1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Google Pixel 9 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164 × 75.9 × 9.7 mm | 152.8 × 72 × 8.5 mm | Pixel 9 is more compact, easier to handle with one hand. M12 is bulkier. |
| Weight | 212g | 198g | Pixel 9 is slightly lighter, feels more comfortable during prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.3" | M12 has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption for some. Pixel 9 is more pocketable. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2424 | Pixel 9 has a much sharper and clearer display with more detail. |
| Pixel Density | 270 PPI | 422 PPI | Pixel 9's display is noticeably sharper, text and images appear crisper. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | OLED | Pixel 9 has superior contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Pixel 9 offers smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have identical brightness which is zero nits, this is an unusual value and may be inaccurate. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Google Tensor G4 (4 nm) | Pixel 9 offers significantly faster processing, smoother multitasking and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,341 | 1,071,616 | Pixel 9 is much faster in real-world use, apps launch faster and run smoother. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 (ARM Mali-G52) | Mali-G715 MC7 (Mali-G715) | Pixel 9 provides superior graphics performance for demanding games and applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 48MP | 50MP | Pixel 9 has a slight edge in resolution. |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/2.0 | f/1.69 | Pixel 9 captures more light resulting in better low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.3" | Pixel 9's larger sensor captures more light and detail. |
| Front Camera Resolution | 8MP | 10.5MP | Pixel 9 has slightly higher resolution for selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 5MP (Dedicated) | 48MP (Combined with Macro) | M12 has a dedicated ultrawide lens, while Pixel 9's ultrawide also does macro. Pixel 9 provides higher quality. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP | None | M12 offers a dedicated depth sensor, though often relies more on software processing. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP | 48MP (Combined with Wide Angle) | M12 has a dedicated low resolution macro lens, while Pixel 9 combines macro functionality within its ultrawide lens. Pixel 9's macro will provide a much higher resolution image. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | Up to 4K@60fps, various HDR/stabilisation modes | Pixel 9 captures much higher quality videos, has advanced stabilization, and various other features. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Available | 154 (Mobile), 161 (Photo), 150 (Video) | Pixel 9 has been tested, showing its significantly superior camera. |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, basic features | Dual camera, OIS, EIS, RAW, Night Mode, advanced features | Pixel 9 has more advanced software features, image processing, and stabilisation. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 4700mAh | M12 has a slightly larger battery, might have slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 15W | 27W | Pixel 9 charges much faster and is more convenient. |
| Charging Features | Non-removable | Reverse charging, wireless charging 15W, Non-removable | Pixel 9 offers the convenience of wireless and reverse charging capabilities. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Pixel 9 has a much newer Android version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | Pixel 9 supports newer and faster Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 LE | Pixel 9 offers a more recent Bluetooth version with better efficiency. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GLONASS (L1), NavIC System, GNSS | Pixel 9 has more accurate GPS positioning. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Pixel 9 supports eSIM, allowing more flexibility in carriers and settings. M12 allows for two simultaneous physical SIMs. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 32GB/64GB/128GB | 128GB/256GB | Pixel 9 offers significantly more storage. |
| RAM | 3GB/4GB/6GB | 12GB | Pixel 9 provides far smoother multitasking due to much more RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers, 3 microphones | Pixel 9 offers better audio quality, stereo sound, and noise reduction. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint | Basic fingerprint | Samsung Galaxy M12 has more advanced side mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 | Pixel 9 has better screen protection and overall build quality. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Barometer | Pixel 9 includes an additional barometer for environmental sensing. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy M12 Advantages:
- Larger Display: A slightly larger 6.5" screen may be preferable for users who prioritize media consumption or accessibility.
- Slightly Larger Battery: 5000mAh battery offers slightly higher capacity, potentially resulting in slightly longer battery life.
- Dedicated Wide and Macro Lenses: Offers dedicated low-resolution wide and macro cameras.
- Lower Price: The Galaxy M12 is expected to be considerably cheaper.
- Two physical sim slots: The phone can use two physical sim cards at the same time.
Practical Implications of M12 Advantages:
- Larger display can enhance viewing experience for videos and text.
- Larger battery can mean less frequent charging.
- Lower cost will be better for those on a budget.
- Two physical sim slots can be preferred for users who need to switch between carriers quickly without needing to deal with an eSIM.
Google Pixel 9 Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution, pixel density, OLED technology, and a 120Hz refresh rate provide a noticeably better visual experience.
- Significantly Higher Performance: The Tensor G4 chipset delivers much better performance in all aspects, from daily tasks to gaming and AI processing.
- Superior Camera: Larger sensor, wider aperture, and advanced software lead to much better image and video quality, especially in low-light situations. The wide lens also acts as a macro lens.
- Faster Charging: 27W fast charging is significantly faster and more convenient than the M12's 15W charging.
- Wireless and Reverse Charging: Offers convenient wireless and reverse wireless charging options.
- Newer OS: Ships with Android 14, offering the latest features and security updates.
- Better Audio: Includes stereo speakers, noise cancellation, and multiple microphones for clearer audio.
- Better Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for added durability.
- More RAM and Storage: Comes with significantly more ram and base storage.
- More advanced connectivity: Includes newer wifi and bluetooth versions.
- eSIM support: Allows for easier switching between carriers.
Practical Implications of Pixel 9 Advantages:
- Crisper, more vibrant, and smoother display makes using the phone much more enjoyable.
- Much faster performance means apps open faster and the phone will feel much more responsive.
- Superior camera quality means better photos and videos in all lighting conditions.
- Faster charging results in less time spent connected to a power source.
- Wireless charging is more convenient in certain use cases.
- Android 14 will get latest features and updates.
- Better audio will provide an all-around more premium experience.
- Better build quality provides peace of mind when handling the device.
- More ram and storage will allow for more use cases and will be future proof.
- More modern connectivity allows for futureproofing and better network speeds.
- eSIM support allows for more carriers to be used.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Price: The Pixel 9 will be considerably more expensive.
- Battery life: The Pixel 9 has a slightly smaller battery, which in combination with its higher processing power may result in slightly less battery life than the M12.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy M12 - Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users: Those seeking a basic, functional smartphone at an affordable price point.
- Users with Basic Needs: Users primarily focused on calling, texting, social media browsing, and very light media consumption.
- Users who value a larger screen size: Those who prefer a larger screen for media consumption or accessibility reasons.
- Users who prefer two physical sim slots: Users who need the flexibility of using two physical sim cards at the same time.
Specific Use Cases for Galaxy M12:
- Secondary Phone: A reliable backup device for calls and texts.
- First Smartphone: A good option for new smartphone users.
- Basic Social Media: Browsing and simple social media apps.
- Basic Multimedia Consumption: Watching videos at a lower quality.
- Budget-Friendly Users: Users who simply want a cheap phone that 'just works'.
Google Pixel 9 - Ideal User:
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want high-quality photos and videos, especially in low-light conditions.
- Power Users: Those who need excellent performance for multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps.
- Tech Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest features and software updates.
- Users who prioritize media consumption: Users who enjoy high quality media on their phones.
- Users who want fast charging and wireless charging: Users who like the convenience of modern charging features.
Specific Use Cases for Pixel 9:
- Professional Photography/Videography: High-quality photo and video capture for vlogging, social media, or professional use.
- Mobile Gaming: Smooth and responsive gaming performance for demanding titles.
- Productivity Tasks: Smooth multitasking between applications for heavy workflow.
- Media Consumption: Enjoying videos, movies, and streaming at their highest quality.
- AI-Powered Features: Leveraging the AI capabilities of the Tensor chip for smart features.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Samsung Galaxy M12: Provides good value for basic smartphone needs at a lower price point.
- Google Pixel 9: Offers a premium experience and top-tier features for those willing to pay a higher price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is your budget? The Pixel 9 will be significantly more expensive than the M12.
- What are your primary needs? Do you need the highest performance, camera, and features, or is a basic, functional device sufficient?
- What are your use cases? Do you take a lot of photos and videos, play demanding games, or simply browse social media?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Tight Budget, Basic Needs
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy M12. The device will be sufficient and it will be at a much lower price point.
- Scenario 2: Good Camera and Performance for the Best Price
- Recommendation: Google Pixel 9. The device offers a drastically superior camera, performance, and overall user experience.
- Scenario 3: Heavy Media Consumption or Need for a Larger Screen
- Recommendation: Google Pixel 9. Even though the screen is slightly smaller, the difference is minimal compared to the Pixel 9 having a significantly better display in all other aspects.
- Scenario 4: Need for a backup phone, with a preference for two physical sims
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy M12. The device provides the ability to use two physical sims at the same time, which is a critical factor for certain users.
Which phone would I choose and why?
I would choose the Google Pixel 9.
While the Samsung Galaxy M12 has its strengths, particularly its larger battery and lower price point, the Google Pixel 9 offers a dramatically superior overall experience that justifies the higher cost.
Here's why:
- Display Quality: The Pixel 9's OLED display with its higher resolution, pixel density, and 120Hz refresh rate offers a significantly more enjoyable viewing experience. This is important for everyday tasks and media consumption.
- Performance: The Google Tensor G4 chip is much more powerful than the Exynos 850, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and a better experience with demanding apps and games. This makes the Pixel 9 feel much more responsive and capable.
- Camera Superiority: The Pixel 9's larger sensor, wider aperture, and advanced software processing capabilities produce much better images and videos, especially in low-light conditions. This is a huge advantage for anyone who cares about photography.
- Feature Set: The Pixel 9 has many other small yet important advantages over the M12 such as faster charging, wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, a much more modern and capable operating system and software, better quality audio, newer connectivity technologies, and better overall build quality.
While the slightly smaller battery and higher price are trade-offs, the significant improvements in display quality, performance, camera, and features make the Pixel 9 a much better overall smartphone and therefore the clear winner for me. I would value these advantages over a slightly larger screen and battery and a lower price point. The Pixel 9 offers a premium experience, whereas the Samsung Galaxy M12 has a much more basic experience.
