Samsung Galaxy S5 in 2025: A Classic Android Pioneer That Still Runs
Back in April 2014, the Samsung Galaxy S5 set a benchmark in the Android world with its powerful performance, water resistance, and user-replaceable battery. It was one of the earliest flagship smartphones to combine premium features with practicality.
Fast forward to 2025, and while the Galaxy S5 is no longer relevant for modern tasks or app compatibility, it still finds a niche among vintage tech collectors, developers, and users who appreciate its rugged, no-frills usability.
Samsung Galaxy S5 Price in 2025
The Galaxy S5 is no longer sold new, but it’s still available on refurbished and used-device markets.
- Used (Working Condition): $30 – $60 USD / ₹2,000 – ₹4,500 INR
- Refurbished (Good Condition): $70 – $90 USD / ₹5,000 – ₹7,000 INR
- Collector’s Item (Unboxed/New): $100+ USD (varies by rarity)
🛠️ Tip: If you’re buying one, make sure the battery and charging port are functional, as replacement parts are still available.
Samsung Galaxy S5 Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Release Date | April 2014 |
| Display | 5.1-inch Super AMOLED, Full HD (1920 × 1080), Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Processor (Global) | Exynos 5422 Octa-core or Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 (varies by region) |
| RAM | 2GB DDR3 |
| Storage | 16GB / 32GB, expandable via microSD (up to 128GB) |
| Rear Camera | 16MP, 4K video at 30fps, LED flash, HDR |
| Front Camera | 2MP |
| Battery | 2,800mAh, removable, USB 3.0 port |
| OS at Launch | Android 4.4.2 KitKat (upgradable officially to Android 6.0 Marshmallow) |
| Build Material | Plastic with faux leather back |
| Water/Dust Resistance | IP67 certified (water-resistant up to 1m for 30 mins) |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Integrated in home button (swipe-based) |
| Weight | 145 grams |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11ac, NFC, Infrared, Bluetooth 4.0 |
| Other Features | Heart rate sensor, Download Booster, Ultra Power Saving Mode, USB 3.0 port |
Why Would Anyone Use the Galaxy S5 in 2025?
✅ Legacy Support & Dev Use
Developers may use the S5 for testing lightweight apps or ROM projects. It still supports custom ROMs like LineageOS (unofficial), giving it an afterlife beyond its official Android 6.0 update.
✅ Removable Battery
One of its standout features still missed today. You can replace the battery instantly without tools—a rarity in modern phones.
✅ Classic Design & Durability
The textured back, IP67 rating, and compact screen size make it a practical choice for basic communication or secondary use in tough environments.
✅ Budget-Friendly
At under $60, the S5 is accessible for those who just need a backup phone, MP3 player, or media device.
❌ Why It’s Not a Primary Phone Anymore
- Outdated OS & Security: Most apps no longer support Android 6.0 or below, and the phone lacks modern security patches.
- Slow Performance: With only 2GB RAM and aging chipsets, multitasking is poor by 2025 standards.
- No Modern App Compatibility: Banking, streaming, and social media apps may no longer work or function poorly.
- Low Camera Quality Today: Its camera, while great in 2014, is outdated for today’s imaging expectations.
Conclusion
In 2025, the Samsung Galaxy S5 is no longer a daily driver—but it hasn’t completely disappeared either. It serves specific use cases like:
- Tech tinkerers & collectors
- Emergency backup phones
- Battery-conscious users
- Developers testing older Android builds
If you’re looking for nostalgia or simplicity in a smartphone, the Galaxy S5 still offers a glimpse of what made early Android flagships so beloved.