Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A72 vs. Xiaomi Redmi Note 12
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A72 | Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165 × 77.4 × 8.4 mm | 165.9 × 76.2 × 8 mm | Slightly larger and thicker build for the A72, might feel less comfortable in smaller hands or pockets; Note 12 is slightly taller. |
| Weight | 203g | 188g | Redmi Note 12 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and one-handed operation. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.67" | Negligible difference in screen size, both offer immersive viewing experiences. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Both offer the same sharpness, suitable for detailed content viewing and standard multimedia consumption. |
| PPI | 394 | 395 | Virtually identical pixel density, meaning sharpness will be indistinguishable. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both utilize AMOLED for vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Redmi Note 12 provides a smoother scrolling and animation experience, more responsive for gaming and general navigation. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 1200 nits | Redmi Note 12 is significantly better for outdoor visibility in direct sunlight, offering greater screen clarity in bright environments. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 720G (8 nm) | Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (6 nm) | Redmi Note 12 has a newer, more efficient processor, which results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking and overall responsiveness. |
| AnTuTu Score | 285,000 | 460,800 | Redmi Note 12 offers significantly better performance, making it better for demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Adreno 618 | Adreno 619 | Redmi Note 12's Adreno 619 likely delivers better graphics performance for gaming and graphic-intensive applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have the same battery capacity, likely giving similar battery life for most users. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging, Li-Ion | 33W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer | Redmi Note 12 charges faster, getting you back to full power quicker. |
| Included Charger | 15W Fast Charger | Not specified | A72 includes a charger in box. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 0.80µm | 48MP, f/1.8, 0.64µm | A72 has higher resolution and may capture more detailed shots. Note 12's sensor size is listed, which A72 lacks in the data provided. |
| Telephoto Camera | 8MP, f/2.4, 1.00µm | Not Available | A72 offers an additional zoom lens, providing better flexibility for capturing distant subjects. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | 8MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | A72 captures wider scenes with higher detail than the Note 12. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.2, 0.80µm | 13MP, f/2.45, 1.12µm | A72 offers higher resolution for selfie photos and wider aperture, likely performing better in low-light conditions. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | 2MP, f/2.4, pixel size unavailable | The A72 will likely capture better macro shots with more detail. |
| Video | Up to 4K@30fps, EIS | 1080p@30fps | A72 supports higher resolution 4K video recording with Electronic Image Stabilization, while the Note 12 is limited to 1080p. |
| DXOMark Score | Mobile: 92, Photo: 100, Video: 78 | Mobile: 69, Photo: 74, Video: 49 | A72 has a better overall camera performance with significantly higher scores for both photo and video quality. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Quadruple Camera, Optical zoom | Ultra Stable Video, Triple Camera, RAW | A72 has OIS for better stability, and optical zoom, while the Note 12 has ultra stable video recording and RAW capture. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Android 12 | Redmi Note 12 ships with a newer version of Android out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | Both phones have very similar wifi capabilities. Note 12 supports MIMO. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE | Redmi Note 12 has a newer Bluetooth version, potentially offering better energy efficiency and connectivity range. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, etc. | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, etc. | Redmi Note 12 has more advanced GPS for improved location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both phones support dual SIM functionality. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer the same storage capacity, suitable for most users. |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 4/6/8 GB | Both have similar RAM options for multitasking, with different base configurations. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Basic | A72 offers enhanced audio experience with immersive spatial audio and stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Features | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Redmi Note 12 has a more modern and convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Redmi Note 12 has better screen protection with Corning Gorilla Glass. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity virtual | Both have similar sensors. A72 has hall and geomagnetic sensors which Note 12 lacks. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A72 Advantages:
- Superior Camera System: Offers a telephoto lens, higher-resolution primary and front cameras, and a significantly better DXOMark score for both photos and videos, making it a better choice for photography enthusiasts.
- Enhanced Audio Experience: Features stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos support, which provides richer sound for media consumption.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): In the primary camera, offering better photo and video stabilization.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Advantages:
- Faster Performance: The newer Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 chipset provides superior processing power and better benchmark scores, resulting in a smoother experience for gaming and demanding apps.
- Higher Refresh Rate: The 120Hz display provides a smoother scrolling experience compared to the A72's 90Hz.
- Brighter Display: The significantly brighter screen enhances outdoor visibility, making it easier to see in sunny conditions.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging will charge the device quicker.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: The 5.1 Bluetooth offers better energy efficiency and connection range.
Trade-offs:
- The A72's strengths lie in its camera capabilities and enhanced audio, at the expense of performance and refresh rate.
- The Note 12 prioritizes performance and screen experience over camera features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A72 Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize camera quality and versatility, including telephoto zoom, OIS, and higher-resolution photos.
- Media Consumers: Users who frequently watch videos or listen to music and appreciate the stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos support.
- Users who take selfies often: The higher resolution front camera will be appreciated.
Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 Ideal User:
- Gamers and Performance Users: Those who need a smooth, responsive experience for gaming or demanding apps.
- Outdoor Users: Users who often use their phone in bright sunlight will appreciate the brighter display.
- Budget Conscious Users: May offer a better value at a lower price point.
Specific Use Cases:
- A72: Capturing high-quality photos and videos of travel, events, or family moments. Enjoying multimedia content with immersive audio.
- Note 12: Playing graphically intensive games, smoothly navigating social media feeds, and using the phone comfortably in bright outdoor environments.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is camera quality to me? (If high, A72 is better)
- Do I prioritize smooth performance and a higher refresh rate, or is camera quality more important? (Note 12 favors performance, A72 the camera)
- Do I frequently use my phone outdoors in bright sunlight? (If yes, Note 12’s brightness is a key advantage)
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Casual user who takes occasional photos - Redmi Note 12 is a strong option, offering great performance, a smooth screen experience, and a good camera.
Scenario 2: Avid photographer - Samsung Galaxy A72 is better suited, with a much better camera system and higher DXOMark score.
Scenario 3: Mobile Gamer - The higher refresh rate display and better processor on the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 make it the better choice.
Personal Choice
I would choose the Xiaomi Redmi Note 12. While the Samsung A72 has a better camera, the overall experience with the Redmi Note 12 seems more modern and satisfying for my needs. The performance is significantly better, the display is smoother and brighter, and the charging is faster. For a user who values day-to-day usage smoothness over camera capabilities, the Redmi Note 12 provides a better balance and would be my pick. While the camera is slightly worse compared to the A72, it is still a capable camera for the casual user. Also, the inclusion of Corning Gorilla Glass 3 provides peace of mind.
