Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A04s and the Asus ROG Phone 8. On the surface, these two phones couldn't be more different. One is a budget-friendly workhorse, while the other is a high-octane gaming beast. Let's break down exactly what that means for you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the core specs, with a focus on their real-world impact:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Asus ROG Phone 8 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1mm | 163.8 x 76.8 x 8.9mm | Very similar sizes, the ROG is slightly shorter, wider and thinner |
| Weight | 195g | 225g | A04s is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use, ROG has a more premium feel with its additional weight |
| Build Quality | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | The ROG has a much more durable screen resistant to scratches and damage. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.78" | ROG has a slightly larger display, providing a more immersive experience for media consumption and gaming |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | ROG has a much sharper display; text and images are clearer, and video quality is significantly better |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 388 | The higher the pixel density, the sharper the display - ROG offers a significantly sharper viewing experience. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | ROG provides deeper blacks, better contrast, more vibrant colors, and better power efficiency for dark themes |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 165Hz | ROG offers noticeably smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming, resulting in a more fluid user experience |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 2500 nits | ROG display is much brighter, offers excellent outdoor visibility, usable in bright sunlight without straining your eyes |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4nm) | ROG's chipset is significantly more powerful, resulting in dramatically faster app loading, multitasking, and gaming performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,300 | 2,020,000 | ROG has dramatically better benchmark performance meaning more fluid user experience in all scenarios |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Adreno 750 | ROG's GPU is significantly more powerful allowing for better graphics and frame rates during games |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 50MP (f/1.8) | 50MP (f/1.9, 1/1.56" Sony IMX890, 1.0µm) | While both have 50MP, ROG has a larger sensor and pixel size, allowing for better low-light performance and overall quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 5MP (f/2.2) | 32MP | ROG’s selfie camera captures significantly more detail, resulting in much higher quality selfies. |
| Additional Cameras | 2MP Depth, 2MP Macro | 5MP Macro, 13MP Wide Angle/Macro | The ROG provides better and more versatile photography options with its wide-angle lens, especially for landscape or group shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | Up to 8K@24fps | ROG supports much higher resolution video recording; capable of professional-grade videography. |
| Camera Features | PDAF, HDR, etc. | OIS, Gimbal, Laser AF, etc. | ROG features advanced stabilization and focusing systems for improved photo and video quality. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5500mAh | ROG has a larger battery, likely providing better battery life for heavy users and gamers. |
| Charging | 15W | 65W | ROG charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | ROG's battery is more advanced, offering better stability, and potentially longer lifespan with the fast charging capabilities |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 14) | Android 14 (up to 16) | ROG provides a more up-to-date Android experience with more future updates available. |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) | ROG has the latest Wi-Fi standard offering significantly faster speeds, lower latency and better performance |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.3 LE | ROG supports a more advanced Bluetooth standard providing better power efficiency and audio codec support. |
| GPS | Basic | Advanced (L1+L5) | ROG has dual-band GPS offering higher accuracy for navigation. |
| SIM support | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support two nano sims |
| Storage & Audio | |||
| Internal Storage | 32/64/128 GB | 256 GB | ROG offers more storage for your apps, photos, and media. |
| RAM | 3/4 GB | 12/16 GB | ROG's more RAM makes the device much more capable of multitasking and gaming |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports a micro SD card. |
| Audio quality | Basic | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers, 3 mics | ROG has superior audio experience with stereo speakers, DTS audio support, and three microphones for clear voice recording |
| Security & Sensors | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-Mounted | Basic | A04s uses a more reliable side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Ultrasonic proximity | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Gravity, Proximity | ROG has a more comprehensive suite of sensors allowing for more advanced functionality. |
| ## 2. Key Insights |
Samsung Galaxy A04s Strengths:
- Affordability: The A04s is designed to be a budget-friendly phone with all the basic functionalities needed to make it a great daily driver.
- Lightweight Design: The lighter weight makes it comfortable for prolonged use.
- Decent Display: The 90Hz display offers a slight bump over standard 60hz options.
- Good battery: Offers all day battery life for most users.
- Side Mounted Fingerprint Scanner: Provides a quick and reliable biometric experience.
Asus ROG Phone 8 Strengths:
- Elite Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip and up to 16GB of RAM makes this a top-tier gaming device, it is the top of its class in performance.
- Stunning Display: The AMOLED panel with a 165Hz refresh rate and high brightness provide an excellent viewing experience.
- Advanced Camera System: Features a versatile camera setup with superior image quality and stabilization.
- Enhanced Audio: High-quality speakers and audio enhancements make for immersive media and gaming experiences.
- Robust Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides great screen protection.
- Fast Charging: The 65W charging allows for quick recharges.
- Latest Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3 and Advanced GPS.
- High Capacity Battery: The larger 5500 mAh battery allows for excellent gaming performance and battery life.
Trade-offs:
- The Samsung Galaxy A04s is a budget device and therefore has significant limitations on camera quality, performance, and display.
- The Asus ROG Phone 8 is much more expensive with a focus on high-end performance rather than affordability. The weight and dimensions also are less practical for everyday use, prioritising gaming over portability.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A04s is best for:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who need a reliable phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, and browsing.
- First-time smartphone users: It's straightforward and easy to use without overwhelming features.
- Users with casual media consumption: People who watch videos and browse socials and don't require a high fidelity experience.
- Those who need a light phone The light weight makes it a great phone to use for those who prioritize this over all other features.
Asus ROG Phone 8 is best for:
- Gamers: Those who prioritize gaming performance and need cutting-edge features and smooth performance.
- Power users: Users who need a high-performance phone for heavy multitasking and demanding apps.
- Media enthusiasts: Users who consume a lot of video content and want high-quality displays and audio.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who require a high quality camera experience including videography.
- Early adopters: Those who want the latest technologies, like Wi-Fi 7.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your decision:
- What is your primary use case? If you need a phone for basic tasks, the A04s is fine. If you're a gamer or power user, the ROG Phone 8 is the clear choice.
- What is your budget? The A04s is a budget device, while the ROG Phone 8 is a premium device with a premium price tag. This alone might determine your choice.
- How important are camera quality, display fidelity, and gaming performance? If these are priorities, then the ROG is the right choice. If not the A04s is perfectly capable.
Scenario-based recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual user with a tight budget: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A04s. It provides essential smartphone functions at an affordable price point.
- Scenario 2: Mobile gamer or heavy multitasker: Opt for the Asus ROG Phone 8. Its performance capabilities are unmatched.
- Scenario 3: Media consumption is a priority: Go with the Asus ROG Phone 8. The high refresh rate and AMOLED display, combined with enhanced audio, make for a great experience.
My Choice and Why
If I were making the choice myself, I'd absolutely go with the Asus ROG Phone 8. Here's my reasoning:
- I'm a power user. I regularly use demanding apps for content creation, video editing, and even some light coding on the go. The A04s simply wouldn't cut it for my workflow.
- The superior display and audio are game-changers. I appreciate a beautiful display for reviewing my content, plus the audio and microphone quality of the ROG Phone would be invaluable for communication and media creation.
- I love having the best technology. The fast charging, the latest connectivity features like Wi-Fi 7, and a more up to date android version make a significant difference in the overall user experience and future proofing your investment.
- The camera capabilities are vital for me. Being able to capture high quality photos and videos is essential for my work, and the ROG Phone 8 is leaps and bounds ahead of the A04s.
While the A04s has its place in the market, my personal needs, and interests align perfectly with the Asus ROG Phone 8, making it the clear winner for me. Its robust performance, superior display, advanced camera system, and premium audio far outweigh the cost factor. For those who need a true powerhouse, the ROG Phone 8 is the best choice.
