1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Tecno Spark 10 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 164.4 × 75.5 × 8.4 mm | A72 slightly wider (1.9mm) but same thickness. Minimal difference for most users. A72 may feel slightly bulkier |
| Weight | 203g | 0g | Tecno Spark 10 5G data is missing; A72 feels heavier in hand, more substantial. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.6" | A72 offers a slightly larger screen; minor impact on media consumption and gaming. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 720x1612 | A72's sharper display, resulting in clearer text and images; better for detailed viewing and media consumption. |
| PPI | 394 | 267 | A72’s significantly higher pixel density; sharper display with fine details, especially noticeable for reading. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | A72 offers deeper blacks, better contrast, more vibrant colors and improved outdoor visibility. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both have the same smoother scrolling, which is fine for everyday use. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 0 nits | A72 much brighter and easier to see in direct sunlight, Tecno spec is missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Dimensity 6020 (7 nm) | Dimensity 6020 is newer, slightly more efficient in day-to-day performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 331,000 | Tecno scores 16% better in benchmarks, translating to slightly smoother app switching and gaming. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Both offer adequate performance for gaming and daily use. Difference in performance is minimal, GPU difference is more technical than practical. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery life for regular use. |
| Charging | 25W Fast, Li-Ion | 18W Fast, Li-Polymer | A72 charges faster and may be less prone to heat than Tecno. |
| Features | 15W Fast Charger Included | Non-removable | A72 includes a charger; 15W fast charger included which may not be as fast as the phone supports. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.6 | A72 captures more detail with higher resolution, while Tecno's wider aperture has better low light performance. |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP, f/2.4 | None | A72 offers a dedicated zoom lens with optical zoom for greater flexibility. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/1.8 | A72's selfie camera captures more detailed photos, while the Tecno has better low light performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2 | None | A72 provides more capture options; useful for landscapes. |
| Macro Lens | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | A72 captures higher resolution close-up shots. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps | 1080p@30fps | A72 allows recording videos at higher resolutions. |
| DxOMark | Main: 92, Photo: 100, Video: 78 | Not tested | A72’s camera quality has been independently validated. |
| Features | OIS, PDAF, More Options | Limited | A72 offers a wide array of features for greater control. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, max 12 | Android 13 | Tecno has a newer OS out of the box with longer software support potentially. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi ac, Dual band | Wi-Fi ac, Dual band | Both offer similar speeds; no practical difference for most users. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE | Tecno uses newer version of Bluetooth for more efficient connectivity; A72 offers more profiles. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Tecno has additional support which could be better in terms of accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both phones support using two SIM cards simultaneously. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 256 GB | Tecno is only available in 256 GB; A72 has 128 and 256GB options; both are sufficient. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 8 GB | Both allow for smooth multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Basic audio | A72 offers a more immersive listening experience. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Tecno has a side-mounted fingerprint sensor; more convenient to unlock phone with one hand. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Unknown | Screen protection is unknown in both; no significant difference. |
| Sensors | |||
| Features | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | A72 has more sensor functionalities for advance features. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with higher resolution and brightness (800 nits) offers vibrant colors, better contrast, and excellent outdoor visibility, leading to a more enjoyable viewing experience.
- More Versatile Camera System: Features a telephoto lens with optical zoom, wide-angle lens, and higher resolution sensors overall. Better for photography, video creation and social media posting.
- Higher Resolution Video: Capable of recording 4K video, which is essential for high-quality content creation.
- Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos for better sound immersion while listening to music or watching videos.
- Faster Charging: 25W fast charging means faster recharges.
- Comprehensive Sensor Suite: More sensors such as a compass and magnetometer, which can be useful for advanced apps and gaming.
- Proven Camera Quality: DxOMark results indicate superior camera performance in terms of photo and video quality.
- More camera features: Optical Image Stabilization, Phase detection autofocus and digital/optical zoom.
Tecno Spark 10 5G Advantages:
- Newer Operating System: Comes with Android 13 out of the box; it can possibly get future software updates.
- Slightly Better Performance: Higher AnTuTu score, which may translate to slightly better real-world performance and app responsiveness.
- Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.1 with LE (Low Energy) offers potentially more efficient power consumption.
- Lower Weight: Lighter design making it more comfortable for extended usage.
- Wider Aperture: Better low-light performance in main and selfie cameras with wider apertures, allowing better night shots.
- More GPS Satellites: Supports QZSS which could provide slightly better location accuracy, especially in urban and mountainous areas.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint: More convenient fingerprint sensor placement.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Samsung A72: Lacks the newer OS, is heavier, and is bulkier.
- Tecno Spark 10 5G: Lacks screen quality, advanced camera options, stereo speakers and overall quality of build of the A72.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal Users:
- Media Consumers: Those who watch a lot of videos, movies, or stream content due to its excellent AMOLED display and enhanced audio.
- Amateur Photographers: Users who enjoy taking photos and videos, especially in varied conditions, due to the versatile camera system.
- Users who want quality: Users who value a premium and high quality feel of their phone.
- Users who need outdoor visibility: Those who live in sunny climates or use their phone in bright sunlight.
- Users who prefer better all-round specs: The A72 has a more well-rounded specification.
Use Cases:
- Streaming high-quality videos on the go.
- Taking detailed photos in various lighting conditions.
- Playing graphically intensive games.
- Enjoying immersive audio while watching content.
Tecno Spark 10 5G Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who prioritize affordability without sacrificing basic performance.
- Users looking for modern OS: Those who want the latest Android experience.
- Users who prefer light phones: Users who carry the phone for long durations and need something lightweight.
- Users who prefer night photography: Users who take low-light pictures due to its wider camera apertures.
- Users who prefer more accurate location services: Those who may use their phone in difficult-to-reach locations, due to its wide range of supported GPS satellites.
Use Cases:
- Everyday smartphone tasks like social media, browsing, and texting.
- Taking casual photos in low-light conditions.
- Basic gaming and media consumption.
- Using GPS navigation in remote areas or while hiking.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is display quality? (Do you prioritize vibrant colors and outdoor visibility, or is a standard screen sufficient?)
- What is your primary use for the camera? (Do you want versatile zoom and high-quality video, or is basic photography enough?)
- How important is a newer operating system? (Do you prefer newer software out of the box or is older OS sufficient?)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The photography enthusiast. If you are looking for a device for content creation then the Samsung Galaxy A72 is the better choice due to the versatile cameras and high quality video capabilities.
- Scenario 2: Budget-conscious shopper. If you are looking for a cheaper option, with the latest OS out of the box and a decent performance, the Tecno Spark 10 5G would be better suited.
- Scenario 3: Performance and display focused. If you are looking for the best performance and display quality then the Samsung Galaxy A72 is the best choice.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A72. While it is older, the AMOLED display with its high brightness and resolution, coupled with the superior camera system, makes it a more compelling option for my needs. I value a high-quality viewing experience for media consumption, and the versatility of the camera is essential for capturing high quality pictures. The slightly less updated OS isn't a major issue as it still supports app updates and works well, additionally, the other advantages outweigh this downside.
