1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Nokia G22 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 165 × 76.2 × 8.5 mm | Samsung is slightly wider by 1.2mm, minimal difference in hand feel. |
| Weight | 203g | 196.2g | Nokia G22 is slightly lighter, which may be more comfortable for long-term use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | Samsung offers a slightly larger screen for a more immersive viewing experience. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1600 | Samsung has a much sharper display with more detail, noticeable especially for text and images. |
| PPI | 394 | 270 | Samsung's higher pixel density results in a clearer, crisper image. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Samsung's AMOLED provides superior contrast, deeper blacks, and potentially better color accuracy. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 0 nits | Samsung is much brighter, significantly better for viewing in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Samsung's chipset is more powerful, providing smoother performance in demanding tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 253,300 | Samsung shows better benchmark scores, translating to snappier app loading and overall use. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Mali-G57 MP1 | Samsung's GPU has better graphics processing, good for gaming and graphical applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 0.80µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | Samsung's main sensor has higher resolution, capturing more detail in good light. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", 1.00µm | None | Samsung offers optical zoom capabilities and a dedicated portrait camera. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 0.80µm | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm | Samsung's front-facing camera has significantly higher resolution for more detailed selfies. Nokia G22 has a wider aperture for better low-light selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | None | Samsung has a dedicated ultrawide lens for capturing wide scenes. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | Nokia has a depth sensor to improve portrait mode effect. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | 2MP, f/2.4 | Samsung has a better macro sensor. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps w/EIS | 1080p@30fps | Samsung offers higher resolution video capture and video stabilization. |
| DXOMark Score (Mobile) | 92 | N/A | Samsung has a tested camera with a good score for overall performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5050mAh | Similar capacities, expected similar daily battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 20W fast charging | Samsung charges slightly faster than the Nokia. |
| Included Charger | 15W Fast Charger | 10W Charger | Samsung includes a slightly faster charger in the box |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 12 | Nokia has the newer OS, which might mean a slightly more up-to-date experience. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n | Samsung supports the slightly newer 'ac' standard (Wi-Fi 5). |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 LE | Samsung offers more comprehensive Bluetooth profiles |
| GPS | Yes | Yes | Similar GPS capabilities for navigation |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM for multiple phone lines |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB/256GB | 64GB/128GB/256GB | Both offer a max of 256GB. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 4GB/6GB | Samsung has more RAM, which may result in smoother multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | 2 microphones | Samsung offers better audio quality and immersion. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | Nokia has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor which is generally more convenient. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Nokia has better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Samsung has more sensors, useful for advanced features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED panel with higher resolution, higher pixel density, better brightness, and vibrant colors. This makes for a significantly better visual experience, especially outdoors.
- Better Performance: More powerful Snapdragon 720G chipset, resulting in smoother multitasking and faster app loading.
- More Versatile Camera System: Telephoto lens for optical zoom, higher-resolution selfie camera, ultrawide lens for landscape shots, better macro lens, and 4k video recording.
- Better Audio Experience: Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos provide richer, more immersive audio.
- Faster Charging: 25W charging is faster than Nokia's 20W.
Nokia G22 Advantages:
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 12 (though the Galaxy A72 can be upgraded to 12)
- Lighter weight: Slightly lighter, which might matter to some users.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Generally easier to access and more convenient than a standard sensor.
- Corning Gorilla Glass 3 Protection: Better protection against scratches and minor impacts to the display.
- Includes in box charger: Has a charger included in the box (albeit a 10W charger).
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Nokia G22 trades display quality and camera capabilities for slightly better durability and a more recent OS.
- The Samsung A72, although older, offers a much more premium experience overall at the expense of a slightly heavier design.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal User:
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: People who watch videos, play games, and browse social media frequently, will benefit from the vibrant AMOLED display and stereo speakers.
- Photography Lovers: Individuals who want a versatile camera system with good zoom, ultrawide, and selfie capabilities.
- Power Users: Those who need a phone that can handle multitasking, demanding apps, and games with ease.
Use Cases:
- Watching movies and videos on a bright and colorful display.
- Taking photos and videos in a variety of situations, from portraits to landscapes.
- Playing graphically intensive games and using demanding applications.
Nokia G22 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Consumers: Those seeking an affordable phone with a recent version of Android.
- Users who prioritize durability: Individuals concerned about screen scratches and minor damage.
- Users who want a simple phone: People who require a functional, easy to use phone, but are not concerned with high-end features.
Use Cases:
- Everyday tasks like calls, messages, and browsing the internet.
- Using the phone in environments where screen protection is beneficial.
- Basic photography needs and capturing everyday moments.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung Galaxy A72, while older, offers a more premium experience with superior features that may justify the higher price for some.
- The Nokia G22 focuses on the essentials, offering good value at a lower price point.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality? If you value vibrant colors, high resolution, and brightness, the Samsung A72 is superior.
- What are your camera priorities? If you need versatile zoom, ultrawide, and 4K video, the Samsung is better.
- Do you prioritize a robust build? If this is important then the Nokia G22 may be the best option for you.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Multimedia and photography enthusiast on a budget
- Recommendation: If the Samsung A72 is available at a good price point, it is the better option for enhanced photo, video and media consumption experience.
- Scenario 2: Basic user wanting an affordable and durable phone
- Recommendation: The Nokia G22 is the more economical and rugged choice for basic use.
- Scenario 3: User who values battery and a smooth interface
- Recommendation: While both have similar battery life, the Samsung A72 offers better performance for smooth multitasking and an improved media experience.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy A72.
Here's why:
While the Nokia G22 has some advantages, like a more recent OS and slightly better build quality for the display, the Samsung Galaxy A72 offers a superior overall experience. The AMOLED display is a significant upgrade, providing a much better viewing experience for all types of content. The more powerful processor ensures smoother performance, and the superior camera system with its versatility and 4K video recording is a big plus for me. Although the A72 is older, its core features (display, camera, and performance) are still relevant and make it a better option for my needs.
