Smartphone Comparison: Realme GT 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy A73 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Realme GT 5G | Samsung Galaxy A73 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-03-10 | 2022-04-22 | Galaxy A73 5G is a newer phone by a year, indicating potentially longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 158.5 x 73.3 x 8.4 mm | 163.7 x 76.1 x 7.6 mm | A73 5G is taller and wider, GT 5G is thicker. May affect one-handed use and pocketability. |
| Weight | 186g | 181g | A73 5G is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.7" | A73 5G offers a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption, and multi-tasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have identical clarity; should have very similar sharpness. |
| PPI | 409 | 393 | Both have similar pixel densities, which translate to comparable sharpness. GT 5G is slightly sharper. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant, high-contrast displays. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical brightness. This spec is usually measured in nits, so we have to consider the value is missing |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5nm) | Snapdragon 778G 5G (6nm) | GT 5G has a significantly more powerful processor, providing better performance in demanding tasks like gaming and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 912,342 | 575,551 | GT 5G offers considerably better performance, with smoother app loading and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 642L | GT 5G has a more powerful GPU, meaning better gaming performance with higher frame rates and more demanding titles. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | A73 5G has a larger battery, likely providing longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging, Lithium | 25W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | GT 5G charges much faster, quickly topping up the battery; While Li-Ion batteries can be more resistant to some forms of damage, there is no significant impact on real world usage. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | A73 5G's bypass charging will help maintain battery health when gaming plugged in, but both offer a non-removable battery. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682 | 108MP, f/1.8 | A73 5G has a higher resolution sensor, leading to more detailed images. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.5 | 32MP, f/2.2 | A73 5G has a higher resolution and a wider aperture for potentially better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.3 | 12MP, f/2.2 | A73 5G has a higher resolution and a wider aperture for potentially better wide-angle photos. |
| Portrait Lens | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | A73 5G has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.4 | A73 5G has a higher resolution macro camera. |
| Video | 4K@60fps EIS | 4K@30fps EIS | GT 5G can record 4K video at 60fps while A73 is limited to 30 fps, although both offer stabilization. |
| Stabilization | No | Yes (OIS) | A73 5G has Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) offering better video quality. |
| Features | Triple camera, Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser AF, RAW, Night Mode | Quadruple camera, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Exposure compensation | GT 5G excels in low light performance while the A73 excels in image stabilization and versatility with quad camera |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 14 | Android 12, Upgradable to 16 | A73 5G ships with a newer version of Android, meaning longer guaranteed software updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | A73 5G supports newer Wi-Fi standards, potentially faster and more reliable Wi-Fi speeds. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.0 | GT 5G has newer Bluetooth version with higher bandwidth and efficiency. |
| GPS | Dual-band GPS | Standard GPS | GT 5G has enhanced GPS for more precise navigation and better location tracking. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB or 256GB | Both offer the same storage options; plenty for most users. |
| RAM | 8GB or 12GB | 6GB or 8GB | GT 5G has more RAM, leading to better multitasking and smoother overall operation. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage; users should consider this when choosing the internal storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers, 2 Mics | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | GT 5G provides a more immersive and higher quality audio experience and better audio recording with 2 microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both phones use basic fingerprint sensors, offering a similar biometric security experience. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | A73 5G screen is more resistant to scratches and drops |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, RGB, Ultrasonic Proximity | The A73 5G has a more complete sensor suite, including a gyroscope for motion-based games and features, and RGB sensor for better color accuracy. GT5G has proximity sensor for auto screen off when on call. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme GT 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset offers significantly better processing power and gaming performance compared to the Snapdragon 778G in the A73 5G.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging allows the phone to be charged much faster than the A73 5G.
- Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio support and dual microphones provide a superior audio experience for playback and recording.
- Enhanced GPS: Dual-band GPS provides more accurate location tracking.
- More RAM: 12GB RAM option provides superior multitasking capability and performance over A73 5G.
- Higher refresh rate during recording: GT 5G can record 4K at 60 fps, compared to the A73's 30fps.
- Better low light camera performance : The sensor and features give a better low-light camera experience
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G Advantages:
- Larger Display: 6.7" screen is better for media consumption.
- Longer Battery Life: The larger 5000mAh battery provides better endurance.
- Better cameras: Higher megapixel count on main, selfie, and wide cameras for more detailed photos.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Provides better video stabilization and sharper images in low light.
- More Versatile Camera Setup: Dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode.
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 12 and will receive more software updates.
- Better Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass 5 offers better scratch and drop resistance.
- Wi-Fi 6: Supports faster and more reliable Wi-Fi connections.
- Bypass charging: The A73 5G can supply power directly to the system while avoiding the battery when plugged in.
- Gyroscope: The gyroscope enables motion-based gaming and features.
Trade-offs:
- The Realme GT 5G sacrifices battery life for superior processing power and charging speed.
- The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G prioritizes battery life and camera versatility over raw performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme GT 5G is Ideal For:
- Gamers: The powerful Snapdragon 888 and Adreno 660 GPU handle demanding games with ease, and the fast charging will keep the phone ready for more sessions quickly.
- Performance Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize speed, multitasking, and responsiveness in their phone will benefit from the GT 5G.
- Media Consumers: The Hi-Res audio experience will enhance multimedia consumption.
- Users who prioritize smooth video recording The 60fps option gives the GT 5G the edge.
- Users who take pictures in low light The camera set-up performs better in low light.
Samsung Galaxy A73 5G is Ideal For:
- Multimedia Users: The larger screen and better battery life make it ideal for watching videos and browsing the web.
- Photography Enthusiasts: The higher resolution cameras, OIS, and portrait lens provide a more versatile photography experience.
- Users who want the latest software The A73 5G ships with a newer version of Android with a longer upgrade lifespan.
- Users who want a more durable phone: The phone has better screen protection.
- Users who want a phone that will last all day: The larger battery gives better battery life.
Use Cases:
- Realme GT 5G: High-end gaming, video editing, heavy multitasking, low-light photography.
- Samsung Galaxy A73 5G: Casual gaming, social media, watching movies, all-day photography.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Realme GT 5G offers flagship-level performance at a competitive price, appealing to users who prioritize raw power.
- The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G provides a balanced experience with a focus on multimedia and photography features, typically at a mid-range price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance or Battery? Do you prioritize raw speed and responsiveness or all-day battery life?
- Gaming or Photography? Are you a hardcore gamer or do you focus on mobile photography?
- Software and Durability? Do you need the latest software and better screen protection, or are you fine with older software for better performance?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Performance Gamer): If you are a hardcore mobile gamer, the Realme GT 5G is the obvious choice due to its superior processor and GPU.
- Scenario 2 (Photography Enthusiast): If you want a versatile camera system for everyday photography and video, the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G offers a better suite of tools, including OIS, wide lenses, and a dedicated depth sensor.
- Scenario 3 (Balanced User): If you want a balanced experience with good battery life, an acceptable performance level, and a good screen for media consumption, the Samsung Galaxy A73 5G is a better choice.
- Scenario 4 (Budget Conscious): Based on current market prices, the Realme GT 5G may offer more performance per dollar. The Samsung Galaxy A73 5G offers better longevity with a larger battery, newer software, and better screen protection.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally select the Realme GT 5G. My priorities lean towards raw performance and speed, which the GT 5G provides in spades. The faster charging is also a huge plus, as I often find myself needing a quick top-up during the day. I do enjoy mobile gaming, and the Snapdragon 888 paired with the Adreno 660 gives a much more enjoyable gaming experience. Although the A73 5G has better battery life, I am happy to sacrifice a bit of battery for much better performance, as I am always close to a power outlet.
