Alright, let's dive deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A04s and the ZTE Blade A75 4G. These budget-friendly contenders are battling it out for your hard-earned cash, so it's essential to understand exactly what each brings to the table. My goal here is to provide a clear, practical, and engaging comparison, just as if we were chatting over coffee.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed table breaking down the key specifications and how they translate to your everyday usage:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A04s | ZTE Blade A75 4G | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.7 × 76.7 × 9.1 mm | 164.1 × 75.8 × 8.6 mm | Very similar in size; ZTE is slightly thinner and lighter, which may be noticeable during daily use. |
| Weight | 195g | 189g | ZTE is slightly lighter which improves comfort for prolonged use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Practically identical viewing areas, a minor 0.1-inch difference is negligible |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1612 | Both offer HD+ resolution; acceptable sharpness for everyday tasks |
| PPI | 270 | 267 | Very similar pixel densities, no noticeable difference in display clarity |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | IPS LCD on ZTE provides better viewing angles and color reproduction than PLS LCD of Samsung |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Smooth scrolling experience |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is not specified for either phone, may struggle under direct sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Exynos 850 is based on an 8nm architecture compared to 12nm for Unisoc T606 - lower nm generally indicates better efficiency |
| Antutu Score | 117,300 | 240,000 | ZTE will be much snappier and suitable for gaming, Samsung might lag a bit in intensive tasks |
| GPU | Mali-G52 (ARM Mali-G52) | Mali-G57 MP1 (ARM Mali-G57) | ZTE has a more capable GPU, resulting in better graphics performance in games and media playback |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should provide similar day-long battery life for typical users |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 22.5W Fast Charging | ZTE charges faster. This saves time waiting for charging |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Polymer batteries are known to be slightly lighter and safer with increased charging/discharge rates |
| Camera | |||
| Standard (Main) | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Both have capable main cameras for everyday shots |
| Selfie | 5MP, f/2.2 | 8MP | ZTE offers better selfie camera, resulting in higher detail photos |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP (Depth Sensor) | Not Available | Samsung offers a dedicated depth sensor, improving portrait shots |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | Not Available | Samsung offers a dedicated macro lens allowing to get close up shots |
| Video | 1080p@30fps; Slow-mo: Yes 34fps | 1080p@30fps; Slow-mo: No 30fps | Both record Full HD video; Samsung offers slow motion but slightly higher framerate |
| Features | Triple camera, PDAF, HDR, Face detection | Dual camera, Digital Image Stabilization, PDAF, HDR, Face detection | ZTE has image stabilization, continuous shooting, and panorama. Samsung provides additional triple camera experience |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (Upgradable to 14) | Android 13 | ZTE starts with a more recent Android version; Samsung may be able to reach to Android 14 |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual Band | ZTE supports dual-band Wi-Fi, potentially offering more stable connections |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 LE | Both provide basic Bluetooth functionality |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | Samsung supports more satellite systems, potentially offering higher accuracy |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both allow use of two SIM cards simultaneously |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | ZTE provides larger internal storage options for users who need more space for media or apps |
| RAM | 3/4 GB | 4/8 GB | ZTE provides larger RAM for smoother multitasking and gaming |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither support expandable storage, limiting space for media |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | DTS/DTS X | ZTE provides slightly better audio quality with DTS and DTS X surround sound |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both offer basic fingerprint biometric security |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint; Accelerometer, Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity Sensor | Samsung offers ultrasonic proximity sensor, ZTE has a gyroscope for more precise motion sensing |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Strengths: The A04s shines with its triple camera system and the extra 2MP depth and macro sensors. The Exynos 850 chipset is generally efficient, and the inclusion of QZSS for GPS is a plus for accurate location tracking.
- Competitive Advantages: If camera versatility is your main focus, especially with a dedicated macro and depth sensor, and a reliable GPS system for outdoor activities this phone has you covered.
- Limitations: The PLS LCD panel falls short of the IPS screen on the ZTE. The Antutu score indicates that the A04s might struggle with more demanding tasks.
ZTE Blade A75 4G:
- Strengths: ZTE excels with a much better performance via its Unisoc T606 and higher Antutu score. It has an IPS LCD, bigger RAM, faster charging, better selfie camera, bigger internal storage options and better audio quality.
- Competitive Advantages: The Blade A75 4G offers a better balance between performance and key features. The IPS display, faster charging, and bigger internal storage make it a compelling option if you're not heavily reliant on camera depth/macro features.
- Limitations: It lacks the triple camera setup with depth and macro sensors, and may not have the same level of GPS precision as Samsung.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Ideal User: Users who value a versatile camera, especially with the macro and depth sensors, and who need reliable location accuracy. This phone suits those who don't engage in heavy gaming or intensive multitasking.
- Use Cases: Casual photography, social media, navigation, and everyday tasks. Good for users who enjoy taking close-up shots and portraits on a budget.
- ZTE Blade A75 4G:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize better performance, smoother multitasking and gaming. This is a good choice for those who enjoy watching videos or listening to music (DTS X support) on their phone.
- Use Cases: Gaming, streaming, multi-tasking between apps, and those who require larger storage for their media or work. The faster charging feature will be great for those always on the go.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide between these phones:
Do you prioritize camera versatility or overall performance? If you enjoy detailed photography and need the extra lens, the Samsung wins, if not, go for the ZTE.
Is fast charging and better audio quality a must have for you? The ZTE offers faster charging and better audio quality, which the Samsung can't match.
Do you need bigger internal storage? The ZTE offers 256GB storage option which will provide much more room for photos, videos and other files.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Casual Photographer: If you're all about capturing memories on the go, the Samsung Galaxy A04s with its versatile triple camera (especially macro lens) might be the better pick.
- For the Multitasker/Gamer: If you often find yourself juggling multiple apps or need something that handles games more smoothly, the ZTE Blade A75 4G has the upper hand with its performance and bigger RAM/storage options.
- For the Budget-Conscious: Both are budget-friendly options, however, the ZTE Blade A75 4G provides better performance and specs for the buck, thus providing better value.
Which One Would I Choose?
If I were picking one, I'd lean towards the ZTE Blade A75 4G.
Here's why:
- Performance: As someone who values smooth, responsive performance in daily use, including app switching and occasional gaming, the ZTE's higher Antutu scores, better chipset, and more RAM provide a much snappier experience.
- IPS Display and Audio: The IPS LCD offers better visuals than the PLS LCD and the better audio quality will make listening to music more enjoyable.
- Value for Money: The faster charging, and higher storage capacity is a plus and gives a compelling value proposition in the budget segment.
- Practicality: The extra storage and faster charging are practical features I use every day.
While the Samsung has some unique camera features, the ZTE’s combination of overall performance, faster charging, larger storage and superior display technology makes it a more practical choice. It’s about how the device seamlessly integrates into my daily routine, and in this case, the ZTE aligns more with my needs.
