1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Samsung Galaxy S23+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 157.8 × 76.2 × 7.6 mm | A52 5G is taller and thicker, S23+ is slightly wider and thinner, the A52 feels bulkier, S23+ feels more premium |
| Weight | 189g | 196g | S23+ is negligibly heavier, unlikely to be noticeable |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible difference in size, user experience will be nearly identical |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Very similar visual clarity, both provide sharp, detailed images |
| PPI | 407 | 393 | Very similar pixel density, both have sharp display |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Identical display technology, Expect rich colors, deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both, good for gaming |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1750 nits | S23+ offers significantly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight; A52 5G is lacking data, which makes it difficult to compare |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7225 Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) | Qualcomm SM8550-AC Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | S23+ is significantly faster for demanding tasks and gaming, A52 will show lag with heavy use; S23+ is more power efficient |
| AnTuTu Score | 384,853 | 1,508,732 | S23+ is drastically faster, noticeably smoother and quicker in all operations, A52 is much slower |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 740 | S23+ has vastly better graphics processing for gaming and graphic-intensive applications; A52 graphics are not as capable |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4700mAh | S23+ may have slightly longer battery life, but real world battery life also depends on software and usage |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 45W fast charging | S23+ charges considerably faster, reducing downtime; A52 is slower to charge |
| Features | Non-removable, QC2.0 and AFC. | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, 10W wireless (Qi/PMA), 4.5W reverse wireless | S23+ offers more charging options including faster charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging; A52 is limited |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682, 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", Samsung GN5, 1.0µm | A52 5G has higher MP count, S23+ has larger sensor for better low light performance; S23+ has better image quality due to newer sensor and software |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX616, 0.8µm | 12MP, f/2.2, Samsung S5K3LU | A52 5G has higher MP count, S23+ has unknown pixel size; S23+ has better image quality due to newer sensor and software |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.9", Samsung S5K3K1, 1.0µm | S23+ has telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities, A52 does not have optical zoom; S23+ allows you to zoom into subjects without losing as much quality |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", Samsung S5K3L6, 1.12µm | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", Sony IMX564, 1.40µm | S23+ has larger sensor for better low-light performance; S23+ has a wider perspective without losing quality |
| Portrait Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A52 has a depth sensor for better portrait mode, S23+ relies on software algorithms for portrait effects; S23+'s software portrait mode is more effective |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A52 has a dedicated macro lens, S23+ does not have a macro lens; A52 is better at taking close-up photos |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps with EIS | 8K@30fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@240/960fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound | S23+ offers significantly higher quality, better stabilization, and superior slow-motion capabilities; S23+ is much better for video creators |
| Features | Digital zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night Mode | S23+ has a more capable camera with better zoom, focus, and RAW support, S23+ has higher video recording quality and additional settings |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 13 (upgradable to 17) | S23+ offers a newer OS, longer software support, which includes new features, better security and improved performance |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | S23+ has faster WiFi with better throughput, A52 will be slower on WiFi and more prone to disconnection on crowded networks |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.3 LE | S23+ has faster, more efficient Bluetooth connection, with more Bluetooth features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), QZSS (L1 + L5) | S23+ has more accurate GPS with more satellite support, important for location-sensitive apps and navigation |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | S23+ supports eSIM for easy carrier switching, A52 supports two physical SIMs, user needs determine which one is beneficial |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 256GB or 512GB | S23+ offers more storage options, important for large media libraries; A52's lower storage means it will fill up faster |
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 8GB | S23+ has sufficient RAM for multitasking, A52 may struggle when having many apps open |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports microSD card storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | S23+ offers better quality audio, including Stereo speakers and Hi-Res support for superior playback, A52 is limited in audio quality |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Both have basic fingerprint sensor, basic security features; Neither offer advanced biometric recognition |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | S23+ has superior screen protection, it is more resistant to scratches and falls, A52 is not as durable |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | S23+ has more advanced sensor options including compass, and a barometer, useful for fitness enthusiasts; A52 lacks environmental sensors |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G Advantages:
- Lower price point: Generally more affordable, making it accessible to a wider audience.
- Dedicated Macro lens: For users who enjoy close-up photography.
- Slightly Larger MP count in the front camera: Might appeal to those who prefer the ability to crop into the picture more.
- Dual Physical SIM slots: Useful for users who prefer to use 2 physical SIM cards.
Practical Implications: The A52 5G is a solid mid-range phone that is still capable for most everyday tasks. It suits people who prefer affordability and do not need the absolute best performance.
Samsung Galaxy S23+ Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processor and GPU, which is essential for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
- Brighter Display: Much better outdoor visibility, making it easier to use in sunny conditions.
- Enhanced Camera System: Features a dedicated Telephoto lens, larger sensors in both standard and wide lenses, and 8K video recording.
- Faster Charging & Wireless: Offers much quicker charging, wireless, and reverse wireless charging capabilities.
- Newer Software: Longer software support and newer features due to the later release date and its flagship status.
- More Advanced Connectivity: Supports newer WiFi and Bluetooth standards with faster speeds.
- Higher Quality Audio: Better audio quality with Hi-Res support and stereo speakers.
Practical Implications: The S23+ is a premium phone with top-tier performance, excellent display, better camera, and more advanced connectivity for the most demanding users.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Price: The S23+ comes at a much higher price point.
- Macro Lens: The S23+ does not include a dedicated macro lens which some users may miss.
- Portrait Mode: The A52 5G has a dedicated depth sensor while the S23+ uses software, which some might find to be inferior.
- Physical SIM: The S23+ only has 1 physical SIM slot and 1 eSIM, while the A52 has 2 Physical slots which some might find beneficial.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize value for money and do not need the fastest performance or the best camera.
- Specific Use Cases:
- Everyday social media browsing
- Casual mobile gaming
- Basic photography and video recording
- Users who prefer dual physical sim slots
- Users who prefer the ability to take more detailed selfies
- Users who want a dedicated macro lens
- Price-to-Value Ratio: Good value for its price, provides a smooth experience for everyday use, particularly if purchased on sale.
Samsung Galaxy S23+:
- Ideal User: Power users who demand high performance, a great display, and an advanced camera system.
- Specific Use Cases:
- Demanding mobile gaming with high frame rates
- Professional-grade photography and videography
- Heavy multitasking and app usage
- Users who prioritize future-proofing their phone with a newer software version
- Users who prefer more flexibility in charging options
- Users who require advanced connectivity and accurate GPS
- Users who need an excellent display that is visible in sunlight
- Price-to-Value Ratio: Premium price, but offers best-in-class features, and performance, particularly if purchased on sale.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The price difference between these phones is significant.
- How important is performance? Are you a gamer, or a heavy user of resource-intensive apps?
- How important is the camera? Do you take lots of photos, or videos or need specific camera features like a macro lens?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User on a Budget: If you primarily use your phone for social media, browsing, and light gaming, the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G is a cost-effective choice.
- Scenario 2: Enthusiast Gamer/Professional Photographer: If you are looking for the best performance for mobile gaming, professional-grade photography and videography or require high quality video recording, the Samsung Galaxy S23+ is a worthy investment.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User with Moderate Needs: If you need better than mid range performance, but also need to be budget conscious, it is advisable to go for the Samsung Galaxy A52 5G, particularly if it is available on sale.
What would I choose and why?
Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S23+. While the A52 5G presents a great value, my use case is that I use my phone heavily for gaming, content creation and for general use cases. These use cases require a top-tier processor, best-in-class display that is visible in sunlight, a better camera, and a longer software support. The significantly better display brightness, faster performance, superior camera system and faster charging times of the S23+ would provide a much better user experience for my needs and provide more longevity. Although the A52 5G is significantly cheaper, I would opt for the additional features, performance, and future proofing of the S23+, which makes it a worthwhile upgrade.
