Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A52 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm, 189g | 163 x 76 x 8 mm, 187g | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro is slightly taller, and the Galaxy A52 is slightly thicker. Weight difference is negligible, both are comfortable to hold. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.67" | Redmi Note 12 Pro offers a slightly more immersive experience with a marginally larger display for media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both have the same sharp, detailed screen, good for general use. |
| PPI | 407 | 395 | Pixel density is almost the same, and the user will likely not notice a difference between the two devices. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors, deep blacks and good viewing angles, suitable for media consumption. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro has smoother scrolling and animations, making the UI feel more fluid, better for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 900 nits | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro display is much more visible in bright outdoor conditions, improving the experience in direct sunlight; Samsung Galaxy A52 brightness spec is missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | MediaTek Dimensity 1080 (6 nm) | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro has a newer, more efficient chip offering better overall performance, faster app loading and snappier multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 341,212 | 573,200 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro offers much better performance for intensive tasks and gaming with a significantly higher benchmark score. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Mali-G68 MC4 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro provides a better gaming experience because of its newer GPU. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro likely provides longer battery life, suitable for heavy users. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro charges much faster, significantly reducing time spent plugged in, ideal for users who want minimal downtime. |
| Features | Non-removable, QC2.0 and AFC | Non-removable | Samsung Galaxy A52 offers Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0 and Adaptive Fast Charging. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7" | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56" | Galaxy A52 boasts higher resolution for detail, Note 12 Pro has larger sensor for better low light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" | 16MP, N/A | Samsung A52 selfie camera has double the MP, however without full details on the Xiaomi, a conclusive comparison can't be made, but more MP could result in more detail. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/1.9 | Samsung A52 has slightly higher resolution, but Note 12 Pro has wider aperture for better low-light wide shots. |
| Depth Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | N/A | Samsung A52 has a dedicated depth sensor which is better for more accurate portrait photos. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | Samsung A52's macro lens may capture slightly better close-up details due to higher resolution. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, EIS, Slow-mo | 4K@30fps, EIS, Slow-mo, 720p@960fps | Both offer good video capabilities but Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro has a more versatile slow-mo. |
| DxOMark | N/A | 102 (Mobile) | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro has a tested good camera with good image and video quality. |
| Features | Quad, OIS, Night Mode... | Triple, OIS, RAW... | Each has additional specific camera features. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 12 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro has a newer version out of the box, but the Galaxy A52 is upgradable to 14. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro has Wi-Fi 6, a newer standard that supports faster speeds, better range, and lower latency compared to Galaxy A52. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro has a more advanced version that is more efficient and supports newer codecs (LDAC). |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS... | A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS... | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro supports more satellite systems which is helpful for better location accuracy, in general, in urban or cluttered areas. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM | Both support dual SIM usage, with two nano SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both phones come with a 128 GB or 256 GB of internal storage, suitable for most users. |
| RAM | 4GB/6GB/8GB | 6GB/8GB/12GB | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro offers more RAM options, allowing for smoother multitasking and better gaming. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, which could be a limitation for some users. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Samsung has better Audio features which is helpful for those who prioritize audio experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | In-display fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro's side-mounted fingerprint sensor may be faster to access. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Both have similar protection against scratches and impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity... | Fingerprint, Proximity, Compass... | Both offer essential sensors, with Xiaomi adding a Compass for navigation. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A52 Advantages:
- Slightly Better Camera Features: Includes a depth sensor, higher resolution front and rear camera and Dolby Digital Plus audio, which could result in richer photos and audio.
- Software Updates: Samsung has a guaranteed upgrade to Android 14.
- Audio: Supports Dolby Digital Plus which can improve sound output.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Dimensity 1080 chipset and higher AnTuTu score result in smoother performance, faster app loading, and enhanced gaming capabilities.
- Brighter Display: 900 nits provides significantly better visibility in bright sunlight.
- Faster Charging: 67W fast charging dramatically reduces charging times.
- Larger Battery: 5000mAh provides potentially longer battery life.
- Higher Refresh Rate: 120Hz gives a smoother experience in every interaction with the phone.
- Better Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 offer faster and more stable connections.
- Side Mounted Fingerprint: A faster, more practical fingerprint sensor.
- More RAM: Up to 12GB of RAM for better multitasking and gaming.
Trade-offs:
- The Galaxy A52 is older but still has good camera software.
- Redmi Note 12 Pro has better performance, but may not have the same level of camera processing compared to Galaxy A52.
- Galaxy A52 doesn't have a confirmed software upgrade past Android 14.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize a good balance of features, a decent camera experience and a reliable display.
- Use Cases:
- Social media enthusiasts needing good front and rear cameras.
- Users who value a balance between performance and camera quality.
- Individuals who don't require the highest processing power for gaming.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro:
- Ideal User: Users who need top-notch performance for gaming, multitasking, and media consumption, who also want a fast charging phone.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gamers seeking smooth performance and higher refresh rate.
- Heavy users who need long battery life and fast charging.
- Users who frequently use their phone outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Users who want better connectivity with their phone with Wi-Fi 6.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is gaming and performance to you? If it's crucial, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is the better choice.
- How important is screen visibility outdoors? If it's important, Redmi Note 12 Pro is significantly better.
- How much do you value faster charging? If you want minimal downtime, Redmi Note 12 Pro's 67W charging will be much more convenient.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual User: If you are a casual user who mostly uses their phone for social media and browsing, both will be fine, but the Redmi Note 12 Pro provides a more modern overall experience.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Gamer: If you play demanding games, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is the clear winner with its better chipset, GPU, and higher refresh rate display.
- Scenario 3: Outdoor Photography: If you take photos outdoors and need better brightness, the Redmi Note 12 Pro's higher brightness would give better usability.
- Scenario 4: Frequent Traveler: If you're often on the go, the Redmi Note 12 Pro's fast charging and larger battery make it more suitable.
My Choice: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro
I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Pro. While the Samsung Galaxy A52 is a decent phone, the Redmi Note 12 Pro offers significant advantages in critical areas that align with my priorities. The improved performance, brighter display, faster charging, better connectivity and larger battery make it a more compelling choice for general and demanding use. The 120Hz refresh rate, better connectivity and side mounted fingerprint scanner are just the icing on the cake. Although the camera on the Galaxy A52 is adequate, the Redmi Note 12 Pro has good camera scores and the slight differences are not major enough to sway my decision towards the older phone.
