1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Realme C61 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 167.3 × 76.7 × 7.8 mm | Realme C61 is taller and wider, Samsung is slightly thicker. Realme might feel more substantial in hand, A52 5G is more compact. |
| Weight | 189g | 188g | Both phones are virtually the same weight, so neither is noticeably heavier. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.74" | Realme C61 offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive media consumption, but the difference isn't massive. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Samsung A52 5G has a significantly sharper display (Full HD+) for crisper text and images. Realme C61 is HD+ which will appear less sharp. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 407 | 260 | Samsung A52 5G offers much sharper text and images. This difference will be noticeable, especially when reading text or viewing detailed images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Samsung A52 5G delivers superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. Better viewing angles. Realme has more typical LCD. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 90Hz | Samsung A52 5G has smoother animations and scrolling. 120Hz will be noticeably smoother than the 90Hz of the Realme C61. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both phones have the same peak brightness output, making outdoor visibility similar. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G (8 nm) | Unisoc Tiger T612 (12 nm) | Samsung A52 5G has a more powerful chipset for faster app loading, multitasking, and gaming. It will run demanding apps/games significantly better. |
| AnTuTu Score | 384,853 | 252,597 | Samsung A52 5G delivers significantly better performance in benchmarks, leading to a snappier experience overall. This is a large performance difference. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G57 | Samsung A52 5G's GPU will handle graphics-intensive tasks better. Better gaming performance compared to the Realme. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme C61's larger battery should provide longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 45W Fast Charging | Realme C61 charges significantly faster. This would be important for users needing to quickly top up their battery. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera | 64MP (f/1.8, Sony IMX682) | 32MP (f/1.8) | Samsung A52 5G has a higher resolution main camera, and also larger sensor size, often translating into better image quality. |
| Front Camera | 32MP (f/2.2, Sony IMX616) | 5MP (f/2.0) | Samsung A52 5G's front camera has significantly higher resolution for detailed selfies and better video calls. |
| Wide Angle | 13MP (f/2.2, Samsung S5K3L6) | Not Available | Samsung A52 5G has an ultrawide lens for capturing more in each shot. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 5MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Samsung A52 5G has a higher resolution depth sensor for slightly better portrait mode results. |
| Macro | 5MP (f/2.4) | Not Available | Samsung A52 5G can capture close up shots using the macro lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | Samsung A52 5G can record higher quality video in 4K. It also offers EIS (electronic image stabilization) for better videos. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Night Mode, 4K Video | PDAF | Samsung has more advanced video features, better stabilization. Realme C61 has PDAF, which is beneficial for autofocus. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | Realme C61 has a newer version of Android out of the box. Samsung A52 5G can also be upgraded to Android 14. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac | Both phones support similar WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 (LE, A2DP, EDR, HID, ANT+) | 5.0 (LE, A2DP, EDR, HID) | Both support similar Bluetooth profiles, though Samsung additionally has ANT+. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Galileo | Samsung A52 5G has more GPS systems for better accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support Dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Both offer similar storage options, but the Realme offers a lower storage variant at 64 GB. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 4GB/6GB/8GB | Both offer similar RAM options. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Stereo Speakers | Samsung A52 5G features enhanced spatial audio and surround sound. Realme C61 has simple stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | In display basic | Side-mounted | Realme C61's side-mounted sensor is generally faster and more reliable than in-display sensors. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | Samsung A52 5G has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Proximity, Accelerometer | Samsung A52 5G includes additional sensors, which are beneficial for enhanced functionality and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED display with higher resolution, better contrast, and a 120Hz refresh rate provides a far superior viewing experience.
- Better Performance: The Snapdragon 750G chipset offers significantly better processing and graphics performance than the Unisoc T612, leading to a snappier user interface and better gaming.
- Better Camera System: Higher-resolution main and front cameras, a dedicated ultrawide lens, and 4K video capabilities make it more versatile for photography and video.
- Enhanced Audio Features: Includes Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus for enhanced audio experiences.
- Better Build Quality: Uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection.
- More Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Includes gyroscope and better GPS functionality.
Practical Implications for A52 5G:
- More enjoyable media consumption due to the superior display quality.
- Smoother performance for multitasking, apps, and gaming.
- Higher quality photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions.
- Enhanced audio experience for music and videos.
- More robust screen against damage, enhanced gaming due to gyroscope.
Realme C61 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: A 5000mAh battery should offer longer battery life.
- Faster Charging: 45W fast charging capability is significantly faster than the 25W on the Samsung A52 5G, for quicker top ups.
- Newer Software: Comes with Android 14 out of the box (but A52 can be updated to 14).
- Side Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Often faster and more reliable than in display sensors, as on the A52 5G.
Practical Implications for Realme C61:
- Longer usage time on a single charge.
- Less time spent waiting for the phone to charge.
- Potentially better software with newer features (minor because both will be on Android 14).
- More accessible and reliable fingerprint sensor.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Samsung A52 5G: Sacrifices battery capacity and charging speed for superior display, performance, and camera quality.
- Realme C61: Sacrifices display quality, performance, and camera quality for better battery life and faster charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy A52 5G:
- Media Consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos, movies, or play games will appreciate the superior AMOLED display and smooth refresh rate.
- Photographers and Videographers: Those who value higher-quality photos and videos will benefit from the versatile camera system and 4K video recording.
- Gamers: Users who want to play games with better performance and smoother graphics will benefit from the superior chipset and GPU, also having the gyroscope.
- Users who prefer a premium experience: Wanting great overall device experience, will appreciate the great display, performance, and build quality.
Specific Use Cases for A52 5G:
- Binge-watching shows and movies in high quality, both indoors and outdoors due to AMOLED display.
- Taking detailed and high-quality photos and videos for social media, and also low-light situations.
- Playing graphics-intensive games with better performance and smoothness.
Ideal Users for Realme C61:
- Users needing Long Battery Life: Those who need a phone that lasts a long time on a single charge, and don't want to be too worried about charging.
- Price-conscious consumers: Those seeking a budget phone that prioritizes battery life and reliability over performance and display.
- Users who value rapid charging: Individuals who need to quickly top up their phones battery.
Specific Use Cases for Realme C61:
- Extended usage throughout the day without needing to recharge.
- Users that use basic features (calls, messaging) with long usage times.
- Reliable and fast fingerprint unlocking.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung Galaxy A52 5G offers a higher price point, but offers more premium features.
- The Realme C61 has a more affordable option, but requires trade-offs.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality? If you prioritize a sharp, vibrant display for media consumption, the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G is better. If you're okay with a basic display, the Realme C61 might be fine.
- Do you need better performance or long battery life? If you need to prioritize performance, particularly for gaming, choose the Samsung A52 5G. If battery life is more important, the Realme C61 should be favored.
- How important is camera quality? For photography and video recording, the Samsung A52 5G is more versatile. If you take basic snaps, the Realme is fine.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For Media Enthusiasts & Gamers: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G for its superior display and performance.
- For Long Battery Life & Basic Use: Select the Realme C61 for its larger battery and faster charging.
- For Budget-Conscious Users: The Realme C61 offers solid value with its strong battery performance.
My Choice
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G. While the Realme C61 has a larger battery and faster charging, the A52 5G offers a far superior overall experience. The AMOLED display, faster chipset, and better camera system make a significant difference in daily use, especially for media consumption, gaming, and photography. The smoother refresh rate and high-quality display also makes the A52 5G far more enjoyable to use. The performance differences are very large between the devices too, and this alone makes the A52 5G a better pick. While the battery life of the Realme is good, the A52 5G is acceptable for a full day, and that combined with a superior display, performance, and camera make it the clear winner for me.
