Leaked images of the Samsung Galaxy A22 5G have been released, giving us a clearer design of the upcoming budget smartphone.

We have seen the handset before, but these new leaked images from 91mobiles shed light not only on the Galaxy A22 5G's design, but also on its internal specs and the compromises it makes to deliver 5G connectivity on a budget.

5G connectivity first started coming to devices in 2019, initially limited to expensive devices like the $1,299 Samsung Galaxy S10 5G. Since 2020, however, 5G has been making its way into affordable Pixel smartphones and models like the OnePlus Nord. Samsung is no stranger to our best budget smartphones list or the more affordable 5G field, but the Galaxy A22 5G could be the device that puts it over the top.

First, the design. As you can see from the photo above, the handset has the typical features of entry-level Samsung devices: a rather thick bezel (especially at the base of the screen) and a teardrop-shaped center notch for the front-facing camera.

On the back, there is a square camera module, and the same "glasstic" material used in the cheaper options found in our best Samsung phones list, although the company appears to be planning to release the phone in some pastel shades are to be expected.

But what is really interesting are the specs shared with 91mobiles. Samsung has released both 4G and 5G versions of the A22, so it is clear what cuts the company had to make in order to include 5G.

To be clear, neither device will be a powerhouse, ditching Qualcomm's chip in favor of MediaTek's system-on-a-chip; the 4G model will feature the Helio G80 chip, while the 5G version will have the Dimensity 700 chipset The 5G version will be powered by the Dimensity 700 chipset. Therefore, the 5G version should have the advantage in relative speed, but compromises are made in other areas.

On the back, there are only three cameras (an array of 48 MP, 5 MP, and 2 MP) as opposed to the quad camera setup (48 MP, 5 MP, and 2 MP) of the 4G version, and the 6.4-inch screen is not an AMOLED screen used on the 4G model, LCD panel.

Otherwise, the known specs are similar. Both have HD+ resolution and a 5,000 mAh battery with 15W fast charging.

Much of the appeal of the handsets hinges on pricing, which we have previously heard will be less than $200 when the 5G phones are released this summer. However, it is not yet clear how much the 4G version will cost.

Given that universal coverage of 5G is still a long way off, it might be wise for budget buyers to consider Samsung's A22 handset regardless; not only could 5G inadvertently use up limited data allowances in no time, but it could also be a good idea for those who are looking to buy a new phone for a fraction of the price, Any budget handset will reach the end of its useful life much sooner than the flagships, and by the time 5G definitely reaches your area, you may find that it's time to upgrade anyway.