Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A72 vs. Motorola Moto G42
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Motorola Moto G42 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165 x 77.4 x 8.4 mm | 160.4 x 73.5 x 8 mm | A72 is larger, may feel less comfortable in small hands or pockets. G42 is more compact and easier to handle. |
| Weight | 203g | 175g | G42 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for prolonged use. A72 may feel heavier in hand. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.4" | A72 offers a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and gaming. G42 is slightly more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical resolution, meaning similar sharpness. |
| Pixel Density | 394 PPI | 411 PPI | Both have a similar pixel density, so no noticeable difference in sharpness. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks typical of AMOLED. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | A72 offers smoother scrolling and animations. G42 has standard refresh rate. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 0 nits | A72's higher brightness makes it much better for outdoor visibility, especially in sunlight. The Moto G42 brightness is missing and may impact readability |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | A72's chipset offers better performance in demanding tasks and games. G42's chipset is more energy efficient, but less powerful. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 249,000 | A72 will have slightly better performance in day-to-day use and during demanding tasks like gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 610 | A72's GPU handles graphically intensive tasks better, offering smoother gaming experience. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | A72 captures slightly more detailed photos with its higher resolution sensor. |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP, f/2.4 | None | A72 offers optical zoom capabilities for closer shots without losing quality. |
| Ultrawide Camera | 12MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | A72's ultrawide offers better image quality with higher resolution. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | A72 takes more detailed close-up shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.2 | A72's selfie camera provides higher resolution and detailed self-portraits. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps, EIS | 1080p@30fps | A72 can capture higher-quality videos with its 4K capabilities and includes EIS for stabilization. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Optical Zoom | Laser AF | A72 has OIS, reducing blurry photos and videos. Moto G42 has Laser AF for faster focus |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacity, should provide comparable battery life for average use. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 20W Fast Charging | A72 charges slightly faster. |
| Charger Included | 15W Fast Charger included | No Charger Included Specified | A72 has a charger included while we don't have a information about the charger for Motorola Moto G42 |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 12 | Moto G42 has newer version of Android out-of-the-box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac, Dual-band | 802.11ac, Dual-band | Both have similar WiFi capabilities. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 LE | Both have Bluetooth 5.0, A72 has more features, G42 uses Low Energy profile |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 64/128 GB | A72 offers larger storage options. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 4/6 GB | A72 has options for more RAM, enhancing multitasking capabilities. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Both offer similar high-quality audio. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | G42 offers a more modern and convenient fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Hall, Geomagnetic | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | A72 has a more complete set of sensors, useful for advanced features and games. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Superior Display: Brighter screen with a 90Hz refresh rate for smoother visuals, better for outdoor use and gaming.
- Better Performance: More powerful chipset, GPU, and higher AnTuTu score, making it better for demanding games and multitasking.
- More Versatile Camera System: Optical zoom, higher resolution cameras, OIS for better photos and videos in various scenarios. It's also capable of recording 4K video.
- More Storage and RAM Options: More RAM and storage options mean better multitasking, smoother user experience and more space for files and apps
- Faster Charging: Slightly faster charging at 25W and a charger included.
- More Complete Set of Sensors: Full set of sensors for more features and better gaming experience
Motorola Moto G42 Advantages:
- Lighter and More Compact: More comfortable for prolonged use and better for smaller hands.
- Newer Software: Comes with Android 12 out-of-the-box.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More ergonomic and convenient.
- More Energy Efficient Chipset: The Snapdragon 680 is less powerful, but also more power efficient.
- Laser AF: Faster focus technology for the camera.
- Lower Price: The Moto G42 is usually sold at a lower price point, offering a more budget-friendly option.
Trade-offs:
- A72: Larger size and weight, slightly older OS, possibly higher price.
- G42: Lower overall performance, less versatile camera, and 60Hz refresh rate.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 is ideal for:
- Media Enthusiasts: Larger, brighter, 90Hz display is excellent for watching videos and playing games.
- Photography Lovers: Versatile camera system with OIS, telephoto lens, and better image quality.
- Power Users: Better performance for demanding apps and multitasking.
- Users Who Value Screen Quality: 800 nits brightness with smoother 90Hz refresh rate offers better experience.
- Users Who Value Performance: Overall better benchmarks, RAM and storage options mean smoother experience.
Use Cases for A72:
- Outdoor photography and videography.
- Playing graphically intensive games.
- Heavy social media browsing.
- Viewing high-quality content.
- Multitasking between various apps.
Motorola Moto G42 is ideal for:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Offers a good balance of features at a more affordable price.
- Users Seeking Comfort: Lighter weight and compact design make it easier to handle.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: The less powerful but efficient chipset provides good battery life.
- Users Who Prefer Ergonomic Fingerprint Scanner: The side-mounted fingerprint scanner is easier to access.
- Users Who Value the Latest Software: Android 12 OS out of the box.
Use Cases for G42:
- Everyday tasks like calling, texting, and browsing.
- Casual social media and light gaming.
- Users who need a reliable daily driver with good battery life.
- Users who prefer a light and comfortable phone.
- Users seeking an affordable phone without giving up much performance.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize display quality and performance, or comfort and affordability? If display and performance are a priority, go for the Galaxy A72. If you value comfort and affordability more, the Moto G42 is better.
- How important is camera quality and versatility to you? If you take a lot of photos and videos, the A72 is the clear choice. If you only use the camera casually, the G42 is sufficient.
- What is your typical usage pattern? If you are a heavy user who plays games and uses apps all day, the A72 provides a better overall experience. If you're a light user, the G42 should be more than enough.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Heavy gamer and content creator: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A72 for its higher performance, superior display, and versatile camera system.
- Scenario 2: Budget-conscious student: Choose the Motorola Moto G42 for its affordability, good battery life, and comfortable handling.
- Scenario 3: Casual user who values ease of use: Choose the Motorola Moto G42 for its lighter weight, more comfortable design, and convenient side-mounted fingerprint scanner.
- Scenario 4: Frequent traveler: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A72 for its brighter display and more versatile camera system to capture all the moments on your trip.
What I would choose and why
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would personally opt for the Samsung Galaxy A72. While both have their strengths, the A72's combination of a significantly better display, more powerful performance, a more versatile camera system with features like OIS and optical zoom, and a more complete set of sensors, make it the superior choice for my use cases. I value the brighter screen, particularly when outdoors, and having higher benchmark scores, more RAM, and more storage, is crucial for multitasking and running demanding apps. While the Moto G42 has a more convenient fingerprint scanner and more energy-efficient chip, the compromises in display, camera, and performance are too significant for my daily usage. I am willing to pay a bit more for that extra quality.
