Alright, let’s dive into this head-to-head comparison between the Samsung Galaxy A04s and the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. It's a bit like comparing a trusty old bicycle to a high-performance sports car—both serve a purpose, but they're built for vastly different experiences. Let's break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Xiaomi 14 Ultra | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.7 × 76.7 × 9.1 mm | 161.4 × 75.3 × 9.2 mm | A04s is slightly taller and wider, while both share a similar thickness. |
| Weight | 195g | 229.5g | A04s is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. The Ultra feels more substantial. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.73" | Xiaomi 14 Ultra provides a slightly larger viewing area. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1440x3200 | Xiaomi 14 Ultra delivers a much sharper, clearer image thanks to higher pixel density. |
| PPI | 270 | 522 | The difference is night and day, text and images will look crisper on the Xiaomi 14 Ultra |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has far superior display technology with better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers slightly smoother animations, especially noticeable when scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 3000 nits | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has much better visibility under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm) | Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s chipset is significantly more powerful, leading to better performance and efficiency. |
| Antutu Score | 117,300 | 2,100,000 | Xiaomi 14 Ultra provides a much smoother experience overall, especially for intensive tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Adreno 750 | Xiaomi 14 Ultra's GPU is far more powerful, ideal for graphically intensive applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones should offer similar battery life, but overall battery life is impacted by other factors. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 90W Fast Charging | Xiaomi 14 Ultra charges much faster, saving time and keeping you powered up with less down time. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, 80W wireless charge, 10W wireless reverse charge, Paper P2 smart fast charging chip, Paper G1 battery management chip, Non-removable | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has additional features: Reverse charging, wireless charging, additional smart charging chips. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens Res | 50MP | 50MP | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a wider aperture, a larger sensor and bigger pixel size, giving it an edge in image quality. |
| Selfie Lens Res | 5MP | 32MP | Xiaomi 14 Ultra captures much higher detail and has wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 50MP | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a dedicated Telephoto lens, allowing for better zooming capabilities. |
| Portrait Mode Lens | 2MP | None | Samsung Galaxy A04s has a dedicated sensor for depth information. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | None | Samsung Galaxy A04s has a dedicated sensor for macro photography. |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 50MP | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a dedicated wide-angle lens, allowing for a wider view. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 8K@24fps, up to 1080p@1920fps | Xiaomi 14 Ultra is capable of recording much higher quality video and offers better stabilization |
| DxOMark Score | N/A | 149 | Xiaomi 14 Ultra’s camera is high performing, according to DxOMark rating. |
| Camera Features | Basic set | Comprehensive set | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has additional features: Tracking AF, Flicker sensor, Noise reduction, Time-Lapse, 4K Video, 8K Video, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Laser autofocus (LAF), Continuous shooting, Panorama, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Night Mode, RAW 14 bits |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | Xiaomi 14 Ultra comes with a more up-to-date operating system out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | WiFi 7 (802.11be) | Xiaomi 14 Ultra supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, offering faster and more stable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.4 LE | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has the latest version, with improved power consumption and speed; also offering superior codec support. |
| GPS | Basic Set | Advanced set | Xiaomi 14 Ultra has superior GPS accuracy due to more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, Nano SIM | Dual SIM, Nano SIM | Both offer dual SIM capability. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64/128GB | 256/512/1024GB | Xiaomi 14 Ultra provides substantially more storage, with options up to 1TB. |
| RAM | 3/4GB | 12/16GB | Xiaomi 14 Ultra is much better for intensive multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic features | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 4 microphones | Xiaomi 14 Ultra offers a much more immersive and richer audio experience, better at voice pickup. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | The Samsung A04s provides a side-mounted fingerprint sensor making it easier to access, whilst the Xiaomi 14 Ultra's is more basic. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | The Xiaomi 14 Ultra has a superior and robust screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Gravity, RGB | The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with a complete array of sensors suitable for advanced usage. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A04s Strengths
- Affordability: This is the A04s's key selling point. It's designed for users on a very tight budget.
- Lightweight Design: Being significantly lighter makes it comfortable for prolonged use.
- Decent Display Size: A 6.5-inch screen is adequate for most everyday tasks.
- Dual SIM Support: Allows for the use of two SIM cards simultaneously.
- Battery life: Both devices have a 5000 mAh battery, which should be good for the average user.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra Strengths
- Exceptional Display: The AMOLED panel with high resolution, refresh rate, and brightness makes for an outstanding viewing experience.
- Blazing Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it handles demanding tasks, gaming, and multitasking with ease.
- Superior Camera System: The 50MP main camera with a large sensor, wide aperture, and additional sensors along with impressive video capabilities make this device an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts.
- Fast Charging: 90W wired charging and wireless charging capabilities ensure you spend less time plugged in.
- Premium Audio: Enhanced by Dolby Atmos and dedicated microphones, resulting in higher sound fidelity.
- Latest Software: Ships with the newest Android version and is expected to receive multiple updates.
- Connectivity: Equipped with the latest standards in WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS for the most seamless connectivity.
- Storage: Large storage capacities that are suitable for all user needs.
- Durability: Robust screen protection via Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2.
- Advanced Sensors: Equipped with a complete array of sensors suitable for the most advanced user.
Trade-offs
- A04s: The Samsung A04s has to make sacrifices to keep the cost low. The performance, screen, camera, storage and charging are not competitive with higher-end smartphones.
- Xiaomi 14 Ultra: The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is a large device and may not be suitable for smaller hands. It is also significantly heavier than the A04s.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A04s
- Budget-Conscious Users: Ideal for those who need a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light browsing without breaking the bank.
- First-Time Smartphone Owners: Suitable for individuals new to smartphones, who don't have intensive usage needs.
- Users with Basic Needs: Great for simple tasks and everyday use.
- Users who prioritize light weight and portability: If you need a light and comfortable device, the A04s may be for you.
Xiaomi 14 Ultra
- Tech Enthusiasts: Perfect for users who want the latest and greatest in mobile technology, including performance, camera, and display.
- Professional Photographers and Videographers: Its superior camera features make it a good option for content creation on the go.
- Mobile Gamers: The powerful chipset and high refresh rate screen provide an immersive and smooth gaming experience.
- Heavy Multitaskers: Ample RAM and the powerful processor ensure seamless performance when switching between apps.
- Users who need a future-proofed device: The device will stay relevant for years to come due to the software support.
- Users who want a complete array of sensors: Ideal for users who wish to use the device to its full potential.
- Users who need great storage: Offers huge storage capacities for all user types.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- What's your budget? If you're on a tight budget, the A04s is the only option here.
- What do you use your phone for? Basic communication and light browsing? Then the A04s is fine. Content creation, gaming, or professional use? You'd need the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.
- How important is performance and display quality to you? If you want the best screen and performance possible, choose the Xiaomi 14 Ultra.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1 (Student on a Budget): The Samsung Galaxy A04s is the better option. It's affordable, reliable for basic tasks, and won't strain the budget.
- Scenario 2 (Travel Photographer): The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is the clear winner. Its superior camera, video capabilities, and battery life will be indispensable.
- Scenario 3 (Mobile Gamer): The Xiaomi 14 Ultra's high performance, great screen, and fast charging make it the ideal choice.
- Scenario 4 (General user, looking for a daily driver): The Xiaomi 14 Ultra will be better for the vast majority of users, unless the price point is too high, or you prefer a light device, in which case the A04s is adequate.
Personal Choice
If I had to pick between these two, I'd go with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, without a doubt. Yes, it’s heavier and more expensive, but the difference in screen quality, performance, and camera capabilities is simply too significant to ignore. As a tech journalist and smartphone analyst, I constantly push my devices to their limits. The Xiaomi 14 Ultra would offer a much more fluid and feature-rich experience that would satisfy my needs for both work and personal use.
The A04s is a fine budget device, but it simply can't compete with the advanced performance and features of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra. Ultimately, this comes down to what you value in a phone, but for someone like me, who uses my phone as an extension of my professional and personal life, the Xiaomi 14 Ultra is the best choice.
