Samsung Galaxy A Series Fingerprint Recognition: A Complete Generational Breakdown

Introduction

Fingerprint recognition has become an everyday feature for smartphone users. For Samsung’s Galaxy A series, which bridges the gap between premium Galaxy S/Note devices and entry-level Galaxy M series, the fingerprint solution varies significantly across generations and models. From rear-mounted sensors to sleek under-display technology, the A series showcases Samsung’s evolving approach to security and usability.

Evolution of Fingerprint Technology in Samsung A Series

When fingerprint scanners first appeared on Galaxy A phones, they were mostly rear-mounted. As design trends shifted toward full-screen displays, Samsung transitioned to side-mounted and under-display solutions. The A series, being a diverse lineup, reflects this mix of old and new technologies depending on model positioning and price.

Types of Fingerprint Recognition in A Series

Under-Display Optical Fingerprint

Most common in mid-to-upper A series models (A5x, A7x).
Uses light to capture a fingerprint image.
Typically located in the lower section of the screen.

Under-Display Ultrasonic Fingerprint

Rare in A series (mainly reserved for Galaxy S/Note flagships).
Uses sound waves for more secure scanning.

Side-Mounted Fingerprint

Integrated into the power button.
Quick and reliable.
Found in budget and mid-range A series phones.

Rear-Mounted Fingerprint

Legacy design, positioned at the back.
Common in older A2x and A3x models.

A5x / A7x Series – The Mainstream Under-Display Leaders

Galaxy A50 Series

The Galaxy A50 was the first A series phone to adopt under-display optical fingerprint recognition. While innovative, its first-gen performance was criticized for being slower and less accurate.

Galaxy A51 / A52 / A52s / A53 / A54 / A55

Samsung refined the technology here. These models delivered faster recognition and improved reliability compared to early attempts.

Galaxy A70 / A71 / A72 / A73

These higher-tier A7x devices also adopted under-display sensors, aligning them closer to Samsung’s premium lineup.

A3x Series – Gradual Transition

Galaxy A33 (Side-Mounted)

Instead of under-display, the A33 relied on a side fingerprint scanner, offering speed and cost efficiency.

Galaxy A34 (Under-Display Optical)

The A34 marked a surprising shift by adopting an under-display scanner, bringing premium design to mid-range.

Galaxy A35 / A36 (Side-Mounted Again)

Interestingly, Samsung reverted back to side-mounted sensors in successors, showing the balancing act between cost and user experience.

A2x Series – Budget-Friendly Choices

Galaxy A20 / A24 / A25 / A26

All of these feature side-mounted scanners.
Cost considerations make this a practical choice.

Galaxy A30 / A31

These relied on rear-mounted scanners, showing their entry-level positioning.

Special Cases in A Series

Galaxy A80

Unique for its rotating camera design, this phone used an under-display optical fingerprint, aligning with its flagship-like feel.

Galaxy A82 / A90

Both included under-display scanners, further blurring the line between premium and mid-range.

A56 (Market Specific)

Some regional models like the A56 follow the design of A35, featuring side-mounted sensors.

Comparison Table of Fingerprint Types by Model

Model	Fingerprint Type
A15, A16	Side-mounted
A20	Side-mounted
A24, A25, A26	Side-mounted
A30	Rear-mounted
A31	Rear-mounted
A32 4G	Side-mounted
A33 5G	Side-mounted
A34 5G	Under-display
A35, A36, A56	Side-mounted
A50, A51	Under-display
A52, A52s, A53, A54, A55	Under-display
A70, A71, A72, A73	Under-display
A80	Under-display
A90	Under-display

How to Identify Fingerprint Type Before Buying

Checking Official Specs

Always look at Samsung’s official website or trusted retailers. Specifications clearly state the fingerprint type.

Design Cues

Side-mounted: sensor is on power button.
Rear-mounted: sensor is visible on the back cover.
Under-display: front screen has no visible sensor.

Release Year Reference

Post-2021, most mid-high A series adopt under-display recognition, except for budget lines.

Pros and Cons of Each Fingerprint Method

Under-Display Optical

Pros: Premium feel, clean design, futuristic.
Cons: Can be slower, struggles with wet fingers.

Side-Mounted

Pros: Fast, accurate, affordable.
Cons: Less futuristic, placement may be awkward for left-handed users.

Rear-Mounted

Pros: Cheap, reliable.
Cons: Outdated design, inconvenient when phone is on a table.

User Experience Insights

Users often find side-mounted scanners faster and more consistent. Under-display looks futuristic but can lag under certain conditions. Rear-mounted, while functional, is now considered outdated and less ergonomic.

Why Samsung Chooses Different Solutions

Samsung tailors fingerprint solutions based on:

Cost efficiency (budget devices get side-mounted).
Market positioning (mid-high get under-display).
User preference trends (practicality vs. premium feel).

Future of Fingerprint Recognition in A Series

Looking ahead, Samsung may unify the A series under a single solution. With ultrasonic scanners becoming more affordable, we may see a shift away from optical sensors. AI enhancements could further improve accuracy and speed, making fingerprint scanning even more seamless.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy A series demonstrates how fingerprint recognition technology evolves with market demands. If you want a sleek under-display fingerprint, focus on the A5x and A7x series, plus select models like the A34 5G, A80, and A90. Budget users can rely on the speed and reliability of side-mounted scanners. Ultimately, Samsung’s choices balance cost, design, and usability, ensuring the A series remains a versatile lineup.

FAQs

1. Which Galaxy A series is best if I want under-display fingerprint?
The A5x and A7x models (A53, A54, A55, A71, A73) are your best bet.

2. Is under-display fingerprint faster than side-mounted?
Not always—side-mounted sensors are typically faster, though under-display looks more premium.

3. Do all Galaxy A5x models have under-display fingerprint?
Yes, starting from the Galaxy A50 series, all A5x models include optical under-display sensors.

4. Why did Samsung keep side-mounted fingerprint on some new models?
It’s a cost-saving choice and ensures fast performance for budget and mid-tier phones.

5. Will future Galaxy A phones use ultrasonic fingerprint?
Possibly. As costs drop, Samsung may introduce ultrasonic technology into the A series.

Loly

Hi, I’m Loly, the funder of MoPhoneParts.com, I’ve been running a factory in China that makes Mobile Phone Parts for 8 years now, and the purpose of this article is to share with you the knowledge related to cellphone parts from a Chinese supplier’s perspective.