Last updated: August 2026
The A72 included a genuine telephoto lens — optical zoom, not the digital kind — which was and remains unusual outside flagships. It is worth understanding the difference, because “zoom” on a spec sheet usually means nothing at all.
Optical against digital zoom
| Optical zoom | Digital zoom | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | A separate lens genuinely magnifies | The image is cropped and enlarged |
| Image quality | Full detail retained | Detail is lost |
| Cost to the manufacturer | Real — an extra camera module | None — it is software |
Digital zoom is just cropping. You can achieve the same result afterwards by cropping the photo yourself, which is why a “10x zoom” claim on a cheap phone means very little.
A telephoto lens is a physical component, and its presence is a real specification worth paying for — particularly for portraits, events and anything you cannot walk closer to.
Why so few mid-range phones have one
It costs money and space. Manufacturers at this price generally spend both on the main camera instead, then add an ultra-wide and a low-value macro camera to raise the lens count.
When comparing budget phones, count the useful lenses, not the total. A two-camera phone with a telephoto beats a four-camera phone without one.
Where the A72 stands now
Several years old, and it was a 4G model — which counts against it on a two-year contract as older networks are retired.
Confirm the remaining security update window before buying. See 3G contract deals.
See Galaxy A71, Galaxy A73 5G, Galaxy A55, Samsung contract deals and camera contract deals.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between optical and digital zoom?
Optical uses a real lens and keeps detail. Digital just crops the image.
Is a telephoto lens worth it?
Yes — it is one of the few camera specifications that genuinely matters.
Does the A72 support 5G?
It was a 4G model, which matters on a long contract.
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Specifications vary by variant. Confirm the exact model. This is general information, not financial advice.