Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G and the OnePlus Nord 3. These two phones offer different takes on the mid-range experience, and while they share some similarities, their differences are quite significant. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand which one might be the better fit for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the key specifications, highlighting what they mean for you in the real world:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G | OnePlus Nord 3 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mm | 162 x 75.1 x 8.2 mm | Nord 3 is slightly taller, A52s is a touch thicker |
| Weight | 189g | 193.5g | Negligible difference in hand |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.74" | Nord 3 offers a slightly larger viewing area |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 1240 x 2772 | Nord 3 has noticeably sharper visuals |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 405 | 451 | Nord 3 has slightly sharper text and images |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 1450 nits | Nord 3 is much better in bright sunlight |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 778G 5G | Dimensity 9000 | Nord 3 is significantly faster and more responsive |
| AnTuTu Score | 570,752 | 1,103,441 | Nord 3 is substantially faster in benchmarks |
| GPU | Adreno 642L | Mali-G710 MC10 | Nord 3 handles graphics-intensive tasks better |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh | Nord 3 has slightly better battery life |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 80W fast charging | Nord 3 charges significantly faster |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Res | 64MP | 50MP | A52s has more megapixels but Nord 3 has a larger sensor |
| Main Sensor Size | 1/1.7" | 1/1.56" | Nord 3 has a slightly larger sensor |
| Main Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.00 µm | Nord 3 has larger pixels that can capture more light |
| Selfie Camera Res | 32MP | 16MP | A52s has higher resolution selfie camera |
| Wide Angle Camera Res | 12MP | 8MP | A52s has higher resolution wide-angle camera |
| Portrait mode | Yes | No | A52s provides portrait mode depth sensor for bokeh effects |
| Macro Lens | 5MP | 2MP | A52s has higher resolution macro camera |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 4K@60fps | Nord 3 offers higher frame rate in 4K video |
| Video Stabilisation | EIS | EIS | Both offer Electronic Image Stabilisation |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable) | Android 13 | Nord 3 has a newer, more up-to-date OS |
| Max. Version | Android 14 | Android 16 | Nord 3 has the promise of a further updated Android version |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both support modern Wi-Fi standards |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 LE | Nord 3 has a newer, more efficient Bluetooth |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A-GPS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Nord 3 offers more options and Dual-frequency for accurate navigation |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 128/256GB | Both offer ample storage options |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 8/16GB | Nord 3 offers more RAM, especially in top config. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither supports microSD card expansion |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | Nord 3 offers a more immersive audio experience |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Fingerprint Scanner | Fingerprint Scanner | Both offer basic fingerprint biometric security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Unknown | A52s uses superior screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity (Ultrasonic virtual) | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | A52s has additional sensors for advanced features |
2. Key Insights
- OnePlus Nord 3 - The Performance Powerhouse: The Nord 3 is the clear winner in terms of raw performance. Its Dimensity 9000 chipset and the option for 16 GB of RAM put it in a different league. You'll see this in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. The brighter display also makes it a joy to use outdoors.
- Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G - The Solid All-Rounder: The A52s is a very capable mid-ranger that does most things well. It offers a good quality display, a versatile camera system, and reliable performance for everyday tasks. Its software experience with Samsung’s One UI is preferred by some. However, it lacks the raw power and display brightness of the Nord 3.
- Camera Tradeoffs: While the A52s boasts more megapixels for the main and selfie cameras, the Nord 3’s larger primary camera sensor captures better images, especially in low light. The Nord 3 also shoots superior 4k video at 60fps which is great for any vloggers out there!
- Battery and Charging: The Nord 3 has a larger battery, which, combined with the more efficient chipset, gives you better battery life. The 80W fast charging is a huge advantage, allowing you to top up very quickly. The A52s’ charging is significantly slower.
- Software Updates: The OnePlus Nord 3 comes out on top here with a newer operating system and an extra update promised.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- For the Performance Enthusiast (OnePlus Nord 3): If you value speed and responsiveness, and often play games or do resource-intensive tasks on your phone, the Nord 3 is the clear choice. Its performance-driven specs ensure a smooth experience, and the brighter display makes it perfect for outdoor use.
- For the Casual User (Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G): If your main focus is on a solid all-around phone with a good camera, decent performance, and a user-friendly UI, the A52s is a great option. It gets the job done reliably for everyday use.
- For the Vlogger (OnePlus Nord 3): The Nord 3 is more geared toward a vlogging experience. With 4k 60fps video, superior battery life and excellent performance this is the clear winner if you have a large focus on making quality videos.
- For Someone Who Wants Long-term Software Support (OnePlus Nord 3): With a newer Android version and the promise of Android 16, the Nord 3 is the clear winner for those that want a phone that will be useable for as long as possible.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- How much do you prioritize performance? If you need a phone that handles heavy tasks smoothly, the Nord 3 is the better choice. If you're okay with a bit less power for everyday use, the A52s is sufficient.
- How important is the display? If you’re often outdoors, the Nord 3's high brightness is a clear advantage. If you mainly use your phone indoors, the A52s' display is still good.
- What kind of software experience do you prefer? If you like Samsung's One UI, then the A52s will be a natural fit. If you prefer a more streamlined and stock-like Android experience, the Nord 3 is a great pick.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy Gamer/Multitasker: OnePlus Nord 3 is the better pick due to its superior performance and RAM, and also the better display for gaming.
- Scenario 2: Social Media User: Both phones are suitable, but the OnePlus Nord 3 edges ahead with a brighter display and superior video recording if you are making videos.
- Scenario 3: Everyday User with a Budget: The Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G is a cost-effective choice.
- Scenario 4: Photography Enthusiast: The Samsung A52s 5G and the OnePlus Nord 3 are great picks. Although the Samsung has a higher MP camera the Nord 3 has a larger sensor. As such, there is no clear winner, but both are very close.
Which One I Would Choose:
After carefully analyzing both phones, I would personally choose the OnePlus Nord 3. While the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G is a solid device, the Nord 3's superior performance, significantly brighter display, much faster charging, a newer version of Bluetooth, higher resolution videos, and greater potential for long-term software support make it a more compelling choice for my needs. As someone who uses their phone for a variety of tasks, from gaming to content consumption, the Nord 3's processing power and impressive screen would significantly enhance my user experience.
If I was a casual user who didn't need the performance and extra features then the A52s would be perfect. It's a solid phone, and still performs really well. However, given the choice between the two, the Nord 3 is the clear winner for me.
