Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A32 5G vs. Google Pixel 6
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 164.2 x 76.1 x 9.1 mm | 158.6 x 74.8 x 8.9 mm | A32 5G is slightly taller and wider, but both have similar thickness; Pixel 6 is a bit more compact, better for smaller hands. |
| Weight | 205g | 207g | Both are relatively heavy, noticeable in pocket, similar in hand. |
| Build | Unknown Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Pixel 6 has superior screen protection, more resistant to scratches and breaks. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.4" | Very similar screen sizes; negligible difference in daily use. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Pixel 6 offers sharper text, images, and videos, noticeable for media consumption and detail work. |
| Pixel Density | 270 ppi | 411 ppi | Pixel 6 display is noticeably crisper, individual pixels are less visible. |
| Technology | TFT LCD | AMOLED | Pixel 6 has richer colors, deeper blacks, better contrast; ideal for vibrant content and dark mode usage. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | Pixel 6 screen is slightly smoother, better for gaming and fluid animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is unknown for both; impacts visibility in direct sunlight (cannot be compared). |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 720 (7 nm) | Google Tensor (5 nm) | Pixel 6 offers significantly faster processing, smoother multitasking, better for demanding apps and games; A32 5G is adequate for basic usage. |
| AnTuTu Score | 249,720 | 721,000 | Pixel 6 demonstrates a substantial advantage in overall performance benchmarks, translating to snappier responsiveness. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Mali-G78 MP20 | Pixel 6 has much better graphics performance, more capable for gaming and GPU-intensive tasks; A32 5G is okay for casual gaming. |
| RAM | 4/6/8GB | 8 GB | Pixel 6 has a consistent 8 GB RAM, better for multitasking. A32 5G has variants that have less RAM, which may cause issues when multitasking with many apps open. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2", 0.80µm | 50MP, f/1.85, 1/1.31", 1.2µm | Pixel 6 has a larger sensor size and bigger pixels leading to better low light performance and dynamic range. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.0, 1/2.8", 1.12µm | Pixel 6's selfie camera is better in low light due to a larger aperture and bigger pixel size even with lower megapixel count. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12 µm | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.9", 1.12µm | Pixel 6 has higher resolution wide angle camera, better for capturing landscapes and group photos |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | A32 5G has a dedicated depth sensor; Pixel 6 relies on software. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A32 5G allows for close-up shots; Pixel 6 requires getting closer using the standard lense. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/120fps | 4K@30/60fps with OIS/EIS, 1080p@30/60/120/240fps with OIS/EIS | Pixel 6 offers better quality video, smoother due to OIS/EIS and more options for high frame rate capture and slow-motion. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, Ultra stable video, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | Dual camera, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Laser autofocus (LAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | Pixel 6 camera has more advanced focusing, better stabilization, and RAW image capture; the A32 5G has a slightly more versatile lense setup. |
| DxOMark | Not Tested | Mobile: 126 (Photo 136, Video 133) Selfie: 129 (Photo 130, Video 127) | Pixel 6's scores are very good for mobile cameras, showcasing better performance in both photo and video compared to an untested A32 5G |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 5G | Google Pixel 6 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4600mAh | A32 5G has slightly larger battery; may offer slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 23W Fast Charging, 21W Wireless Charging | Pixel 6 charges faster wired, and supports wireless charging, more convenient for users needing to quickly top-up. |
| Removable | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both have non-user-replaceable batteries. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers slightly longer battery life, particularly useful for users who are away from power outlets often.
- Depth & Macro Cameras: The inclusion of dedicated depth and macro cameras provide more flexibility in specific shooting scenarios.
- Dolby Atmos: Slightly better audio features, but likely not very noticeable in everyday use.
- Lower Price: The Samsung Galaxy A32 5G is generally more budget friendly, thus offering more value if performance is not a high priority.
Google Pixel 6 Advantages:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED display with higher resolution and refresh rate provides a significantly better visual experience for all forms of content.
- Significantly Better Performance: The Google Tensor chip provides a superior user experience by improving responsiveness and app loading, especially for resource-heavy apps and gaming.
- Better Camera Quality: The Pixel 6 has a superior main camera with larger sensor and pixel size, resulting in higher-quality photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Charging: Faster wired and convenient wireless charging options allow users to quickly and easily top-up.
- Up-to-date Software: Comes with a newer version of Android and a longer software support period, meaning less software compatibility issues down the road.
- Superior Connectivity: Newer WiFi and Bluetooth standards, providing faster and more reliable connections.
- Stereo Speakers: Better audio output for listening to music or watching videos.
Trade-offs:
- Samsung Galaxy A32 5G sacrifices performance, display quality, and camera capability for a slightly longer battery life and lower price point.
- Google Pixel 6 lacks dedicated macro and depth cameras, and has a smaller battery, but excels in all other areas of performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A32 5G:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who value longer battery life over high-end performance and premium camera features. Also ideal for those who need the additional features of a depth or macro camera.
- Use Cases:
- Daily social media browsing and communication
- Casual gaming
- Longer usage between charges
- Capturing macro and depth of field photos.
Google Pixel 6:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize top-notch performance, a premium visual experience, and high-quality photography.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming and video editing
- High-quality content consumption (streaming, movies)
- Photography and videography
- Users seeking the most up to date software and connectivity options
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- Budget: How much is it worth paying for performance and camera quality?
- Primary Use: Will the phone primarily be used for basic tasks, or more demanding applications and media consumption?
- Photography Needs: Is excellent camera quality a must-have, or will a decent camera suffice?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget Conscious): If the budget is the primary concern and you need a device for basic daily tasks and a longer battery life, the Samsung Galaxy A32 5G is a suitable option.
- Scenario 2 (Performance and Media Focused): If you want a smoother user experience, excellent display quality, and good performance in resource-heavy applications, the Google Pixel 6 is the better choice.
- Scenario 3 (Photography Enthusiast): If photography is important, the Google Pixel 6 is a clear winner with its superior camera, image processing capabilities and added features like OIS.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would go for the Google Pixel 6. While the Samsung Galaxy A32 5G offers a larger battery and a more versatile camera array with macro and depth lenses, the Pixel 6 provides a superior overall experience in areas that matter more to me, including:
- Display Quality: The AMOLED display with higher resolution and refresh rate provides a significantly better visual experience that enhances all forms of media consumption, which I do frequently.
- Performance: The Google Tensor chip offers a noticeably smoother and more responsive performance, which is crucial for the apps I use and the gaming I sometimes do.
- Camera Prowess: The Pixel 6's camera excels in low-light conditions, and the image processing and added features like OIS provide a much better photography experience overall. The lack of a macro and depth sensor is a minor trade-off I'm willing to make.
- Software Experience: The updated OS and longer software support period mean I can rely on the device longer and will have fewer compatibility issues, making it a longer-lasting device overall.
While the A32 5G does have a lower price point, the superior performance and feature set of the Pixel 6 make it worth the extra investment for me, since these are features I use regularly and are integral to my enjoyment of a smartphone.
