Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A02 vs. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 164 × 75.9 × 9.1 mm | 162.3 × 79 × 8.6 mm | A02 is slightly taller and thicker but narrower; S24 Ultra is wider, thinner, potentially feeling more premium and less pocketable. |
| Weight | 206g | 232g | S24 Ultra is noticeably heavier, A02 will feel lighter and more comfortable for extended use, especially one-handed use. |
| Build Quality | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Armor | S24 Ultra has significantly better screen protection, improving durability against scratches and drops. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.8" | S24 Ultra has a slightly larger display, offering a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1440x3120 | S24 Ultra has a dramatically sharper display, resulting in clearer text, images, and video. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 505 | S24 Ultra's higher pixel density translates to significantly crisper, more detailed visuals. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | Unknown | Both likely use LCD tech, S24 Ultra is likely AMOLED but is unconfirmed. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | S24 Ultra provides smoother scrolling and animations, making the interface feel more responsive. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2600 nits | S24 Ultra's display is significantly brighter and more usable in direct sunlight. A02 will be difficult to see in outdoor scenarios. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6739W (28 nm) | Qualcomm SM8650-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | S24 Ultra's chipset is significantly faster and more efficient, resulting in smoother app loading, multitasking, and gaming, plus better battery life. |
| AnTuTu Score | 50,774 | 1,814,869 | S24 Ultra scores dramatically higher, demonstrating vastly superior overall performance. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8100 | Adreno 750 | S24 Ultra's GPU delivers much better graphics performance, essential for demanding games and graphical applications. |
| RAM | 2 GB / 3GB / 4GB | 12 GB | S24 Ultra's generous RAM enables much smoother multitasking and allows for better performance in RAM intensive tasks. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 13MP | 200MP | S24 Ultra captures far more detailed photos with significantly higher resolution. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.9 | f/1.7 | S24 Ultra has a slightly wider aperture, performing better in low light. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | Unknown | 1/1.3" | S24 Ultra's larger sensor captures more light, improving image quality, especially in low light. |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | None | 50MP | S24 Ultra provides optical zoom capabilities for high-quality portraits and zoomed shots. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 5MP | 12MP | S24 Ultra captures more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/2.2 | A02 has a slightly wider aperture on the selfie camera. |
| Telephoto Lens Camera | None | 10MP | S24 Ultra has better optical zoom and quality at distance |
| Wide Angle Lens Camera | None | 12.2MP | S24 Ultra allows for wide, landscape shots. |
| Macro Lens Camera | 2MP | None | A02 allows for close-up macro photography |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 8K@24fps/30fps, 4K@30/60/120fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps | S24 Ultra supports much higher resolution video, enabling professional-grade recordings. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes (EIS) | S24 Ultra provides video stabilization which creates smooth and steady recording |
| Slow-motion | No, 30 fps | Yes, 240 fps | S24 Ultra offers high-speed slow-motion video capture. |
| DXOMark Mobile | Unrated | Main Score: 144 | S24 Ultra has a high camera score, showing great performance. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A02 | Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have the same battery capacity, suggesting similar battery life for basic tasks. |
| Charging | 7.5W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | S24 Ultra charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, 15W wireless charging, 4.5W reverse wireless charging | S24 Ultra offers more flexibility with additional charging options like reverse wireless charging, plus bypass charging |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A02 Advantages:
- Lower Price: Significantly more affordable.
- Lighter Weight: More comfortable to hold for extended periods, especially for smaller hands.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for close-up shots.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra Advantages:
- Superior Display: Much sharper, brighter, and smoother display, providing a premium viewing experience.
- Significantly Better Performance: Far faster chipset, GPU, and more RAM enabling a smooth and responsive user experience, including demanding apps and games.
- Professional-Grade Camera System: Significantly higher resolution sensors, versatile lenses, and advanced video features for high-quality photos and videos.
- Faster Charging: Quickly charges with 45W fast charging.
- Advanced Connectivity: Supports newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions for faster speeds and better performance.
- Extra Features: Bypass charging, reverse wireless charging, fingerprint sensor, and additional sensors.
- Better Build Quality: Uses Corning Gorilla Glass Armor for superior screen protection.
Trade-offs:
- A02: Offers basic functionality and is better for budget-conscious users. Its camera and display are basic, and performance is slow.
- S24 Ultra: Significantly more expensive, heavier, and larger.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A02:
- Ideal Users: Budget-conscious individuals, first-time smartphone buyers, or users who need a simple device for basic communication, browsing, and light media consumption.
- Use Cases: Basic calling, texting, social media browsing, occasional photos, casual video watching.
- Value Proposition: Offers basic smartphone functionality at an entry-level price.
Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra:
- Ideal Users: Tech enthusiasts, professionals, content creators, or gamers who require top-tier performance, camera quality, and features.
- Use Cases: High-performance gaming, professional photography and videography, intensive multitasking, productivity apps, and media editing.
- Value Proposition: Offers premium features, powerful performance, and versatility at a top-end price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The price difference is substantial, and this should be the first question.
- What are your primary use cases? Do you need a phone for basic communication, or do you need advanced performance and a superior camera?
- How important is display quality, build quality, and overall user experience? Do you value high resolution, smooth refresh, durability, and smooth performance?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget is the primary concern. If your budget is limited, the Samsung Galaxy A02 will fulfill basic smartphone functions.
- Scenario 2: Need a high-performance smartphone for gaming and content creation. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is the obvious choice, offering a premium experience for high-performance use cases.
- Scenario 3: Need a good camera and enjoy taking pictures. The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers a far superior photography and videography experience.
- Scenario 4: Value everyday usability for light social media and calling. The Samsung Galaxy A02 will suit this, though the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra would provide a far smoother experience.
My Choice and Explanation
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, and here's why:
As an expert, the performance difference alone is enough to make this decision. The S24 Ultra offers a superior display, significantly better camera capabilities, and far faster performance, which are essential for a smooth and enjoyable user experience. While the price point is high, the value offered for this level of technology justifies the purchase. The additional features like wireless charging, improved connectivity, a more robust build quality, and all the advanced camera features are just the icing on the cake. The A02 is a good phone, but it is a very basic device. Ultimately, the premium features and superior experience of the S24 Ultra make it the clear winner for someone who wants the best smartphone experience.
