1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G and the Infinix Note 12 G96, focusing on real-world implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Size | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 164.6 × 76.8 × 8 mm | Infinix is taller and wider; Samsung is slightly thicker. Infinix feels more substantial in hand. |
| Weight | 189g | 185g | Negligible difference in weight; both are relatively lightweight. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, no foldable screen. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | Infinix has a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same Full HD+ sharpness, suitable for detailed viewing. |
| PPI | 407 | 393 | Similar pixel density, both screens look crisp with minimal difference. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, providing better viewing experience. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | Samsung offers smoother animations and scrolling; more responsive experience, particularly for gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 650 nits | Infinix's screen is significantly brighter, making it much easier to use under direct sunlight. Samsung screen brightness is unknown. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) | Mediatek MT6781 Helio G96 (12 nm) | Snapdragon chipset is generally more efficient and can provide better sustained performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 384,853 | 307,000 | Samsung likely offers faster app loading and smoother multitasking. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Samsung's GPU is more powerful for graphically intensive tasks like gaming. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682, 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/2.76", Samsung S5KJN1, 0.64µm | Samsung's larger sensor captures more light, resulting in better image quality, especially in low light. Infinix has a slightly wider aperture, potentially better in low light, but the smaller sensor may compromise image quality compared to the A52. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX616, 0.8µm | 16MP, f/2.0, unknown sensor, unknown pixel size | Samsung provides higher resolution selfie with better clarity and detail. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", Samsung S5K3L6, 1.12µm | None | Samsung offers added versatility for capturing wide scenes. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) | 5MP, f/2.4, unknown sensor, 1.12µm | 2MP, f/2.4, unknown sensor, unknown pixel size | Samsung offers higher resolution for depth information in portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, unknown sensor, 1.12µm | None | Samsung provides a dedicated lens for close-up photography. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps (all with EIS), 120fps slow-mo | 1440p@30fps, 120fps slow-mo | Samsung offers 4K video recording with EIS, while Infinix supports 1440p recording. Both provide slow motion at the same frame rate |
| Features | 4K Video, Quadruple camera, OIS, Ultra stable video etc. | Triple camera etc. | Samsung has a more versatile camera system with optical stabilization (OIS) |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Infinix has a larger battery, potentially giving it longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 33W fast charging | Infinix charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | Li-Polymer, QC2.0, AFC. | Li-Ion | Samsung offers additional charging features such as Quick Charge 2.0 and Adaptive Fast Charging. |
Software and Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 12 | Infinix has a newer OS out of the box. Samsung can be updated. |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n | Samsung supports more advanced Wi-Fi standards, potentially better range and speed. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE, A2DP, EDR, HID, LE, ANT+ | 5.1 LE, A2DP, EDR, HID, LE | Infinix has a newer version with potentially better power management and connections. Samsung has ANT+ feature. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS | Samsung offers more precise and reliable location tracking using multiple satellite systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM cards, allowing the use of two different numbers. |
| Storage | 128/256GB | 64/128GB | Samsung has higher storage options, more space for apps and media. |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 4/6/8GB | Both phones offer sufficient RAM for seamless multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, thus limited storage space. |
Audio, Security, Build, Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Infinix Note 12 G96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | DTS / DTS X, Stereo Speakers | Infinix provides a better listening experience with stereo speakers and DTS. Samsung has Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus audio enhancement |
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Infinix offers more convenient and faster fingerprint unlock. |
| Build Quality | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | Samsung's screen has superior protection from scratches and cracks. |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope; Hall, Geomagnetic | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope; Gravity | Both phones have sensors for normal usage. Samsung has geomagnetic and hall sensor for specific uses. Infinix has a gravity sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Here are the major advantages and trade-offs of each phone:
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G Advantages:
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate provides a more fluid visual experience.
- Superior Camera System: Better primary sensor, wide-angle lens, macro lens, and optical image stabilization for superior photo and video quality, especially in challenging conditions.
- Better Performance: Faster processor and GPU for improved gaming and multitasking performance.
- More Storage Options: Options for 256GB of storage, giving users more room for apps and media
- Superior Build: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for better protection against drops and scratches.
- Better GPS: Supports more satellite systems for precise location tracking.
- Better Audio Features: Comes with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus audio enhancement features.
- More Advanced Software Update Support: Guaranteed to upgrade to Android 14, thus staying updated longer.
- ANT+ support: The device has ANT+ support, important for certain sports and fitness applications.
Practical Implications: Ideal for users who prioritize a smooth display experience, higher camera quality and better GPS accuracy.
Infinix Note 12 G96 Advantages:
- Larger and Brighter Display: Slightly bigger screen, and much better brightness, enhancing visibility in bright sunlight.
- Longer Battery Life: Larger battery capacity for extended usage.
- Faster Charging: Faster 33W charging for quicker top-ups.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Comes with Bluetooth 5.1 which could be useful.
- Newer OS out of the box: Comes with Android 12, which is more updated than the Samsung A52 5G
- Stereo Speakers: Enhanced audio experience with stereo speakers and DTS/DTS X support, better for music and video.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Easier and faster access with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
Practical Implications: Well-suited for users who need a long-lasting battery, a bright display for outdoor use, and good audio quality for media consumption.
Significant Trade-Offs:
- Samsung: Trades some battery life and charging speed for significantly better camera, display smoothness, processing power and build quality.
- Infinix: Trades camera quality, smoother display, overall performance for longer battery life, faster charging, and better brightness.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G is ideal for:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who value high-quality photos and videos, and want versatility in different shooting scenarios.
- Mobile Gamers: Users who need a smooth and responsive display with better performance for mobile games.
- Everyday Users: For those who prioritize a fluid and smooth UI experience, overall performance and advanced features.
- Long-term users: Guaranteed to upgrade to Android 14, thus staying updated longer.
- Outdoor Users: Those who require accurate GPS for navigation and tracking.
Use Cases:
- Capturing high-resolution photos and videos with OIS and 4K capability.
- Playing graphically intensive games with smooth refresh rate and superior GPU.
- Multitasking between apps with a smooth experience and advanced software support.
Infinix Note 12 G96 is ideal for:
- Media Consumers: Those who prioritize a bright and large display for watching videos and streaming content.
- Power Users: Users who need a long-lasting battery for extended usage, and faster charging to minimize downtime.
- Users on a Budget: Users looking for a value-packed phone with good specs.
Use Cases:
- Watching movies, TV shows, and videos on a bright, large display, especially outdoors.
- Streaming content for long periods without worrying about battery life.
- Quick charging on the go due to the 33W charging.
- Listening to music with enhanced stereo sound.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Samsung Galaxy A52 5G: Offers more value in terms of performance, camera capabilities and build quality.
- Infinix Note 12 G96: Provides good value for those prioritizing battery life, screen brightness, and budget-friendly pricing.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions for buyers:
Camera Priority: Do you heavily rely on your phone for photos and videos, and require high image quality and versatility? If yes, the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G is likely the better choice.
Battery & Display Needs: Do you need a device that can last a long day and has a bright, visible display for outdoor use? If so, the Infinix Note 12 G96 might be more suitable.
Performance: Do you need a device with fast processing, better graphics, and smooth overall performance? The Samsung A52 is better in this case.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1 (Travel Photographer): Choose the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G for its superior camera, accurate GPS, and versatile video capabilities.
Scenario 2 (Outdoor Media User): Choose the Infinix Note 12 G96 for its bright display and excellent battery life.
Scenario 3 (Budget Gamer/Student): Choose the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G if smoother graphics, better performance, and a faster screen response is preferred. Choose Infinix Note 12 G96 if battery is of utmost concern.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G. While the Infinix Note 12 G96 offers appealing features like a longer battery life and a brighter screen, the overall experience offered by the A52 5G makes it the better option for me. The significantly better camera, smoother 120Hz display, faster processor, and superior build quality are important factors that outweighs the Infinix's advantages. The camera quality is a significant factor for me since I prioritize taking quality photos and videos. The overall smoother user experience provided by the A52 5G with better long-term software support makes it a more well-rounded device that caters more to my daily needs. Therefore, the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G is my preferred option.
