Okay, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A04s and the Asus ROG Phone 7. We'll cut through the spec jargon and focus on what these differences actually mean for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed breakdown of their specs, focusing on real-world implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Asus ROG Phone 7 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-22 | 2023-05-01 | Asus is newer, likely with more recent software and features. |
| Size (mm) | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 | 173 x 77 x 10.3 | ROG Phone 7 is larger and bulkier; A04s is more pocketable. |
| Weight | 195g | 239g | A04s is significantly lighter, more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.78" | ROG Phone 7 has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2448 | ROG Phone 7's screen is far sharper, with more detail and clarity. |
| PPI | 270 | 395 | ROG Phone 7: Text and images appear much crisper and less pixelated. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | ROG Phone 7: Deeper blacks, better contrast, more vibrant colors; better for battery saving |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 165Hz | ROG Phone 7: Exceptionally smooth scrolling and animations, superior gaming experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1500 nits | ROG Phone 7: Much better visibility in bright sunlight, easier outdoor use. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4nm) | ROG Phone 7: Flagship performance for demanding apps, gaming, and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,300 | 1,603,292 | ROG Phone 7: Drastically faster app loading, smoother animations, more future-proof. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Adreno 740 | ROG Phone 7: Superior graphics rendering, better gaming capabilities. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | ROG Phone 7: Potentially longer battery life, especially during intense usage. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 65W Fast Charging | ROG Phone 7: Much faster charging times, less time tethered to a charger. |
| Charging Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, USB power adapter | ROG Phone 7: Supports bypass charging during gaming and can also charge other devices. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8 | 50MP f/1.9 | ROG Phone 7: Higher quality sensor and slightly smaller aperture, better for low light |
| Selfie Camera | 5MP f/2.2 | 32MP f/2.5 | ROG Phone 7: Much higher resolution selfies with more detail. |
| Wide Angle lens | None | 13MP f/2.2 | ROG Phone 7: More versatile photos including Wide Angle |
| Portrait mode | 2MP f/2.4 | None | Samsung A04s has a dedicated depth sensor |
| Macro lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 5MP f/2.4 | ROG Phone 7: Slightly better detailed macro photos |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | Up to 8K@24fps with HDR, EIS | ROG Phone 7: Much higher resolution video and advanced stabilization |
| Camera Features | basic features | 4K,8K,Digital image stabilization, Manual focus, Continuous shooting, Panorama, Night Mode | ROG Phone 7: More advanced and versatile options. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 12 | Android 13 | ROG Phone 7: newer Android, with more features and latest security patches |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | WiFi 7 (802.11be) | ROG Phone 7: Faster, more stable connections, especially in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.3 | ROG Phone 7: Newer version with better power efficiency and broader range of features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | ROG Phone 7: More accurate and reliable location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support using two SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64/128 GB | 256/512 GB | ROG Phone 7: Significantly more storage, ideal for media and heavy users. |
| RAM | 3/4 GB | 8/12/16 GB | ROG Phone 7: Smoother multitasking, less likely to lag. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | DTS / DTS X, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | ROG Phone 7: Superior audio quality for music, games, and calls. |
| Security | |||
| Security | Side-mounted Fingerprint sensor | Basic Fingerprint sensor | A04s has a more advanced side-mounted sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | ROG Phone 7 has more durable screen |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | ROG Phone 7 has a wider set of sensors for enhanced functionality. |
| Additional features | Hall | ROG Phone 7 offers a Hall sensor |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A04s:
Strengths:
- Affordable: The A04s is a budget-friendly option, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- Lightweight and compact: More comfortable for single-handed use and carrying around.
- Decent Battery Life: With a 5000mAh battery, it offers a reliable experience for day-to-day tasks.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More ergonomic for unlocking.
- Basic Audio Features: Suitable for casual usage
Limitations:
- Lower-Resolution Display: Less sharp and vivid visuals compared to the ROG Phone 7.
- Basic Performance: struggles with demanding apps and graphics-intensive games.
- Limited Camera Capabilities: Not ideal for photography enthusiasts, basic video capabilities
Asus ROG Phone 7:
Strengths:
- Flagship Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is a powerhouse, making it one of the fastest phones on the market.
- Exceptional Display: A vibrant, high-resolution AMOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate.
- Superior Battery: The 6000mAh battery provides long-lasting power.
- Fast Charging: 65W fast charging for quick top-ups.
- Advanced Audio System: DTS:X and Hi-Res audio with stereo speakers.
- Feature-rich Camera: Capture high-quality video and photos.
- Gaming Focused: Specifically designed with gaming in mind, featuring a top of the line chipset, fast display, and extra gaming options.
- Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Better sensors with added functionalities
- Latest WiFi Standard: Provides higher speeds and lower latency
Limitations:
- Expensive: High price point
- Bulky and Heavy: Not as comfortable for everyday carry or single-handed use.
- Fingerprint Scanner: Basic scanner without advanced features.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A04s is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who need a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.
- Casual users: People who primarily use their phones for basic tasks like calling, texting, and browsing social media.
- Users who value portability: Those who prefer a lightweight, easy-to-handle phone.
- First-time smartphone buyers: A simple and affordable introduction to smartphones.
Asus ROG Phone 7 is ideal for:
- Hardcore gamers: Users who demand top-tier performance and smooth graphics for intense gaming sessions.
- Tech enthusiasts: Users who want the latest and most advanced smartphone technology.
- Power users: Those who need a phone capable of handling demanding apps, heavy multitasking, and high-resolution media.
- Content creators: Users who want a phone with an outstanding camera system and video recording.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To decide between these phones, ask yourself these questions:
- What's your budget? The A04s is significantly more affordable, whereas the ROG Phone 7 is at the premium end.
- How do you use your phone? If you are mainly doing basic tasks, the A04s is enough. If you are gaming or doing content creation, the ROG Phone 7 is needed.
- What features do you prioritize? Do you need a high-resolution display, a top-tier processor, or a long-lasting battery?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario: You mainly use your phone for social media, calls, and basic apps and value budget.
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A04s is the better option due to its value and ability to perform basic day-to-day functions.
- Scenario: You are a gamer who demands the best mobile gaming performance and can afford the price.
- Recommendation: Asus ROG Phone 7 is the obvious choice, with top-tier performance, advanced features, and a superior display.
- Scenario: You are looking for a premium experience, including advanced features, better quality photos, and videos, and have a flexible budget.
- Recommendation: Asus ROG Phone 7 provides a superior display, camera, and performance.
What I Would Choose
If I were choosing between these two phones, I'd go for the Asus ROG Phone 7. Here’s why:
As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I need a device that can handle demanding tasks, capture high-quality content, and provide a smooth and responsive experience. The ROG Phone 7, while bulky, has all of the above. Its exceptional display, top-tier processor, advanced camera system, and long-lasting battery make it an ideal daily driver. While the price is higher, the performance and features justify the cost for a power user like me. Plus, the improved audio quality and extra gaming features would be a bonus for both testing new apps and gaming on the go. The Samsung A04s is a decent phone, but I value the cutting-edge features of the ROG Phone 7 for my own professional and personal use.
