1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip3 offers unique, compact folding design for portability, A72 is a standard slab phone. |
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 166 × 72.2 × 6.9 mm | A72 is wider and thicker, Flip3 is more pocketable when folded. |
| Weight | 203g | 183g | Flip3 is lighter, which can make it more comfortable for long usage. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both have the same screen size for viewing content. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Flip3 has a slightly sharper display, though difference may not be noticeable to most users. |
| PPI | 394 | 426 | Flip3 has a slightly higher pixel density for sharper images, though the difference may be subtle. |
| Technology | AMOLED | Unknown | A72's AMOLED display offers superior blacks, contrast and vibrant colors and better battery life when using dark mode than other types of displays. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Flip3 has smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 1200 nits | Flip3 has much better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) | Flip3 offers significantly faster performance for demanding apps and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 898,700 | Flip3 is much faster overall, with smoother multitasking and app loading. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 660 | Flip3 has a better GPU for gaming and graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8 | 12.2MP, f/1.8 | A72 has higher resolution, while Flip3 has larger pixels for better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto | 8MP, f/2.4 | None | A72 offers an additional telephoto camera for zooming capabilities. |
| Wide Angle | 12MP, f/2.2 | 13MP | Both are similar, minor difference. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | None | A72 offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 10MP, f/2.4 | A72 has much higher resolution for selfies, although Flip3 may have better light sensitivity due to larger pixels. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps | Flip3 records smoother videos and better slow-motion capabilities |
| DxOMark Score | Main: 92, Photo: 100, Video: 78 | Main: 111, Photo: 118, Video: 110 | Flip3's camera performs much better overall according to DxOMark. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 3300 mAh | A72 has significantly larger battery, likely offering longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | A72 charges faster. |
| Features | 15W Fast Charger Included | Reverse charging | A72 includes a charger in the box. Flip3 can share battery to other devices. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 12) | Android 11 (Upgradable to 14) | Flip3 will receive more software updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | Flip3 offers faster and more reliable Wi-Fi speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | Flip3 has newer Bluetooth, potentially more efficient and with better range. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Flip3 supports more satellite systems, resulting in better GPS accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | A72 supports dual physical SIM cards, while Flip3 supports one physical SIM and an eSIM. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128GB/256GB | 128GB/256GB | Both have same storage options. |
| RAM | 6GB/8GB | 8GB | Flip3 has a minimum of 8GB of RAM. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage, so choose sufficient storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | A72 offers slightly better audio with Dolby Atmos support. |
| Security | |||
| Security | In-screen Fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Flip3 has a more responsive side-mounted sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Flip3 has stronger glass protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Flip3 has additional sensors, which might be useful for some apps. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: Significant battery capacity for extended use. Practical impact: Less frequent charging and longer usage time.
- More Versatile Camera System: Dedicated telephoto and macro lenses offer more shooting options. Practical impact: More flexibility in capturing different types of photos.
- Faster Charging: 25W fast charging for quicker battery top-ups. Practical impact: Less time waiting for the phone to charge.
- Dolby Atmos: Enhanced Audio for a better multimedia experience. Practical impact: richer audio for music, videos and gaming.
- Dual Physical SIM Support: Support for two physical SIM cards, which can be convenient for users who prefer to not use an eSIM. Practical impact: Use two physical SIMs at the same time
- Included Charger: 15W Fast Charger included in the box. Practical impact: Users don't need to buy a charger separately
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Unique, compact, and pocketable form factor. Practical impact: Highly portable when folded and unique experience when unfolded
- Significantly Faster Performance: Top-tier Snapdragon 888 chipset for demanding tasks. Practical impact: Smoother and faster app loading, gaming, and multitasking.
- Superior Display: Higher refresh rate and brightness for a smoother and more visible experience. Practical impact: Better experience with outdoor visibility and better viewing experience.
- Better Camera Quality: Higher DxOMark score for better photos and videos Practical impact: Better image quality in most scenarios
- More Advanced Features: Newer Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS for better connectivity and navigation. Practical impact: Faster Wi-Fi, improved Bluetooth and precise navigation
- Reverse Charging: Ability to charge other devices wirelessly. Practical impact: Can be used as a portable charger for other devices
- More Software Updates: Will receive more software updates. Practical Impact: More features, security improvements and bug fixes over a longer period
- Corning Gorilla Glass Victus More robust screen protection. Practical impact: More scratch and impact resistance
Significant Trade-offs:
- A72: Less powerful performance and bulky design compared to Flip3.
- Flip3: Smaller battery and no dedicated zoom or macro lenses compared to A72.
- Flip3: More expensive and the foldable screen may have higher maintenance costs.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal User:
- Budget-Conscious User: Looking for a mid-range phone with good value.
- Multimedia Consumer: Enjoys watching videos and movies, appreciating the large screen and better audio.
- Photography Enthusiast: Needs telephoto and macro capabilities.
- Frequent Travelers: Requires long battery life.
- Users requiring dual physical SIM slots.
Samsung Galaxy A72 Use Cases:
- Daily media consumption, web browsing, social media.
- Photography and videography with different lenses.
- All day use with less frequent charging.
- Traveling, needing dual physical SIM slots.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Ideal User:
- Tech Enthusiast: Values innovative design and cutting-edge technology.
- Performance Seeker: Demands fast processing for gaming and intensive apps.
- On-the-Go Professional: Needs compact design for portability and multi-tasking.
- Social Media Influencer/Creator: Looking for excellent video recording capabilities.
- Users preferring superior camera quality and screen performance.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G Use Cases:
- Demanding mobile gaming and resource-intensive apps.
- High-quality content creation (photos and videos).
- Multitasking and productivity on-the-go.
- Unique and stylish phone experience.
- Users who prioritize a cutting-edge design, performance, and camera quality
- Users preferring wireless reverse charging capabilities
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is my budget? The A72 is a mid-range device and likely less expensive than the flagship Z Flip3.
- Do I prioritize a unique design and powerful performance, or battery life and camera versatility? This is a key trade-off between the two phones.
- Do I need dual physical SIM slots, or am I comfortable with an eSIM?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If budget is a primary concern, and you need a reliable device with a large battery and versatile camera, then the Samsung Galaxy A72 is the more practical option.
- Scenario 2: Performance and Innovation: If you are willing to pay more for cutting-edge performance, a unique design, and a better display, then the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is the better choice.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast on a Budget: If your priority is camera versatility with a telephoto and macro lens and are on a budget, the Samsung Galaxy A72 is recommended.
- Scenario 4: Tech-Savvy User: If you prioritize a high-quality screen, a premium design and performance and want a unique experience, then the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is recommended.
My Choice
Given the trade-offs, I would personally choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G. Here's why:
- Performance Matters: As a user who often juggles multiple tasks, plays games, and appreciates smooth performance, the Snapdragon 888 is a significant upgrade.
- Unique Design: The foldable design is incredibly appealing, offering portability and a unique experience.
- Camera Advantage: The better DxOMark score on the Z Flip3 suggests a higher quality camera that can be more reliable, and I prefer better results over more shooting options.
- Display Quality The brighter and smoother display will have a significant impact on my daily experience.
- Future Proof: The Z Flip 3 will likely have more software updates and is more cutting-edge with more up to date components and technology.
While I acknowledge the A72's excellent battery life and versatile camera system, the Z Flip3's strengths in performance, design, and display align more closely with my priorities. The price difference is significant, but the benefits of the Flip3 outweigh the extra cost for me. The trade-off in battery life is a consideration, but the performance and unique design are more important to me in this scenario.
Therefore, I am choosing the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
