Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A04s and the TCL 50 SE. I'll break down the specifications, analyze the real-world implications, and guide you towards the best choice for your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table comparing the key specs, with a focus on what they mean for you in everyday use:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A04s | TCL 50 SE | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-22 | 2024-04-08 | TCL 50 SE is newer, potentially with more up-to-date software and features. |
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 mm | 168.2 x 75.5 x 8.1 mm | TCL 50 SE is taller and thinner; A04s is slightly wider and thicker; size will impact how each feels in your hand and pocket. |
| Weight | 195g | 195g | Both devices feel equally weighty in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.78" | TCL 50 SE has a larger screen; better for media consumption and multi-tasking. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2460 | TCL 50 SE will have a sharper, crisper display; better for reading and detailed visuals. |
| PPI | 270 | 396 | TCL 50 SE has a significantly sharper screen, with better clarity |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | TCL 50 SE’s IPS LCD will have slightly better viewing angles and color reproduction. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smoother scrolling; everyday experience will be similar. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 900 nits | The TCL 50 SE will be far better to use outdoors under bright sunlight conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8nm) | Mediatek Helio G88 (12nm) | TCL 50 SE's chipset is generally more powerful and faster |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,300 | 250,000 | TCL 50 SE shows a massive difference in performance; much snappier for apps, multitasking and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Mali-G52 MC2 | TCL 50 SE's GPU has better graphical capabilities, which will translate to better gaming experiences. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5010mAh | Similar battery capacity; should have comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | TCL 50 SE charges much faster, saving you significant time. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP f/1.8 | 50MP f/1.8 | Both have comparable main cameras; likely decent for daytime photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 5MP f/2.2 | 8MP f/2.0 | TCL 50 SE will take better selfies with higher resolution and a wider aperture. |
| Portrait (Depth) Camera | 2MP f/2.4 | N/A | Samsung A04s can take portrait photos; TCL cannot. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both will take similar close up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, slow motion | 1080p@30fps, no slow motion | Both will record good videos for social media sharing; A04s has better video slow motion capabilities. |
| Camera Features | Triple Camera, PDAF, HDR, etc. | Dual Camera, Continuous shooting, Panorama, etc. | Both have good capabilities but differ in feature set, offering different styles of capture |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | TCL 50 SE comes with a more recent Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac dual band | TCL 50 SE has slightly more robust WiFi with dual band support for better network speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.1 LE, EDR | TCL 50 SE has a newer Bluetooth version with better data transfer capabilities. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Samsung A04s has slightly more location tech, but both will perform similarly. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | TCL 50 SE offers significantly more storage, especially if you download or record a lot of content. |
| RAM | 3/4 GB | 4/6 GB | TCL 50 SE offers more RAM, which makes multitasking and gaming a better experience. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No external storage for either phone. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic Audio | Stereo Speakers | TCL 50 SE offers a better, more immersive audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both phones have a reliable side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Ultrasonic Proximity Virtual, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Both phones are well equipped with sensors. Samsung has an ultrasonic sensor while the TCL has a standard proximity sensor |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A04s: Strengths
- Triple Camera System: The inclusion of a depth sensor allows for portrait mode shots, a feature missing on the TCL.
- Slow-motion video: Offers better slow motion recording capabilities at 34fps than the TCL.
- Ultrasonic proximity sensor: Has a slightly better proximity sensor technology than the TCL.
- Familiar Software: If you prefer Samsung's One UI based on Android, this is an advantage.
TCL 50 SE: Strengths
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, higher brightness, and IPS technology for a much better visual experience, especially in sunlight.
- Stronger Performance: A significantly more powerful chipset and GPU for faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging drastically reduces charging times, keeping you on the go.
- More Storage and RAM: Ample 128GB/256GB internal storage and 4GB/6GB RAM allows for more data storage and better multitasking.
- Better Audio: Stereo speakers offer a more immersive sound experience.
- Newer Software: Comes with Android 14 out of the box.
Trade-Offs
- Samsung A04s: sacrifices overall performance and display quality for a more mature camera system.
- TCL 50 SE: lacks the depth sensor on the Samsung, so it can't take portrait shots, however it is the stronger phone in nearly every other category.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A04s
- Best for:
- Users who prioritize a familiar user interface over raw performance.
- Those who enjoy portrait photography and do not need high-end performance.
- Budget-conscious buyers who need reliable daily performance in a known brand.
TCL 50 SE
- Best for:
- Users who need good performance and gaming.
- Media consumers who need a large, bright, and sharp display.
- Users who want the latest Android OS and a smooth user experience.
- Those who value quick charging and longer battery life.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is a vibrant, high-quality display to you?
- If it's a top priority, the TCL 50 SE is the clear winner with its superior screen.
- Do you play a lot of mobile games or run resource-intensive apps?
- If yes, the TCL 50 SE's much better performance capabilities will be more suitable.
- Is fast charging important for your lifestyle?
- If yes, the TCL 50 SE with 33W charging is the better choice, keeping your phone ready to use much quicker.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Budget User: If budget is the primary factor, then the Samsung is the cheaper option, but comes at a significant trade off of performance.
- Media Enthusiast: The TCL 50 SE with its large, high-resolution display and stereo speakers is ideal for watching videos and enjoying multimedia content.
- On-the-Go User: The TCL 50 SE's faster charging and more efficient processor make it the better choice for busy lifestyles.
- Casual User: For basic tasks and everyday use, both are good, but the TCL 50 SE provides much better overall performance and will stay faster for longer.
Conclusion: My Choice
After analyzing all the aspects, I would choose the TCL 50 SE. While the Samsung Galaxy A04s is a decent phone for basic tasks, the TCL 50 SE offers a much more compelling experience thanks to its significantly better display, faster performance, and quick charging. The superior display alone makes the TCL a more versatile device. The TCL's newer hardware also means it will likely remain relevant and usable for a longer period of time. The trade-off of the Samsung's portrait mode is not worth the overall performance loss compared to the TCL. The TCL 50 SE offers a better overall user experience that justifies choosing it over the Samsung.
