Samsung Galaxy S5 Mini Hits AT&T Networks March 20 With Questionable $429 Price Tag
Samsung officially announced the Galaxy S5 Mini back on July 1, 2014. That seems like eons ago in tech terms, but AT&T it just now getting around to bringing the smartphone to its network. AT&T’s glacial progress when it comes to adding the Galaxy S5 Mini was even slower than Verizon’s hesitance to bring the Nexus 6 onboard.
With that said, the Galaxy S5 Mini will be available for $99 with a new, two-year contract or you can select from one of three NEXT plans. Acquiring the device via NEXT 24, NEXT 18, and NEXT 12 will cost you $14.30, $17.88, and $21.48 respectively per month ($0 down). Alternatively, you can just buy the smartphone outright for $428.99.
I must say that the pricing is by no means attractive at all. I understand that Samsung is now trying to pivot and create more premium devices, but the Galaxy S5 Mini isn’t one of them. You’ll receive a 1.4GHz quad-core processor with 1.5GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage, a microSD slot, 4.5-inch 720p display, an 8MP rear camera, 2MP front-facing camera and LTE connectivity. And the device is still running Android 4.4.4 KitKat.
On the other hand, you could simply purchase a Motorola Moto G with similar specs and a 5-inch display for a bargain basement $179. You also wouldn’t have to put up with Samsung’s TouchWiz interface. On the other hand, you could skimp a little on the display and go with the 4.5-inch (960x540) second generation Moto E for $149.99.
Even the 4.7-inch Samsung Galaxy Alpha might be a better choice, as it is available for $319.99 off-contract from AT&T and outclasses the S5 Mini on nearly every front (display, processor, cameras, features, etc.).
