1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A52 and Google Pixel 9, focusing on practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Google Pixel 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Size | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | 152.8 x 72 x 8.5 mm | A52 is slightly larger, may be less comfortable for single-handed use. Pixel 9 is more compact. |
| Weight | 189g | 198g | A52 is lighter by 9g. Difference is minimal, unlikely to be a major factor. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones, not foldable. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Google Pixel 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.3" | A52 has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption. Pixel 9 is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2424 | Both are very similar, negligible difference in sharpness for most use cases. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 407 | 422 | Pixel 9 is negligibly sharper, but not noticeable by most users |
| Technology | AMOLED | OLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. Difference is minimal in practical use. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 9's 120Hz display will offer smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have identical peak brightness, brightness is unspecified and cannot be accurately compared |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Google Pixel 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm SM7125 Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) | Pixel 9's newer chip results in much faster performance, better efficiency, and future-proofing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 341,212 | 1,071,616 | Pixel 9 is significantly faster for gaming, app loading, and multitasking |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Mali-G715 MC7 | Pixel 9's GPU offers better graphics performance for demanding tasks and gaming |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Google Pixel 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4700mAh | Pixel 9 has slightly more battery, which may translate to a bit longer runtime. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 27W fast charging | Pixel 9 charges slightly faster. |
| Features | Non-removable, QC2.0 and AFC | Reverse charging, Non-removable, Wireless charging 15W | Pixel 9 supports wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. A52 does not, A52 has QC2.0 and AFC charging. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Google Pixel 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP f/1.8, 1/1.7", 0.80µm | 50MP f/1.69, 1/1.3", 1.20µm | Pixel 9 captures more light with larger sensor and wider aperture, should perform better in low light; A52 has higher megapixel count, good for prints but not necessarily better photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP f/2.2, 1/2.8", 0.80µm | 10.5MP f/2.2 | A52 has higher-resolution selfie camera. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | None | A52 has a dedicated wide-angle lens |
| Portrait Mode Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A52 has a dedicated depth sensor |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A52 has a dedicated macro lens |
| Wide Angle + Macro | None | 48MP, f/1.7 | Pixel 9 combines wide and macro in a single lens |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps with EIS | 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps, with OIS and EIS | Pixel 9 offers a wide variety of video quality including better stabilization |
| DXOMark Score | N/A | Mobile: 154 (Photo: 161, Video: 150) | Pixel 9 has a high-rated camera based on DXOMark, A52 is not tested. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, OIS, EIS | Dual camera, OIS, EIS, Flicker sensor, Noise reduction, Pro Video Mode, LAF, PDAF, NPU AI Engine, RAW | Pixel 9 offers more advanced camera features, and processing, especially in video and low-light conditions |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Advantages of Samsung Galaxy A52:
- More Camera Lenses: Dedicated wide-angle, macro, and depth sensors provide flexibility in photography.
- Higher Resolution Selfie Camera: May appeal to users who prioritize selfie detail.
- Potentially Lower Price: As an older model, may be more affordable now.
Practical Implications: The A52's camera system is versatile for different scenarios, offering more options. However, it does not offer features like RAW or a 'Pro Mode' on video, which are more advanced.
Advantages of Google Pixel 9:
- Significantly Faster Performance: The Tensor G4 chipset offers a large performance leap over the Snapdragon 720G, impacting all use cases.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate offers a noticeably smoother user experience in all scrolling.
- Superior Camera Quality: Larger sensor and better processing result in better photo quality, particularly in low light and advanced video recording.
- Better Video Recording: Better video resolution, frame rate, and stabilization.
- Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging: Adds convenience not available on the A52.
- Newer Software and More Updates: Latest version of Android with years of future updates.
- Better Screen Protection - Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 vs Corning Gorilla Glass 5
- Better Connectivity - Bluetooth 5.3 vs Bluetooth 5.0, WiFi 6 and MIMO support, more GPS systems.
- More RAM - 12GB RAM vs 4/6/8GB RAM on A52
Practical Implications: Pixel 9 provides a much smoother, faster experience for daily use. Camera performance is improved across the board, and the software experience is optimized for this hardware.
Significant Trade-offs:
- A52 loses out on performance and future proofing: The A52 has an older processor, camera technology, and software.
- Pixel 9 gives up dedicated camera lenses: Although the pixel 9 has a great primary camera lens, it loses dedicated depth and macro lenses that the A52 has.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who value versatility in their camera, and prefer a device with multiple camera lenses.
- Use Cases: Casual photography, social media, everyday browsing, watching videos.
- Why: It's a capable device for everyday tasks with more camera options than the Pixel, offered at a lower cost.
Google Pixel 9:
- Ideal User: Users who want top-tier performance, the best camera quality, and the latest Android software.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, professional photography/videography, power users, multi-tasking, users who prioritize the latest software and features.
- Why: It excels in performance, camera quality, and software experience.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is raw performance and future-proofing? (Pixel 9 is significantly faster)
- How important is camera versatility vs overall photo quality? (A52 has multiple lenses, Pixel 9 has a better main camera)
- What is your budget? (A52 should be more affordable)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget Shopper: If cost is a primary concern and your needs are basic, the Galaxy A52 offers a good value, with a versatile camera.
- Photography Enthusiast: The Google Pixel 9 provides superior photo quality and video features, despite lacking multiple lenses.
- Performance Seeker: The Google Pixel 9 is the clear winner for gamers and those who demand fast, smooth performance with the latest software.
My Choice
I would choose the Google Pixel 9.
Here's why:
- Performance is Key: The Tensor G4 chip offers a significantly better performance experience. The smoother display with a 120Hz refresh rate is also a big plus. I prioritize responsiveness and the ability to use the phone for demanding tasks such as gaming and productivity.
- Camera Quality: While the A52 offers versatility in its lens choices, the Pixel 9's primary camera will give better results in a wider variety of situations, especially in low light, and overall better video recording. I’d rather have high-quality photos and videos over having a macro and depth lens. The improved video features, and the inclusion of 'Pro Mode' with manual focus and RAW capabilities will give a more professional-grade experience.
- Software & Future Proofing: The Pixel 9 comes with the latest Android version and will get software updates much longer than the A52. This makes the Pixel 9 the better choice for future usage.
- Improved Convenience Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging are nice quality of life features. The extra connectivity with Wifi 6 and newer bluetooth are also a plus.
- Better screen protection The added protection from Gorilla Glass Victus 2 is a good thing.
- Value: While the Pixel 9 will likely cost more initially, it's a better long-term investment due to its superior performance, camera, software support and features. For my usage, the increased price is worth the added performance and features.
While the A52 has some features that might appeal to others, the Pixel 9 provides a noticeably superior user experience for my specific preferences.
