Aging Exynos 7870 is still a performer
If Huawei has the Kirin 659, Samsung has the Exynos 7870 as its go-to processor for its mid-range phones. Even if it is more than two years old, it can keep up with the demands of a typical user. Scoring 62622 in AnTutu, this proves that the Exynos 7870 is still a decent mid-range processor in 2018. Paired with 3GB RAM and 32GB internal storage, the Galaxy A6 (2018) can do the usual multitasking, along with a few games in between.
Throughout the duration we used it as a daily driver, we barely experienced any lag—which is also a good indicator that Samsung’s Experience Android overlay is well-optimized. Another thing we like about the Exynos 7870 is how it keeps temperature levels stable even on heavy loads (ie. prolonged gaming).
Speaking of games, we tried out Asphalt 8, Marvel Future Fight, and PUBG Mobile with the Galaxy A6 (2018). Based on the data obtained via GameBench, the Galaxy A6 (2018) is capable of light-to-medium gaming.
With racing games like Asphalt 8, the Galaxy A6 (2018) is a performer. At high settings, we managed to get a median FPS of 23, along with 95% FPS stability, which translates to a smooth gaming experience.
As with Marvel Future Fight, it is highly advisable to tone down the graphics settings in order to have a smooth experience. When we tried it at high settings, we were getting only a median FPS of 18 and a rather low FPS stability of 46%.
It is all good news when it comes to PUBG Mobile. Using low settings, we got a median FPS of 22, along with an impressive 91% FPS stability. That being said, slaying enemies for that chicken dinner is feasible with the Galaxy A6 (2018).
Interesting set of bells and whistles for a mid-range phone
Aside from the fact that Samsung Experience has come a long way since TouchWiz days, the Galaxy A6 (2018) offers a few bells and whistles. One of which is the Dolby Atmos sound enhancement feature. While you can only use this with headphones, enabling it improves the overall sound quality. However, you have to use high-quality MP3s (at least 320Kbps or lossless) to fully appreciate the Dolby Atmos feature.
For the OS, the Galaxy A6 (2018) has an advantage over the more expensive Galaxy A8 (2018) as it comes with Android Oreo out of the box. Our review unit came with the latest security patch as well. You are also getting Bixby as well, though it is limited to Bixby Vision and Bixby reminders.
As for security options, you get both fingerprint and face unlock methods, giving you flexibility in unlocking the Galaxy A6 (2018). Like most phones that use only the front camera for face unlock, we prefer using the fingerprint scanner instead.
