Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A72 vs. Samsung Galaxy S24 FE
1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 162 × 77.3 × 8 mm | S24 FE is slightly more compact and thinner, potentially more pocketable and comfortable in hand. A72 is negligibly taller by 3 mm and thicker by 0.4 mm. |
| Weight | 203g | 213g | A72 is slightly lighter by 10g, which might be noticeable during extended use, though both are relatively heavy phones. |
| Build | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ | S24 FE has a more scratch-resistant display; A72’s screen protection is unknown, creating a risk of scratches or damages. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both have identical screen sizes, providing same viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both offer a sharp viewing experience. The minor resolution difference (2.6%) is negligible in real-world use. |
| Pixel Density | 394 PPI | 385 PPI | Negligible difference. Both offer similar pixel density, meaning similar visual clarity. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED tech, providing excellent contrast and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | S24 FE offers smoother scrolling and animations, resulting in a more fluid visual experience. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 1900 nits | S24 FE has a significantly brighter display, much better for outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Exynos 2400e (4 nm) | S24 FE's chip is significantly faster, more energy-efficient, and offers much better overall performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 1,600,000 | S24 FE is approximately 5.6 times faster in synthetic benchmarks; Expect significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Xclipse 940 | S24 FE's GPU provides a much better graphics experience, resulting in smoother gameplay and higher graphics settings. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 0.80µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1.00µm, Samsung GN3, 1/1.57" | S24 FE uses a larger sensor with larger pixels, which should capture more light and detail. A72 has a slightly higher megapixel count (64 vs 50). |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", Omnivision OV08A10, 1.00µm | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4", Omnivision OV08A10, 1.00µm | Both phones have a telephoto lens, but the S24 FE offers this as an independent lens vs a telephoto + portrait lens in A72 |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 0.80µm | 10.8MP, f/2.4, 1.22µm, Samsung S5K3J1, 1/2.65" | A72 offers higher megapixel for selfies, but S24 FE's larger pixel size can result in better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm, Samsung S5K3L6, 1/3.1" | S24 FE's wide-angle has slightly higher megapixel count, offering similar performance |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | N/A | A72 offers dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, a feature not present in the S24 FE. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps, EIS | 8K@30fps, 4K@60/120fps, EIS | S24 FE captures video at higher resolutions and frame rates, offering superior video quality and more flexibility for content creators. |
| DXOMark Mobile Score | 92 | 133 | S24 FE has significantly better image quality and video recording according to DxOMark (41 points difference), indicating superior camera performance. |
| Camera Features | Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | Night Mode 2.0, 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW | S24 FE has more advanced features, including higher quality video, and RAW capability, while the A72 includes a macro lens and manual focus |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 4700 mAh | A72 has slightly larger battery; However, the newer processor in the S24 FE could mitigate the 300mAh difference, providing a similar or better overall battery performance. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both charge at the same speed, making them equally convenient |
| Battery Features | 15W Fast Charger included, Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, 15W wireless charging, Non-removable | S24 FE offers more flexible charging options including bypass for gaming, reverse charging to power other devices, and wireless charging capability |
Software and Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11, upgradable to 12 | Android 14 | S24 FE has a newer OS with more features, updated security patches, and longer software support. |
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6E | S24 FE supports newer WiFi standard, resulting in faster speeds, lower latency, and better performance in crowded networks, access to the 6GHz band, reduced interference. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 LE | S24 FE offers better connectivity and lower power consumption with newer Bluetooth standard |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), Galileo (E1+E5a), NavIC System | S24 FE has more advanced GPS, for a more accurate and reliable location experience. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano) | Dual SIM (Nano/eSIM) | S24 FE supports eSIM, adding more flexibility for travel and multiple carriers; A72 uses traditional Dual SIM. |
Storage & Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Storage | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB or 512 GB | S24 FE provides up to 512GB storage options for users with high storage needs. |
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 8GB | S24 FE has more consistent RAM for smoother multitasking |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, so it’s important to consider internal storage needs carefully. |
| Audio | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers | Both feature stereo speakers. A72 offers Dolby Atmos, a virtual surround sound experience, while S24 FE includes noise cancellation microphones. |
Security & Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy S24 FE | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Both provide similar fingerprint sensor security. |
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | S24 FE has a barometer for environmental data and ultrasonic proximity; A72 includes biometric fingerprint sensor. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Slightly Lighter: 10g lighter, which might be preferable for some users during long usage periods.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for capturing very close-up subjects.
- Dolby Atmos: Offers an enhanced virtual surround sound experience for immersive audio.
- Manual Focus: Offers more camera customization and control.
- Slightly Larger Battery 300 mAh larger
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster chipset (Exynos 2400e vs Snapdragon 720G) results in much better overall performance for gaming and multitasking.
- Brighter Display: Significantly brighter display (1900 nits vs 800 nits) offering far better visibility in direct sunlight.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate vs. 90Hz for smoother scrolling and animations.
- Much Better Camera Quality: Higher DxOMark score for photos and videos, due to superior camera sensors and image processing.
- 8K Video Recording: Offers significantly higher video quality and more video recording options.
- Newer Software: Newer version of Android, providing access to more recent features and security updates.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, offering faster, more reliable connections.
- eSIM Support: Offers the flexibility of using an eSIM for multiple carrier support.
- Bypass & Reverse Charging & Wireless charging
- More Storage Options Up to 512 GB
Significant Trade-offs:
- A72: Sacrifices overall performance, camera quality, and screen brightness for slightly more battery capacity and a macro lens.
- S24 FE: Does not include a dedicated macro lens.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Seeking a decent experience at a lower price point.
- Macro Photography Enthusiasts: Those who frequently take close-up photos.
- Users Focused on Audio: Those who prioritize Dolby Atmos surround sound for immersive audio experiences.
- Users who do not play games often Can run most games at low settings
Use Cases:
- Everyday Use: Basic tasks like browsing, social media, and calls.
- Close-Up Photography: Taking detailed shots of small objects using the macro lens.
- Entertainment: Casual movie watching or music listening using Dolby Atmos.
Samsung Galaxy S24 FE Ideal User:
- Performance-Focused Users: Demanding users who need fast app loading and smooth multitasking.
- Mobile Gamers: Gamers looking for smooth graphics and fast performance.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize high-quality photos and video recording capabilities.
- Users in bright light: People that live or work in areas with direct sunlight.
- Users looking for long-term software support
- Travelers and those needing multiple phone lines: Benefit from eSIM support.
Use Cases:
- Gaming: Smooth high-performance gaming, due to the newer processor and GPU.
- Photography and Videography: Capturing high-quality images and videos in various settings.
- Productivity: Multitasking, running resource-intensive applications, and handling large files quickly.
- Outdoor usage: The brightness of the display allows for clear visuals under direct sunlight.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The S24 FE has a significantly better price-to-value ratio, due to its advanced performance, camera, and features. The A72 was launched in 2021; and would not be a worthy choice in 2024.
- The A72 is an old device and should be significantly cheaper, which makes it good for budget users.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Needs: Do you need a phone for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing, or will everyday usage suffice?
- Camera Requirements: Do you prioritize image quality and advanced video features or just basic photography?
- Display Requirements: Do you need a bright, smooth display for clear outdoor use and smooth scrolling?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Budget User: If your budget is very tight and you only need a basic phone for calling and browsing, the A72 might be considered if it's found at a low enough price. However, I would recommend searching for a different, more recent device in this scenario, as the performance will be lacking in 2024.
Scenario 2: Casual User: If you need a reliable phone with decent camera quality for everyday use, but don't mind a slight lack of speed, and the price is significantly lower, the A72 might be an option. However, the S24 FE will offer a much better overall experience in most areas.
Scenario 3: Power User: If you’re a gamer, content creator, or anyone who needs maximum performance, the S24 FE is the only reasonable choice in this comparison. It provides all the advanced features, a much faster processor, and a better camera.
Decision
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE.
Reasons:
- Future Proofing: The S24 FE is significantly newer, meaning it will have a longer lifespan regarding software updates and performance, it is built with newer components, and with its considerably better performance, it will remain relevant for a longer time.
- Superior Performance: The massive jump in benchmark scores (1,600,000 vs 285,000) is not just theoretical. It translates to a far more fluid, responsive user experience. This is extremely important to me, as I tend to use my phone heavily for work and personal use.
- Display Quality: The 120Hz refresh rate and 1900 nits brightness are game-changers. I often use my phone outdoors, and the brighter display will make a massive difference in readability.
- Camera Quality: A higher DxOMark rating means better pictures and videos. This is useful, as I like to document moments, and I also like to have a good quality video recording option.
- Advanced Features: The S24 FE has much better features, including wireless charging and eSIM, which improve the overall experience.
- eSIM Support: Having an eSIM is incredibly useful for travel and maintaining multiple phone lines without the need for multiple physical SIMs.
- Battery Features: Reverse charging, and bypass charging are features that really make the difference, and add more flexibility to the S24 FE than the A72.
While the A72 might have advantages in specific niches (e.g. Macro lens), the overall benefit and user experience offered by the S24 FE far outweigh those. For all the above-mentioned points, I would gladly pay the premium for the S24 FE.
