Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A72 vs. Nokia C21 Plus
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Nokia C21 Plus | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 164.8 × 75.9 × 8.6 mm | The Galaxy A72 is slightly wider and thinner, may feel more premium or awkward, depending on hand size. The Nokia is slightly smaller in width for an easier one handed use, but a tad thicker. |
| Weight | 203g | 178g | The Nokia is significantly lighter making it more comfortable for extended use. The Samsung feels heavier but potentially more solid. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.52" | Galaxy A72 provides a slightly larger viewing area for media consumption, gaming, and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Galaxy A72 offers a much sharper and more detailed picture, better for reading and viewing high-res content. Nokia C21 Plus screen may appear less sharp. |
| PPI | 394 | 269 | Galaxy A72's higher pixel density results in clearer text and images. Nokia C21 Plus will appear less crisp. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Galaxy A72 has deeper blacks, richer colors, better contrast, and more power efficiency when using dark themes. Nokia C21 Plus has a traditional LCD panel, colors may appear washed out in comparison. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 60Hz | Galaxy A72's smoother scrolling and animations result in a more fluid experience when using the device for navigation. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 0 nits | The Galaxy A72 is significantly better for outdoor visibility, especially in bright sunlight. Nokia C21 Plus is very hard to see under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Galaxy A72 offers a faster CPU, resulting in snappier app loading, better multitasking, and enhanced gaming capabilities. Nokia is less responsive and suitable for basic tasks only. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 109,200 | Galaxy A72 offers much better performance overall, useful for graphically intensive apps. Nokia will be sluggish in comparison. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | IMG8322 | Galaxy A72's GPU is more capable, better for gaming and graphic-intensive applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8 | 13MP | Galaxy A72 captures far more detailed photos with much better low light performance. |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP, f/2.4 | Not Available | Galaxy A72 has a dedicated zoom lens for better clarity at a distance and portrait shots. |
| Wide Angle | 12MP, f/2.2 | Not Available | Galaxy A72 captures wider field of view, useful for landscapes and group photos. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | Not Available | Galaxy A72 takes close-up photos, focusing on small details. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 5MP, f/2.2 | Galaxy A72 produces much higher resolution selfies with better detail. |
| Portrait (Depth) | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4 | Nokia C21 Plus is able to simulate depth in images, providing a bokeh effect. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | 1080p@30fps | Galaxy A72 shoots higher-resolution videos for sharper and better-looking footage. |
| Video Stabilization | EIS | None | Samsung is capable of producing more stable video. |
| DxOMark Score | 92 (Mobile), 100 (Photo), 78 (Video) | Not Available | Galaxy A72 has better overall camera performance, especially in photos, making it good for general picture taking. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Quad Camera, Night Mode | Dual Camera, Front Flash | Samsung has OIS which helps reduce blur in photos and video. The Nokia provides a front flash to increase brightness in dark situations. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4000mAh | Galaxy A72 has a larger battery, likely offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 10W Fast Charging | Galaxy A72 charges the battery much faster. |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion can provide slightly better longevity. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, Upgradable to 12 | Android 11 | Both phones are on android 11, but only the Samsung is upgradable to Android 12. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11b/g/n | Samsung has more modern Wifi technology for faster speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 4.2 LE | Samsung provides a more modern bluetooth connection with better stability. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | Samsung has a more robust GPS suite, potentially more accurate location services. |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both phones support using two SIM cards simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 32/64 GB | Samsung has more storage for all your needs. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 2/4 GB | Samsung has more RAM for better multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Basic Audio | Samsung offers better overall audio, with better separation, better immersion and 3D sound. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | rear-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both have fingerprint sensors, the Samsung is embedded in the screen, while the Nokia's is located in the back of the phone. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Proximity | Samsung provides additional sensors for enhanced gaming and better experience. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher resolution, refresh rate, and brightness provides a vastly better viewing experience.
- Stronger Performance: More powerful processor and GPU result in smoother app loading, better multitasking, and enhanced gaming.
- Better Camera System: More versatile camera setup with higher resolution sensors, zoom capabilities, and better video.
- Larger Battery and Faster Charging: Longer battery life and quicker charging times reduce downtime.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers provide a richer audio experience.
- More Storage and RAM: Higher base storage capacity and RAM improve multitasking and long-term use.
- Advanced Connectivity: Supports newer Wi-Fi standards, newer Bluetooth and better GPS functionality
Practical Implications:
- The A72 is designed for users who prioritize premium display quality, demanding performance, and high-quality camera capabilities.
- It is better suited for content consumption, mobile gaming, and photography.
Nokia C21 Plus Advantages:
- Lighter and more compact: Nokia is lighter than the A72 for extended usage.
- Budget-Friendly: More affordable, appealing to users with budget constraints.
- Basic Functionality: Provides adequate performance for essential tasks, suitable for a backup phone.
Practical Implications:
- The C21 Plus is best suited for users who need a basic smartphone for calls, texts, and light app use.
- It is ideal for those who value simplicity and affordability over advanced features.
Trade-Offs:
- Samsung Galaxy A72: Higher price point and slightly larger size, may not be suitable for users with budget or size limitations.
- Nokia C21 Plus: Significantly lower performance, inferior display and camera, and no fast charging. Not suitable for heavy users who prioritize performance and premium features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy A72:
- Multimedia Consumers: Those who enjoy watching videos, browsing social media, and gaming on their phones.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile camera with good image quality and features.
- Power Users: Individuals who need a phone that can handle multitasking, productivity apps, and demanding games.
- Users who prefer a smooth and fluid user experience due to the 90Hz refresh rate.
Specific Use Cases for Galaxy A72:
- Gaming: Smooth graphics and fast load times due to the more powerful CPU and GPU.
- Content creation: Record 4k videos, take detailed photos, and edit them on the go.
- Long-term use: Plenty of RAM and storage, ensuring the phone remains functional.
Ideal Users for Nokia C21 Plus:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those who prioritize affordability and essential functionality.
- Light Smartphone Users: Individuals who use their phone mainly for calls, texts, and basic browsing.
- Older Users: Those who require a simple and easy-to-use device without many advanced features.
- Users who prefer lighter phones: Due to it's weight, it's better suited for those users.
Specific Use Cases for Nokia C21 Plus:
- Backup Phone: Suitable for use as a secondary device or when a simple device is needed.
- Basic Communication: For calls, texts, and checking email.
- Temporary device: If you need a phone while your main device is being repaired or replaced.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? (The A72 costs considerably more than the C21 Plus.)
- How important is display quality? (The A72 has a far superior display experience.)
- What do you primarily use your smartphone for? (Basic tasks vs. demanding apps.)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Budget is a primary concern and basic tasks are main use
- Recommendation: Nokia C21 Plus. It is significantly more affordable and handles basic communication and light browsing well.
Scenario 2: Performance and high-quality display are needed
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A72. Its AMOLED display, faster processor, better camera, and larger battery make it the better choice.
Scenario 3: Focus on content creation, gaming and photography.
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A72. The improved camera system, screen quality and overall system performance will provide a better experience.
My Choice
If I were to choose between these two phones, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A72. While it's a more expensive option, the superior display, performance, camera capabilities, and larger battery significantly outweigh the benefits of the Nokia C21 Plus. I prioritize a high-quality screen, smooth multitasking, good camera performance, and long-term usability and the Galaxy A72 checks all the boxes. The Nokia C21 Plus is a very basic phone, while the A72 can handle all of my daily use cases very well. The price difference is worth it for the improvements that the Samsung offers.
