1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A72 and Xiaomi 14T Pro, focusing on practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Size | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 160.4 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | Xiaomi is slightly more compact, easier to handle, A72 is a bit larger in pocket |
| Weight | 203g | 209g | A72 is slightly lighter, may feel less tiring during long usage. |
| Build | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Xiaomi 14T Pro offers superior protection against scratches and impacts |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Negligible difference, both provide ample screen space. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1220x2712 | Xiaomi 14T Pro offers visibly sharper text and images. |
| PPI | 394 | 446 | Xiaomi 14T Pro's higher pixel density results in finer details and less pixelation. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 144Hz | Xiaomi 14T Pro provides a smoother scrolling and gaming experience, more responsive feel. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 4000 nits | Xiaomi 14T Pro is significantly more readable under bright sunlight, excellent for outdoor use. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Dimensity 9300+ (4 nm) | Xiaomi 14T Pro is significantly faster, smoother for demanding apps and games, more future-proof. A72 may lag with intensive tasks. |
| Antutu Score | 285,000 | 1,913,823 | Xiaomi 14T Pro offers dramatically superior performance in all tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Immortalis-G720 MC12 | Xiaomi 14T Pro is better for graphics-intensive applications, including high-end games. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 0.8µm pixel size | 50MP, f/1.6, 1/1.31" sensor, 1.2µm pixel size | Xiaomi 14T Pro has a larger sensor and wider aperture, meaning it captures more light, resulting in better low-light performance and better dynamic range despite lower resolution. |
| Telephoto + Portrait | 8MP, f/2.4, 1/4.4" sensor, 1.0µm pixel size | None | Galaxy A72 offers dedicated telephoto/portrait lens, good for zoomed photos and portrait photography. The Xiaomi 14T Pro lacks this dedicated camera. |
| Telephoto Lens | None | 50MP, f/2.0, 1/2.76" sensor, 0.64µm pixel size | Xiaomi 14T Pro features telephoto lens, allowing for optical zoom capabilities, capturing high-resolution images. Samsung A72 does not have telephoto lens. |
| Wide Angle | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size | 12MP, f/2.2, pixel size missing | Both capture a wide field of view, similar performance unless a user is looking for a specific sensor. |
| Macro | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm pixel size | None | Galaxy A72 provides a dedicated macro lens for capturing close-up shots. The Xiaomi 14T Pro lacks a macro lens. |
| Selfie | 32MP, f/2.2, 0.8µm pixel size | 32MP, f/2.2, pixel size missing | Both offer high-resolution front cameras, expected similar selfie performance. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Up to 8K@30fps with HDR, EIS, 1080p @ up to 960fps | Xiaomi 14T Pro has much more video recording capabilities, with higher resolutions, HDR and slow motion options. Superior video quality and creative tools. |
| DXOMARK Score | Mobile: 92, Photo: 100, Video: 78 | Mobile: 135, Photo: 129, Video: 138 | Xiaomi 14T Pro significantly outperforms the A72 across all camera metrics, indicating much better image quality and video performance. |
| 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 | Cinematic Mode, Flicker sensor, Noise reduction, 4K Video, 8K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Autofocus, Touch focus, Manual focus, Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, Night Mode | Xiaomi 14T Pro has better video recording with 8K resolution and has features to improve videos like a flicker sensor and noise reduction. The A72 has a dedicated macro lens while Xiaomi 14T Pro does not. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacity, expected comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 120W fast charging | Xiaomi 14T Pro charges much faster, convenient for quick top-ups. A72 users will wait significantly longer to fully charge their device. |
| Features | Non-removable, 15W Fast Charger included | Non-removable, Xiaomi Pengpai P2 charging chip, Xiaomi Pengpai G1 self-developed fuel gauge chip, Wireless charging 50W | Xiaomi 14T Pro has wireless charging capabilities. The Xiaomi 14T Pro has more features to improve battery charging and management. |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 11 (up to 12) | Android 14 | Xiaomi 14T Pro comes with a newer OS version and will likely receive more updates. The Samsung is older and will not receive newer OS updates |
Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, Dual band, Hotspot, Direct, Display | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be, Dual band, Hotspot, Direct, Display, MiMO | Xiaomi 14T Pro supports the latest Wi-Fi standards for faster, more reliable connections and better performance in congested networks. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0, A2DP, AVRCP, DIP, HFP, HID, HSP, MAP, PAN, OPP, PBAP/PAB, HOGP | Bluetooth 5.4, A2DP, LE, LDAC, SBC, AAC, LHDC | Xiaomi 14T Pro has a newer version with improved energy efficiency, better audio codecs for high quality audio streaming. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, Galileo (E1+E5a+E5b) | Xiaomi 14T Pro provides better location accuracy and faster lock-on times due to more advanced GPS capabilities, this is useful for precise navigation. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM / eSIM + Nano SIM / eSIM) | Xiaomi 14T Pro supports eSIM, enabling more flexibility when switching between carriers or using travel SIMs, the A72 is limited to 2 physical SIM cards. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 256 GB, 512 GB, 1024 GB | Xiaomi 14T Pro offers much more storage, suitable for users with large media libraries or numerous large applications. |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 12 GB | Xiaomi 14T Pro has better multitasking capabilities and smoother performance when running multiple apps or demanding games. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device supports expandable storage. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi 14T Pro offers better sound quality for audiophiles, more detailed and immersive audio. Both have great speaker quality. |
Security
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Features | Basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | Similar biometric security features. |
Sensors
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi 14T Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Hall, Geomagnetic | Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Both have the same basic suite of sensors for typical smartphone functions, while the A72 has additional Hall and Geomagnetic sensors which may be of benefit in certain use cases. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Telephoto + Portrait Lens: Dedicated lens for optical zoom and portrait photography, useful for specific photographic styles.
- Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for close-up shots.
- Slightly Lighter: 6g lighter than the Xiaomi 14T Pro, which could be noticeable for some users.
Xiaomi 14T Pro Advantages:
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processor (Dimensity 9300+ vs. Snapdragon 720G) with a much higher Antutu score for demanding tasks and smoother multitasking.
- Significantly Better Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, refresh rate, and brightness for a much sharper, smoother and more visible display in sunlight.
- Better Main Camera: Larger sensor and wider aperture for better low-light performance and dynamic range despite a lower resolution.
- Telephoto Lens: Dedicated telephoto lens for optical zoom capabilities.
- Faster Charging: 120W charging allows for significantly faster battery top-ups.
- Wireless Charging: Supports 50W wireless charging.
- More Advanced Video Recording: Support for 8K video and a higher framerate in slow motion.
- Newer Software: Comes with Android 14 and better software support and updates.
- Better Connectivity: Has newer Wi-Fi, Bluetooth standards, and more advanced GPS for greater speeds, performance, and accuracy.
- Larger Storage Options: Provides up to 1TB of internal storage.
- Hi-Res Audio: Has Hi-Res audio capabilities to enhance sound quality
Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi 14T Pro sacrifices the dedicated telephoto+portrait and macro lenses, and is negligibly heavier.
- Samsung Galaxy A72 is significantly slower, has a much worse display, camera and battery experience than the Xiaomi 14T Pro.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users: May be a more affordable option in the used market
- Users needing telephoto+portrait and macro lens: Photographers who prioritize these lenses.
- Users who don't require the best gaming or multitasking performance the older chipset will not provide a great experience here
Use Cases:
- Casual photography focusing on macro and portrait shots
- General usage with less demanding applications.
Xiaomi 14T Pro Ideal User:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Gamers, heavy app users who need top performance.
- Photography/Videography Enthusiasts: Users who need high-quality photos, videos and have flexibility in optical zoom
- Users wanting a smooth display experience: The 144Hz refresh rate and very high brightness offer the best experience.
- Power users: Those who want a large amount of storage for high definition files
- Users who want fast charging and convenience: The 120W fast charging and wireless charging are valuable additions.
Use Cases:
- High-end mobile gaming
- Content creation with high-quality photos and videos
- Outdoor use due to the high brightness screen
- Multitasking with demanding applications
- Users who want the latest Android software.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Samsung Galaxy A72 may offer better value in the used market, especially if telephoto, portrait and macro lenses are a priority and there is no budget for the better Xiaomi phone.
- The Xiaomi 14T Pro offers substantially more performance and features for the higher cost, making it a very compelling value for its class and performance.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is performance for demanding tasks and gaming? If performance is crucial, the Xiaomi is the better option.
- How critical is display quality and outdoor visibility? The Xiaomi 14T Pro's display is far superior, especially in bright environments.
- Do you need the convenience of the telephoto+portrait and macro lenses? If these are essential, the A72 provides them, however the rest of the phone will be a much worse experience than the Xiaomi.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget User: If you are on a very tight budget and need a phone for basic tasks, and are very particular about macro and portrait photos, the Samsung Galaxy A72 may suffice. But even on a budget, the Xiaomi is superior in most areas.
- Scenario 2: Performance Seeker: If you prioritize performance for gaming, heavy app usage, or multitasking, the Xiaomi 14T Pro is the clear choice.
- Scenario 3: Photography Enthusiast: If you are particular about macro and portrait photography, the Samsung Galaxy A72 offers these specialized lenses, but if you are a more serious photographer or videographer, the Xiaomi's better main camera, telephoto lens and 8K video are much better.
- Scenario 4: Display Enthusiast: The Xiaomi's display is drastically better in terms of resolution, brightness and refresh rate.
Personal Choice
I would choose the Xiaomi 14T Pro. While I appreciate the dedicated macro and telephoto + portrait lenses of the Samsung Galaxy A72, the Xiaomi 14T Pro offers a vastly superior overall experience in nearly every other aspect. The significantly better display, drastically improved performance, and faster charging, as well as the better software, cameras and wireless charging, make it a more compelling choice for my needs and use cases.
The speed and responsiveness of the Dimensity 9300+ chipset, combined with the excellent display, will result in a much more enjoyable and future-proof experience, more than compensating for the loss of the dedicated macro lens. I also value the flexibility of the telephoto lens, the vastly improved main camera and the improved video recording capabilities of the Xiaomi phone.
