1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Motorola Moto G23 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 162.7 × 74.7 × 8.2 mm | A72 is slightly larger overall, G23 is more compact and lighter |
| Weight | 203g | 184.3g | G23 feels more comfortable during long usage sessions |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | A72 provides a slightly larger viewing area for media consumption, but both should feel similar for daily use |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | A72 has a much sharper display with crisper text, images and videos, better viewing experience |
| PPI | 394 | 270 | A72 has a significantly sharper display, noticeable difference in clarity |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | A72 offers better blacks, contrast, color vibrancy, and is more energy efficient, especially with dark themes |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 0 nits | A72 is clearly much better for outdoor visibility and bright sunlight readability |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8nm) | Mediatek Helio G85 (12nm) | A72's chipset is more powerful, providing smoother app launching and general performance |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 225,154 | A72 shows noticeably better overall performance in benchmarks, faster app loading and smoother operation |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Mali-G52 MC2 | A72's GPU is better for gaming, delivering smoother graphics |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery life for a full day of moderate use |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 30W Fast Charging | G23 charges slightly faster |
| Features | 15W Fast Charger included | Non-removable | A72 has a charger included, G23 does not have a charger explicitly noted |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | A72 captures more detailed images in good light due to higher megapixel count |
| Telephoto | 8MP, f/2.4 | N/A | A72 offers optical zoom for better photos of distant subjects and portrait mode |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.5 | A72 takes more detailed selfies with better low-light performance |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | 5MP, f/2.2 | A72 captures wider scenes with much more details |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | A72 offers more detailed macro images |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps with EIS | 1080p@30fps | A72 records higher resolution videos and supports smoother 60fps recording for more professional video quality, the EIS helps with stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score | Main 92 (photo 100, video 78) | N/A | A72 has a tested and proven great camera system. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Optical zoom, Night Mode | Triple Camera, RAW | A72 has better low light capability and zoom, G23 has better editing options with RAW support |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, upgradeable to 12 | Android 13 | G23 offers a newer Android version, meaning more software updates, and new features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct/Display | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Wi-Fi Direct | A72 additionally supports Wi-Fi Display for screen sharing |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE | G23 offers a newer, more power-efficient Bluetooth connection |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, SUPL, Galileo | G23 has wider GPS support than A72 |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256GB | 64/128GB | A72 has more internal storage options, better for large collections of media and apps |
| RAM | 6/8GB | 4/8GB | Both have an 8GB option but A72 has an additional 6GB RAM option |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers external storage support. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, 2 mics | G23 has additional 2 microphones that can improve audio capture |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint sensor | G23's side-mounted fingerprint is more modern and often faster |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope | A72 has more sensors than G23 |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Superior Display: The AMOLED display with higher resolution, brightness, and pixel density offers a significantly better viewing experience, especially in bright conditions.
- Better Performance: The Snapdragon 720G chipset and higher AnTuTu score mean smoother performance, better gaming capabilities, and faster app loading.
- More Versatile Camera: The telephoto lens, higher resolution sensors on all cameras, and OIS give A72 significant advantages in photography and video recording, especially with zoom.
- More Internal Storage: Offers up to 256GB of storage, ideal for those who store large media files or apps.
- Comprehensive Sensor Suite: Has additional sensors that can allow for a more advanced user experience.
Motorola Moto G23 Advantages:
- Newer Android Version: Android 13 provides the latest features and security updates.
- Slightly Faster Charging: 30W fast charging offers a small advantage.
- Lighter and More Compact: Slightly smaller and lighter, potentially more comfortable to hold for some users.
- Microphones: Has 2 microphones which can be beneficial for audio recording and calls.
- More Modern Fingerprint Sensor: The side-mounted sensor is faster and more ergonomic than the sensor used by the A72.
- Wider GPS support: More comprehensive for navigation.
Trade-offs:
- The Galaxy A72 trades a slightly larger design for a far superior display, better camera system, and performance while being slightly heavier.
- The Moto G23 prioritizes newer software and a more compact design, trading overall camera and performance capabilities.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal User:
- Media Consumers: Those who watch a lot of videos, browse social media, and play games, benefitting from the superior display and performance.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value a versatile camera system with zoom capabilities and higher resolution for photos and videos.
- Performance Seekers: Those who need a reliable phone for multitasking and gaming.
- Users needing storage: Benefit from more internal storage for apps, photos, and videos.
Specific Use Cases (Galaxy A72):
- Outdoor Photography: The bright AMOLED screen and versatile camera system excel in bright conditions.
- Mobile Gaming: The more powerful chipset and better GPU deliver smoother gameplay.
- Video Streaming: The larger, higher resolution AMOLED display offers an immersive experience.
Motorola Moto G23 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: Those seeking a newer phone with a good display for the price.
- Casual Users: Users who prefer a simple, reliable device for everyday use.
- Users that prefer lighter and more compact phones: The G23 is slightly smaller and lighter than the A72.
- Users that prioritize software updates: Newer Android version provides more software updates and new features.
Specific Use Cases (Moto G23):
- Daily Communication: The compact design and reliable performance is suitable for calls, messaging, and browsing.
- Basic Mobile Use: Ideal for tasks like social media, web browsing, and navigation.
- Travelers The phone has more comprehensive GPS support.
Price-to-Value:
- The Samsung Galaxy A72 typically sits in a higher price bracket due to its superior display, camera, and performance features.
- The Motorola Moto G23 offers a more affordable option, with a focus on essential features and newer software.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Display Quality: How important is screen resolution, brightness, and contrast for your use?
- Camera Needs: Do you need a versatile camera with zoom capabilities and strong low-light performance?
- Performance Requirements: Will you be doing heavy gaming, multitasking, or demanding applications?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Outdoor Photography & Media: If your priorities are a bright screen, and taking lots of outdoor photos and videos, the Samsung Galaxy A72 is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious & Casual Use: If you are on a tight budget and need a phone for basic tasks with a modern software experience, the Motorola Moto G23 offers better value.
- Scenario 3: Performance and Gaming: For users that want a good gaming experience, and high performance, then the Samsung Galaxy A72 is the better option.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A72. While the Moto G23 is newer and offers a slightly faster charging, lighter design, and newer software, the overall user experience of the A72 is far superior. The display quality is a game-changer, offering significantly better brightness, sharpness, and vibrant colors. Combined with its more powerful chipset and better camera system, the Galaxy A72 delivers a much more enjoyable experience for daily use, content consumption, and photography. While the Moto G23 would be more affordable, the trade-offs in display, camera, and performance are too significant for me to choose over the A72. Ultimately, the A72 is the better all-round performer and provides a better value in the long run for my typical use cases.
