1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A12 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4, focusing on their practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | The Z Flip4's foldable design allows for a more compact profile when closed, making it more pocketable. The A12 has a traditional non-folding design. |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.8 x 8.9 mm | 165.2 x 71.9 x 6.9 mm | The Z Flip4 is thinner and narrower when unfolded, making it easier to hold, though slightly taller. The A12 is noticeably bulkier. |
| Weight | 205g | 187g | The Z Flip4 is lighter, which improves comfort for extended use and portability. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | The Z Flip4 offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 1080 x 2640 | The Z Flip4's significantly higher resolution makes text and images much sharper. |
| Pixel Density | 270 PPI | 426 PPI | The higher PPI on the Z Flip4 results in clearer, more detailed visuals. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | | The A12 uses a PLS LCD which is similar to a standard LCD. The Z Flip4's panel is not specified. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The 120Hz refresh rate on the Z Flip4 provides smoother scrolling and animations, which is noticeable when navigating the interface or playing games. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | The Z Flip4's significantly higher brightness ensures much better visibility outdoors in bright sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio P35 (12 nm) | Qualcomm SM8475 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | The Z Flip4's flagship chipset delivers vastly superior performance, resulting in smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and better gaming capabilities. |
| AnTuTu Score | 103,000 | 1,050,371 | The Z Flip4's benchmark score is dramatically higher, indicating far superior overall performance in real-world usage. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Adreno 730 | The Z Flip4's GPU provides significantly better graphics performance, especially for gaming and graphically intensive tasks. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 12.2MP | While the A12 has a higher megapixel count, this doesn't always translate to better image quality. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/1.8 | The wider aperture on the Z Flip4 allows for better low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/2.55" | The A12 has a larger sensor, which can capture more light. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.40 µm | Larger pixel size on the Z Flip4 usually results in better light capturing capabilities and image quality |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 8MP | 10MP | Marginal difference in megapixel count. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.4 | Slightly wider aperture on the A12 might improve selfies slightly in low light. |
| Wide Angle Camera Resolution | 5MP | 13MP | The Z Flip4's wide-angle lens captures more detail. |
| Telephoto Lens | Yes (2MP) | No | The A12 offers a dedicated telephoto lens, though of low resolution. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) Camera | Yes (2MP) | No | The A12 has a dedicated depth sensor, improving portrait quality. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps, HDR | The Z Flip4 can record much higher-quality videos, and its advanced features, such as HDR, and stabilization will offer superior results. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes | The Z Flip4's stabilization reduces camera shake for clearer, smoother videos. |
| Slow-motion Video | No | Yes (up to 960fps) | The Z Flip4 offers significantly higher frame rates for slow-motion capture, ideal for capturing fast action. |
| DxOMark Score (Mobile) | 90 | 112 | The Z Flip4's higher score indicates superior overall camera performance compared to the A12. |
| DxOMark Score (Photo) | 0 | 125 | The Z Flip4 produces much better photos in the tests. |
| DxOMark Score (Video) | 0 | 113 | The Z Flip4 offers vastly superior video recording. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 3700mAh | The A12's larger battery suggests potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 15W fast charging | 25W fast charging | The Z Flip4 charges faster, meaning less time plugged in. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, Fast charging 25W, 50% in 30 min, Fast wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | The Z Flip4 has more battery-related features including fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| OS | Android 10 (upgradable to 12) | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | The Z Flip4 runs a newer OS, resulting in better software experience and access to the latest features, it has more future upgrades available. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax (WiFi 6), MIMO, Wi-Fi Display | The Z Flip4 has better WiFi standard offering faster and more reliable internet connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE, ANT+, APT-x | The Z Flip4 has a more modern version of Bluetooth, offering improved energy efficiency, connection reliability, and additional features like aptX. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, Dual-band GPS | The Z Flip4 supports additional satellite systems for more accurate location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM) | The Z Flip4 offers an eSIM option, offering more carrier flexibility. The A12 features Dual Nano SIM card slots. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Internal | 32GB/64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | The Z Flip4 offers significantly more storage space for apps, photos, and videos. |
| RAM | 3GB/4GB/6GB | 8GB | The Z Flip4 has more RAM, improving multitasking and performance of demanding apps and games. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Quality | Basic | Stereo Speakers | The Z Flip4 has stereo speakers which provide a more immersive audio experience compared to the basic speaker of the A12. |
Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both phones offer the same type of biometric security. |
Build Quality
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | The Z Flip4 has significantly more scratch and shatter resistance for its screen. |
Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | The Z Flip4 offers a more comprehensive sensor package, suitable for advanced features, gaming, and AR experiences. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A12 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery may provide longer battery life than the Z Flip4, beneficial for users who prioritize endurance.
- Telephoto and Depth Camera: Offers dedicated telephoto lens and portrait mode for specific photography needs (although lower resolution).
- Significantly Lower Price: The A12 is significantly more affordable.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Unique form factor, increased portability, and offers hands-free experience when using Flex Mode.
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, refresh rate, and brightness significantly enhances visual experience.
- Much Faster Performance: The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 offers vastly superior performance and smooth user experience.
- Superior Camera System: Takes better quality photos and videos, especially in low light, includes advanced video features like 4K, HDR, and video stabilization, as well as slow motion at 960fps.
- Faster Charging and Wireless Charging: Offers significantly faster charging times and convenient wireless charging.
- More Advanced Software: Comes with the latest OS version with more future updates.
- Stereo Speakers: Provides a more immersive and richer audio experience.
- Better Build Quality and Screen Protection: The Z Flip4 is built with higher-quality materials, and the screen is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus.
- Additional Sensors: Includes gyroscope, compass, and barometer for enhanced functionality.
Trade-offs:
- The Z Flip4 sacrifices battery capacity for its foldable design and high-performance components, whereas the A12 trades performance and visual quality for longer battery life.
- The A12 offers a basic experience focused on longer battery life while the Z Flip4 offers a premium, feature-rich experience but at the cost of battery life and price.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A12:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life over top performance, basic users who primarily use their phone for calling, texting, and light social media.
- Use Cases:
- Long days away from charging outlets
- Simple tasks like browsing and messaging.
- Users who need a reliable phone with basic functionality.
- As a backup phone for those who use more advanced phones.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4:
- Ideal User: Tech enthusiasts who want a premium experience, users who value portability and style, and social media creators who will use the advanced camera system and flexible form factor.
- Use Cases:
- High-quality photo and video capture, vlogging, content creation
- Mobile gaming with smooth performance
- Multitasking between demanding apps
- Using as a statement device with a unique design
- Taking advantage of Flex Mode for hands-free operation and unique camera angles
- Users who prioritize a smooth, quick, and overall premium experience over a budget option.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions for potential buyers:
- What is your budget?
- If budget is a primary concern, the A12 is the more cost-effective option, but it compromises a lot on performance and features.
- If you're willing to pay a premium for a flagship experience, the Z Flip4 is the choice for high performance, premium camera and advanced features.
- How important is performance, display quality, and camera quality to you?
- If you want smooth performance, excellent display, and superior camera features, the Z Flip4 is the better option, it provides a far more enjoyable, smoother and future-proof experience.
- If you primarily need a basic phone and don’t need very high performance or display, the A12 will be enough for basic daily tasks.
- What kind of user are you and what are your needs?
- If you need a basic phone with a long battery life and a large screen for general use on a budget, and a large selection of cameras including a Telephoto camera, the A12 is a more practical option.
- If you need a stylish phone that provides cutting-edge tech, unique features, and great cameras the Z Flip4 would be ideal.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Budget-Conscious User: If you need a functional device for basic tasks and maximum battery life, and your budget is extremely tight, the Samsung Galaxy A12 is the practical choice due to its significantly lower price.
- For the Performance and Feature Enthusiast: If you want a flagship experience, a premium camera setup, and value speed and unique design, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the better choice, offering top-tier performance and advanced features, even if the battery is smaller.
- For the Content Creator: If you need a great camera system with better video capabilities, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is a much more appropriate option.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. While the smaller battery is a trade-off, the significantly superior performance, display, and camera capabilities, along with its unique foldable design, make it far more appealing for my use case. I prioritize a fluid user experience, high-quality visuals, and excellent photography, all of which the Z Flip4 excels at. I would also value the more future-proof nature of the phone due to it being a more modern device. While the A12 is a budget option, I believe the Z Flip4 will provide more value over its lifetime.
