Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A52 vs. Samsung Galaxy S22 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy S22 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | 146 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm | S22 5G is smaller and more pocketable. A52 is larger, may be less comfortable for single-handed use. |
| Weight | 189g | 167g | S22 5G is noticeably lighter, more comfortable for long periods. |
| Build | Plastic back, Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus+ back | S22 5G offers better scratch resistance and feels more premium, likely more durable over long term. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy S22 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.1" | A52 has a larger display, better for media consumption and multitasking. S22 5G is more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are sharp and detailed. Minimal practical difference in sharpness for most users. |
| Pixel Density | 407 PPI | 425 PPI | Both are very similar; minimal practical difference in sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both have vibrant colors, deep blacks, and good contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | S22 5G offers smoother animations and scrolling, leading to a more fluid user experience, particularly in fast-paced games and social media scrolling. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1300 nits | S22 5G is much brighter, vastly superior for outdoor visibility in sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy S22 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Exynos 2200 (4 nm) | S22 5G has a significantly faster and more efficient processor. Noticeable difference in app loading, multitasking, and demanding tasks like gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 341,212 | 1,022,200 | S22 5G has much higher performance, indicating far better overall speed and capabilities |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Xclipse 920 | S22 5G has a more powerful GPU; better for demanding graphic applications like high-end gaming. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy S22 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 3700mAh | A52 should offer longer battery life due to the larger capacity, though real world performance varies based on usage. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both support the same fast charging. |
| Features | QC2.0, AFC, Non-removable | Bypass Charging, 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless, Non-removable | S22 5G offers wireless and reverse wireless charging which is great for convenience, A52 supports QC2.0 and AFC |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy S22 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.57", 1.0µm | S22 5G has larger pixels for better low-light performance. A52 has higher resolution which allows more detail in bright conditions. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 0.8µm | 10MP, f/2.2, 1.22µm | A52 has much higher resolution for detailed selfies. S22 5G has larger pixels for better low light performance |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 12MP, f/2.4, 1.0µm | S22 5G has a dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom capabilities. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.40µm | Both have similar wide angle lenses. S22 5G’s has larger pixels which perform better in low light. |
| Portrait Mode | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | None | A52 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | None | A52 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@30/60fps with EIS, Slow motion 120fps | 8K@24fps, 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps with HDR, EIS, Stereo Sound, Slow motion 960fps | S22 5G supports significantly higher video resolution, frame rates and slow motion capabilities making it much better for video recording. |
| DXOMARK | Not Available | 120 (Overall), 119 (Photo), 116 (Video) | S22 5G has been tested by DXOMark, indicating a very high-performing camera system, A52 has no results. |
| Features | Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Continuous autofocus, Night Mode | 8K Video, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), RAW | S22 5G has advanced camera features such as 8K video recording, Optical zoom, RAW format recording capabilities that aren't present on the A52 |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 Advantages:
- Larger Display: 6.5" screen is preferable for media consumption, gaming, and users who prefer bigger text.
- Larger Battery: 4500mAh battery may offer better battery life for average users, reducing the frequency of charging throughout the day.
- Macro and Portrait Lenses: Dedicated lenses provide added versatility for specific types of photography.
- Dolby Atmos: Offers enhanced spatial audio with a slight edge in overall audio features for a better sound experience with compatible devices.
Samsung Galaxy S22 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Exynos 2200 chipset and higher AnTuTu score provide a significantly smoother and faster experience for all tasks, including gaming and multitasking.
- Significantly Better Display Brightness: 1300 nits compared to 0 on the A52 make for significantly better visibility in outdoor, bright light conditions.
- Smoother Refresh Rate: 120Hz refresh rate offers a more fluid and responsive visual experience, especially when scrolling or gaming.
- Advanced Camera System: Features including Telephoto lens for optical zoom, a better low light main camera, and support for 8k video offer increased versatility and performance.
- Premium Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus+ and higher build quality give a more durable and premium feel.
- Faster Wireless Charging and Reverse Wireless Charging: Offers additional convenience for users, especially those who have wireless charging devices.
- Newer Software and Connectivity: Latest Android version, Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6 for advanced connectivity options, with better satellite support for GPS.
Trade-offs:
- The A52 trades performance and advanced camera features for a larger screen and battery, while the S22 5G trades a slightly smaller battery and screen for higher performance, a premium build, a more advanced camera, and a brighter display.
- The A52 is generally cheaper than the S22 5G but comes with compromises.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52 Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users looking for a larger screen and longer battery life.
- Casual users who primarily use their phones for social media, browsing, and media consumption.
- Users who prioritize specific camera features such as a Macro lens or a dedicated depth sensor for portraits.
- Users who want a decent audio experience and will be taking advantage of Dolby Atmos functionality.
Specific Use Cases for A52:
- Watching movies/TV shows on a larger display
- Reading e-books or browsing content for long periods.
- Taking casual photos with a variety of camera options, including macro shots.
- Everyday use for social media and browsing.
Samsung Galaxy S22 5G Ideal User:
- Performance-focused users who need a fast and responsive phone for demanding tasks like gaming and content creation.
- Users who prioritize a premium design and build quality.
- Users who require the best possible camera performance, including optical zoom and video capabilities.
- Users who require brighter displays for consistent outdoor use.
- Users who need the latest connectivity options and wireless features.
Specific Use Cases for S22 5G:
- Playing graphic-intensive mobile games at higher settings and framerates.
- Taking professional-grade photos and videos with advanced camera features.
- Using the phone for productivity tasks requiring fast processing and smooth multitasking.
- Outdoor use where a brighter display is essential
- Wireless charging and reverse wireless charging
Price-to-Value:
- The A52 is more affordable, offering decent features at a lower price point.
- The S22 5G provides a premium experience but at a higher price. The added cost is justified by the substantial performance and camera upgrades.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The A52 is more budget-friendly, while the S22 5G is a premium device.
- How important is performance and gaming? If those are critical, the S22 5G is the clear winner.
- How important is camera quality? S22 5G excels with its advanced camera system including a telephoto lens, but the A52 offers additional lenses for versatility.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User: If your priority is a large screen, decent battery and you mainly use your phone for basic tasks and media consumption, the A52 is a cost-effective option.
- Scenario 2: Performance User: If you play demanding games and need the best speed, the S22 5G is the better choice.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: The S22 5G’s advanced main camera, telephoto lens, and video capabilities make it better for taking high-quality photos and videos, but if you like to have macro and portrait lenses then the A52 might be better for you.
- Scenario 4: Budget-Conscious User: The A52 is the more budget-friendly option with a larger screen and more battery capacity.
- Scenario 5: Long-Term Use: For more reliable performance and long-term usage with the latest OS and connectivity features, the S22 5G would be the better choice.
Personal Recommendation
If I had to choose, I would select the Samsung Galaxy S22 5G. The massive leap in performance with the Exynos 2200 chipset, combined with the significantly brighter display and superior camera capabilities, outweighs the benefits of the A52’s slightly larger battery and screen. The S22 5G’s premium build, advanced connectivity, and wireless charging are also very appealing features. While the A52 is a good phone, the S22 5G provides a superior user experience in almost every aspect, making it the better long-term choice despite the higher price. The superior camera system, particularly the telephoto lens, and the improved low-light performance are significant advantages for my personal use case which includes both work and personal use.
