Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A32 vs. Realme 12+
1. Specifications Comparison
Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 | Realme 12+ | Practical Impact |
---|---|---|---|
Design | |||
Launch Date | 2021-02-25 | 2024-03-02 | Realme 12+ is significantly newer, implying access to more modern features and potentially better software support. |
Dimensions | 158.9 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm, 184g | 163 x 75.5 x 7.9 mm, 190g | Realme 12+ is slightly larger and heavier, might be less comfortable for one-handed use for some. |
Display | |||
Size | 6.4" | 6.67" | Realme 12+ offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption and gaming. |
Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer sharp visuals with the same resolution. |
PPI | 411 | 395 | Both have similar pixel density, so sharpness will be nearly identical. |
Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use AMOLED, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Realme 12+ has smoother scrolling and animations, which enhances the overall user experience. |
Brightness | 0 nits | 2000 nits | Realme 12+ is much brighter making it significantly better for outdoor visibility and use in direct sunlight. |
Performance | |||
Chipset | Mediatek Helio G80 (12 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 7050 (6 nm) | Realme 12+ has a much more powerful and efficient chipset, leading to faster performance, better gaming, and improved battery efficiency. |
AnTuTu Score | 200,458 | 601,000 | Realme 12+ offers vastly superior performance, capable of handling demanding tasks and gaming more smoothly. |
GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Realme 12+ has a more powerful GPU, resulting in better graphics performance, especially for gaming. |
Battery | |||
Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh | Both have the same battery capacity, expect similar battery life with medium usage. |
Charging | Li-Ion | 67W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | Realme 12+ charges much faster and uses a more advanced battery tech, reducing charging time significantly. |
Features | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both phones have non-removable batteries. |
Camera | |||
Rear Standard | 64.2MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/2" sensor, Sony LYT-600 | Samsung A32 has higher resolution but Realme 12+ has a better sensor and bigger pixel size, may offer better low-light. |
Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.45 | Samsung A32 has higher resolution and a wider aperture, but real-world performance depends on other factors. |
Wide Angle lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both offer similar performance with their wide angle lens cameras. |
Portrait Mode | 5MP, f/2.4 | Not available | Samsung A32 has a dedicated depth sensor for enhanced portrait mode. |
Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Samsung A32 has higher resolution for macro shots. |
Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, EIS | Realme 12+ offers much higher video recording quality and better stabilization, suitable for higher-quality video creation. |
Video Features | No stabilization | Yes Stabilization, EIS, OIS | Realme 12+ offers better video quality due to image stabilization. |
Software | |||
OS | Android 11, upgradeable to 13 | Android 14, upgradeable to 16 | Realme 12+ has newer software, resulting in better features and security. |
Connectivity | |||
Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Realme 12+ offers faster and more efficient Wi-Fi connectivity. |
Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 LE | Realme 12+ uses newer Bluetooth tech, potentially providing better energy efficiency and faster connections. |
GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Samsung A32 supports Galileo for improved accuracy in some regions. |
Storage | |||
Internal | 64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB/512GB | Realme 12+ offers much higher storage options. |
RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 8GB/12GB | Realme 12+ comes with more RAM providing smoother multitasking and gaming experience. |
Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
Audio | |||
Audio Quality | Basic Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo speakers, 2 mics | Realme 12+ provides a superior audio experience, better for media consumption and calls. |
Security | |||
Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both phones have basic fingerprint sensors. |
Build Quality | |||
Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Both phones' screen protection are unknown. |
Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Hall, Geomagnetic | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Samsung A32 has additional sensors such as hall and geomagnetic. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme 12+ Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Dimensity 7050 chipset and higher AnTuTu score result in significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming capabilities.
- Better Display: Higher brightness (2000 nits vs. 0 nits), and 120Hz refresh rate provide a more enjoyable viewing experience, particularly outdoors.
- Faster Charging: 67W fast charging drastically reduces charging time.
- Enhanced Camera: 4K video recording, Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) provide better video recording.
- Newer Software: Android 14 provides the latest features, security updates, and improved performance.
- Superior Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers offer a significantly better audio experience for media consumption.
- More Storage and RAM: Higher storage options (up to 512GB) and RAM options (up to 12GB) provide more space and smoother performance when multitasking and gaming.
- Better Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 provides faster and more efficient wireless connectivity.
Samsung Galaxy A32 Advantages:
- Depth Sensor for Portraits: Dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode can result in better bokeh effects.
- Higher Resolution Macro and Front Camera: May capture slightly more detailed macro and selfie images.
- Galileo Support: Improved GPS accuracy in some regions.
- Additional Sensors Hall and Geomagnetic.
- Slightly Smaller and Lighter: May be more comfortable for some users to handle, especially for prolonged use.
Trade-offs:
- The Realme 12+ sacrifices a dedicated portrait depth sensor and slightly higher resolution macro camera for significant improvements in performance, display, battery, and video quality.
- Samsung A32 provides a smaller size for users who prefer a more compact form factor.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy A32:
- Budget-conscious users: Those seeking a basic smartphone experience at a lower price point.
- Users who value a smaller and lighter phone: Those who prioritize comfort and portability.
- Users who prefer a dedicated depth sensor for portraits
- Users who need additional sensors for specific apps and needs
Specific Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy A32:
- Basic everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and calling.
- Casual photography and videography needs.
- Users who prioritize a smaller form factor.
- Users who want to use depth sensor for better portrait mode.
Ideal User for Realme 12+:
- Performance-oriented users: Gamers, multitaskers, and anyone who wants fast and responsive performance.
- Media consumers: Those who value a vibrant display, high refresh rate, and good audio experience.
- Users who need a good camera for videos and photos: Those who want 4K video recording and quality images.
- Users who need better battery life and fast charging: Those who need to use their phone for extended periods and need it to charge quickly.
- Users who want the latest software: Those who prioritize the latest features and security updates.
Specific Use Cases for Realme 12+:
- Mobile gaming and other demanding applications.
- High-quality video recording and editing.
- Watching videos, movies, and other media on the go.
- Use for extended periods on a single charge with fast charging in between.
- Daily usage, work and productivity-related tasks.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Realme 12+ offers a significantly better price-to-value ratio due to the substantial performance upgrades, better display, and modern features. While the exact pricing will vary, the performance, and features of the Realme 12+ offer a more competitive overall package for most users.
- Samsung Galaxy A32 is an older model, thus might be available at an even lower price, ideal for very basic needs and budget users.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is performance? (If crucial, Realme 12+ is the clear winner.)
- How much do you value display quality, especially outdoors? (Realme 12+ provides a much brighter display, making it better for use in sunlight).
- What is your primary use case for the camera? (If video is a priority, the Realme 12+ is the better choice.)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For casual users on a tight budget: The Samsung Galaxy A32 is suitable for basic daily tasks and very light usage.
- For users who need a compact device: The Samsung Galaxy A32 will be the better choice for comfortable use and handling, since it's smaller and lighter.
- For performance-focused users who want a quality multimedia and gaming experience: The Realme 12+ is the obvious choice, offering a significantly better user experience due to its modern features, faster performance, and superior display.
- For users looking for good quality photos and videos: Realme 12+ takes the lead with 4k recording and stabilization features.
- For users wanting the latest features and software: The Realme 12+ running Android 14 is a far better pick.
My Choice:
I would choose the Realme 12+. While the Samsung Galaxy A32 might appeal to users looking for a smaller device on a tight budget, the Realme 12+ provides a much better experience in almost every aspect. Its vastly superior performance, significantly improved display, much faster charging, enhanced video recording capabilities, better audio and newer software provide significantly more value. The difference in experience between the two devices is substantial, and for most users, the extra cost is easily justified by the improvements. The Realme 12+ aligns better with modern smartphone standards and provides a smoother, more versatile user experience. The minor trade-offs (such as the portrait mode depth sensor and higher resolution macro camera) are insignificant when compared to its significant performance and functionality improvements.