Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A32 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A32 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-02-25 | 2022-08-25 | Z Fold4 is significantly newer, likely having more software and security updates |
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Fold4 offers a larger, tablet-like screen when unfolded, enhancing productivity and media consumption; A32 is a standard, easier to handle, design. |
| Dimensions | 158.9 x 73.6 x 8.4 mm | 155.1 x 130.1 x 6.3 mm | A32 is taller and thicker; Z Fold4 is wider when unfolded, more cumbersome in pocket but offers large screen experience |
| Weight | 184g | 263g | A32 is much lighter, comfortable for one-handed use. Z Fold4 is heavier and feels more substantial, less convenient for extended handheld use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.4" | 7.6" | Z Fold4 provides a significantly larger screen for multitasking, watching videos and gaming; A32 offers a standard-sized screen. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1812x2176 | Z Fold4 offers a much sharper display, better for detailed images and text; A32 is decent, but lower resolution is noticeable. |
| Pixel Density | 411 PPI | 373 PPI | A32 has a slightly sharper text and image clarity, though difference is not significantly noticeable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | A32's AMOLED offers superior contrast and deeper blacks, better for viewing dark content or using dark mode. Z Fold4's technology is not available. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Z Fold4 provides smoother scrolling and animations, leading to a more responsive feel. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have the same peak brightness at 0 nits. Likely has an error as this isn't a realistic value. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G80 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Z Fold4 offers significantly higher performance, better for gaming, multitasking and demanding apps. A32 is suitable for basic tasks, not demanding games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 200,458 | 1,232,800 | Z Fold4 is much faster overall, with significantly faster app loading and smoother performance. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Adreno 730 | Z Fold4's GPU is far superior for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. A32’s GPU is suitable for casual gaming. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4400mAh | A32 likely offers longer battery life due to a larger capacity, while Z Fold4's large screen and powerful CPU will drain the smaller battery faster |
| Charging | Li-Ion | 25W fast charging, Li-Polymer | Z Fold4 offers fast charging for quick battery top-ups; A32 has no specific mention of fast charging and is likely slower to charge. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass, Reverse, Wireless, Reverse Wireless, Non-removable | Z Fold4 offers more flexible charging options with wireless and reverse charging and bypass charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64.2MP, f/1.8, Unspecified Size | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57" (GN3) | Z Fold4 has better sensor size resulting in better low-light performance, but A32 has higher resolution for highly detailed photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2, Unspecified Size | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" (Sony IMX374) | Z Fold4 has larger pixel sizes leading to better low light performance; A32 has higher megapixel count for detail. |
| Telephoto | None | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9" (Samsung S5K3K1) | Z Fold4 offers optical zoom capabilities, superior for distant subjects; A32 lacks optical zoom. |
| Wide-angle | 8MP, f/2.2, Unspecified Size | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06" (Sony IMX258) | Z Fold4 has a better sensor and slightly more detail for wide angle shots. |
| Depth | 5MP, f/2.4, Unspecified Size | None | A32 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots, though its effectiveness is not known in detail. |
| Macro | 5MP, f/2.4, Unspecified Size | None | A32 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, its efficacy is not specified. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | Up to 8K@24fps | Z Fold4 records much higher quality video, more detail and is superior for high quality video recording; A32 is limited to 1080p and slower fps. |
| Camera Features | Basic | Advanced (OIS, Laser AF, etc.) | Z Fold4 offers more advanced features like OIS for better low light performance, advanced autofocus, manual mode, and raw capture. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 (upgradable to 16) | Z Fold4 starts with a newer OS and likely receives more updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 (ac) | Wi-Fi 6 (ax) | Z Fold4 offers faster Wi-Fi speeds and better performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.2 | Z Fold4 has newer Bluetooth with potentially better power efficiency and audio quality. |
| GPS | Basic GPS Support | Advanced GPS Support | Z Fold4 offers more precise location tracking with dual band GPS support. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Z Fold4 has an eSIM, allowing for easier switching between carriers; A32 supports two physical SIMs simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB/128GB | 256GB/512GB/1024GB | Z Fold4 offers significantly more storage space, useful for large files, videos, or extensive app usage; A32's lower storage may need cloud storage |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 12GB | Z Fold4 offers better multitasking and app performance, particularly with demanding applications; A32 is limited for demanding apps and extensive multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Z Fold4 provides a much better audio experience with immersive sound and stereo separation. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | Z Fold4 offers a more modern side-mounted fingerprint sensor for fast unlocking, A32 features basic fingerprint sensor |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Z Fold4 has superior screen protection, leading to better scratch and damage resistance. |
| Sensors | Basic Suite | Advanced Suite (Barometer) | Z Fold4 offers a barometer, useful for altitude tracking, also has Gravity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A32 Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and carry, especially for one-handed use.
- Potentially Better Battery Life: Larger battery capacity, which might translate to longer usage between charges.
- Lower Price Point: A significantly more affordable option for budget-conscious users.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Lens: Offers specific camera features not found on the Z Fold4.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design with Large Screen: Provides a tablet-like experience for media consumption, productivity, and gaming.
- Superior Performance: Much faster processor and GPU, ideal for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Advanced Camera System: Offers optical zoom, better low-light performance, and higher quality video recording.
- More Storage and RAM: Ensures smoother performance and ample space for files and apps.
- More Flexible Charging: Includes fast charging, wireless charging and reverse charging.
- Newer Technology: Offers a newer OS, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth standards.
- Advanced Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos for more immersive audio experience.
Trade-offs:
- A32: Sacrifices performance, advanced features, and screen technology for a more budget-friendly price and standard design.
- Z Fold4: Has a higher price, bulkier design, is heavier and might have shorter battery life due to the large screen and performance.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy A32:
- Budget-conscious buyers: Looking for a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.
- Users with basic needs: Primarily use the phone for calls, messaging, social media, and light web browsing.
- Users preferring lighter, more compact phones: Prioritize portability and ease of handling.
- Casual photographers: Who occasionally take photos and are not in need of an advanced camera.
- Users who prefer the classic smartphone design: Wanting a standard sized display in traditional body.
Specific Use Cases:
- Daily communication (calls, texts, emails).
- Casual social media browsing.
- Basic photography.
- Light mobile gaming.
- Streaming videos, listening to music.
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4:
- Power users: Need a smartphone that can handle demanding tasks and multitasking.
- Mobile gamers: Seek superior gaming performance with better graphics and faster response times.
- Professionals on the go: Value the larger screen for productivity, multitasking, and content creation.
- Multimedia enthusiasts: Appreciate the immersive experience for watching videos and playing games.
- Users who want a flexible and cutting edge phone: Wanting a top of the line phone that pushes boundaries.
- Users who like taking high-quality photos and videos: Requiring advanced camera features and quality.
- Tech enthusiasts: Who want to try the latest innovations in mobile technology.
Specific Use Cases:
- Mobile productivity (email, document editing, spreadsheets).
- Advanced mobile gaming.
- High-quality photography and video recording.
- Multitasking across multiple apps.
- Viewing media and entertainment.
- Using the phone as a miniature tablet.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions:
- What's my budget? The Galaxy A32 is much cheaper than the Z Fold4. If budget is the limiting factor the A32 is the better option.
- How important is performance, display size, and advanced features? The Z Fold4 is superior in performance and functionality. If the user wants a cutting edge mobile experience, the Z Fold4 is superior.
- What size and weight am I comfortable with? If the user prefers a lighter, standard-sized phone the A32 is a better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget and portability are paramount: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A32 for its lower price, lighter build and standard design with basic performance.
- Scenario 2: Need top-tier performance and a versatile screen: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 for its foldable screen, superior performance, more advanced camera, and advanced charging features.
- Scenario 3: A user who wants a powerful phone for gaming and media consumption: Choose Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4 for its larger screen, excellent speakers, great performance, and high quality video recording capabilities.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold4. While I acknowledge the higher price and the less portable form factor, the advantages are too compelling. The superior performance, the larger and more versatile display, the advanced camera features, and overall more future-proof technology would be worth the extra cost for me. As someone who often multitasks, plays games, and takes pictures, the Z Fold4 offers a much more complete and enjoyable experience.
