1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 163.6 × 75.8 × 8.8 mm | Poco M4 Pro is slightly taller and thicker, might feel marginally less comfortable for smaller hands or in pockets. |
| Weight | 189g | 195g | A52 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for long holding times. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible difference; both offer a comfortable viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same FHD+ resolution, producing sharp and detailed images. |
| PPI | 407 | 399 | Practically identical sharpness; no visible difference in pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | A52's AMOLED provides superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors, leading to better viewing experience and power efficiency. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations; a noticeable upgrade over standard 60Hz screens. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Note: Brightness data unavailable, cannot be compared. This is crucial for outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Dimensity 810 has better raw performance for gaming and app loading; 6nm process is more power-efficient. |
| Antutu Score | 341,212 | 438,700 | Poco M4 Pro 5G has a significantly higher score, indicating smoother overall performance and faster responsiveness. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Mali-G57 MC2 | The Mali-G57 MC2 in the Poco M4 Pro 5G likely provides better graphics performance and gaming potential. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", Sony IMX682 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", Samsung S5KJN1 | A52's larger sensor and higher resolution may result in better low-light performance and greater detail in photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX616 | 16MP, f/2.45, 1/3.06", Omnivision OV16A10 | A52's selfie cam should be superior due to higher resolution, wider aperture and larger sensor, which is better for low light. |
| Wide-angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", Sony IMX355 | A52 has a slightly higher resolution wide angle lens. |
| Portrait/Depth Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A52 has dedicated portrait mode lens, beneficial for better background blur. |
| Macro lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A52 offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps with EIS | 1080p@60fps | A52 offers 4K video recording and electronic image stabilization; a big advantage for videography. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Poco M4 Pro 5G offers a larger battery which translates to longer battery life for heavy use. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging, Li-Polymer | 33W fast charging, Li-Ion Polymer | Poco M4 Pro 5G provides faster charging meaning less time plugged in. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | A52 offers better long term software support, extending its lifespan and providing new features and security updates. |
| Other | |||
| Storage | 128/256GB | 64/128/256GB | Both offer similar storage options. |
| RAM | 4/6/8GB | 4/6/8GB | Both offer similar RAM options, suitable for multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | No expandable storage on either, users should pick the adequate storage configuration. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, 2 mics | Both have stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos, Poco M4 Pro 5G adds Hi-Res Audio and dual microphones for enhanced audio and recording. |
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Poco M4 Pro 5G offers a more modern and potentially faster fingerprint unlock experience with the side mounted sensor. |
| Build quality | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | A52 offers better screen protection with Gorilla Glass 5. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity | Both offer the key sensors for most functionalities; Poco M4 Pro 5G adds a compass and uses an ultrasonic proximity sensor. |
| ## 2. Key Differences Analysis |
Samsung Galaxy A52 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED technology offers much better contrast, blacks, and color vibrancy, enhancing visual experience, especially for media consumption.
- Better Camera System: Higher resolution main and selfie cameras, dedicated depth and macro sensors, offer more versatility and better photo quality, especially in low light, and 4k video recording.
- Longer Software Support: Guaranteed software updates up to Android 14, extending the device’s lifespan and ensuring access to new features and security patches.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 offers better protection against scratches and drops.
- Optical Image Stabilization: OIS is present on the main camera for smoother video recording and less blurry images.
Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G Advantages:
- Stronger Performance: The Dimensity 810 chipset provides a noticeable boost in processing power and graphics performance.
- Larger Battery: Offers better battery life for heavy users and longer screen-on time.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging allows for quicker battery top-ups.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient and modern than the traditional fingerprint scanner on the A52.
- Enhanced Audio Recording: Dual microphones offer improved voice capture, which is beneficial for calls and videos.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Display Quality: The Poco M4 Pro 5G’s IPS LCD screen does not match the A52's AMOLED in terms of contrast, colors, and black levels.
- Camera Versatility: The Poco M4 Pro 5G lacks dedicated depth and macro lenses, limiting its photographic capabilities.
- Video Recording: The Poco M4 Pro 5G is limited to 1080p, while the A52 offers 4K video and also features Electronic Image stabilization.
- Build Quality: The Poco M4 Pro 5G has an older Gorilla Glass version, it may be more prone to scratches and cracks.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52 Ideal User:
- Media Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize a vibrant display for watching videos, browsing photos, and playing games.
- Photography Lovers: Users who want a versatile camera system with good low-light performance.
- Long-term Users: Users who value long-term software support and device longevity.
- Users focused on media consumption with higher requirements for display and audio fidelity, such as movies, music and podcasts.
Use Cases:
- Binge-watching shows, where the AMOLED screen enhances the visual experience.
- Capturing high-quality photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions.
- Daily drivers for users that want a reliable software support and longer product life.
Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G Ideal User:
- Performance Gamers: Users who prioritize smooth performance in gaming and heavy applications.
- Power Users: Users who require a long-lasting battery and quick charging for extended use.
- Users who want the best price-to-performance ratio: The Poco M4 Pro 5G often offers powerful performance at a more affordable price point.
- Users looking for a snappy device who do not require all the bells and whistles.
Use Cases:
- Playing resource-intensive games smoothly without lag.
- Long days without needing to charge the device multiple times.
- Quickly topping up the battery when running low.
- Users who are not too concerned about display quality and are more focused on raw performance.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality? (AMOLED vs IPS LCD)
- How much emphasis do I place on camera quality and versatility? (Dedicated depth and macro lens vs a faster chipset)
- What is my priority: battery life and performance or a superior camera and longer software support?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Media Consumption and Photography are Top Priority: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A52 for its superior AMOLED display, better camera system with depth and macro lens and OIS, and longer software support.
- Scenario 2: Gaming and Performance are More Important: Choose the Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G for its stronger performance, larger battery, faster charging, and side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
- Scenario 3: Budget is a Key Factor: If pricing is critical, the Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G will likely provide better value for its raw performance, though at the cost of lower display and camera capabilities.
My Choice
Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy A52. While the Poco M4 Pro 5G offers a better performing chip and a better battery, the A52's AMOLED display is a significant advantage for me as I watch a lot of videos, and its vastly superior camera setup gives it the edge. Additionally, the A52 has a better build quality (Gorilla Glass 5 vs 3), software support up to Android 14 and features Optical Image Stabilization.
Although the Poco M4 Pro 5G is a great phone, offering a snappy experience, the A52's focus on display quality and the camera experience fits better my personal needs. I also value the long-term software support, which is an important factor to extend the product's life and ensure that the phone remains relevant over time.
