Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A04s and the Nokia G100. We'll break down the specs, see what it all means for you, and help you decide which phone might be the better fit.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a side-by-side look at these two contenders, focusing on the real-world impact of their specs:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Nokia G100 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 mm | 166.6 x 76.7 x 8.9 mm | Nokia is slightly taller and a hair thinner; similar hand-feel. |
| Weight | 195g | 195.1g | Virtually identical, both feel solid without being too heavy. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.52" | Barely any practical difference in screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1600 | Both offer HD+ visuals, fine for everyday use but not incredibly sharp. |
| PPI | 270 | 269 | Both are equally sharp, you won't notice any difference. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | IPS LCD (Nokia) typically offers better viewing angles and color accuracy than PLS LCD (Samsung) |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Samsung will appear a bit smoother when scrolling through menus. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness needs testing, both might not be great in direct sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Nokia's Snapdragon chip typically performs better than the Exynos 850, it should be faster and smoother for multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,300 | 201,615 | Nokia is significantly faster, resulting in smoother daily performance, faster app loads and better for gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Adreno 610 | Nokia's Adreno GPU is generally better for gaming compared to the Mali-G52. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 50MP f/1.8 | 13MP f/2.0 | Samsung's higher megapixel count may produce more detailed images in good lighting. |
| Front Camera | 5MP f/2.2 | 8MP f/2.4 | Nokia's higher megapixel count may produce slightly detailed selfies in good lighting. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not Available | 5MP f/2.2 | Nokia has an advantage for wide group shots or scenic landscapes. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both achieve the same kind of portrait mode blur. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | Not Available | Samsung can capture close-up details that Nokia can't. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, Slow-mo | 1080p@30fps, Slow-mo | Both offer basic video, but Nokia offers smoother slow-motion (120 FPS vs 34). |
| Camera Features | PDAF, HDR, etc. | DIS, Night Mode, etc. | Nokia offers better low-light photos and more image control |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should offer a full day of battery life for most users. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | Charging times are identical and not particularly fast. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Android 12 | Samsung is upgradable to Android 14, while the Nokia is not. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac (Dual-Band) | Both are the same, but the Nokia can support both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE | Both support Bluetooth Low Energy, so similar experience in that regard. |
| GPS | Multi-system Support | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS | Samsung offers more satellite options for more accurate tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both offer Dual SIM functionality for better flexibility. |
| Storage & Memory | |||
| Internal | 32/64/128GB | 32/128GB | Both offer similar storage, but Samsung offers a 64 GB variant. |
| RAM | 3/4GB | 3/4GB | Sufficient for basic use, 4GB ideal for smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable | Not Expandable | Not Expandable | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Other | |||
| Audio | Basic | 2 microphones | Nokia has better microphone array for voice calls or recordings. |
| Security | Side Fingerprint | Side Fingerprint | Basic biometric security is available on both. |
| Build | Unknown Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Nokia has a screen protection advantage. |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Proximity | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Barometer | Nokia offers better sensor suite for various use cases. |
2. Key Insights
- Nokia G100: The Performance Champ - The Nokia G100 is the clear winner in terms of performance, scoring significantly higher in benchmarks with its Snapdragon 662 chip. It also comes with an IPS LCD that is better than Samsung's PLS LCD, a wide angle camera and better screen protection with Gorilla Glass 3. This translates to noticeably smoother performance, faster app loads, and a more fluid experience when playing games. Additionally, it has better audio recording capabilities with 2 microphones, and better slow-motion capabilities. The downside is the fact that it isn't upgradable to Android 14, unlike the Samsung.
- Samsung Galaxy A04s: Camera and Display Choice - While the A04s is not as powerful, it holds its own in the camera department with a 50MP main sensor and a macro lens. Additionally, the 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling feel more fluid. Samsung is better for those who want higher detail in their photos and a more responsive experience in day to day tasks. The downside is the fact that the chipset is not as powerful, the screen is inferior in terms of viewing angle and the protection is unknown.
- Shared Strengths: Both phones offer a large 5000mAh battery for all-day use, standard 15W charging, dual SIM support, and similar storage and RAM options, and similar fingerprint sensor placement.
- Trade-offs: The main trade-offs are performance versus camera features and display. If raw performance is a high priority, then Nokia G100 is for you. If you prefer a higher-resolution camera and a 90Hz refresh rate, the A04s is your phone.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Nokia G100:
- Budget Gamers: Its superior performance makes it great for casual gaming.
- Everyday Users: Great for those who need a reliable phone for daily tasks, and want a better experience in terms of fluidity, better screen technology, audio capabilities and screen protection.
- Multitaskers: Smooth operation with the powerful processor and improved screen viewing angles will benefit users who like to switch between apps.
- Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Camera Enthusiasts: The 50MP camera offers great detail for those who value photography and a macro lens.
- Casual Scrollers: The 90Hz refresh rate is a nice touch for a smoother experience.
- Brand Loyalists: If you're a Samsung fan and want the Samsung ecosystem.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- Performance or Camera? Do you prioritize a fast, smooth experience or higher-resolution photos and a dedicated macro lens?
- Display Preference? Do you prefer an IPS LCD screen with wider viewing angles and better screen protection or a 90Hz refresh rate?
- Upgrade Preference? Is having the newest OS available important for you?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: You need a phone for social media, texting, and light browsing: The Nokia G100 is the better choice due to its faster chipset, better screen, audio recording and smooth experience.
- Scenario 2: You want the best possible photos for social media, and are not planning on playing any heavy games: The Samsung Galaxy A04s makes more sense due to the 50MP main camera and the macro lens, and a smoother scrolling experience with 90Hz.
- Scenario 3: You're looking for a well-rounded phone that can handle basic tasks, a bit of gaming, and you need better screen protection and audio: The Nokia G100 takes the lead with its better performance, enhanced audio, and better screen protection.
My Choice
Given my preference for smooth performance, better displays and a better audio experience when using a phone, I would choose the Nokia G100. While the 90Hz screen on the Samsung is tempting, the real-world performance boost, the better IPS LCD screen technology, the audio quality and the better screen protection on the Nokia will have a more significant impact on my daily usage. I value a consistently smooth experience that doesn’t lag, and the Nokia's chipset will give me just that. Also, I value better slow-motion capabilities for videography purposes.
That said, if you prefer a more detailed camera and the Samsung brand, then the A04s is a solid alternative.
