Samsung Galaxy A52 5G vs Apple iPhone SE (2022) - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date March 19, 2021 March 18, 2022
Release Year 2021 2022

Physical

Volume 100.87 cm³ 67.99 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.44 "/g 3.26 "/g
Weight 189 g 144 g
Height 159.9 mm 138.4 mm
Width 75.1 mm 67.3 mm
Thickness 8.4 mm 7.3 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Awesome Black
  • Awesome White
  • Awesome Blue
  • Awesome Violet
  • Red
  • Starlight
  • Midnight

Display

Screen Size 6.5 " 4.7 "
Resolution 1080 x 2400 750 x 1334
Aspect Ratio 20:9 16:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 84.9 % 65.4 %
Pixel Density 407 PPI 326 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz N/A
Typical Brightness N/A 625 nits
HBM Brightness 800 nits N/A
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 106.51 mAh/in² 91.35 mAh/in²
Battery Density 44.61 mAh/cm³ 29.68 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 4500 mAh 2018 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm)
CPU Octa-core (2x2.2 GHz Kryo 570 & 6x1.8 GHz Kryo 570) Hexa-core (2x3.22 GHz Avalanche + 4x1.82 GHz Blizzard)
GPU Adreno 619 Apple GPU (4-core graphics)

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0, OTG Lightning 2.0

Software

Operating System Android iOS
Initial OS Version 11 15.4
Maximum OS Version 14 18

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

Design

FeatureSamsung Galaxy A52 5GApple iPhone SE (2022)Practical Impact
Size159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm138.4 x 67.3 x 7.3 mmThe A52 5G is significantly larger, making it less pocketable but providing a bigger screen. The iPhone SE is more compact and easier to handle with one hand.
Weight189g144gThe iPhone SE is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and carrying.

Display

FeatureSamsung Galaxy A52 5GApple iPhone SE (2022)Practical Impact
Size6.5"4.7"The A52 5G has a much larger display, better for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking. The iPhone SE offers a smaller, more pocket-friendly experience.
Resolution1080x2400750x1334The A52 5G has a significantly sharper display, resulting in clearer text and images. The iPhone SE's lower resolution may appear less crisp.
Pixel Density407 PPI326 PPIThe A52 5G's higher pixel density results in a more detailed and sharper image. The iPhone SE's display will appear less detailed.
TechnologyAMOLEDIPS LCDThe A52 5G's AMOLED panel offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, especially noticeable in dark mode. The iPhone SE's LCD is less vibrant and has poorer black levels.
Refresh Rate120Hz60HzThe A52 5G's 120Hz refresh rate provides much smoother scrolling and animations. The iPhone SE's 60Hz display will feel less fluid.
Brightness0 nits0 nitsBoth phones' peak brightness is not specified, making it difficult to compare visibility in bright sunlight.

Performance

FeatureSamsung Galaxy A52 5GApple iPhone SE (2022)Practical Impact
ChipsetQualcomm Snapdragon 750G (8 nm)Apple A15 Bionic (5 nm)The A15 Bionic in the iPhone SE is significantly more powerful, offering faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
AnTuTu Score384,8531,225,939The iPhone SE demonstrates much higher performance, indicating a noticeable difference in responsiveness and overall speed.
GPUAdreno 619Apple GPU (4-core)The Apple GPU provides vastly superior graphics performance compared to the Adreno 619, making a huge difference in intensive tasks like mobile gaming.

Camera

FeatureSamsung Galaxy A52 5GApple iPhone SE (2022)Practical Impact
Standard Camera64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", 0.8µm pixels12.2MP, f/1.8, 1.22µm pixelsThe A52 5G has a higher resolution camera, which in theory should capture more detail. However, the larger pixels of the iPhone SE can perform better in low-light.
Selfie Camera32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 0.8µm pixels7MP, f/2.2, pixel size not specifiedThe A52 5G offers a higher resolution front camera for more detailed selfies.
Wide Angle Lens13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", 1.12µm pixelsNoneThe A52 5G offers a wide-angle lens for more versatile photography. The iPhone SE lacks this.
Portrait Lens5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm pixelsNoneThe A52 5G features a dedicated depth sensor, enhancing portrait mode photos.
Macro Lens5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm pixelsNoneThe A52 5G has a dedicated macro lens to shoot close-up photos.
Video4K@30fps with EIS4K@60fps with HDR, OISThe iPhone SE offers superior video capabilities with higher frame rates and better stabilization.
DXOMark ScoreNot available100 (Mobile)The iPhone SE is a tested camera, with the photo score being a very respectable 126.

Battery

FeatureSamsung Galaxy A52 5GApple iPhone SE (2022)Practical Impact
Capacity4500mAh2018mAhThe A52 5G has a significantly larger battery, likely resulting in much longer battery life, though real world performance depends on several factors.
Charging25W fast charging18W fast chargingThe A52 5G supports faster charging, which can reduce the time spent plugged in.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Samsung Galaxy A52 5G Advantages:

  • Larger, Smoother Display: The 6.5" 120Hz AMOLED display offers a much more immersive and fluid viewing experience for media, gaming and general use, compared to the iPhone SE's smaller, 60Hz LCD panel.
  • More Versatile Camera System: The A52 5G includes a quad-camera setup with wide-angle, portrait, and macro lenses, offering greater flexibility in different shooting scenarios.
  • Bigger Battery: The 4500mAh battery provides significantly longer battery life, reducing the need for frequent charging.
  • Faster Charging: 25W fast charging means less time spent tethered to a power outlet.
  • Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos support provides a more immersive audio experience compared to the basic audio capabilities of the iPhone SE.

Apple iPhone SE (2022) Advantages:

  • Significantly More Powerful Processor: The A15 Bionic chip provides much faster performance, ensuring a smoother and more responsive user experience, especially for demanding tasks and gaming.
  • Compact and Lightweight Design: The smaller size and lighter weight make it more comfortable to handle and carry, particularly for users with smaller hands.
  • Superior Video Recording: The iPhone SE offers higher frame rate video capture in 4K, with HDR, and Optical Image Stabilization resulting in superior video quality and clarity.
  • Latest iOS: The iPhone SE offers the latest iOS software version, which includes many new and improved features.
  • Higher Quality Video: Based on the DXOMark test the video quality of the iPhone SE is superior to the Galaxy A52 5G.

Trade-offs:

  • A52 5G: While the display is superior to the iPhone SE it is a larger phone, making it less pocketable. The processor is also significantly less powerful than the iPhone SE and this will be evident in heavy tasks. The camera, while versatile, may not offer the same quality as the iPhone SE's single lens.
  • iPhone SE: The small display and lower resolution can feel cramped for media consumption and multitasking. Battery life is also significantly shorter. The single camera setup is less versatile and lacks the additional modes and lenses found on the Galaxy A52 5G.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy A52 5G:

  • Media Consumers: Users who enjoy watching videos, browsing social media, and playing games on their phones will appreciate the large, vibrant display and enhanced audio.
  • Photography Enthusiasts (Casual): Users who want a versatile camera system with multiple lenses for different shooting situations will find the quad-camera setup useful.
  • Users Prioritizing Battery Life: Those who need their phone to last all day without needing to charge will benefit from the A52 5G's larger battery.
  • Android Users: Those who prefer the flexibility and customization options of Android will favor the Galaxy A52 5G.

Ideal Users for Apple iPhone SE (2022):

  • Performance Seekers: Users who want the fastest possible performance for gaming and demanding applications will find the A15 Bionic chip highly advantageous.
  • Compact Phone Lovers: Users who prefer a smaller, lightweight phone that's easy to handle and carry will appreciate the compact design.
  • Apple Ecosystem Enthusiasts: Users who are already invested in the Apple ecosystem and prefer the iOS environment will be better served by the iPhone SE.
  • Quality Video Recording: Users who need a high quality, portable, video recorder.

Specific Use Cases:

  • Galaxy A52 5G:
    • Watching movies and TV shows on the go.
    • Playing graphics-intensive games with smooth visuals.
    • Taking photos in various scenarios using the wide-angle and macro lenses.
    • Using the phone as a portable work and entertainment hub.
  • iPhone SE (2022):
    • Playing the latest mobile games with the highest performance.
    • Quickly switching between apps for multitasking.
    • Taking photos in day to day situations, and capturing high quality video.
    • Using the phone as a fast, simple, and portable daily driver.

Price-to-Value Ratio:

The price-to-value ratio is heavily dependent on the current market price for both phones.

  • The Galaxy A52 5G offers a compelling package for those seeking a rich multimedia experience with a large, high-quality display and a versatile camera system, with its value diminished by its lower powered chipset.
  • The iPhone SE (2022) is an excellent choice for users who prioritize performance and simplicity over a large display and multiple cameras. The value of the iPhone SE is diminished by it's small battery life, and lack of versatility.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions to Consider:

  1. What is your primary use case for the phone? (e.g., media consumption, gaming, photography, daily driver)
  2. Do you prioritize a large, immersive display or a compact, easy-to-handle design?
  3. Is raw processing power more important than battery life and versatility in features?

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Scenario 1: The Multimedia Enthusiast: If you watch videos, play games, and consume a lot of content, the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G is a better choice due to its larger display, higher refresh rate, and enhanced audio.
  • Scenario 2: The Performance User: If you value speed, responsiveness, and performance, the Apple iPhone SE (2022) is a better option, despite the smaller display and less versatile camera.
  • Scenario 3: The Practical User: If you require a reliable, compact phone for daily tasks, the iPhone SE is a great option; however, the smaller display may be an issue for media consumption. The A52 5G is more versatile in use, but is significantly less powerful and not as pocketable.

My Choice

If I were making the decision for my personal use, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G. My priorities revolve around a good screen for viewing media content and a versatile camera for capturing a variety of photos and videos. While the iPhone SE offers superior performance and video quality, its small size, single lens, and poor battery life are deal breakers for my needs. I prefer the larger display, versatile camera system, and enhanced audio capabilities of the A52 5G, even if it means compromising slightly on raw processing power and some performance in intensive tasks. The larger screen is very useful for me, as a daily use phone, and having more camera modes is a much better fit for my personal preference. While the iPhone SE offers a superior overall camera score, the A52 5G is a more versatile option.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Digital media communication
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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.