1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A12 and Motorola Moto G35, focusing on practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Motorola Moto G35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm | 166.3 x 76 x 7.8 mm | Moto G35 is taller and thinner, potentially feeling more sleek and modern; A12 is slightly bulkier, but both are within typical ranges. |
| Weight | 205g | 188g | Moto G35 is significantly lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Motorola Moto G35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.72" | Moto G35 offers a slightly larger viewing area for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Moto G35 provides much sharper and more detailed visuals, with a noticeable difference in clarity and text readability. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 392 | Moto G35's higher PPI results in a significantly clearer and less pixelated display, especially noticeable when viewing high-resolution images or videos. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | Moto G35's IPS LCD typically provides better viewing angles and color reproduction than the PLS LCD of the A12. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Moto G35's 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations much smoother, resulting in a more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1000 nits | Moto G35 offers dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight; A12 is not suitable for sunny outdoor environments |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Motorola Moto G35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Unisoc T760 (6 nm) | Moto G35's chipset is more modern and efficient, providing significantly better performance for gaming, multitasking and general usage. |
| AnTuTu Score | 103,000 | 423,297 | Moto G35 performs considerably better, making it faster at opening apps, and smoother at general usage. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G57 | Moto G35's GPU offers superior graphics performance, resulting in smoother gameplay and more detailed visuals. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Motorola Moto G35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/2.0, 1/2" sensor | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensor | Moto G35 has a wider aperture, potentially better in low-light conditions; A12 has a larger sensor, potentially better in capturing light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.45 | Moto G35 has a higher resolution for clearer selfies; A12 has a slightly wider aperture, which will result in better low light selfies |
| Telephoto Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | A12 has a telephoto lens, useful for zoomed shots, however the resolution is low |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Moto G35 offers higher resolution wide-angle shots, capturing more details in group photos or landscapes. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | A12 has a dedicated depth sensor for bokeh effects, while the Moto G35 must rely on software. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps | Moto G35 can record in higher 4K resolution and includes slow-motion recording, enabling higher video quality. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Motorola Moto G35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, so expect comparable battery life under normal usage. |
| Charging | 15W fast charging, Li-Ion | 18W fast charging, Li-Polymer | Moto G35 charges slightly faster than the A12, reducing downtime. Li-Polymer batteries tend to be safer and have longer lifespans. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A12 Advantages:
- Telephoto and depth sensor: Dedicated lenses enhance camera versatility, especially for users interested in bokeh and zoom effects.
Motorola Moto G35 Advantages:
- Significantly better performance: The newer chipset and higher AnTuTu score translate to much faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming experiences.
- Superior display: Higher resolution, pixel density, refresh rate, and brightness make the Moto G35 much better for media consumption, gaming and everyday usage, especially under bright conditions.
- Better main camera with wider aperture: The Moto G35's main camera with wider aperture and slightly higher resolution, performs better in low light conditions.
- Enhanced audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers improve audio experience when watching videos or listening to music.
- Modern software: Comes with Android 14, offering the latest features and security updates.
- Significantly lighter: Offers better comfort and handling.
- Advanced connectivity: Support for newer WiFi standards and more satellite systems.
- Digital image stabilization for videos: Allows for smoother videos.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Samsung Galaxy A12 has a telephoto lens and a depth sensor, offering more camera versatility. However, this comes at the expense of processing power, display quality, and video recording quality.
- The Motorola Moto G35 lacks a dedicated telephoto and depth lens which may lead to worse performance when trying to zoom or creating bokeh effects using software alone. However, it provides superior all-round performance for an overall better user experience.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy A12:
- Users on a very tight budget who need a functional smartphone for basic tasks.
- Users who are primarily interested in camera versatility, valuing telephoto and depth lenses over overall image quality and low light performance.
- Users who do not require fast performance, and are primarily using the smartphone for phone calls, and social media.
Ideal User for Motorola Moto G35:
- Users looking for a balanced smartphone that offers significantly better performance for the price.
- Users who prioritize smooth performance, high-quality display, and good multimedia experience.
- Users who enjoy mobile gaming and want a phone capable of handling modern games.
- Users who want to take good quality pictures in low light conditions.
- Users who take photos of landscapes and big groups of people.
- Users who want to record quality videos.
- Users who prefer a smoother experience due to the 120hz display.
- Users who like to multitask between apps.
- Users who want a phone with the latest operating system, and future-proof security updates.
- Users who often use their phone in bright sunlight.
- Users who listen to music or watch videos using the phone's speakers.
Use Cases:
- Samsung Galaxy A12: Basic social media browsing, casual photography, simple games, calling, and texting, for a user that doesn't care much about the quality of the experience.
- Motorola Moto G35: Smooth social media browsing, high-resolution video watching, mobile gaming, high-quality photography, and multitasking between apps, for users that care about the quality of their experience.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- While exact prices can vary, the Motorola Moto G35 generally offers better value for money due to its superior performance, display, and overall user experience. The A12 may be cheaper, but the G35 provides a much better experience for not a lot more.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The A12 is generally cheaper, however, it may not be worth it due to the severely hampered performance.
- Do I prioritize camera versatility over all other specs? The A12 offers telephoto and depth lenses but if camera quality is a priority, the Moto G35 offers a better camera.
- Do I need a fast and smooth phone that can perform well? The Moto G35 is a better choice for users who require performance, have large screen time, and intend on multitasking, or using it for gaming, or media consumption.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Tight Budget & Basic Needs: If you absolutely need a functional smartphone and your budget is severely limited, the Samsung Galaxy A12 will perform basic functions.
Scenario 2: Balanced Performance & Good Value: If you want a good all-round smartphone with excellent performance, a modern display, good battery, and a good camera for a low price, the Motorola Moto G35 is the clear winner.
Scenario 3: Prioritizing Camera Versatility If camera versatility is the main priority and you care about zoom and bokeh effects, the A12 has a dedicated telephoto and depth camera lens, but if the general quality of photos and videos is more important to you, then the Moto G35 is better.
My Choice
I would choose the Motorola Moto G35.
My reasoning is based on a few critical factors:
- User Experience: The Moto G35 offers a significantly smoother experience thanks to its 120Hz refresh rate, superior display, and higher processing power. This translates to a more enjoyable experience in day-to-day use.
- Future Proofing: The more modern chipset, superior processing power, and modern operating system will provide better long term use of the smartphone.
- Multimedia Consumption: The enhanced audio and better display make the Moto G35 ideal for watching videos and listening to music. This is something I value in a smartphone.
- Photography Quality The higher megapixel count, wide aperture, and ability to record 4k video makes the Moto G35 better for my photography needs.
While the Samsung Galaxy A12 has a dedicated telephoto lens, it's not enough to overcome the G35's overall superior performance and user experience. The Moto G35 offers far more value for a slightly higher price, making it the better choice for my needs.
