Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A12 vs. Motorola Moto G22
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Motorola Moto G22 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm | 164 x 75 x 8.5 mm | Moto G22 is slightly slimmer; A12 has slightly larger volume |
| Weight | 205g | 185g | Moto G22 is 20g lighter, feels less bulky during extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.5" | Identical screen size, same viewing area |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 720x1600 | Same sharpness; fine for everyday use, may not be ideal for high-res media |
| PPI | 270 | 268 | Similar pixel density; both provide comparable display clarity |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | IPS LCD offers better viewing angles and color reproduction |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Moto G22 has smoother scrolling and animations, more responsive feel |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have same peak brightness |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio P35 (12nm) | Mediatek Helio G37 (12nm) | G37 chipset in Moto G22 is more powerful, leading to snappier app launches and smoother gaming |
| AnTuTu Score | 103,000 | 159,800 | Moto G22 is significantly faster; performs better in demanding tasks |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 | Both have similar graphics performance, but G37 is more optimized |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Moto G22 captures slightly more detailed photos in good light |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/1.8 | Moto G22 captures slightly brighter images in low light |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/2.76" | A12 has a larger sensor, better low-light performance |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 8MP | 16MP | Moto G22 captures sharper selfies |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.45 | A12 captures slightly brighter selfies |
| Telephoto Lens | 2MP | None | A12 can zoom optically, but is limited |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP | None | A12 captures wider field of view for landscapes and groups |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP | 8MP | Moto G22 captures better bokeh effect |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP | Moto G22 captures close up shots of objects |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both offer the same video recording quality |
| Camera Features | Basic Features | Additional features: Digital image stabilization, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF) | Moto G22 has more advanced focusing and stabilization |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar battery life, lasting a full day for most users |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | Both charge at similar speeds |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (upgradable to 12) | Android 12 | Moto G22 has a more up-to-date OS out of the box |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Moto G22 supports faster 5GHz WiFi bands |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 LE | Both have similar Bluetooth capabilities |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | Moto G22 supports additional positioning systems |
| SIM | Dual Nano-SIM | Single Nano-SIM | A12 supports 2 SIM cards; convenient for travel and business |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32/64/128GB | 64/128GB | Both offer similar storage options |
| RAM | 3/4/6GB | 4GB | A12 offers up to 6GB of RAM for multitasking |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither support expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Basic | Both provide similar basic audio experience |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both phones have similar security features |
| Sensors | |||
| Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Moto G22 has a more comprehensive sensor suite. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A12 Advantages:
- Larger Main Camera Sensor: The larger 1/2" sensor potentially offers better low-light performance compared to Moto G22, even though it has lower resolution.
- Telephoto and Wide-Angle Lenses: These additional lenses offer more versatility in photography for different shooting scenarios.
- Dual SIM Support: Allows for two active SIM cards simultaneously, helpful for users with multiple numbers or when travelling internationally.
- More RAM Options: Up to 6 GB RAM option provides better multitasking performance compared to the standard 4 GB.
Motorola Moto G22 Advantages:
- Newer and Faster Chipset: The Helio G37 chipset provides significantly better overall performance, resulting in smoother app launches and gaming.
- Higher Refresh Rate Display (90Hz): Provides smoother scrolling and animations, making the experience feel more fluid.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: 16MP selfie camera captures sharper and more detailed selfies.
- Wider Main Camera Aperture: f/1.8 aperture allows better light gathering, improving low-light photos.
- More Advanced Autofocus and Image Stabilization: Features like PDAF and digital image stabilization lead to sharper, more stable photos and videos.
- More up-to-date Android Version: Ships with Android 12 out of the box and might receive future updates for a better user experience.
- Lighter Design: Weighing 20g lighter makes it easier to handle for prolonged periods.
- Additional sensors: Gyroscope, compass and barometer.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung A12 offers camera versatility with telephoto and wide-angle lenses, while Moto G22 lacks these and instead has a macro lens.
- Samsung A12 has the potential for better low-light performance due to its larger camera sensor, while the Moto G22 has a wider aperture for the same purpose.
- Moto G22 has a more powerful chipset and smoother display but is limited by the 4GB of RAM. Samsung A12 can be configured with 6 GB of RAM, but has a weaker processor.
- Samsung A12 allows dual sim usage, while Moto G22 only supports single sim.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A12 Ideal User:
- Users who value camera versatility over raw processing power
- Individuals who frequently travel or need two SIM cards for work and personal use
- Users who want more RAM for multitasking
- Users who prefer a larger camera sensor for better low light photos
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for the most feature-rich option
Use Cases:
- Travel photography using the multiple camera lenses
- International users needing dual SIM capabilities
- Daily social media content creation on a budget
- Casual mobile gaming
Motorola Moto G22 Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize performance and smooth display over camera versatility
- Users who want a snappier and more responsive overall user experience
- Users who want the most up-to-date Android version
- Users who prioritize a light and slim design.
- Users who need more accurate sensor data.
Use Cases:
- Daily multitasking and smooth app switching
- Casual to moderate gaming
- Smooth social media consumption and browsing
- Users who will be outdoors and need GPS and Barometer sensors.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Both phones occupy the budget segment, and the price difference is often small. However the value proposition slightly leans towards Moto G22 because of it's newer specs, with a better processor and display refresh rate for nearly the same price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you need a dual SIM card capability? If yes, the Samsung A12 is the only option.
- Do you value raw speed and responsiveness over camera versatility and low-light performance? If you need a smoother everyday experience then go for Moto G22. If you value camera versatility with more lenses go for A12.
- Is having the latest Android version important to you? If so, the Moto G22 is better, while the Samsung A12 might still be using an old version.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: User primarily needs a phone for social media, browsing, and light gaming.
- Recommendation: Motorola Moto G22. Its smooth display and faster processor provide a better user experience.
Scenario 2: User needs a phone with versatile camera capabilities, including wide-angle and telephoto lenses, and they also need a dual SIM.
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A12 Despite the older processor, it offers more camera flexibility and the convenience of dual SIM.
Scenario 3: User values having the most up-to-date Android software.
- Recommendation: Motorola Moto G22. Ships with Android 12 out of the box and may receive future updates.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would go for the Motorola Moto G22. While I appreciate the camera versatility of the Samsung A12, the significant performance boost and smoother display of the Moto G22 make it a better option for everyday use. The newer Android version is also a plus, ensuring longer software support. I value the overall snappier feel and better performance of the Moto G22 more than the A12's extra camera lenses and potential low light performance benefits.
