Samsung Galaxy S6 Active smartphone
Samsung

Samsung Galaxy S6 Active

June 2015 8/10 Rating Updated
In brief: The Samsung Galaxy S6 Active is a rugged variant of the flagship Galaxy S6, designed for durability and outdoor use. It features enhanced water, dust, and shock resistance, along with a significantly larger battery compared to the standard S6. While sharing most internal specifications with its counterpart, it sports a more robust physical design.
Display5.1-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED (577 ppi)
ChipsetExynos 7 Octa 7420
Main Camera16 MP, f/1.9, OIS, 4K video
Battery3500 mAh (Non-removable)
Starting from $70

💰 Samsung Galaxy S6 Active Price

The Samsung Galaxy S6 Active lowest price is $70, based on current retailer listings.

📌 Full Specifications

Display

TypeSuper AMOLED
Size5.1 inches
Resolution1440 x 2560 pixels (Quad HD)
Pixel Density~577 ppi
ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass 4

Platform

ChipsetExynos 7 Octa 7420 (14 nm)
CPUOcta-core (4x2.1 GHz Cortex-A57 & 4x1.5 GHz Cortex-A53)
GPUMali-T760MP8
OS (upgradable to)Up to Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow)

Memory

Internal Storage32GB
RAM3GB LPDDR4
Card slotNo

Main Camera

Resolution16 MP
Aperturef/1.9
FeaturesOptical Image Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus (Phase Detection, Contrast), LED flash, HDR, Panorama, Pro mode
Video4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, 720p@120fps

Selfie Camera

Resolution5 MP
Aperturef/1.9
FeaturesWide-angle lens
VideoQHD (1140p@30fps)

Battery

TypeNon-removable Li-Ion
Capacity3500 mAh
ChargingFast charging, Wireless charging (Qi/PMA)

Body

Dimensions146.8 x 73.4 x 8.6 mm (5.78 x 2.89 x 0.34 in)
Weight170 g (6.00 oz)
BuildRugged plastic/polycarbonate body with reinforced edges
DurabilityIP68 dust/water resistant (up to 1.5m for 30 min), MIL-STD-810G compliant (salt, dust, humidity, rain, vibration, solar radiation, transport and thermal shock resistant)
ButtonsPhysical navigation buttons

Comms

WLANWi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot
Bluetooth4.1, A2DP, LE
GPSYes, with A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou
NFCYes
RadioNo
USBmicroUSB 2.0
Infrared portYes

Launch

AnnouncedMarch 2015 (with Galaxy S6)
StatusReleased June 2015
OS (initial)Android 5.0.2 (Lollipop)

⚖ Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Excellent ruggedness and durability (IP68, MIL-STD-810G)
  • Significantly larger battery life compared to the standard S6
  • High-quality 5.1-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display
  • Capable 16MP camera with OIS
  • Wireless charging support
  • Customizable 'Active Key' for quick app access

Cons

  • No microSD card slot for expandable storage
  • No fingerprint sensor
  • Design is less premium and more utilitarian than the standard S6
  • Was an AT&T exclusive, limiting carrier options
  • Non-removable battery
  • Limited to 32GB internal storage (no 64GB or 128GB option for Active model)
★ Our Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy S6 Active earns a high rating for its exceptional durability, extended battery life, and strong performance, making it an ideal choice for active users despite its less refined design and lack of a microSD slot or fingerprint sensor.

The Samsung Galaxy S6 Active, released in 2015, is a niche device best suited for those prioritizing extreme durability and extended battery life over modern aesthetics and features. As an older model, it will likely only be available on the used market, so thoroughly inspect its condition, especially the battery health and screen. Ensure it is unlocked if you are not on AT&T, as it was originally an exclusive. While it lacks contemporary features like a fingerprint sensor and expandable storage, its rugged build and still-decent camera make it a solid, affordable option for outdoor enthusiasts or those prone to dropping their phones. Consider its age and the potential for outdated software support when making your purchase decision.

📦 In The Box & Warranty

  • Samsung Galaxy S6 Active smartphone
  • Adaptive Fast Charger
  • MicroUSB 2.0 cable
  • Quick Start Guide
  • Health and Safety Information

Samsung typically provides a 12-month manufacturer's warranty for mobile devices, covering defects in materials and workmanship from the date of purchase.

❓ Questions & Answers

Is the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active waterproof?

Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active is IP68 certified, meaning it is dust and water resistant, capable of being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active have expandable storage?

No, the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active does not have a microSD card slot, so its internal 32GB storage is not expandable.

What is the battery life like on the Galaxy S6 Active?

The Galaxy S6 Active features a large 3500 mAh non-removable battery, offering significantly longer battery life than the standard Galaxy S6, with up to 24 hours of talk time.

Does the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active have a fingerprint sensor?

No, unlike the standard Galaxy S6, the S6 Active does not include a fingerprint sensor.

What is the 'Active Key' feature on the S6 Active?

The 'Active Key' is a customizable physical button on the side of the phone that can be programmed to quickly launch specific apps, such as the 'Activity Zone' for outdoor tools like a compass and flashlight.

What operating system does the Samsung Galaxy S6 Active run?

The Samsung Galaxy S6 Active launched with Android 5.0.2 (Lollipop) and was upgradable to Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow), with some sources indicating potential updates to Android 7.0 (Nougat).