1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 161.1 × 77.4 × 8.2 mm | A55 is slightly taller and wider, A52 5G is slightly thicker. Minimal difference in hand feel, but A55 may be a bit less pocketable. |
| Weight | 189g | 213g | A52 5G is notably lighter, making it more comfortable for long use or one-handed operation. A55 may feel more substantial but is heavier. |
| Build Quality | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | A55 offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops. A55 is more durable. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible difference, both offer a large screen for media consumption and browsing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are Full HD+, providing sharp visuals. Very minor difference, not noticeable in everyday use. |
| PPI | 407 | 390 | Both have similar pixel densities, offering crisp images and text. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, ideal for consuming multimedia content. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, making the user interface feel more fluid and responsive. Good for gaming and browsing. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have identical peak brightness at 0 nits. Actual brightness will likely be higher, but this spec is incomplete. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) | Exynos 1480 (4 nm) | A55 has a newer and more efficient chipset (4nm vs. 8nm), resulting in significantly better performance, improved power efficiency, and reduced heat. |
| AnTuTu Score | 384,853 | 713,393 | A55 offers much better performance, smoother multitasking, faster app loading and improved gaming experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Xclipse 530 | A55's GPU is more powerful, meaning better graphics performance in gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.56", Sony IMX906 | A52 5G has higher resolution, A55 has a larger sensor and larger pixel size which generally leads to better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX616 | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX616 | Both are comparable for selfies and video calls. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", Samsung S5K3L6 | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", Sony IMX258 | Both are similar, but A55 has slightly larger sensor. Wide angle capabilities are comparable. |
| Portrait (Depth) Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A52 5G has a dedicated depth camera for portrait mode, while A55 relies on software. Quality of portrait effects may differ |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.4 | Both have similar macro lens for close up shots |
| Video | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@30/60fps, Slow-mo 120fps | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@30/60fps, Slow-mo 240fps | Both are similar in recording capabilities, but A55 has better slow-motion recording capabilities (240fps vs 120fps). Both offer good stabilization. |
| DxOMark | N/A | Main Score 108, Photo 110, Video 117 | A55 has an established camera benchmark, indicating good photo and video quality, while the A52 5G has no data available on DxOMark. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, Manual focus, Digital zoom, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | 2x2 OCL, Pro Video Mode, Triple camera, Digital zoom, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, Autofocus, Touch focus, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, NPU AI Engine, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits, DOL HDR | A55 has advanced camera features and AI enhancements compared to the A52 5G which has a dedicated depth sensor |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | A55's larger battery means longer usage time between charges. A55 will likely last a full day for most users. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both support 25W fast charging, which is decent for quickly topping up the battery. |
| Features | QC2.0, AFC, Non-removable | Non-removable | A52 5G offers QC2.0 and AFC fast charging standards, while A55 does not have these specifications listed. Both have non-removable batteries. |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 14 | Android 14, upgradable to 18 | A55 ships with a newer OS, receiving newer features, security updates and likely longer software support. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual band | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax (WiFi 6), Dual band, MIMO | A55 supports Wi-Fi 6 which provides faster speeds and better performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, EDR, LE, HID, ANT+ | 5.3, A2DP, AVRCP, DIP, HFP, HID, HSP, MAP, PAN, OPP, PBAP/PAB, HOGP, APT-x, LDAC, Apt-x Adaptive | A55 has Bluetooth 5.3, offering improved range, stability and power efficiency compared to the 5.0 on A52 5G and better compatibility with modern devices and codecs for enhanced audio performance. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | A55 supports additional QZSS which leads to improved location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM / eSIM) | A55 provides eSIM support for more flexible carrier switching and usage. The A52 5G relies solely on physical SIMs. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 128GB or 256GB | Both have the same maximum storage options. |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | A55 offers significantly more RAM, resulting in smoother multitasking and improved app performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, potentially limiting storage over time. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | A55 offers a slight edge in audio capabilities, with stereo speakers providing a more immersive experience and Hi-Res Audio offering high fidelity audio playback compared to the A52 5G. |
Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both have basic fingerprint sensors, that provides basic biometric security. |
Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy A55 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | A55 has more sensors including a barometer and a digital compass, and improved proximity sensor, which can enhance user experience in navigation, gaming and environmental monitoring. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: At 189g, it is significantly lighter than the A55, making it more comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- Dedicated depth sensor: Offers a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode.
- Slightly higher screen pixel density: Offers slightly sharper visuals on screen.
Samsung Galaxy A55 Advantages:
- Significantly More Powerful Processor: The Exynos 1480 offers much faster performance than the Snapdragon 750G, resulting in better overall smoothness, app loading times, multitasking, and gaming.
- Larger Battery: 500mAh larger battery will offer extended battery life, lasting longer on a single charge.
- Superior Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers better protection against scratches and drops.
- Newer OS and Future Updates: Ships with Android 14 and is slated to receive more software updates compared to the A52 5G.
- Better Camera Sensor: A larger main camera sensor with larger pixels offer better low-light performance and image quality.
- Improved Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 offer faster and more reliable connections, better audio quality, more compatibility and power efficiency.
- More RAM options: Option for 12GB RAM means better multitasking and performance for demanding users.
- Stereo Speakers and Hi-Res Audio: Enhances the audio experience for multimedia consumption
Trade-offs:
- Weight: The A55 is noticeably heavier than the A52 5G.
- Loss of depth sensor: The A55 lacks a dedicated depth sensor, which may result in slightly less optimized portrait effects.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize a lighter phone and do not heavily use their phone for demanding tasks, such as users that mostly use their phone for social media, light gaming, browsing and prefer one handed usage.
- Use Cases: Daily communication, casual browsing, social media, light gaming, users who value a lighter phone for longer use
- Price-to-Value: Currently, this older model can be found for cheaper so might be a good option for budget minded users.
Samsung Galaxy A55:
- Ideal User: Users who want a more powerful phone for better performance in gaming, heavy multitasking, and general use and prioritize improved camera quality and longevity through software updates.
- Use Cases: Gaming, demanding apps, video editing, photography, and users who prefer a fast phone with many features.
- Price-to-Value: The A55 justifies its higher price tag with significant improvements in performance and features, making it a good value if that matches what a user is looking for.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Needs: How important is smooth, fast performance for your daily use? Are you a heavy gamer or multitasker?
- Battery Life: Do you need all-day battery life, or are you okay with topping up throughout the day?
- Software Longevity: Do you prefer a phone that gets the latest updates for as long as possible?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: If budget is the primary concern, and you're okay with slightly lower performance, the A52 5G might suffice, especially if found at a much lower price.
- Performance-Oriented User: If you need a phone for gaming, heavy multitasking, and want the latest features and security updates, the A55 is the clear choice.
- Balanced User: If you prioritize a balance of performance, battery life, and features for general use, and are not concerned by the increased weight, the A55 is a better option.
- Casual User: The A52 5G may be a good option if you value a lighter design and are a casual user, who does not require the extra features or performance, while saving money.
My Choice
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy A55.
Reasoning:
While the A52 5G is lighter and has a slightly sharper display and dedicated depth sensor, the A55 offers more significant improvements that better suit my overall needs and preferences. The Exynos 1480 chipset is a major upgrade, providing a much smoother and more responsive experience in daily tasks, gaming, and multitasking. The larger battery provides peace of mind for all-day usage. The improved camera with a larger sensor, while not as high in MP count, should offer better low-light and overall image quality. The newer OS and enhanced connectivity options further justify choosing the A55 over the older model. Despite the slightly heavier design, I believe the benefits of the A55 significantly outweigh the trade-offs, making it the superior choice for the vast majority of users.
