Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A12 vs. Motorola Edge (2022)
1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the key specifications for the Samsung Galaxy A12 and the Motorola Edge (2022), focusing on their practical impact:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Motorola Edge (2022) | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164 × 75.8 × 8.9 mm | 160.9 × 74.2 × 8 mm | Motorola Edge (2022) is more compact and easier to handle due to its smaller size and slimmer profile. |
| Weight | 205g | 170g | Motorola Edge (2022) is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Both offer similar screen real estate, with a minor difference of 0.1". |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Motorola Edge (2022) has a much sharper and clearer display due to its higher pixel density. |
| PPI | 270 | 399 | Motorola Edge (2022) offers noticeably sharper text and images, reducing pixelation. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | OLED | Motorola Edge (2022)'s OLED provides better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 144Hz | Motorola Edge (2022) has a dramatically smoother display experience, especially noticeable when scrolling or gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have identical peak brightness at 0 nits. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio P35 (12 nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 1050 (6 nm) | Motorola Edge (2022) has a significantly faster and more efficient processor, leading to better performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 103,000 | 522,375 | Motorola Edge (2022) offers much better performance for apps, multitasking, and gaming. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Arm Mali-G610 MC3 | Motorola Edge (2022)'s GPU is significantly more powerful, resulting in better graphics performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have the same battery capacity, likely providing similar battery life under typical use. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging (Li-Ion) | 30W Fast Charging (Li-Polymer) | Motorola Edge (2022) charges significantly faster, reducing waiting time. |
| Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, Wireless charging, Non-removable | Motorola Edge (2022) offers more versatile charging options, including wireless and reverse charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/2.0, 1/2" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" | Motorola Edge (2022) has a slightly higher resolution, wider aperture, and larger sensor for better image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.2 | 32MP, f/2.45 | Motorola Edge (2022) has significantly higher resolution for sharper selfies. |
| Telephoto Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Samsung A12 has a dedicated telephoto lens, providing optical zoom capability. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/1.5 | Motorola Edge (2022) has a much higher resolution and wider aperture for better wide-angle shots. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Samsung A12 has a dedicated portrait mode (depth) camera. |
| Macro Lens | None | 20MP, f/2.4 | Motorola Edge (2022) has a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@120fps | Motorola Edge (2022) offers superior video recording capabilities, including 4K and slow-motion. |
| Stabilization | No | Yes (EIS and OIS) | Motorola Edge (2022) provides both electronic and optical image stabilization for smoother videos and photos. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (upgradable to 12) | Android 12 (upgradable to 13) | Motorola Edge (2022) ships with a newer version of Android, with the promise of at least one more major update. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax (WiFi 6) | Motorola Edge (2022) supports faster Wi-Fi standards, offering higher speeds and lower latency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 LE | Motorola Edge (2022) features a more modern version of Bluetooth, offering improved efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | Motorola Edge (2022) offers more satellite options, leading to more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | Motorola Edge (2022) supports eSIM for more flexibility in carrier options, Samsung A12 has dual physical SIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32GB/64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Motorola Edge (2022) provides more storage options. |
| RAM | 3GB/4GB/6GB | 6GB/8GB | Motorola Edge (2022) has more RAM for smoother multitasking and better performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio features | Dolby Atmos, Noise cancellation, Stereo Speakers, 3 mics | Motorola Edge (2022) has a significant edge in audio quality for media consumption and calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Samsung A12 has a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor; Both phones offer basic biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Motorola Edge (2022) has superior screen protection against scratches and minor impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Proximity, Fingerprint, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer, Barometer | Motorola Edge (2022) has additional sensors for more advanced functionalities and better motion tracking. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A12 Advantages:
- Dedicated Telephoto Lens: Offers basic optical zoom capabilities.
- Dedicated Portrait (Depth) Lens: Provides a dedicated depth sensor for better bokeh effect on portrait photos.
- Physical dual-SIM slots: Can use two physical SIM cards simultaneously.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Potentially more convenient for some users.
Motorola Edge (2022) Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution OLED panel with a 144Hz refresh rate offers a much better visual experience.
- Significantly Faster Performance: The Dimensity 1050 chipset provides a far superior performance for apps, multitasking, and gaming.
- Better Camera System: Larger sensors, wider apertures, and a dedicated macro lens for superior photo and video quality.
- Faster Charging: 30W fast charging significantly reduces charging times.
- Wireless & Reverse Charging: Added charging versatility.
- Modern Connectivity: Supports Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and eSIM for better network performance and flexibility.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers, and noise cancellation provide a better audio experience.
- More RAM & Storage Options: More internal storage and RAM for smoother multitasking and more storage space.
- More Sensors: Includes additional environmental sensors for advanced features and gaming.
- Better Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass 3 provides screen protection.
- Newer Android Version: Ships with a newer version of Android and a more recent upgrade path.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Samsung Galaxy A12 offers a dedicated telephoto lens and depth sensor, features missing on the Motorola Edge (2022).
- Motorola Edge (2022) lacks a dedicated telephoto and depth lens, while Samsung Galaxy A12 lacks a macro lens.
- The Samsung Galaxy A12 has a basic display and is considerably slower than the Motorola Edge (2022).
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A12:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users needing a basic smartphone for everyday tasks.
- Use Cases: Simple browsing, social media, calls, and basic photography. Ideal for users who prefer physical dual SIM cards and value a telephoto and dedicated depth sensor.
- Strengths: Low price point, usable camera system, and a telephoto and depth lens.
- Weaknesses: Slow performance, basic display, and outdated software.
Motorola Edge (2022):
- Ideal User: Users seeking a premium experience without paying top-tier prices. Good for individuals who prioritize performance, display quality, and camera capabilities.
- Use Cases: Gaming, video streaming, photography, multitasking, and users that like having the latest wireless capabilities.
- Strengths: Superior display, significantly faster performance, a better camera system, fast charging, and enhanced audio.
- Weaknesses: Lacks a dedicated telephoto and portrait lens.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to guide your purchasing decision:
- How important is display quality and performance to you? If a high-resolution, smooth display and fast processing are vital, the Motorola Edge (2022) is the clear choice. If basic usability is sufficient, the A12 might suffice.
- What is your budget? The Samsung Galaxy A12 is likely to be more affordable than the Motorola Edge (2022). The A12 might be suitable if budget is the main constraint.
- What camera features are most important to you? If you prioritize optical zoom and bokeh effects, the Samsung Galaxy A12 may appeal to you, but the Edge (2022)'s main and wide angle lens offer superior image quality. If having a macro lens is important then the Motorola Edge (2022) will fit that need.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: If your budget is extremely tight and you only need a basic smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy A12 is a viable option.
- Multimedia Enthusiast: If you consume a lot of videos, play games, or enjoy high-quality photography, the Motorola Edge (2022) is far superior.
- Performance Seeker: For users demanding fast performance and multitasking, the Motorola Edge (2022) will deliver a significantly better experience.
Personal Choice
I would choose the Motorola Edge (2022). While the Samsung Galaxy A12 might be more affordable, the difference in performance and overall user experience is simply too significant to ignore. The Motorola Edge (2022) offers a far superior display, vastly improved performance, a much better camera, faster charging, and a more modern feature set (including reverse and wireless charging). While the A12 has a telephoto and portrait lens the edge 2022 overall camera capabilities are much better. The additional features like Dolby Atmos, Wi-Fi 6, and a higher refresh rate provide a much smoother experience for daily tasks, gaming, and media consumption. The additional sensors and better build quality only solidify the Edge 2022 as the better buy for me, even if it means paying a bit more. I prefer devices that feel responsive and offer more modern features, and the Edge (2022) delivers that in spades.
