limitations

Owners of older A7 models often report these issues:

• Battery drain: After a few years, batteries degrade. The 2015 model is especially prone to poor battery life because of its smaller capacity.
• Slow performance: All models lag with modern apps, but the 2015 and 2016 versions are the worst.
• No more software updates: Samsung stopped providing security updates for all A7 models after 2020. Using them online carries some security risk.
• Screen burn-in: AMOLED screens can develop permanent ghost images if the same static content is displayed for long periods.

How to Choose Between Two A7 Phones

If you’re deciding between a used A7 (2015) and an A7 (2018), the choice is clear: the 2018 model is better in almost every way — larger screen, dual camera, faster processor, and more RAM (4GB vs 2GB or 3GB). However, if you’re comparing two units of the same generation, consider these factors:

• Battery health: Ask the seller for the battery health percentage (available in some Android diagnostics apps). A battery below 80% capacity will need replacing soon.
• Storage: All A7 models have expandable microSD storage, so internal storage (16GB, 32GB, or 64GB) matters less.
• Physical condition: Check for cracks, dents, and screen burn-in. A pristine 2017 model may be a better buy than a battered 2018 model.
• Price: The 2018 model typically costs more, but not by much. If the price difference is small, always choose the newer generation.

Alternatives: What Else to Consider

If you’re shopping for a budget phone today, the A7 series is quite old. Better alternatives include:

• Samsung Galaxy A15 or A25 — modern budget phones with better screens, cameras, and software support.
• Samsung Galaxy M series — similar to A series but with larger batteries.
• Motorola Moto G series — reliable performance and clean Android software.
• Older flagship phones — a used Galaxy S9 or S10 may cost similar to an A7 but offers a much better camera and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Galaxy A7 (2018) water-resistant?

Yes, the 2017 and 2018 models have IP68 water resistance, meaning they can survive submersion in up to 1.5 meters of fresh water for 30 minutes. The 2015 and 2016 models do not have any official water resistance rating.

Can I still use a Galaxy A7 in 2025?

You can, but with limitations. The phones will run basic apps like WhatsApp, YouTube, and web browsing, but they will be slow and may not support the latest versions of some apps. Also, without security updates, you should avoid online banking or entering sensitive information.

Do all A7 models support 4G LTE?

Yes, all four generations support 4G LTE, but the supported bands vary by region. If you’re using a carrier that relies on newer bands (like Band 71 in the US), the phone may not connect to 4G in some areas.

Which A7 has the best camera?

The 2018 model has the best camera setup: a 24MP main sensor and a 5MP depth sensor for portrait mode, plus a 24MP front camera. The 2017 model has a single 16MP rear camera but takes very good photos in good light.

Can I replace the battery in a Galaxy A7?

Yes, but it’s not a user-friendly process. The battery is glued in, and you’ll need special tools and a heat gun to open the back. A professional repair shop can do it for a reasonable fee, but it may not be worth it for a phone that’s no longer supported.

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