1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip4 offers unique portability and pocketability; A52 is a traditional slab design. |
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | 165.2 x 71.9 x 6.9 mm | A52 is wider and thicker; Z Flip4 is taller and slimmer when unfolded. |
| Weight | 189g | 187g | Both are similar in weight, making them feel comparable in-hand. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | Z Flip4 has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1080 x 2640 | Z Flip4 has a slightly sharper display due to more pixels. |
| Pixel Density | 407 PPI | 426 PPI | Both have very similar pixel densities resulting in comparable sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unspecified | A52 has AMOLED offering richer colors and deeper blacks; Z Flip4's display tech is not specified and might be different. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Z Flip4 offers smoother scrolling and animations, making the display feel more responsive. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 provides significantly better visibility in bright outdoor environments. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Z Flip4 has a much faster processor, leading to superior performance in apps, games and multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 341,212 | 1,050,371 | Z Flip4 delivers over 200% better performance, resulting in a vastly smoother user experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 730 | Z Flip4’s GPU provides significantly better graphics processing for demanding apps and games. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 64MP | 12.2MP | A52 has higher resolution, which may result in larger image sizes, while Z Flip4 focuses on larger pixel size. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.7" | 1/2.55" | A52's larger sensor may perform slightly better in low light. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.40 µm | Z Flip4's larger pixels capture more light leading to better low light images. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 32MP | 10MP | A52 captures more detailed selfies. |
| Selfie Camera Sensor Size | 1/2.8" | 1/3.2" | A52’s selfie camera has a larger sensor size for better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.22 µm | Z Flip4 selfie camera has larger pixels for improved low light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Camera Resolution | 12MP | 13MP | Similar wide-angle capabilities. |
| Portrait Mode | Yes | No | A52 offers a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | Yes | No | A52 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Video | 4K@30fps (EIS), 1080p@60fps (EIS) | 4K@60fps (HDR), 1080p@240fps(HDR), 720p@960fps | Z Flip4 has superior video capabilities with higher resolution, frame rates and HDR. |
| DXOMARK Score | Not Tested | 112 (Mobile), 125 (Photo), 113 (Video) | Z Flip4’s camera performs well in benchmarks and is tested by DXOMARK. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple, OIS, EIS, Night Mode | Dual, OIS, PDAF | A52 has more lenses, while Z Flip4 utilizes PDAF for faster focus. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 3700 mAh | A52 has a larger battery, potentially offering better battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast | 25W Fast, 15W Wireless, 4.5W Reverse Wireless | Z Flip4 has more versatile charging options with wireless and reverse wireless charging. |
| Battery Features | QC2.0, AFC, Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, Fast Charging, Fast Wireless Charging, Reverse Wireless Charging | Z Flip4's battery features are more advanced. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 Advantages
- Larger Battery: The 4500mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life.
- More Camera Lenses: The inclusion of macro and depth lenses gives more versatility for photography.
- Lower Price: Typically available at a more affordable price point compared to the foldable Z Flip4.
- Dolby Atmos Audio: Offers enhanced audio quality for media consumption.
- Larger Main Camera Sensor Size: Potentially performs better in low-light situations for main photos.
- Larger Selfie Camera Sensor Size: Potentially performs better in low-light situations for selfies.
- Expandable Storage: This claim is incorrect, neither phone has expandable storage.
- AMOLED Display: Offers superior colors and deeper blacks, enhancing the viewing experience.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Advantages
- Foldable Design: Unique form factor offers portability and novelty.
- Significantly Faster Processor: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 provides a massive performance boost.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate offers a more responsive user experience.
- Brighter Display: 1200 nits brightness is far superior for outdoor visibility.
- Superior Video Recording: Better video quality with higher frame rates and HDR.
- Advanced Charging: Wireless and reverse wireless charging provide more flexibility.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.2 offers potentially better connectivity.
- Better GPS: Supports multiple satellite systems for higher precision.
- Better Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior screen protection.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient location than in-screen
- 512GB storage: Additional storage capacity for users with larger media libraries
Trade-offs
- A52: Offers a more versatile camera array but significantly lags behind in performance and advanced features.
- Z Flip4: While packing cutting-edge performance and features, has a smaller battery than A52.
- A52: The missing brightness for outdoor use can be frustrating for some users.
- Z Flip4: Significantly more expensive than the A52, less of a focus on camera versatility with depth and macro sensors lacking.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who prioritize camera versatility, battery life, and a vibrant display without high-end performance needs.
- Use Cases:
- Casual photography and videography.
- Daily social media usage and browsing.
- Users who consume media on their phones
- Longer screen time and prefer larger battery
- Price-to-Value: Good value for users on a tighter budget looking for a reliable all-rounder with a focus on photography.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
- Ideal User: Tech enthusiasts who value a unique design, cutting-edge performance, and advanced features, and don't mind paying a premium.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming, heavy multitasking and demanding app use.
- Users who want a compact and pocketable phone with advanced features.
- High-quality video recording
- Users who prioritize responsiveness, speed and the novelty of the foldable design.
- Frequent use in bright outdoor conditions.
- Price-to-Value: High-end device aimed at users willing to pay more for the latest tech, design and performance.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend on a smartphone? (A52 is significantly cheaper)
- Performance Needs: Do you need a top-tier processor for demanding apps, games, and multitasking? (Z Flip4 is far superior)
- Form Factor Preference: Do you prefer a traditional slab design or a unique, foldable form factor? (Z Flip4 offers a different experience)
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If budget is the primary constraint and you are looking for a solid all-round smartphone for photography and media consumption, the Samsung Galaxy A52 is the more suitable choice.
- Scenario 2: Performance & Innovation: If you want the latest technology, a cutting-edge processor, better display for outdoor use and a unique design, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the better option despite its higher price.
- Scenario 3: Camera Focused User: If you prioritize camera versatility and multiple lens options, Samsung Galaxy A52 is the better option as it features dedicated depth and macro lenses. If you prioritise video quality, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the better choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. Here's why:
- Performance: The massive performance difference is a major selling point. The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chip will ensure smooth and responsive performance for years, significantly outclassing the A52's Snapdragon 720G. As someone who multitasks frequently and plays demanding games, this extra power is essential.
- Display Quality: The 120Hz refresh rate and significantly higher brightness are compelling. The smoother animations and improved outdoor visibility would improve my user experience more than the A52's AMOLED panel.
- Foldable Design: The unique form factor is a plus. Its pocketability is a feature I would appreciate over the standard slab design of the A52.
- Advanced Features: The wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and newer Bluetooth and GPS standards add more convenience and future-proofing.
- Trade-offs: While the battery is smaller, I'm willing to compromise on that for the other advantages. I am also okay with fewer dedicated camera lenses knowing the Z Flip4 has the better camera in the majority of use cases. The higher price is an obstacle, but I value the features offered by the Z Flip4 enough to justify the cost.
While the Galaxy A52 offers decent value, the Z Flip4 provides a better user experience due to its higher performance, more premium features, and unique design. The better performance and display technology would provide a more enjoyable experience overall for my use case.
