Alright, let's dive deep into the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G and the Nokia G42. As a tech journalist with an engineering background, I'm always keen to see how these specs translate into real-world performance. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which one might be the right fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at how the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G and Nokia G42 stack up, with a focus on practical implications for users:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A23 5G | Nokia G42 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-02 | 2023-06-28 | Nokia is newer, potentially offering more recent software features |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, no fancy foldable or sliding mechanisms |
| Dimensions | 165.4 x 76.9 x 8.4 mm | 165 x 75.8 x 8.6 mm | A23 is slightly wider, while G42 is a tiny bit thicker; negligible difference in daily handling |
| Weight | 197g | 193.8g | Both feel similar in hand, neither is noticeably lighter or heavier |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.56" | Both offer ample screen real estate; very similar size difference wont be noticeable to naked eye. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 | 720 x 1612 | A23 has a much sharper display; crisper text and images will be noticeable |
| PPI | 400 | 269 | A23’s display is noticeably clearer, making it more enjoyable for reading and viewing detailed content |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | IPS generally has better color accuracy and viewing angles; Nokia wins in color reproduction |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | A23 provides smoother scrolling and animations; A subtle improvement for gamers |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both will have similar screen visibility under normal conditions. Need real testing to confirm. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) | Snapdragon 480+ 5G (8nm) | A23’s chipset is more powerful, offering better general performance, app loading and gaming experience |
| AnTuTu Score | 418,000 | 380,000 | A23 will perform better in benchmarks; Expect better performance |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 619 | Both use the same GPU, providing similar graphics capabilities |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 50MP, f/1.8 | Similar main sensor specs; Both have very similar camera setup |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.0 | Both selfie cameras are alike and will provide good images for social media |
| Wide Angle lens | 5MP, f/2.2 | None | A23 can capture wider landscapes; wider shot for groups and scenery |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer similar depth effects in portrait mode |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both will capture detailed close-up shots |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, OIS, Slow-mo 120fps | 1080p@30fps, no OIS, no Slow-mo | A23 can record smoother videos thanks to OIS; A23 also offer slow-mo video recording |
| Features | OIS, PDAF, Face Detection, etc | Only HDR, Geotagging, etc | A23 has advanced camera features for high-quality photos and videos; Better options for photography and videography enthusiast |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both offer similar battery capacity and should last a full day on moderate usage; Both are identical with no noticeable difference |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 20W Fast Charging | A23 charges slightly faster, reducing waiting time |
| Features | Bypass Charging, No Removable | No Charger in box, No Removable | A23 can bypass charging for long gaming sessions. Nokia G42 does not include a charger in box |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (up to 14) | Android 13 (up to 14) | G42 ships with a newer version of Android for better features and security; Both phones are guaranteed up to android 14 |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | G42 offers faster and more reliable Wi-Fi experience; Faster speeds and lower latency |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE, APT-x etc | 5.1 LE | A23 has more advanced Bluetooth features for enhanced audio and device pairing; Advanced options for those seeking seamless connectivity |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A23 has superior GPS for better location accuracy; More precise GPS tracking |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | Varies | 128 GB | G42 offers a set amount of storage out of the box; A23 offers multiple variants |
| RAM | Varies | 4GB or 6GB | G42 may offer smoother multitasking, better RAM usage |
| Expandable | No expandable storage | No expandable storage | Neither has microSD slot, so you're stuck with built-in storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic Audio Features | 2 microphones | G42 should provide better clarity during calls and recordings |
| Security | |||
| Security | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | Both provide fast and reliable fingerprint-based unlocking |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass 3 | A23 has better scratch and impact protection for the display; More durable screen |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Barometer etc | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope etc | A23 has more advanced sensor package, enabling features such as a barometer; Nokia has a compass but missing Barometer. |
| ## 2. Key Insights |
Samsung Galaxy A23 5G:
- Strengths: The A23 excels with a sharper, 120Hz display, offering better smoothness and visual clarity. The Snapdragon 695 chipset offers a significant performance boost, making it better for gaming and multitasking. Furthermore, its camera system is more versatile, with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), more advanced features, and a dedicated Wide-Angle lens. The better build quality with Corning Gorilla Glass 5 offers more protection.
- Competitive Advantages: Superior display, more powerful chipset, an advanced camera, and better build quality give the Galaxy A23 the edge over the Nokia G42 in several areas. It's designed for users who prioritize performance, display clarity, and camera capabilities.
- Trade-offs: The A23 comes with older Android version. The lack of expandable storage is also a drawback.
Nokia G42:
- Strengths: The G42 offers a more recent Android version with a promise of updates, potentially more streamlined software. The IPS LCD display will provide more color accuracy, and the newer Wi-Fi 6 standard can make a difference in Wi-Fi speeds. Also features 2 microphones for better audio quality.
- Competitive Advantages: More recent software, better audio quality, and more reliable WiFi. It’s positioned for users who prioritize the latest software and solid basic functionality over high-end performance or camera specs.
- Trade-offs: The G42 has a lower resolution and PPI screen with 90Hz refresh rate, weaker processor, and a less feature-rich camera system. It also has a less durable screen, with the older Corning Gorilla Glass 3.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy A23 5G:
- Ideal User: This phone suits the user who values a better display, higher performance for gaming, and advanced camera features.
- Use Cases: Perfect for media consumption, gaming, photography, and general use by heavy users who need a responsive device.
- Nokia G42:
- Ideal User: This is better suited for users who value the latest software, a reliable audio quality for better call quality, and faster Wi-Fi speeds.
- Use Cases: Ideal for everyday tasks, browsing, social media, calls, and those who prefer a straightforward, no-frills experience.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you make a decision, consider these questions:
- How much do I value screen quality?: If a sharp, smooth display is crucial, the Galaxy A23 is the obvious choice.
- What do I need performance wise?: If you want a phone that handles modern apps and games more easily, the A23 should be better choice.
- How important is camera quality to you?: If you love taking pictures, A23 offers better camera performance.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Gamer: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G. The combination of a 120Hz display, more powerful chipset, and higher GPU benchmark results will provide a more responsive and immersive gaming experience.
- For the Casual User: Choose the Nokia G42. Its more recent software, coupled with good audio and reliable connectivity, makes it an adequate option for day-to-day tasks.
- For the Photo Enthusiast: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G. The additional camera features, including OIS, a wide-angle lens, and additional settings will improve photos and videos.
My Pick and Why
If I had to choose, I'd go with the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G. While the Nokia G42 has its merits, the A23 offers a better all-round experience that aligns more with my priorities. The significantly sharper 120Hz display is a major win for my daily content consumption, while its camera provides more versatility for the types of photos and videos that I like to take. The Snapdragon 695's enhanced performance makes the device more future proof.
While I do value having the latest operating system, the marginal benefit of having android 13 over 12 is less important than the benefits from the superior performance of the A23. The trade-off in software is worth it to me for a better screen, better camera, and much better performance.
