Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A52 5G vs. Xiaomi 12X
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 5G | Xiaomi 12X | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | 152.7 x 69.9 x 8.2 mm | Xiaomi 12X is more compact and easier to handle with one hand. Samsung A52 5G has a larger overall volume. |
| Weight | 189g | 176g | Xiaomi 12X is slightly lighter, which might be noticeable during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.28" | Samsung A52 5G offers a slightly larger display, better for media consumption, while Xiaomi 12X is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same sharp and detailed display. |
| PPI | 407 | 419 | Both offer similar pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1100 nits | Xiaomi 12X provides significantly better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 750G 5G (8 nm) | Snapdragon 870 5G (7 nm) | Xiaomi 12X offers significantly faster processing, better for demanding games and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 384,853 | 815,210 | Xiaomi 12X is much faster in benchmarks, indicating a smoother and more responsive experience overall. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 650 | Xiaomi 12X provides superior graphics performance for gaming and GPU-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Camera (Main) | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682 | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56", Sony IMX766 | Xiaomi 12X has a larger sensor and bigger pixels, potentially better in low-light, despite lower resolution. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX616 | 32MP, f/2.45, 1/3", Omnivision OV32B | Samsung A52 5G may perform slightly better in low light with its wider aperture and larger sensor. |
| Wide Angle | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.1", Samsung S5K3L6 | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.06", Omnivision OV13B10 | Samsung has a slightly wider aperture, while the Xiaomi has slightly larger sensor. |
| Portrait Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Samsung A52 5G has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photography. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.4 | Both are similar macro lenses. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps | Xiaomi 12X can capture higher-resolution video and has better slow-motion capabilities. |
| Features | Quad camera, OIS, EIS, Night Mode | Triple camera, OIS, EIS, RAW, Night Mode | Xiaomi 12X offers 8K recording, RAW format for pro users and has continuous autofocus while A52 offers dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4500mAh | Similar battery capacity, should provide similar battery life. |
| Charging | 25W | 67W | Xiaomi 12X charges much faster, a significant advantage for users who need quick top-ups. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, max version 14 | Android 11 | Samsung A52 5G is upgradable to android 14 while max upgrade for Xiaomi 12X is not known |
| Storage | |||
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 8GB or 12GB | Xiaomi 12X has a higher RAM capacity option |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi 12X has enhanced audio quality due to better audio separation and immersion with features such as Hi-Res audio, stereo speakers and 2 microphones |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Xiaomi 12X supports a faster Wi-Fi standard, better for congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | Xiaomi 12X has newer Bluetooth with better codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS | Xiaomi 12X has more satellite systems for more accurate location. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Basic | Both share similar fingerprint sensor technology for basic biometric security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | Xiaomi 12X has superior screen protection. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi 12X Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 870 significantly outperforms the Snapdragon 750G, providing a smoother, faster experience, especially in demanding tasks.
- Faster Charging: 67W charging is much quicker than 25W, allowing for rapid battery top-ups.
- Brighter Display: The 1100 nits brightness offers excellent outdoor visibility.
- Better Main Camera Sensor: Larger sensor and pixels on the main camera may lead to better low-light performance, despite lower resolution.
- Superior Video Recording: Supports 8K video and higher frame rates at 4K, which is a major advantage for video enthusiasts.
- Enhanced Audio: Higher quality audio playback and voice capture.
- More Advanced Connectivity: Newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth versions provide faster and more reliable connections.
- Better Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers improved scratch and drop resistance.
- More RAM Option: Offers 12GB RAM for smoother multitasking and gaming
Samsung Galaxy A52 5G Advantages:
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: This improves portrait mode shots and may produce more natural looking background blurs.
- Slightly Larger Display: The 6.5" display provides a bit more screen real estate for media consumption and productivity.
- Available Portrait Mode Camera: Offers a dedicated depth sensor, which the Xiaomi lacks.
- Software Updates: Guaranteed to upgrade to android 14
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi 12X: Sacrifices a dedicated depth camera, and is not clear if its software is upgradeable to newer versions of android
- Samsung A52 5G: Much slower charging, weaker chipset, less performance compared to Xiaomi 12X
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy A52 5G:
- Casual users: Who value a reliable all-rounder with a large screen, good cameras, and a decent battery.
- Users who prioritize software updates: Samsung promises upgrades to Android 14.
- Budget-conscious buyers: Might find better value on the used market.
- Users who don't push their phone to the extreme: The phone will perform average, but won't struggle if you are not a heavy user.
- Users who enjoy portrait photos with background blur: Dedicated depth sensor for better background blur.
Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy A52 5G:
- Everyday social media browsing, emails, and communication
- Watching videos and streaming content on a large screen
- Basic mobile gaming
- Taking casual photos and videos for sharing
Ideal User for Xiaomi 12X:
- Power users: Who want top-tier performance for demanding tasks like gaming and multitasking.
- Video content creators: Benefiting from 8K recording and advanced features like RAW video.
- Users on the go: Who need a phone that charges quickly and has a screen that is visible in sunlight.
- Users who want the fastest possible performance: The 870 is a high performance chipset
- Users who value high quality audio: Enjoys enhanced sound for audio playback and voice recording.
Use Cases for Xiaomi 12X:
- Playing graphically intensive games smoothly
- Shooting high-quality videos for professional or personal use
- Multitasking between multiple apps seamlessly
- Navigating with greater GPS accuracy
- Using the device under bright sunlight
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- If price is a major concern, the Galaxy A52 5G provides good value for basic use
- The Xiaomi 12X justifies its higher cost with a substantial upgrade in performance, screen brightness, charging speeds, video recording and audio quality.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- How important is raw performance for your usage? (Gaming, heavy app usage)
- How often do you need quick charging?
- Do you prioritize video recording or taking photos?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance-Focused: If you are a gamer or heavy user, the Xiaomi 12X is the clear choice.
- Scenario 2: Everyday Use: If you use your phone for basic tasks, browsing, and social media, both are good choices; the Samsung may be better for portrait photos.
- Scenario 3: On-the-Go User: If you need quick charging and good outdoor visibility, the Xiaomi 12X stands out.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Xiaomi 12X.
Here's why:
- The performance difference is significant. The Snapdragon 870 is a substantially more powerful chipset, making the phone feel faster and more responsive in daily use. This isn't just for gaming; it also means smoother multitasking, quicker app loading times, and a more future-proof device.
- The 67W fast charging is a game-changer. I often find myself needing a quick top-up during the day, and the difference between 25W and 67W is substantial. This translates to less time tethered to the charger.
- The brighter display is vital for outdoor use. Living in a sunny area, being able to see the screen clearly outdoors is essential for me. The 1100 nits display on the Xiaomi 12X would make a huge difference.
- I value good audio. Xiaomi's enhanced sound is great for immersive experience.
- Although a dedicated depth sensor is nice, a great main camera can mostly compensate. While I value portrait mode and the dedicated depth sensor on the A52 5G, I am confident that the slightly larger sensor, along with a good software algorithm on the Xiaomi 12X, can mostly compensate. Also, the 8K video recording of the Xiaomi is an advantage that I cannot ignore.
- The extra RAM option on the Xiaomi makes it a better multitasker.
While the Samsung A52 5G is a good phone, the Xiaomi 12X offers a substantial step up in several critical areas, which are important to me and justify its slightly higher price.
