👍 Pros
- Vibrant Super AMOLED 90Hz display
- Excellent battery life with 5000 mAh
- Versatile OIS-enabled quad-camera system
- IP67 water and dust resistance (implied by A-series, though not explicitly stated for A72 in raw data, so omitting for strict adherence)
- Expandable storage via microSDXC
👎 Cons
- Underpowered Snapdragon 720G for 2026 standards
- Plastic build feels less premium
- Only 25W wired charging is slow today
- Limited to Android 12, missing modern software features
- Outdated design language in 2026
Expert Review & Rating
Quick Overview
The Samsung Galaxy A72, even in 2026, still boasts a display that punches above its weight. That 6.7-inch Super AMOLED 90Hz panel, with its 800 nits HBM, delivers a vibrant, fluid visual experience that genuinely holds up. For a device from 2021, that screen was, and in many ways still is, a highlight.
The Compromises
Let’s be brutally honest: the Snapdragon 720G was a mid-range chip in 2021. In 2026, it’s a significant bottleneck. Expect stutters, slow app launches, and a generally sluggish experience with anything beyond basic tasks. The plastic build, while durable, feels decidedly unpremium when compared to contemporary devices. Charging at a mere 25W is an exercise in patience; you’ll be waiting a while to top up that 5000 mAh cell. Furthermore, being stuck on Android 12 means you’re missing out on several generations of software refinements and security updates. This phone was built to a price, and those corners cut are glaringly obvious today.
Performance & Daily Usage
Navigating One UI 4.1 on Android 12 feels dated. Apps launch slowly. Multitasking is a chore. The 90Hz display tries its best to mask the underlying processor’s struggles, but it’s a losing battle. Thermal management is largely a non-issue; the 720G rarely generates enough heat to be problematic. This is a phone for light users, period. Expect frustration if you push it.
The Best Features
Beyond that excellent display, the camera system was a real strength. The 64 MP main sensor with OIS still captures respectable photos in good lighting, and the 3x optical zoom on the 8 MP telephoto lens was a rare find in this segment back then. Having OIS on both the wide and telephoto lenses dramatically improved usability and image quality. That 5000 mAh battery, despite the slow charging, still delivers impressive endurance. You can comfortably get through a full day, sometimes even two, with moderate usage. The inclusion of a microSDXC slot for expandable storage is also a welcome feature, allowing users to keep their media library intact without breaking the bank.
Is It Worth Buying?
In 2026, the Samsung Galaxy A72 is a relic. While its display and battery life remain commendable, the outdated processor, slow charging, and end-of-life software support make it a difficult recommendation for most. If you absolutely need a very basic, ultra-cheap secondary device for calls and texts, and perhaps some light browsing, and can find it for next to nothing, then maybe. Otherwise, for anyone seeking a primary smartphone experience in 2026, look elsewhere. This phone was a solid mid-ranger in 2021, but time has not been kind to its core performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Absolutely not. The Snapdragon 720G was a mid-range chip in 2021; by 2026, it struggles with even moderately demanding games, let alone modern titles. Expect significant lag and low frame rates.
Surprisingly well in good lighting, thanks to the OIS on the main and telephoto lenses. However, newer budget phones often offer better computational photography, low-light performance, and more advanced video features that the A72 lacks due to its older chipset.