Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A42 5G vs. Motorola Moto G82
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A42 5G | Motorola Moto G82 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2020-11-11 | 2022-06-07 | Moto G82 is significantly newer, likely with updated features/software. |
| Dimensions | 164.4x75.9x8.6 mm | 160.9x74.5x8 mm | A42 is slightly larger, the G82 is thinner. The G82 is more pocketable |
| Weight | 193g | 173g | G82 is lighter and more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.6" | Both offer the same screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | G82 has significantly sharper visuals, better text clarity, and more detail in images/videos. |
| PPI | 266 | 402 | G82 has a much higher pixel density, resulting in a clearer and crisper viewing experience. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks characteristic of AMOLED displays. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | G82 provides smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming visuals. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is identical (but this value is unrealistic, real brightness values not available). |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750 5G (8nm) | Snapdragon 695 5G (6nm) | G82 has a more energy-efficient chip, however both chips offer similar performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 392,400 | 390,000 | Similar real-world performance for everyday tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 619 | Identical graphics processing capabilities. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life for typical usage patterns. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | G82 charges much faster, reducing charging downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Minor difference in battery chemistry. |
| Removable | Non-Removable | Non-Removable | Batteries on both phones are not user replaceable. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP, f/1.8, 1/2", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | G82 has slightly higher resolution but smaller sensor. A42 may perform slightly better in low-light. |
| Selfie Camera | 20MP, f/2.2, 1.00µm | 16MP, f/2.2, 1.00µm | A42 has a higher resolution front camera for more detailed selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | G82 captures higher-resolution ultra-wide shots. |
| Portrait (depth) | 5MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.12µm | N/A | A42 can capture depth information (for portrait mode) with a dedicated sensor |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.12µm | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75µm | A42 captures higher resolution macro shots. G82 might be better for close ups due to larger pixel size. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, 720p@480fps | 1080p@30/60fps | A42 captures video at higher resolution. G82 offers OIS video and 60 fps frame rate on full HD. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes | Motorola has image stabilization |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Quadruple camera | OIS, Laser Autofocus, Triple Camera | A42 has 4K Video and Quad Camera, while G82 has OIS, Laser Autofocus and Triple Camera |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 10 (up to 13) | Android 12 (up to 13) | G82 has a more recent base OS, with similar final update. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | Similar WiFi performance on both devices. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE | G82 has a slightly newer, more energy-efficient Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | Similar location capabilities. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both offer dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB | 128 GB | Both have the same storage capacity. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 6 GB | A42 offers higher RAM option, which may result in better multitasking in that specific RAM model. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | G82 offers a significantly enhanced audio experience with better clarity and spatial audio |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | G82 has more modern side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Lack of information about specific screen protection. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | Similar sensors are available on both phones |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A42 5G Advantages:
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: Offers 20MP vs 16MP on the Motorola.
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: Provides better portrait mode capabilities.
- Higher Resolution Macro Lens: Provides more details on macro shots.
- 4K Video Recording: Captures higher resolution video.
- Larger Main Camera Sensor: May offer better performance in low-light conditions.
- Multiple RAM Options: Offers 4, 6 or 8 GB RAM.
Motorola Moto G82 Advantages:
- Newer Device: Launched significantly later, potentially with newer technologies.
- Sharper Display: Higher resolution and pixel density for better visual clarity.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate offers a more fluid experience.
- Faster Charging: 30W charging significantly reduces charging times.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Improves video and low-light photos, preventing camera shake.
- Dolby Atmos and Stereo Speakers: Offers a more immersive audio experience.
- More Energy-Efficient Chipset: Snapdragon 695 is on a smaller node, offering slightly better power efficiency.
- Modern Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.1 LE offers improvements over 5.0.
- Laser Autofocus (LAF): Provides faster focus capabilities
Significant Trade-offs:
- A42: Older device with a lower resolution screen and slower refresh rate.
- G82: Lacks a dedicated depth sensor and 4K video recording
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy A42 5G:
- Users who prioritize a higher resolution selfie camera
- Users who want the dedicated depth and macro camera.
- Users who prefer to record video in 4K.
- Users who want a larger main camera sensor, for better quality in low light photos.
- Users who are on a budget, and can accept the older display technology and slower charging.
Ideal User for Motorola Moto G82:
- Users who prioritize a sharper, smoother display with a 120Hz refresh rate
- Users who want faster charging speeds
- Users who value better audio quality, particularly with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos.
- Users who want image stabilization (OIS) for better photos and videos.
- Users who want a modern operating system.
- Users who don't mind lower macro and selfie resolutions
- Users who record videos in 1080p at 60fps, not in 4K.
Specific Use Cases:
Samsung Galaxy A42 5G:
- Casual users who take many selfies and want a dedicated depth sensor.
- Users who need 4K video recording.
- Users who want the best possible main camera sensor (low light).
Motorola Moto G82:
- Users who consume media (videos, games) and appreciate a smoother, sharper display.
- Users who need a fast-charging phone for daily use.
- Users who prefer a better audio experience.
- Users who want a more modern and responsive device.
- Users who often record videos and need OIS.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Is display quality (sharpness and smoothness) a priority? If so, the G82 is the clear winner.
- How important is fast charging? If critical, the G82 offers significantly faster charging.
- Which camera is the most important to you? The A42 is the choice if you want 4K videos and better selfies, the G82 if you prefer better stabilized video with OIS and laser autofocus.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Media Consumption & Gaming: Choose the Motorola Moto G82 for its 120Hz display, superior audio, and smooth performance.
- Scenario 2: Photography and Videography: If you want 4K videos and better selfies, choose the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G, if you prioritize OIS videos and laser autofocus, choose the Motorola Moto G82
- Scenario 3: All-Around Budget User: Choose the Motorola Moto G82 for its superior display, charging speeds and more modern system.
- Scenario 4: Selfie Lovers: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G for its better front camera resolution.
- Scenario 5: Macro photography: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G for its higher resolution macro camera.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would pick the Motorola Moto G82. The primary reasons are the superior display with its higher resolution and 120Hz refresh rate. This alone makes for a much more enjoyable everyday experience. Additionally, the faster charging is a big plus for convenience. Although the A42 has its strengths in selfie and macro resolution, as well as video resolution, the overall improvements to daily use and media consumption provided by the G82 are more important to me. Also, the image stabilization for videos and faster autofocus of the G82 are valuable features. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos and Stereo Speakers also provides a better experience. Finally, the device is more recent, meaning a longer software support cycle, all these features make the Motorola Moto G82 the most practical choice.
