Samsung Galaxy S5 – Review

The Samsung galaxy S5 seems to be the most innovative handset from Samsung up to date, with its tough IP-certified design that is resistant to water and dust along with several high-end inclusions such as 16MP rear camera and Snapdragon 801 processor. Appearing much like its predecessor S4, the S5 differs with a plastic buildup and bigger 1920 x 1080 screen, which puts it in between the S4 and Note 3. Concerning visuals, the new inclusion is the dimple effect rear panel for gripping.

Within the handset, many technological components make the rumors of biometrics true. Interestingly, there is a fingerprint scanner for unlocking phone and a heart rate monitor on the rear. And yes, the inclusion of the sandboxing feature, Knox, based on NSA technology for setting work and personal areas with encrypted password protection on the phone is simply extraordinary.

Design

The plastic design couples with a soft finish back cover with perforated pattern. The finishing quality is durable while the overall design is just great in terms of functionality. When it comes to holding, the phone fits comfortably well in hand. The most interesting design aspect is that it is waterproof, which means you can use it even while scuba diving (but not deep). The charging port supporting both USB 2 and 3 is flap-covered.

Display

It is spectacular with the Super AMOLED screen of 5.1-inch displaying rich colors sharply and having great viewing angles. The text does not get pixilated on a Web page or in an e-book. Even in sunlit areas, the screen retains its readability level, which was a problem in S4

Camera

The 16MP primary camera with its ISOCELL technology helps clicking better images even is dark areas having low light. There is also a rare feature of quick-to-use HDR mode for solving the off-the-mark contrast of images in too bright areas. Getting focus is also fast, while shooting videos is fun with clear and good contrast in 720, 1080P and 4K resolution. With the slow mode, shoot a speedily moving car will show it crawling on the road. The front camera is ideal for video chats!

New Features

• Fingerprint Scanner:  Unlocks phone when you swipe slowly but firmly.
• S Health:  Records walking or jogging workout to know how many steps are taken.
  IR Sensor: Controls set-top box or TV.
• Heart Rate Monitor: Shows heart rate in five seconds when you put your finger on the sensor under the primary camera.
• Kids Mode: Allows kids to play games or draw on a cartoonish theme, facilitates setting the access limits for apps as well.
• Ultra Power Saving Mode: Displays a grey scale theme to indicate battery conservation by halting all non-essential services. As a result, with 5% battery left, you can use the phone for more than 60 minutes even for surfing.

Price

This high-tech phone is still waiting to get a price tag. However, UK retailers has started taking orders for 16 GB models at £599.98. There is no declaration on pricing about 32 GB models.

Pros

• Superb screen
• Great camera
• Excellent battery life with Ultra Power Saving mode
• Ample of storage
• Resistance to water
• Health suite

Cons

• Okay scanner feature
• Average speaker

The blend of top tech and security features make Galaxy S5 an innovative smartphone.