1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm | 162 x 77.3 x 8 mm | A12 is slightly taller and thicker, S24 FE wider; A12 has larger overall volume, S24 FE slightly more pocketable. |
| Weight | 205g | 213g | S24 FE is slightly heavier; may be noticeable during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | S24 FE offers slightly more screen real estate for content consumption. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2340 | S24 FE provides a significantly sharper image, with finer details and clearer text. |
| PPI | 270 | 385 | S24 FE has noticeably higher pixel density, resulting in a sharper and clearer display. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | S24 FE has superior display technology with deeper blacks, better contrast, superior power efficiency for dark themes, more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | S24 FE offers a smoother visual experience during scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1900 nits | S24 FE offers dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Exynos 2400e (4 nm) | S24 FE's chipset is significantly more powerful, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 103,000 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE has dramatically superior performance, suitable for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Xclipse 940 | S24 FE’s GPU offers significantly better graphics performance, crucial for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/2.0, 1/2", 0.80µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.00µm | S24 FE has a larger sensor, wider aperture, and slightly higher resolution, resulting in better low-light performance and image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.2 | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1/2.65", 1.22µm | S24 FE has higher resolution and larger pixel size for better selfie quality. |
| Telephoto | 2MP, f/2.4 | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", 1.00µm | S24 FE's telephoto offers significantly better zoom quality and detail. |
| Wide Angle | 5MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", 1.12µm | S24 FE has a higher resolution wide-angle lens, capturing more detailed wide shots. |
| Portrait | 2MP, f/2.4 | Not available | Galaxy A12 includes a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode; S24 FE does not have a dedicated depth sensor. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 8K@30fps, 4K@120fps | S24 FE offers significantly higher video recording capabilities, including 4K and 8K support, with better stabilization. |
| DxOMark Mobile | 90 | 133 | S24 FE has significantly better overall camera performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | Galaxy A12 has slightly larger battery; may offer marginally longer battery life. |
| Charging | 15W fast charging | 25W fast charging, 15W wireless charging | S24 FE charges faster and offers wireless charging for convenience. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, 15W wireless charging | S24 FE has added convenience with bypass and reverse charging capabilities and Wireless Charging. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (max 12) | Android 14 | S24 FE offers a more up-to-date software experience with newer features and security updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/6E | S24 FE has newer WiFi standards for faster and more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 LE | S24 FE has newer Bluetooth version for better energy efficiency and connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | S24 FE supports more satellite systems for improved location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM / eSIM + Nano SIM / eSIM) | S24 FE offers eSIM support for added flexibility in connectivity. |
| Storage & RAM | |||
| Internal | 32GB/64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | S24 FE offers substantially more storage options. |
| RAM | 3GB/4GB/6GB | 8GB | S24 FE has significantly more RAM for better multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio | Noise cancellation mic, stereo speakers | S24 FE provides better audio quality with clearer calls, better audio separation, and louder sound. |
| Security | |||
| Features | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | A12 uses more user-friendly side mounted fingerprint; S24FE uses basic sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | S24 FE offers superior screen protection from scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Proximity, Hall, Geomagnetic, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | S24 FE offers more sensors for advanced functionalities. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A12 Advantages:
- Slightly Larger Battery: Potentially offering slightly longer battery life.
- Potentially Lower Price: Likely a more budget-friendly option.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor: Convenient placement for easy unlocking.
- Dedicated Depth Camera: Dedicated camera for a depth effect in portrait mode
Practical Implications:
- The larger battery might provide a small edge for users who prioritize longevity over performance.
- The lower price makes it more accessible to budget-conscious consumers.
- Side-mounted fingerprint sensor is easy to reach, especially on a larger device.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED technology with high resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and higher brightness.
- Significantly More Powerful Processor: Enables faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Significantly Better Camera System: Higher resolution sensors, wider apertures, and advanced features for better photo and video quality.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Charging: Charges more quickly and offers the convenience of wireless charging.
- More Modern Software: Runs on Android 14, offering the latest features and security updates.
- Improved Connectivity: Supports the latest WiFi and Bluetooth standards for faster and more reliable connections.
- Better Audio: Includes stereo speakers and a noise-cancelling microphone for an enhanced audio experience.
- Advanced Sensors: Comprehensive sensor suite for better performance and a wider range of functionalities.
- Superior Build Quality: More durable screen with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection.
Practical Implications:
- The AMOLED display offers a visually superior experience, especially for media consumption.
- The powerful chipset ensures smooth performance for demanding tasks and games.
- The advanced camera system provides significantly better quality and features for photography and videography.
- Faster charging reduces downtime and wireless charging adds convenience.
- Modern software ensures long-term support and compatibility.
- Improved connectivity is great for staying connected, streaming, and gaming.
- Better audio enhances the user experience.
- The more comprehensive sensor suite allows for a wider array of functionalities.
- Superior screen protection ensures better device longevity.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S24 FE is Heavier and Slightly Thicker: It might be a bit less comfortable for long holding periods.
- S24 FE is More Expensive: The advanced features come at a higher price.
- A12 slightly Larger Battery: A12 has a marginally larger battery capacity, though real world performance may not reflect this.
- A12 dedicated depth camera: A12 has a dedicated depth camera for portrait mode while the S24FE does not.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A12 Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious buyers: Prioritizing affordability over top-tier performance.
- Basic smartphone users: Primarily use the phone for calls, texts, and basic social media.
- Users who need a large battery for light use: Someone who values battery longevity over other features.
- Users who prefer side mounted fingerprint sensor: User may find side fingerprint sensor easier to access.
- Users who want depth effect in portrait mode: A dedicated camera allows for this.
Specific Use Cases:
- A backup phone or a secondary device for basic tasks.
- A phone for elderly users who don't need advanced features.
- A device for young children with basic usage needs.
- Users needing a cheap and reliable device for communication and navigation.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Ideal User:
- Power users: Individuals who frequently multitask, game, and use demanding apps.
- Photography enthusiasts: Users who prioritize photo and video quality.
- Media consumers: People who watch videos, movies, and play games on their phones.
- Users who want a more future-proof device: Those looking for long-term software and performance.
- Users who value superior display: Someone who wants the best display experience on a phone.
- Users who value fast charging: Someone who values faster charging speeds.
- Users who want wireless charging: User appreciates the convenience of wireless charging.
Specific Use Cases:
- Gaming, running graphics-intensive apps, and professional use cases.
- High-quality photography and videography.
- Streaming videos and movies with a superior viewing experience.
- Long-term daily driver for someone seeking a device that can handle anything.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The A12 offers a good price-to-value ratio for budget-conscious users who need basic functionality.
- The S24 FE offers a superior price-to-value ratio for power users who require performance and features, as it provides substantial upgrades over the A12.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? If money is a limiting factor, the A12 may be more suitable.
- What are your primary use cases? Do you prioritize performance and camera quality (S24 FE) or battery and basic functionality (A12)?
- How important is display quality and overall user experience to you? If display and performance are essential, the S24 FE is the better choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Basic User on a Strict Budget
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A12. It meets basic needs and is more affordable.
- Scenario 2: Media Enthusiast
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. The superior AMOLED display, higher refresh rate, and audio will provide the best experience.
- Scenario 3: Mobile Photographer
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. Significantly better camera system for capturing high-quality photos and videos.
- Scenario 4: Gamer / Power User
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. The more powerful chipset, more RAM, and better graphics capabilities are crucial for gaming and demanding applications.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE. While the Samsung Galaxy A12 has a slightly larger battery and might be more affordable, the S24 FE offers a significantly better overall user experience that justifies the higher cost. The advantages of the S24 FE in display quality, performance, camera capabilities, software, charging, connectivity, and audio are far more valuable to me than a slightly larger battery. I value performance, a great display, and a capable camera system, which the S24 FE excels in. The S24 FE also offers features that make the user experience more enjoyable such as stereo speakers and wireless charging, which make this choice clear.
