Samsung Galaxy A8 Star

Photo: Hajoon0102 via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Samsung

Samsung Galaxy A8 Star

June 2018 7/10 Rating
In brief: The Samsung Galaxy A8 Star is a mid-range Android smartphone released in June 2018, primarily for East and Southeast Asian markets, also known as the Galaxy A9 Star in China. It features a 6.3-inch Super AMOLED display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 chipset, and a versatile dual-camera system.
Display6.3-inch Super AMOLED, 1080 x 2220 pixels
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 660
Main CameraDual 24 MP + 16 MP
Battery3700 mAh with 15W fast charging
Starting from $19,249 in International

💰 Samsung Galaxy A8 Star Price in United States

The international price (India, USA, UK & most other countries) is around $19,249, based on current retailer listings.

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent Super AMOLED display for vivid colors and deep blacks.
  • Reliable performance for daily tasks and moderate gaming with Snapdragon 660.
  • Capable cameras, especially the 24MP selfie camera and f/1.7 aperture on main lenses.
  • Strong battery life from the 3700 mAh cell.
  • Premium glass and metal build quality.
  • Includes 3.5mm headphone jack and NFC.

Cons

  • Hybrid SIM slot means sacrificing either a second SIM or microSD expansion.
  • No official IP rating for water and dust resistance.
  • Glass back is susceptible to fingerprints and breakage.
  • Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor placement might not suit all users.
  • Launched with Android 8.0, and major OS updates are limited for older devices.
  • Samsung Pay Mini lacks full NFC tap-and-pay functionality.
★ Our Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy A8 Star was a solid mid-range contender at its release, offering a great display, good cameras, and decent performance, but its software update longevity and lack of full Samsung Pay functionality were minor drawbacks.

The Samsung Galaxy A8 Star, originally released in 2018, can still be a viable option for those seeking an affordable smartphone with a large, vibrant Super AMOLED display and capable cameras. As it's an older model, new units are rare, and you'll likely find it on the used or refurbished market. When purchasing, prioritize devices in excellent condition and verify battery health, as degradation is common over time. Be aware that while it received updates up to Android 9.0 Pie, further major OS updates are unlikely, which could affect long-term app compatibility and security. Its premium build is attractive but also means it's prone to smudges and cracks without a case, and it lacks official water resistance. If a great screen and camera are priorities and you're comfortable with an older Android version, it offers good value at a significantly reduced price.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Samsung Galaxy A8 Star Handset
  • USB Type-C Cable
  • Fast Charger (15W)
  • SIM Ejector Tool
  • In-Ear Earphones
  • Documentation (Quick Start Guide, Warranty Card)

The device typically comes with a standard one-year limited manufacturer's warranty.

❓ Questions & Answers

What is the release date of the Samsung Galaxy A8 Star?

The Samsung Galaxy A8 Star was announced and released in June 2018.

Does the Samsung Galaxy A8 Star have a good camera?

Yes, it features a dual rear camera setup with 24 MP and 16 MP sensors, both with f/1.7 aperture, and a 24 MP f/2.0 front-facing camera, offering good photo capabilities for its class.

What kind of display does the Samsung Galaxy A8 Star have?

It boasts a 6.3-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2220 pixels, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks.

Is the Samsung Galaxy A8 Star good for gaming?

Equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 chipset and Adreno 512 GPU, the Galaxy A8 Star can handle most modern mobile games at moderate settings.

Does the Samsung Galaxy A8 Star support fast charging?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy A8 Star supports 15W wired fast charging for its 3700 mAh battery.

Is the Samsung Galaxy A8 Star waterproof?

No, the Samsung Galaxy A8 Star does not have an official IP rating for water or dust resistance.