Samsung Galaxy F42 5G: Full Specs & Review

Samsung's Galaxy F42 5G is a budget-friendly smartphone that brings next-generation 5G connectivity, a smooth 90Hz display, and a versatile triple-camera system to a wider audience, offering strong value for its price point.

Introduction / Overview

Launched in late 2021, the Samsung Galaxy F42 5G is designed for users who want to step into the 5G ecosystem without breaking the bank. Its key selling points include a large 90Hz display for smooth scrolling, a capable MediaTek Dimensity 700 processor for reliable performance, and a massive 5000mAh battery for all-day endurance. It's an ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers, students, and anyone looking for a dependable Samsung smartphone with future-proof connectivity.

Design & Display

The Galaxy F42 5G features a modern design with a bezel-less display and a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor. It's built with a plastic frame and back, keeping the device lightweight and practical.

• Dimensions: 167.2 x 76.4 x 9.0 mm
• Weight: 203 grams
• Build: Plastic frame, Plastic back, Glass front
• Colors: Black, Blue
• Display Type: 6.6-inch TFT LCD
• Resolution: Full HD+ (1080 x 2408 pixels)
• Refresh Rate: 90Hz smooth scrolling
• Pixel Density: ~400 ppi

Performance & Hardware

Under the hood, the phone is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 700 5G chipset, built on a power-efficient 7nm process. This is paired with ample RAM and storage options to handle everyday tasks and multitasking with ease.

• Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 700 (7nm)
• CPU: Octa-core (2x Cortex-A76 @2.2GHz & 6x Cortex-A55)
• GPU: ARM Mali-G57 MC2
• RAM: 6GB or 8GB LPDDR4X
• Storage: 128GB UFS (expandable via microSDXC)

Camera

The smartphone boasts a versatile triple-camera array on the back, headlined by a high-resolution 64MP sensor, allowing for detailed photos in good lighting.

• Main Camera: 64MP Wide (ƒ/1.8 aperture)
• Ultra-Wide Camera: 5MP (115° field of view)
• Depth Sensor: 2MP for portrait effects
• Video Recording: Up to 1152p @ 30fps
• Front Camera: 8MP for selfies and video calls (1080p @ 30fps)

Battery & Charging

Battery life is a major strength of the Galaxy F42 5G, thanks to its large capacity cell that supports all-day use, even with 5G enabled.

• Capacity: 5000 mAh Li-Polymer
• Charging: 15W wired fast charging

Software & Features

The phone ships with Samsung's user-friendly software overlay, offering a clean and feature-rich experience.

• Operating System: Android 11
• Upgradeable: To Android 13
• User Interface: Samsung One UI 5
• Security: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor, Face unlock

Connectivity & Network

As the name suggests, 5G is the headline feature, providing access to next-gen network speeds. It also includes comprehensive support for all other connectivity standards.

• 5G Support: Yes (multiple bands including n78)
• SIM: Dual Nano-SIM
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac)
• Bluetooth: v5.0
• USB: USB Type-C 2.0
• GPS: GPS, GLONASS, GALILEO, BDS
• NFC: No
• Jack: 3.5mm headphone jack present

Audio & Multimedia

The device offers a standard multimedia experience with a single loudspeaker and support for high-quality audio via the headphone jack.

• Loudspeaker: Mono speaker
• Audio Jack: Yes
• Radio: FM Radio support

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
  • Affordable 5G connectivity
  • Smooth 90Hz display
  • Excellent battery life
  • Clean software with Android 13 upgrade
  • Expandable storage
• Cons:
  • Uses a slower TFT LCD panel
  • No NFC for contactless payments
  • Charging speed is only 15W
  • Plastic build feels less premium

Tags: Samsung, Galaxy F42 5G, Android 13, Dimensity 700, 64MP camera, 5000mAh battery, budget 5G phone

The Samsung Galaxy F42 5G delivers a 90Hz display, MediaTek Dimensity 700 chipset, and a 64MP triple camera, making 5G accessible on a budget.