Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A32 vs. Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 | Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 158.9 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | 157.4 x 75.8 x 7.6 mm | A32 slightly taller & thicker; S22+ slightly wider & thinner. A32 has slightly larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 184g | 195g | S22+ is slightly heavier; A32 is more comfortable for longer hold times. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 6.6" | S22+ has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Similar sharpness; negligible real-world difference. |
| PPI | 411 | 393 | Both have sharp displays; minor difference. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | S22+ has smoother scrolling and animations for a more fluid experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | S22+ is significantly brighter, much better for outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6769V/CU Helio G80 (12 nm) | Exynos 2200 (4 nm) - Europe | S22+ has a much faster chip; Expect significantly quicker app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 200,458 | 890,774 | S22+ offers drastically superior performance (344% higher benchmark score) for demanding apps and gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Xclipse 920 - Europe | S22+ has a more powerful GPU for smoother graphics and gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64.2MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" sensor, 1.00 µm pixel size | A32 has higher megapixel count but S22+ has larger sensor, potentially better low light performance and detail. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2 | 10MP, f/2.2, 1.22 µm pixel size | A32 has higher megapixel count, however, the sensor of the S22+ might give it better low light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | N/A | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9" sensor, 1.00 µm pixel size | S22+ has optical zoom capability; allows for zoomed photos without losing much quality, which the A32 cannot do. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.40 µm pixel size | S22+ captures wider scenes with better details. |
| Portrait Mode | 5MP, f/2.4 depth sensor | N/A | A32 uses a dedicated depth sensor. S22+ uses computational photography for depth effect. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | N/A | A32 offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. S22+ lacks a dedicated macro lens. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, No stabilization | Up to 8K@24fps, HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | S22+ has significantly better video recording quality (up to 8k). S22+ also has better stabilization and audio. |
| DXOMark | N/A | Overall: 125, Photo: 122, Video: 124 | S22+ has a reputable and thoroughly tested camera performance |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4500mAh | A32 has a larger battery capacity which likely translates to longer battery life, potentially lasting longer on a single charge. |
| Charging | Li-Ion, Non-removable | 45W fast charging, Li-Polymer, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless 4.5W | S22+ charges faster and has wireless charging and reverse wireless charging capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (max 13) | Android 12 (max 16) | S22+ has a newer operating system and will receive more updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | S22+ has faster and more modern Wi-Fi connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 LE | S22+ has newer Bluetooth, more energy-efficient and offers better audio codecs (aptX, LDAC, SBC, AAC). |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | S22+ offers better location accuracy due to more satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | S22+ has eSIM support, which is useful for switching carriers. A32 supports two physical SIMs simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | S22+ has more storage options. |
| RAM | 4GB or 6GB or 8GB | 8GB | S22+ has a higher and more consistent RAM, which is better for multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio | Stereo Speakers | S22+ has better audio with stereo speakers for a more immersive sound experience. |
| Security | |||
| Biometric | Fingerprint | Fingerprint | Both phones feature basic fingerprint sensor technology. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | S22+ offers superior screen scratch and drop protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | S22+ has more environmental sensors; the barometer can be used for altitude measurement. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A32 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: 5000mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life compared to the S22+.
- Lower Cost: Generally more budget-friendly than the S22+.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Sensor: Has a dedicated macro camera lens and depth sensor for portrait mode.
- Dual Physical SIM slots: Supports two physical SIMs simultaneously.
Practical Implications for Galaxy A32:
- Good for users who prioritize long battery life and a more budget-friendly price.
- Useful for users who prefer a dedicated macro lens and a depth sensor for portraits.
- Good for users needing two physical SIM cards.
Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Much faster processor and GPU for demanding tasks like gaming, editing and multitasking.
- Better Display: Brighter, higher refresh rate display for a better visual experience.
- Advanced Camera System: Better camera sensors, telephoto lens for optical zoom, and better video capabilities (8K, 4K).
- Faster Charging: 45W fast charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging support.
- More Storage & RAM: Larger internal storage options (256GB) and better RAM performance (8GB) for more headroom.
- Better Connectivity: Newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards for faster speeds and more efficient connections.
- Enhanced Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus+ for improved screen protection.
- eSIM Support: Support for digital carrier switching.
- Stereo Speakers: Improved audio experience due to stereo speakers.
Practical Implications for Galaxy S22+ 5G:
- Ideal for users who prioritize performance, camera quality, and a premium experience.
- Suited for those who use their phone for gaming, videography, or editing.
- Better for users who need faster charging and wireless options.
Trade-offs:
- A32: Better battery, dedicated macro/depth sensors, but significantly weaker performance and lower camera quality.
- S22+: Superior performance, camera and display, but it's more expensive and slightly heavier.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A32 Ideal Users:
- Budget-conscious buyers: Those who need a reliable smartphone for everyday tasks without breaking the bank.
- Users prioritizing battery life: Individuals who need their phone to last all day without frequent charging.
- Casual photographers: Users who appreciate a good camera for everyday snapshots, and find the macro and depth sensors useful.
- Users with two active physical SIM cards: Users who need two physical SIMs active simultaneously.
Specific Use Cases for Galaxy A32:
- Long-lasting usage for travel or outdoor activities where power outlets might be scarce.
- Everyday browsing, social media, and communication.
- Basic photography and capturing close-up macro shots.
Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Performance enthusiasts: Gamers, content creators, and power users who need a fast and responsive smartphone.
- Mobile photographers and videographers: Those who need a high-quality camera system with optical zoom and advanced video features.
- Users who need cutting-edge features: Individuals who want the latest technology and features, including fast charging and wireless charging.
- Users who value display quality and build quality: Individuals who prefer a brighter screen and durable glass.
Specific Use Cases for Galaxy S22+ 5G:
- Mobile gaming, video editing, and multitasking with demanding applications.
- High-quality photography and videography in various conditions, including low-light and long distance shots.
- Smooth and fast daily usage and for business-related activities
- Use of wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Galaxy A32: Good value for budget-conscious buyers; decent specs at a lower price point, but compromises on performance and premium features.
- Galaxy S22+ 5G: Higher price, but a great overall value for users who need the advanced performance, camera, and display.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The A32 is much more budget-friendly, while the S22+ is a premium device at a higher price.
- What are your primary use cases? Do you need maximum performance for gaming and demanding tasks, or do you mainly browse the web and use social media?
- How important is camera quality and features? Do you need the versatility of a telephoto zoom lens and high-end video recording, or are basic snapshots sufficient?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If you are on a tight budget and primarily use your phone for basic tasks, the Samsung Galaxy A32 is a more economical choice, offering a larger battery and macro lens.
- Scenario 2: Performance & Camera Focus: If you are a gamer, content creator, or someone who values camera quality, the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G is the clear choice, offering superior performance, better camera features, and a premium overall experience.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User: If you need a good balance of price and functionality, evaluate how much you value the extra performance of the S22+ vs the battery life and macro lens of the A32.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S22+ 5G. Despite the higher price tag, the significant improvements in performance, camera quality, and overall user experience make it a worthwhile investment. As someone who uses a smartphone for a variety of tasks, including content creation, gaming, and work-related activities, the S22+ offers the power and features I need. The superior display, faster charging, and better connectivity also significantly enhance the user experience. Although the A32 has better battery, the overall package of the S22+ is simply too compelling to ignore.
