Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A52 vs. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the two phones, focusing on practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Foldable design offers larger screen when unfolded, unique experience; standard is more traditional and compact. |
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 158.2 × 128.1 × 6.4 mm (unfolded) | A52 is taller and thicker, Z Fold3 is wider when unfolded. Z Fold3 offers a larger overall volume, but more compact when folded |
| Weight | 189g | 271g | A52 is significantly lighter, easier for one-handed use and extended periods. Z Fold3 is noticeably heavier, might feel bulky. |
| Build Quality | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Fold3 offers superior screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 7.6" (unfolded) | Z Fold3's larger screen offers a more immersive experience for media consumption and multitasking. A52 is smaller and more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1768x2208 | Z Fold3 has a sharper display with more pixels, leading to crisper images and text. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 407 | 374 | A52 has slightly sharper display in terms of PPI, although this difference is unlikely to be perceptible in regular use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unspecified | A52 has better contrast, deeper blacks and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Z Fold3 has smoother scrolling and animations, more responsive gaming. A52 still provides smooth experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is identical. Actual performance depends on display quality, missing information here. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Z Fold3's chipset is significantly more powerful, faster processing, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. A52 handles everyday tasks with ease but struggles in demanding applications. |
| AnTuTu Score | 341,212 | 898,700 | Z Fold3 has significantly higher performance, meaning smoother performance for intensive games and heavy multitasking |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 660 | Z Fold3's GPU offers superior graphics performance, important for gaming and graphics-intensive apps |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", 0.8µm | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.8µm | A52 captures more detail with higher resolution. Z Fold3 captures more light with larger pixels, better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 0.8µm | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | A52 offers higher resolution selfies, while Z Fold3 should have better low-light performance due to larger pixel size. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 12MP, f/2.4, 1.0µm | Z Fold3 allows for optical zoom, useful for distant subjects without digital artifacts. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | 13MP, f/2.2, 1/3.06", 1.12µm | Similar wide angle capabilities between the two phones, Z Fold3 has slightly higher resolution |
| Portrait Mode | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | None | A52 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode while Z Fold3 relies on software |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | None | A52 allows for close up macro shots. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, EIS, 1080p@240fps, 720p@960fps | Z Fold3 has higher quality, more versatile video features. |
| DxOMark Score (Mobile) | Unspecified | 120 (Photo: 129, Video: 105) | Z Fold3 has a great tested mobile camera, indicating very good photo and video results, A52 has no information available |
| DxOMark Score (Selfie) | Unspecified | 83 (Photo: 79, Video: 89) | Z Fold3 has a great tested selfie camera, indicating good photo and video results, A52 has no information available |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, OIS, EIS, Night Mode | Triple camera, OIS, EIS, Under display camera, Optical zoom, RAW, Night Mode | Z Fold3 has more advanced camera features (optical zoom, raw capture, under display camera) whereas A52 has quadruple setup which increases versatility |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 4400mAh | Similar battery capacity between the phones. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both phones provide reasonably fast charging speeds |
| Features | Non-removable, QC2.0 and AFC | Non-removable, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 9W, Bypass Charging | Z Fold3 has the edge with wireless charging, reverse wireless charging and bypass charging (allows charging the phone directly from the power source) |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 Advantages:
- Lighter and more compact: Easier to handle and carry around.
- Better display technology: AMOLED offers superior contrast and colors.
- Quad Camera: More versatile in different scenarios.
- Lower Price: Significantly more budget-friendly.
Practical Implications:
- Ideal for users who prioritize portability, a good-quality display and a more conventional smartphone experience, without the higher price point of foldables.
- Suitable for everyday use, social media, and casual photography.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G Advantages:
- Unique Foldable Design: Larger screen for immersive media and multitasking.
- Significantly More Powerful: Snapdragon 888 provides superior performance and faster app loading.
- Better Refresh Rate: Smoother animations and gaming.
- Superior Video Recording: More advanced video features and capabilities
- Wireless Charging: Added convenience and versatility.
- Better Camera System: Better low light performance with main sensor and a telephoto lens
- Latest software: Supports the newest version of Android and provides long term support
- Advanced Sensors: Adds a barometer for more advanced location tracking.
Practical Implications:
- Designed for power users who need a large screen for productivity, multitasking, and immersive entertainment.
- Appeals to those wanting cutting-edge features and premium performance.
Trade-offs:
- A52: Sacrifices performance and unique form factor for affordability and portability. Lacks advanced features like wireless charging.
- Z Fold3: Is significantly heavier, bulkier and more expensive and has lower PPI with older display technology.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious individuals, casual users who prioritize portability and everyday functionality, students, or those who like good photos and videos.
- Use Cases: Social media, web browsing, casual gaming, taking everyday pictures and videos, watching content and communication.
- Strengths: Affordable, reliable, good display, decent camera capabilities.
- Price-to-Value: Excellent value proposition for its price range.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G:
- Ideal User: Power users, tech enthusiasts, professionals who multitask extensively, gamers who enjoy high-end graphics, or anyone looking for a unique mobile experience.
- Use Cases: Multitasking with multiple apps, productivity, demanding mobile games, immersive media consumption, content creation, and business use.
- Strengths: Cutting-edge technology, exceptional performance, large and immersive display.
- Price-to-Value: Premium price reflects the advanced technology and unique foldable design.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Budget: Are you looking for an affordable device or are you willing to pay a premium for cutting-edge tech?
- Primary Use: Do you prioritize portability and everyday use, or do you need a large screen for multitasking and media consumption?
- Performance Needs: Do you require a high-performance device for gaming and demanding apps, or is moderate performance sufficient?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: If you need a reliable, budget-friendly smartphone for everyday use and value portability, the Samsung Galaxy A52 is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: If you need a high-performance device for multitasking and media consumption and are willing to pay a premium, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is recommended.
- Scenario 3: If you prioritize camera performance over versatility and advanced features, and you take a lot of photos in low light the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G is the better choice.
- Scenario 4: If you want a versatile device with dedicated portrait and macro camera options and value great quality photos and videos then the Samsung Galaxy A52 is the better choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G. While I appreciate the affordability and practicality of the A52, the Z Fold3's larger screen, superior performance, and unique foldable design are far more compelling for my use cases. I frequently multitask, watch videos and use my phone for work and the large screen is far more convenient, even if it is heavier and bulkier. Additionally, the better camera and support for the newest version of Android are added benefits that I would greatly appreciate. The trade-off in weight and price is a cost I am willing to bear for the premium features and unique experience it offers.
