Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A12 vs. Motorola Moto G52
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Motorola Moto G52 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2020-12-21 | 2022-04-20 | Moto G52 is a newer model, likely with updated software and potentially better component availability. |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm | 160.1 x 74.5 x 8 mm | Moto G52 is more compact and thinner; A12 is bulkier and may be less comfortable for prolonged use |
| Weight | 205g | 169g | Moto G52 is significantly lighter (36g) making it easier to hold and carry, especially for long periods. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible size difference; similar viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Moto G52 offers a noticeably sharper display with higher pixel density, making text and images clearer. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 402 | Moto G52 will look crisper; lower PPI on A12 may show pixelation. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | Moto G52 provides more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast; superior viewing experience, particularly in dark settings. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Moto G52 offers smoother scrolling and animations, especially for gaming and social media. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have identical peak brightness. Note: The listed brightness (0 nits) is incorrect, and should be disregarded. Without proper brightness specification, a proper real-world comparison is not possible. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio P35 (12 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | Moto G52 features a more efficient and powerful chipset, leading to better performance and battery management. |
| AnTuTu Score | 103,000 | 216,000 | Moto G52 has significantly higher performance, translating to smoother app launches, better multitasking, and more enjoyable gaming experiences. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Adreno 610 | Moto G52 has a superior GPU for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life; both should last a full day with moderate use. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | Moto G52 charges significantly faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/2.0, 1/2", 0.80µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | Moto G52 has a slightly higher resolution and a wider aperture for better low-light performance, although the A12 has larger sensor size |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.45, 1.0µm | Moto G52 captures higher resolution selfies and has larger pixel size. |
| Telephoto Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | A12 has a dedicated telephoto lens. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Moto G52 captures higher resolution ultrawide photos |
| Portrait (Depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | A12 has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait effects. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Motorola Moto G52 has a macro lens to get close to objects, A12 does not have it. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps | Both record similar video quality, suitable for most users. |
| DxoMark Score | 90 (Mobile) | Not Tested | A12 has a tested score of 90 in DxOMark, Moto G52 is not tested. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (Upgradable to 12) | Android 12 | Moto G52 ships with a more recent version of Android with potentially better features and security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n, dual band | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Moto G52 has support for 5GHz Wi-Fi for faster network speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, multiple profiles | 5.0 LE, multiple profiles, aptX | Moto G52 supports aptX for potentially better audio quality with compatible Bluetooth devices and has Bluetooth LE for better battery consumption |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | Similar GPS functionalities with slight variations in supported systems. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 32/64/128 GB | 64/128/256 GB | Moto G52 offers higher maximum storage options (256GB vs 128GB). |
| RAM | 3/4/6 GB | 4/6 GB | Similar RAM options; adequate for typical usage and multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device has microSD card support. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 mics | Moto G52 provides a better audio experience for media consumption and calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Similar biometric security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Motorola Moto G52 has better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Moto G52 is equipped with more sensors, which is especially important for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G52 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher resolution and refresh rate provides a much better visual experience.
- Better Performance: A more powerful and efficient processor results in smoother, faster operation.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging allows for faster battery replenishment.
- Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos provide a better multimedia experience.
- Higher Storage Options: Offers a 256GB option compared to 128GB of A12.
- Newer Software: Ships with a more recent version of Android.
- Additional Sensors: Offers a compass and gyroscope which can be useful for various applications.
- Better build quality Has a Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
Samsung Galaxy A12 Advantages:
- Dedicated Telephoto & Depth Cameras: Offers additional camera options.
- Tested DxOMark score Has a DxOMark score of 90.
Trade-offs:
- The Moto G52 lacks dedicated telephoto and depth cameras, which might be important to some users, but compensates with a macro lens.
- The A12 is physically bulkier and heavier, making it less comfortable to use for extended periods.
- A12 screen protection is not specified.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Motorola Moto G52:
- Ideal User: Individuals who prioritize display quality, performance, and fast charging; consumers who enjoy media consumption and gaming; users who appreciate good audio quality and future-proofed software.
- Use Cases:
- Watching videos and movies.
- Playing mobile games.
- Daily multitasking with various apps.
- Listening to music or podcasts.
- Users who value modern features and want a good user experience.
- Value: Generally offers a better experience for the price compared to the Samsung A12
Samsung Galaxy A12:
- Ideal User: Users who want a basic, functional smartphone with a wide variety of camera options, including a telephoto lens and depth sensor, without focusing on high-end performance.
- Use Cases:
- Casual use for calls, texts, and basic social media.
- Users who value additional camera lens options.
- Users who prioritize a more budget friendly option over the best performance.
- Users who are comfortable with an older version of Android
- Value: Lower end phone with additional camera features, at the cost of the overall quality and user experience.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is display quality? If the user values a superior visual experience, especially for media consumption, the Moto G52 is the better choice.
- Is performance a priority? For users who engage in gaming or multitasking, the Moto G52's faster processor and higher AnTuTu score make it more suitable.
- Are additional camera lenses a requirement? If the user needs a telephoto lens or depth sensor, then A12 has it, if they prefer a macro lens then Moto G52 provides it, but for overall quality Moto G52 main and selfie cameras are better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Media Lover: User watches lots of videos and plays games, consider Motorola Moto G52 for its better display, audio and performance.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious Photographer: User needs a wide array of camera options and prioritizes affordability, then Samsung Galaxy A12 has them, at the cost of performance and overall quality.
- Scenario 3: Everyday User: User needs a reliable device with good performance and battery, consider the Motorola Moto G52, as it provides better overall experience and charging.
What I Would Choose and Why
I would choose the Motorola Moto G52. While the Samsung Galaxy A12 has its merits with extra cameras and a lower price point, the Moto G52 offers a significantly better overall user experience. The AMOLED display, combined with the faster processor, superior audio, and faster charging make it a more compelling option for most users. The A12's older operating system, bulkier design, and lower performance make it a less attractive choice for modern smartphone users. The added sensors, such as the gyroscope and compass, offer a better experience for more advanced phone usage and gaming. While the A12 has a telephoto lens, the Moto G52 compensates with an upgraded main and selfie cameras and a macro lens. For daily tasks, media consumption, and even some gaming, the Moto G52 simply provides a more fluid and enjoyable experience that is worth the additional cost, if any.
