1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Z Flip5 offers a compact foldable design, enhancing portability. A72 is a standard, larger smartphone. |
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 165.1 × 71.9 × 6.9 mm | A72 is wider and thicker, making Z Flip5 more pocketable and easier to handle when folded. |
| Weight | 203g | 187g | Z Flip5 is lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.7" | Both have identical screen sizes, offering comparable screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2640 | Z Flip5 has slightly higher resolution, providing a marginally sharper image. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 394 | 425 | Z Flip5 has a slightly sharper display, though difference may not be noticeable to the average user. |
| Technology | AMOLED | A72 has AMOLED which results in better color and deeper blacks. Z Flip 5's tech is not specified. | |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Z Flip5 has smoother scrolling and animations, better for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 1750 nits | Z Flip5 is much brighter, offering significantly better visibility in direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 (4 nm) | Z Flip5 has a much more powerful processor, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 1,531,700 | Z Flip5 offers dramatically higher performance, making it more future-proof and better for demanding tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 740 | Z Flip5's GPU provides superior graphics processing, resulting in better gaming and graphics-intensive application performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 3700mAh | A72 has a larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life, though processor efficiency and usage play key roles. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both support 25W fast charging, but the Z Flip5 also offers Wireless and Reverse Charging. |
| Battery Features | 15W Fast Charger Included | Bypass Charging, Reverse Charging, Fast wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W | Z Flip5 has added features such as Bypass charging (direct power without battery usage while plugged in), Reverse and Wireless charging for better power management. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 64MP | 12MP | A72 has higher megapixel count, but this doesn't directly translate to superior image quality. |
| Main Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.80 µm | Z Flip5 has larger pixels, which gather more light, potentially resulting in better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto/Portrait Lens | 8MP (with OIS) | None | A72 has a dedicated telephoto lens for better zoom capabilities. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 32MP | 10MP | A72 has a higher resolution front camera for potentially more detailed selfies, but image quality depends on other factors as well |
| Selfie Camera Pixel Size | 0.80 µm | 1.22 µm | Z Flip5 has larger pixels, which gather more light, potentially resulting in better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP (f/2.2) | 12MP (f/2.2) | Both have the same wide-angle camera setup. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP | None | A72 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, Z Flip5 lacks this feature. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60 with EIS | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, 1080p@240fps | Z Flip5 has superior video recording capabilities including HDR and 240fps slow motion. |
| DxoMark Score | 92 (Mobile) | 127 (Mobile) | Z Flip5 has a much higher DxOMark score, showing better overall camera performance. |
| Camera Features | Optical zoom, Quadruple camera, Digital image stabilization, Manual focus, Night Mode | Tracking AF, Noise reduction, Dual camera, NPU AI Engine | A72 has Optical zoom while Z Flip5 has newer features such as Tracking AF and AI Engine. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (max 12) | Android 13 (max 14) | Z Flip5 runs on a more modern OS, offering newer features and enhanced security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Up to 802.11ac | Up to WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Z Flip5 supports newer WiFi 6, providing faster speeds and better performance in crowded networks. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Z Flip5 has a newer Bluetooth version for better energy efficiency and performance. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Z Flip5 supports more satellite systems, leading to more accurate location services. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM + eSIM | Z Flip5 offers the convenience of using an eSIM for dual-sim functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128GB or 256GB | 256GB or 512GB | Z Flip5 offers more storage, especially in the higher end version. |
| RAM | 6GB or 8GB | 8GB | Both have similar RAM capacity in their max configurations for seamless multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports storage expansion via microSD. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Stereo Speakers | A72 has better audio with the inclusion of Dolby Atmos. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted Fingerprint Sensor | Z Flip5’s side-mounted sensor is more convenient and reliable in many cases. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip5 offers better screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer | Z Flip5 includes additional environmental sensors such as a barometer. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: 5000mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life than the Z Flip5's 3700mAh.
- Practical Impact: Longer time between charges, beneficial for users who are away from power sources for extended periods.
- Telephoto and Macro Cameras: Dedicated lenses for optical zoom and close-up shots.
- Practical Impact: Offers more versatile photography options for zoom and macro photography.
- Dolby Atmos: Enhanced audio quality for more immersive audio experience.
- Practical Impact: More immersive audio experience while listening to music or watching movies.
- Lower Cost: Typically more affordable given its older hardware.
- Practical Impact: Budget-conscious consumers find it a more economical choice.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Compact form factor when folded, better portability.
- Practical Impact: Easier to fit in pockets and smaller bags, reducing bulk.
- Superior Performance: Much faster processor and GPU.
- Practical Impact: Faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Significantly Brighter Display: 1750 nits brightness vs 800 nits.
- Practical Impact: Significantly improved visibility in direct sunlight, making outdoor use more convenient.
- Newer Technology: More modern OS, WiFi, and Bluetooth versions.
- Practical Impact: Access to new software features and enhanced security. Improved connectivity with more efficient protocols.
- Better Camera Performance: Higher DxOMark score, Larger pixel size on the main sensor.
- Practical Impact: Better photos and videos in most conditions.
- Additional Battery Features: Bypass, Wireless, and Reverse charging.
- Practical Impact: More convenient charging and power-sharing options.
- More Storage Options: 256GB and 512 GB variants.
- Practical Impact: More options to store your data without having to worry.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Z Flip5's Battery Life: Smaller battery capacity may result in shorter battery life compared to A72
- Z Flip5's Price: Significantly higher cost than A72.
- A72's Older Tech: Less future proof as it runs on older chipset and software.
- A72's Bulk: Larger dimensions and weight make it less pocketable than the Z Flip5.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy A72:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Those seeking a capable phone with good battery life without paying premium prices.
- Multimedia Consumers: Users who watch a lot of videos or consume content on their phones, valuing large display and better audio quality.
- Casual Photographers: Users who occasionally take pictures and appreciate having a telephoto and macro lens, but are not professional photographers.
- Users Seeking Traditional Form Factor: Preferring larger screen size and do not want a foldable phone.
Specific Use Cases for Galaxy A72:
- Long commutes/travel: Extended battery life ensures the phone lasts throughout the journey.
- Watching movies and TV shows: Large, vibrant display with Dolby Atmos offers a good experience.
- Everyday photography: Telephoto and macro lens adds flexibility for various shooting scenarios.
- Basic gaming: Can handle most casual games but not intensive ones.
Ideal Users for Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5:
- Tech Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate the latest technology and innovative designs.
- Power Users: Those who require a fast, responsive phone for multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps.
- On-the-Go Professionals: Those who prioritize portability and efficiency.
- Social Media Creators: Users who value good image quality and want the option of convenient hands-free shooting.
Specific Use Cases for Galaxy Z Flip5:
- Frequent travelers: The compact form factor makes it easy to carry, and the brighter screen improves visibility outdoors.
- Mobile gaming: The powerful processor and high refresh rate offer smooth gameplay.
- Content creation: High-quality cameras and versatile folding mechanism for unique perspectives.
- Business professionals: Side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick unlocking and eSIM for travel flexibility.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The Z Flip5 is a premium phone, whereas the A72 is a budget-friendly mid-ranger.
- What is more important to me: portability/performance or battery life/camera versatility? Z Flip5 excels in portability, performance, while A72 focuses on battery life and camera versatility.
- How important is having the latest technology? Z Flip5 offers newer hardware and software, making it a more future-proof choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Tight budget, need a reliable device for daily use: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A72. Offers good battery life, decent cameras, and adequate performance for day to day tasks.
Scenario 2: Want a premium experience, performance and portability are critical: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5. Better display, much faster processor, and a unique foldable design makes it a better choice for those with higher budgets.
Scenario 3: Desire advanced camera features, including zoom and macro: Choose the Samsung Galaxy A72 for its dedicated telephoto and macro cameras.
Scenario 4: Need a smartphone that is pocketable and does not compromise on performance: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 for its foldable form factor and powerful processing capabilities.
My Choice and Why
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5.
Here's why:
- Future-Proofing: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor is a massive leap over the Snapdragon 720G, ensuring better performance for years to come. As apps and games become more demanding, the Z Flip5 will handle them smoothly, whereas the A72 might start to struggle.
- Performance Matters: I prioritize smooth multitasking, quick app loading, and a responsive interface, especially when switching between demanding tasks. The Z Flip5's superior processing capabilities are essential for a seamless experience.
- Better Camera Performance: While the A72 has a telephoto and macro camera, the Z Flip5's main sensor is superior and has higher DxOMark scores. I'd rather have a very high-quality main lens than the added zoom and macro features, especially since I rarely use them.
- Brighter Display: The 1750-nit screen on the Z Flip5 is crucial for outdoor usability, which is a major concern for me as I spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Portability: The foldable design of the Z Flip5 is a game-changer for daily use. I find larger phones bulky, and the Flip5's compact form factor when folded is a huge advantage.
- Latest Tech: The Z Flip5 is running the latest version of Android and has newer connectivity options, which makes it a more future-proof device.
While the larger battery of the A72 is appealing, the Z Flip5’s fast charging and other power management features help mitigate some of those issues. Although it costs more, the Z Flip5 offers a better overall user experience and makes it my personal choice.
