[Samsung Galaxy A3, A5, A7 (2017) Guides, News, & D] KimJungCool:
This is my review of the new A7 from Samsung.

I've had this phone for about a month and I have no real complaints about it.

While the specs may be underwhelming compared to its competitors, it would be wise to take note that aside from the hardware, software optimization also plays a big role in how a phone performs.

DESIGN

It looks like an S7 Plus. Same design language, same materials. The only difference is how the glass back refracts light. The A7 is less shiny than last year's flagship. I'd slap on a case right away if I were you though. Though not easily noticeable, mine got micro scratches on its back after a week despite my utmost care in handling the phone. Also, take note that this device is pretty heavy and slippery. If Dbrand made skins for this phone, I'd buy a set without hesitation. [Please, Dbrand?]

PERFORMANCE

The A7 handles daily tasks without a sweat. That's a given. Everything is just smooth. Though if you notice, there are minute, initial lags in every app startup after which, the experience becomes undeniably smooth.

I've also put it through its paces with graphically-demanding games such as Anomaly 2 [Renders a crapload of visual goodies on-screen all the time] and Dynasty Warriors: Unleashed. [Physics engine-intensive] I've had very minimal framerate drops. I couldn't really notice the phone heating up substantially.

RAM management was pretty good.

I've never had an app crash on me just yet.

AUDIO

The loudspeaker is mediocre. While it definitely sounds better than my old phone's, it still leaves a lot to be desired. The difference is far better once you plug in a pair of earphones. I've never had a device that drives my JBLs so perfectly. The audio software's top-notch. I could listen to music for hours on end.

BATTERY LIFE

The 3600mah battery is extremely good. I've never had the phone run out of power on me. The adaptive fast charging, while not the fastest, is very dependable. I recall once that I forgot to charge my phone the night before, work up with 5% left, plugged it in whilst I got ready for work. 30 minutes later, it had almost 50% of power. Definitely, I'd recommend this phone if you're always on the go.

WATER AND DUST RESISTANCE

I really enjoy this feature. Since it's water resistant, I can actually switch between tempered glasses because I can wash it with running water. (Don't judge, I use a privacy tempered glass for work and school and an ordinary one at home and during jogs.)

Underwater shots and videos are pretty cool. (You cannot dispute this, Sensei)

Though use this feature responsibly. Don't expose it to anything else but water. Salt water? Bad. Pool water? Kinda bad. Sauna water? Dude WTH.

Molecules expand with heat, we all know that. So, exposing the phone to high temperatures may cause the rubber fittings inside to... well, swell and (wilt?) thus rendering your phone unprotected against water intake.

Salt water can corrode the metal in your charging port and headphone jack. The chlorine in pool water does the same (if exposed for extended periods) but to a lesser degree.

So, if you're planning on taking this phone with you to the pool, always, always rinse it with clean water after.

Port plugs wouldn't hurt, would they?

The phone also has a humidity sensor in the charging port. So, at least your phone's protected from short circuits in the unfortunate event that you fail to dry your phone thoroughly.

CONCLUSION

Yes, it's a great phone. Great screen, reliable performance, excellent battery life and IP68 protection. Even if there are better alternatives at this price point, I'd still get this phone.

One might say "Hey, why not just get an S7 Edge instead?"

That's a valid point. But depending on your region, it would make more or less sense.

If an S7 Edge retails in your region for a significantly higher price, getting the A7 makes a lot of sense since you'd only be missing out on a bit. [The s7Edge costs $250 more in my country]

However, if say, the prices between the A7 and S7 are closer, then by all means, get the flagship.

Note: No camera section because I don't really have any pictures to post for you ladies and gents. I'd be like describing colors to a blind man [or woman].