Alright, let's break down the Samsung Galaxy A04s and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G. We’ve got a classic budget vs. mid-range face-off here, and the differences are pretty significant. Let's get into it!
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison table breaking down the specs, with an emphasis on real-world implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 mm | 164.2 x 76.1 x 8.1 mm | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is slimmer, slightly more pocketable, although both are similarly sized in hand. |
| Weight | 195g | 201.8g | A04s is a touch lighter, potentially more comfortable for long sessions. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a much sharper display, better for reading text and watching videos. |
| Pixel Density | 270 PPI | 395 PPI | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G’s display is noticeably clearer and more detailed. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G delivers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G feels smoother during scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is vastly superior in outdoor visibility, easy to use in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Snapdragon 732G (8 nm) | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is significantly faster, better for gaming and demanding apps. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,300 | 397,200 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is much more responsive and smoother in day-to-day tasks and multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Adreno 618 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has significantly better graphics performance for games. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear (Main) | 50MP f/1.8 | 108MP f/1.9 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G captures more detailed and sharper photos, especially in good lighting. |
| Front (Selfie) | 5MP f/2.2 | 16MP f/2.45 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G takes sharper and more detailed selfies. |
| Wide Angle | None | 8MP f/2.2 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has a versatile wide angle camera, offering more flexibility in shots. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP f/2.4 | 2MP f/2.4 | Both have a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photos |
| Macro | 2MP f/2.4 | 5MP f/2.4 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G has slightly more detailed macro shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G records higher-quality videos and has more slow-motion capability. |
| Features | Limited | Extensive | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers superior video recording with 4K, additional modes like Night and RAW. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5020mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, likely to offer similar all-day use. |
| Charging | 15W | 67W | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G charges much faster; ready to go in a fraction of the time. |
| Features | None | Reverse charging | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G can share power with other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 11 | Samsung is likely to receive long term updates, making it more future-proof. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac | 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11n 5GHz, 802.11ac | Both support current WiFi Standards, however Xiaomi includes dual band. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.1 LE | Xiaomi features EDR and HID. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Samsung has more satellite systems for location accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | Xiaomi has more storage capacity. |
| RAM | 3/4 GB | 6/8 GB | Xiaomi is significantly smoother during multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | No option for external storage on either device. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G provides a more immersive and richer audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | side-mounted | side-mounted | Both phones use a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick and secure access. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers more robust screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Xiaomi has additional sensors for gaming and advanced features. |
| ### 2. Key Insights |
Samsung Galaxy A04s
- Strengths:
- Slightly lighter and more compact design.
- Potentially longer software support.
- More satellite systems for GPS.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Decent battery life with its 5000mAh capacity.
- Triple camera system and basic features like autofocus.
- Limitations:
- Lower resolution display.
- Significantly lower performance in comparison with Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G.
- Slower charging.
- Lacks wide-angle camera.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G
- Strengths:
- Superior display (AMOLED, high resolution, high refresh rate).
- Much better overall performance (chipset, AnTuTu score, RAM).
- Faster charging.
- Versatile quad-camera setup with wide-angle and higher resolution sensors.
- Hi-Res audio with stereo speakers
- Better screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
- More sensors for advanced features like gaming.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Faster performance for gaming, multitasking and every day use.
- Excellent display with great brightness.
- Superior camera with high quality video recording.
- Limitations:
- Slightly heavier.
- Less satellite support for GPS.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users looking for a basic smartphone that covers the essentials.
- Users who prioritize battery life and long-term software updates over performance and high-end features.
- Those who have less usage for media consumption and gaming.
- Use Cases:
- Everyday communication (calls, texts, basic social media).
- Casual web browsing and light app usage.
- Users who don’t prioritize performance or advanced camera features.
- Beginner users that are unfamiliar with smartphones.
- Ideal User:
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G:
- Ideal User:
- Users looking for a mid-range phone that balances performance, camera quality, and display.
- Users that prioritize high quality media consumption and gaming.
- Those who want a more premium experience.
- Use Cases:
- Gaming and heavy multitasking.
- High-quality photo and video capture.
- Immersive media consumption (streaming videos, gaming).
- Users that take full advantage of smartphone features.
- Ideal User:
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three crucial questions to help you decide:
How Important is Performance?
- If you answered "Very Important": The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G is the clear winner due to its superior chipset, GPU, and RAM.
- If you answered "Not a priority": The Galaxy A04s will suffice for basic tasks and can be a more budget friendly solution.
How Important is Display Quality?
- If you answered "Very Important": The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G’s AMOLED, high resolution display with high brightness is much better for media consumption and general usage.
- If you answered "Not that important": The Galaxy A04s display is satisfactory for basic tasks.
How Important is Camera Quality and Versatility?
- If you answered "Very Important": The Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G’s quad camera, including a wide-angle lens, higher resolution sensors, and 4K recording, are significantly better for capturing memories.
- If you answered "Not that important": The Galaxy A04s' camera is suitable for basic shots.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User on a tight budget: Samsung Galaxy A04s is a more affordable option that offers basic functionality.
- Enthusiast who values gaming and media: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G with its high performance, display, and audio quality, it is perfect for you.
- User who wants an all-rounder: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers the better overall package with its stronger hardware, better camera, display and fast charging.
- User that wants long term software updates: Samsung Galaxy A04s with its Android 12, it has potential to be updated to further Android releases.
My Choice and Why
If it were my money, I’d absolutely go for the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G. While the Samsung Galaxy A04s has a budget friendly price point, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G provides a significant jump in quality and performance. The difference in display quality alone is enough of a reason to pick the Xiaomi, and the extra performance means I can actually multitask and play demanding games.
The faster charging is also a huge plus, and the overall camera experience is far more versatile and provides great quality. Ultimately, the Redmi Note 12 Pro 4G offers a much more complete and enjoyable smartphone experience that's worth the extra investment.
