Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A32 vs. Oppo Reno12
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 | Oppo Reno12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-02-25 | 2024-06-25 | Oppo Reno12 is significantly newer, meaning it will have longer software support and more modern features. |
| Dimensions | 158.9 × 73.6 × 8.4 mm | 161.4 × 74.1 × 7.6 mm | Oppo Reno12 is slightly taller and thinner, potentially feeling more sleek, while the A32 is a bit more compact and might feel more substantial due to increased thickness. |
| Weight | 184g | 177g | Oppo Reno12 is slightly lighter, which may be noticeable during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.7" | Oppo Reno12 offers a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2412 | Both are very similar, meaning sharpness will be nearly identical. |
| Pixel Density | 411 PPI | 394 PPI | Both phones offer very similar pixel density, meaning visual clarity will be very similar. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED displays with good contrast and color. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Oppo Reno12 offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1400 nits | Oppo Reno12 has significantly better screen visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769V/CU Helio G80 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7300 Energy (4 nm) | Oppo Reno12 has a much more powerful and efficient processor, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 200,458 | 702,140 | Oppo Reno12 has dramatically higher performance for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G615 MC2 | Oppo Reno12 has a more modern GPU, meaning better graphics in gaming and other intensive tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have similar battery capacity, meaning similar battery life. |
| Charging | Li-Ion | 80W fast charging, Li-Polymer | Oppo Reno12 supports significantly faster charging. |
| Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both phones have non-removable batteries. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 64.2MP | 50MP | Samsung Galaxy A32 has a higher megapixel count, but resolution is not the only factor in camera performance. |
| Standard Camera Aperture | f/1.8 | f/1.8 | Both have same aperture, so low-light performance will likely be similar based on this spec alone. |
| Standard Camera Sensor | Unknown | Sony LYT-600 (1/2") | Oppo Reno12 has a known, modern sensor with a larger sensor size which typically mean better low-light capture. |
| Standard Camera Pixel Size | Unknown | 0.70 µm | Oppo Reno12 has smaller pixel size which impacts overall image quality. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 20MP | 32MP | Oppo Reno12 offers higher resolution selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.0 | Oppo Reno12 has a wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Camera Resolution | 8MP | 8MP | Both have the same resolution, meaning similar clarity for wide photos. |
| Wide Angle Camera Aperture | f/2.2 | f/2.2 | Both have the same aperture, so low-light performance will likely be similar based on this spec alone. |
| Wide Angle Camera Sensor | Unknown | Sony IMX355 (1/2.8") | Oppo Reno12 has a known sensor with a larger sensor size which typically mean better low-light capture. |
| Wide Angle Camera Pixel Size | Unknown | 1.14 µm | Oppo Reno12 has larger pixel size which impacts overall image quality. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 5MP | Not Available | Samsung Galaxy A32 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode effects, while Oppo Reno12 uses software for depth simulation. |
| Macro Lens Resolution | 5MP | 2MP | Samsung Galaxy A32 has higher resolution for macro shots. |
| Macro Lens Aperture | f/2.4 | f/2.4 | Both have same aperture, so low-light performance will likely be similar based on this spec alone. |
| Macro Lens Sensor | Unknown | Omnivision OV02B10 (1/5") | Oppo Reno12 has a known sensor. |
| Macro Lens Pixel Size | Unknown | 1.75 µm | Oppo Reno12 has larger pixel size which impacts overall image quality. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | Up to 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60/120/480fps, 720p@960fps, with OIS/EIS | Oppo Reno12 offers higher resolution video recording and more frame rate options as well as optical image stabilization for higher quality, stable videos. |
| Slow Motion Video | No | Yes, 240fps | Oppo Reno12 supports slow-motion video. |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Quadruple camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer | Noise reduction, 4K Video, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW | Oppo Reno12 has more advanced camera features, such as OIS, 4k video recording and RAW shooting mode. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (max. 13) | Android 14 (max. 17) | Oppo Reno12 has a newer OS and will likely receive software updates for longer. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax (WiFi 6) | Oppo Reno12 supports faster and more efficient WiFi. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.4 LE | Oppo Reno12 has a newer Bluetooth version, with better energy efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Oppo Reno12 has more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 256/512 GB | Oppo Reno12 offers significantly more storage options. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 12/16 GB | Oppo Reno12 offers significantly more RAM for smoother multitasking and better performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic Audio Features | Basic Audio Features | Both phones have similar audio capabilities. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both phones have fingerprint sensor for basic security. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Oppo Reno12 has superior screen protection, which is more resistant to scratches and damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Hall | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Gravity | Both devices have essential sensors; Samsung additionally has a Compass sensor, while Oppo has a Gravity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A32 Advantages:
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: The Galaxy A32 has a dedicated 5MP depth sensor which can potentially offer slightly better bokeh effects in portrait mode.
- Macro Lens Resolution: The Galaxy A32 has a slightly higher macro lens resolution, which could lead to more detailed close-up images.
Practical Implications: The A32’s camera benefits are minor and will be mostly imperceptible in most use cases.
Oppo Reno12 Advantages:
- Significantly Faster Processor: The Dimensity 7300 Energy chip is far more powerful, which results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a better gaming experience.
- Superior Display: The 120Hz refresh rate and higher brightness improve the overall visual experience.
- Faster Charging: The 80W fast charging will significantly reduce charging times.
- More RAM and Storage: The available 12/16GB of RAM and 256/512GB storage mean much better performance in demanding situations.
- Better Camera Features: OIS, 4K video recording, and RAW shooting mode.
- Newer OS and Software Support: Android 14 offers more features and will receive updates longer.
- Modern Connectivity: Newer WiFi and Bluetooth standards.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 provides significantly better protection.
- More complete location services: Supports more satellite systems.
Practical Implications: The Reno12 is a superior device in virtually every performance-related metric as well as more modern features and technology.
Trade-offs:
- The Samsung Galaxy A32 offers a slightly higher resolution macro camera and dedicated depth sensor.
- The Oppo Reno12 does not have a compass sensor.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A32 Ideal User:
- Users with a very tight budget and basic smartphone needs.
- Users primarily using the phone for calls, texts, and casual browsing.
- Users who prioritize a slightly more compact design.
- Users who appreciate a dedicated depth sensor and slightly better macro photography capabilities.
Use Cases:
- Basic social media use.
- Casual web browsing and email.
- Basic photo and video capture.
- Users who require a physical compass (though this can be simulated via apps on other phones).
Oppo Reno12 Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize performance, speed, and modern features.
- Users who value a better viewing experience, particularly in bright sunlight.
- Users who play mobile games or use resource-intensive apps.
- Users who take a lot of photos and videos.
- Users who want faster charging and better battery performance.
- Users who want long-term software support and security updates.
Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming.
- High-quality photography and videography.
- Demanding applications.
- Heavy multitasking.
- Viewing HDR content and consuming videos.
- Users who require more accurate location services.
Price-to-Value:
- The Oppo Reno12 is the clear winner in terms of features, technology and overall value.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? If the price is the single most important factor, the Samsung A32 may be an option, but in most cases, the value of the Reno12 outweighs the price difference by a substantial margin.
- How important is performance and speed? If you demand a fast phone for multitasking, gaming, and other demanding tasks, the Oppo Reno12 is the best choice.
- What are your primary use cases? If you only need a basic device for simple tasks, the A32 might suffice, but for anything beyond that, the Reno12 is recommended.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Basic Use on a Tight Budget: If you absolutely must stick to a low budget and do very little besides calls, texts and browsing, the Samsung Galaxy A32 may suffice (if available at a steep discount), but you will compromise significantly on many aspects of the user experience.
- Scenario 2: Performance and Modern Features: If you plan to play games, use demanding apps, or value modern features, faster charging and a higher quality display, the Oppo Reno12 is a much better choice.
- Scenario 3: Photography and Video: If you want better photo quality with more features, 4K recording and higher video stability, the Oppo Reno12 provides a clear advantage.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would absolutely choose the Oppo Reno12. The Samsung Galaxy A32 is significantly older and falls short on almost every key metric. The Reno12 offers far superior performance, a much better display, faster charging, more RAM and storage, and a better camera system with OIS. While the A32 might have a slightly better macro lens on paper, the Reno12 is an all-around more modern and capable device that would provide a much better user experience. The superior screen protection, modern connectivity, and up-to-date software support make the Reno12 a much more future-proof option. For a small increase in price, the Reno12 delivers significantly more value.
