1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Realme 12x | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | 165.6 x 76.1 x 7.9 mm | Realme 12x is slightly taller and thinner; A52 is a bit more compact. |
| Weight | 189g | 190g | Virtually identical weight, negligible difference. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | Realme 12x has a slightly larger screen, minimal difference in daily use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1604 | A52 has a much sharper display, text and images will look clearer. |
| PPI | 407 | 264 | A52's higher pixel density results in a noticeably crisper and more detailed screen. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | A52 offers richer colors, deeper blacks, better contrast, and improved power efficiency for dark themes. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Realme 12x provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have similar brightness which is unknown, likely average for their price point. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 6100+ (6 nm) | Realme 12x has a newer chipset with a better process for energy efficiency. |
| AnTuTu Score | 341,212 | 442,599 | Realme 12x offers noticeably better performance in day-to-day tasks and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Different GPU architectures, Realme 12x is expected to have a performance advantage based on AnTuTu scores. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera Resolution | 64MP (f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682) | 50MP (f/1.8) | A52 has higher resolution sensor for more detail; Sensor model is unknown on Realme 12x, crucial info is missing. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 32MP (f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX616) | 8MP (f/2.1) | A52 takes much higher resolution selfies, which translates to better clarity and detail, especially for prints. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP (f/2.2) | N/A | A52 offers a dedicated wide-angle lens for capturing more in a single shot. |
| Portrait Lens | 5MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4, 1/5", Omnivision OV02B1B) | A52 offers better portrait mode photos due to higher resolution; Realme 12x offers a larger pixel size in portrait lens which might lead to better low-light performance. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP (f/2.4) | N/A | A52 has a dedicated macro lens for detailed close-up shots. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps w/ EIS, 1080p@30/60fps w/ EIS | 1080p@30fps | A52 records higher resolution video, offering greater detail and flexibility for video editing. |
| Video Stabilization | Yes | No | Samsung A52 has electronic image stabilization, whereas Realme 12x doesn't. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, OIS, Quad Camera, Night Mode | Dual Camera | A52 has more advanced camera features, including OIS which minimizes blur from handshakes and night mode, enhancing low-light photography. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme 12x has a larger battery, likely resulting in longer usage between charges. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | A52 charges faster, reducing time spent plugged in. |
| Battery Features | QC2.0, AFC | None | A52's charging standards are more advanced, allowing for potentially quicker charging speeds. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | Realme 12x has the latest version of Android preinstalled. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Both support common WiFi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.2 LE | Realme 12x uses newer Bluetooth version, potentially offering improved speed and range. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM) | Dual SIM Dual Standby (Nano SIM) | Both support dual SIM functionality for using two networks. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 256/512 GB | Realme 12x offers more storage options for those with larger media libraries, and starts with 256GB vs A52 with 128GB. |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 12 GB | Realme 12x has significantly more RAM, meaning better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage via microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Hi-Res Audio | A52 has more advanced surround sound tech; Realme 12x has lossless high-quality audio playback. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Realme 12x has a more modern sensor that is also more accessible. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | Samsung A52 offers better screen protection against scratches and minor impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Hall, Geomagnetic | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Magnetometer | Both have common sensors; A52 has Hall, Geomagnetic while Realme 12x has compass, Magnetometer. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED panel with higher resolution and pixel density offers a much better viewing experience with vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and sharper visuals. This translates to superior content consumption, gaming, and general usability.
- Better Camera System: Higher resolution main and selfie cameras, dedicated wide-angle and macro lenses, along with OIS, results in superior photo and video quality. The 4K recording capability enhances video capture quality significantly.
- Faster Charging: 25W fast charging enables faster battery replenishment which is a significant convenience.
- Advanced Audio Features: Dolby Atmos and Dolby Digital Plus offer enhanced spatial audio, surround sound and audio immersion.
- Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass 5 ensures higher durability against scratches and drops, providing added peace of mind.
- More advanced video stabilization: Electronic Image stabilization allows for smoother video.
Realme 12x Advantages:
- Better Performance: Newer chipset and higher AnTuTu score suggest smoother and faster performance in day-to-day tasks, gaming, and running more demanding apps.
- Larger Battery: 5000mAh battery offers increased battery life, which is excellent for users with heavy usage patterns.
- More RAM: 12GB of RAM provides excellent multitasking and smooth app switching, preventing slowdowns in demanding scenarios.
- Newer Android Version: Ships with Android 14, providing access to the latest features and security updates.
- More Storage Options: Starting from 256GB internal storage, which can be helpful for users who like to keep larger libraries of media or games on the phone.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.2 offers slightly better speed and range.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Samsung Galaxy A52: Sacrifices raw performance and battery life for a superior display and camera experience.
- Realme 12x: Trades off display and camera quality for better performance, battery, and newer software and RAM.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy A52:
- Media Consumers: Users who prioritize watching videos, movies, and other visual content will benefit from the superior AMOLED display.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who frequently take photos and videos, especially in varied conditions, will appreciate the versatile camera system, including OIS and high-resolution capture.
- Casual Gamers: Users who play less demanding games and prioritize a vivid display over raw power.
- Users Prioritizing User Interface: Users who prefer Samsung's One UI interface and its features, even if it means a slightly older Android version.
Use Cases:
- Watching HDR videos on YouTube or Netflix.
- Taking photos and videos at family gatherings or events.
- Playing casual games with good visuals.
- Daily use that prioritizes smooth animations and a high-quality display.
Ideal Users for Realme 12x:
- Heavy Users: Users who need extended battery life to last through a full day of heavy use, including gaming and media consumption.
- Mobile Gamers: Users who play graphics-intensive games and demand smooth and lag-free performance.
- Multitaskers: Users who need to run multiple apps simultaneously and require plenty of RAM to prevent slowdowns.
- Users Prioritizing Storage: Users who need more storage space for larger collections of media, files or games.
- Users Who Need a Future Proof Android OS: Users who prefer a newer operating system with the latest features and security.
Use Cases:
- Playing demanding games like Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile.
- Multitasking between multiple apps, such as social media, web browsing, and video streaming.
- Long commutes or travel where access to charging is limited.
- Daily use that prioritizes fast and fluid performance.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The price of both phones has to be considered. If the Samsung A52 is available at a lower price point, it might be a good option if display and camera are priorities. However, if priced similarly, the Realme 12x might offer a better value proposition for most users due to its performance and battery improvements.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is more important: display quality or performance?
- If you watch a lot of videos and prefer rich colors and high resolution, the A52 is better. If you game or need high performance, the Realme 12x is better.
- How much battery life do you need?
- If you need the phone to last a full day with heavy use, the Realme 12x is better.
- How important is camera quality?
- If you value higher resolution and more versatility with a wide-angle lens and OIS, the A52 is better. If you do not need the camera, Realme 12x will be a better option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Media Lover: If you watch lots of movies and videos, choose the Samsung Galaxy A52 for its superior display.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Gamer: If you play resource-intensive games frequently, choose the Realme 12x for its better performance and longer battery life.
- Scenario 3: Everyday User: If you need a balanced phone, consider both, but the Realme 12x might be the better choice for its modern chipset, faster performance, more RAM and longer battery.
- Scenario 4: Photography Enthusiast: If your priority is camera quality, and versatility, the Samsung Galaxy A52 is the better option due to it's high resolution sensors and OIS.
What I Would Choose and Why
I would choose the Realme 12x.
My rationale is primarily based on the Realme 12x's stronger performance, better battery life, and newer software. While the Samsung Galaxy A52 has a superior display, the Realme 12x's performance and battery benefits outweigh the display differences for my typical use. As a user who frequently multitasks, plays games, and needs a phone that can last a full day, the Realme 12x's advantages in those areas are more critical. The larger amount of RAM and newer Android version also make the phone more future-proof in the long term.
While I appreciate the A52's camera features, the Realme 12x's camera capabilities are adequate for my needs. Additionally, I would rather have a faster phone that lasts longer than one with a great screen but subpar performance. Therefore, the Realme 12x fits better into my priorities.
