Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A42 5G vs. Motorola Moto G72
1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the key specifications of the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G and the Motorola Moto G72, with a focus on practical implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A42 5G | Motorola Moto G72 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.4 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm | 160.5 × 74.4 × 7.9 mm | The Moto G72 is noticeably more compact and thinner, making it potentially easier to handle. The A42 5G is larger. |
| Weight | 193g | 166g | The Moto G72 is significantly lighter, improving comfort during prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.6" | Both have the same screen size. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | The Moto G72's higher resolution means sharper images and text, enhancing the viewing experience for media and reading. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 266 | 402 | The Moto G72 has a much sharper display, with finer detail and less pixelation. |
| Technology | AMOLED | P-OLED | Both technologies offer excellent contrast and vibrant colors. The difference is minor in practice, but P-OLED usually offers better outdoor visibility. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The Moto G72's 120Hz refresh rate provides smoother scrolling and animations, making the phone feel more responsive. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both displays have identical brightness, or the information isn't available. This can be a limiting factor when viewing in direct sunlight or bright conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750 5G (8 nm) | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) | Both chipsets offer good performance for daily tasks and gaming, although the G99 might offer slightly improved efficiency. The Moto G72 is generally a little faster overall. |
| AnTuTu Score | 392,400 | 415,300 | The Moto G72 has a slightly better benchmark, indicating better overall performance for games and demanding apps. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Different GPU's will result in slightly different performance profiles in gaming, with the Moto G72's Mali GPU showing better performance in practice. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have the same battery capacity and offer similar battery life. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 33W Fast Charging | The Moto G72 charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2", 0.80µm, Samsung S5KGM2 | 108MP, f/1.7, 0.64µm, Unknown | The Moto G72's higher resolution main camera can capture more detailed images, although the A42 5G will perform better in low light due to the larger 0.8µm pixel size. |
| Front Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2, 1.00µm, Hynix HI-2021 | 16MP, Unknown, Unknown | The A42 5G has a slightly higher resolution selfie camera. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 5MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm, Samsung S5K4HA | 8MP, f/1.9, 1.12µm, Unknown | The Moto G72 has a higher resolution and wider aperture, potentially resulting in better wide-angle photos. |
| Depth Sensor | 5MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.12µm, GalaxyCore GC5035 | None | The A42 5G has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photos, while the Moto G72 lacks this feature. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.12µm, GalaxyCore GC5035 | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm, Unknown | The A42 5G's macro camera captures more detail. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 1080p@60fps | The A42 5G can record video in 4K resolution, while the Moto G72 is limited to 1080p. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (upgradable to 13) | Android 12 | The Moto G72 launches with a newer Android version, with the A42 5G having one less major update available to it. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | The Moto G72 is available in a 256GB configuration, providing more storage space for users. |
| RAM | 4 GB, 6GB, or 8 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | Both phones come with capable RAM options. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows for external storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic Audio Features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | The Moto G72 has better speakers and improved audio quality, creating a more immersive experience. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Both phones offer basic fingerprint security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wifi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Both phones offer standard wifi connectivity. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 LE | Both phones have the same version of bluetooth, although the Moto G72 has LE(low energy) |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | Both offer standard GPS functionality, although the Moto G72 offers SUPL support. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano) | Both phones support Dual SIM functionality. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Motorola Moto G72 Advantages:
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution (1080x2400) and PPI (402) resulting in much clearer visuals.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate for smoother animations and scrolling.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging significantly reduces charging time.
- Better Audio: Stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos for enhanced audio experience.
- Superior Overall Performance: Slightly better benchmark scores and a newer chipset for better performance.
- More Internal Storage Options: 256GB configuration available.
- Newer Android Version: Comes with Android 12.
- Lighter and More Compact: Easier to handle and more pocketable.
Practical Implications for Moto G72:
- Enhanced Multimedia Experience: Better for watching videos, playing games, and general use due to sharper visuals and smoother scrolling.
- Faster Recharging: Less time spent plugged into a charger, ideal for users on the go.
- Immersive Audio: Improved audio for music, videos, and gaming.
- More Responsive: Feels faster during everyday tasks.
- Longer support life: Newer OS means it will likely receive more updates.
Samsung Galaxy A42 5G Advantages:
- 4K Video Recording: Allows for higher resolution video recording with more detail.
- Depth Sensor: Provides better portrait mode photography.
- Higher resolution Selfie Camera: Captures more detailed selfies.
- Slightly larger main camera pixel size: Performs better in low light compared to the Motorola.
Practical Implications for A42 5G:
- Higher quality video recordings: Ideal for recording important events at higher resolution.
- More refined portrait mode photos: Dedicated depth sensor will capture more accurate bokeh.
- More detailed selfies: Captures more detail in selfie photos.
- Better low light performance: Improved performance at night or in darker situations.
Significant Trade-offs:
- A42 5G: Trades better display quality, faster charging, and superior audio of the Moto G72 for a depth sensor and 4k video.
- Moto G72: Does not record in 4k and lacks a depth sensor for photography.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy A42 5G:
- Video content creators or those who value higher quality video recording.
- Users who frequently take portrait photos and value the dedicated depth sensor.
- Users who prefer a larger phone with a premium feel.
- Casual users who don't need the most demanding performance.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy A42 5G:
- Recording family moments in 4K.
- Taking portrait photos with enhanced bokeh effect.
- General multimedia and social media use.
Ideal Users for Motorola Moto G72:
- Users who prioritize a sharp and smooth display.
- Gamers who value a higher refresh rate and better performance.
- Users who value a light and compact phone.
- Those who value a fast charging speed.
- Users who consume lots of multimedia and value good audio quality.
Use Cases for Motorola Moto G72:
- Playing mobile games with smooth graphics and minimal lag.
- Watching movies and videos on the sharp and vibrant display.
- Listening to music and enjoying enhanced audio.
- Daily usage for social media, browsing, and communication.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality? (Do you prioritize sharpness and smoothness over video recording capabilities?)
- Do you take a lot of photos and videos? (Is 4K video recording and a depth sensor important to you?)
- Do you need fast charging and good audio? (Do you value shorter charging times and an immersive audio experience?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For Multimedia and Gaming: Choose the Motorola Moto G72 for its superior display, audio, and slightly better performance.
- For Photo/Video Enthusiasts: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G for its 4K video recording, higher resolution selfie camera, and depth sensor.
- For Everyday Usage on a budget: Choose the Motorola Moto G72, as it offers a better experience in most scenarios.
My Choice
If I had to choose between the two, I would go for the Motorola Moto G72. While the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G offers some advantages in photography and video, the Moto G72's overall package is more compelling for my use case. The sharper 120Hz display makes a significant difference in daily use, providing a smoother and more enjoyable visual experience, which I value more than the higher video recording resolution. The faster charging is a practical benefit I would use all of the time, and better audio quality makes the multimedia experience more enjoyable. Furthermore, the Motorola is lighter and a bit more compact, making it more comfortable to use for extended periods. Ultimately, the Moto G72 balances performance, display quality, battery, and usability more effectively than the A42 5G.
