1. Specifications Comparison
Here's a breakdown of the key specifications for the Samsung Galaxy M12 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4, focusing on their practical implications:
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Standard | Foldable | Galaxy Z Flip4 is much more pocketable when folded and offers a unique user experience with its hinge. |
| Dimensions | 164 x 75.9 x 9.7 mm | 165.2 x 71.9 x 6.9 mm | The M12 is wider and thicker, making the Z Flip4 feel more compact. The M12 takes up more space in a bag. |
| Weight | 212g | 187g | The Z Flip4 is significantly lighter, which improves comfort for long periods of use and reduces fatigue. |
| Build Quality | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip4 has a more durable screen, less prone to scratches. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.5" | 6.7" | Z Flip4 offers slightly more screen real estate, good for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 1080 x 2640 | Z Flip4 has a significantly sharper and clearer display, providing better visuals for text, images and videos. |
| PPI | 270 | 426 | Z Flip4 screen appears less pixelated, text and images will be much crisper. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | Unknown | Z Flip4 is expected to have much better colors, contrast and overall display quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | Z Flip4 has smoother scrolling and animations, particularly noticeable in gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 screen is far more readable in bright outdoor conditions. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Z Flip4 offers drastically faster processing, better multitasking and superior gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,341 | 1,050,371 | The Z Flip4 is significantly faster overall, and future-proof for new apps and features. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Adreno 730 | Z Flip4 handles graphic-intensive tasks like gaming much better. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/2.0, 1/2" | 12.2MP, f/1.8, 1/2.55" | M12 has higher resolution, but Z Flip4's larger pixels and wider aperture likely result in better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.2 | 10MP, f/2.4 | Z Flip4 selfie camera slightly better quality, better for video calls. |
| Wide Angle | 5MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.2 | Z Flip4 has higher resolution, capturing more detail in wide angle shots. |
| Additional Lenses | 2MP Depth, 2MP Macro | None | M12 has dedicated depth and macro lenses for creative photos, Z Flip4 prioritizes quality over quantity |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps, 720p@960fps | Z Flip4 offers much better video quality and slow-motion capabilities. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes | Z Flip4's OIS produces steadier, professional looking video |
| DxOMark Score | Not Tested | Mobile: 112, Photo: 125, Video: 113 | Z Flip4 has a very good camera according to DXOMark, M12 camera quality is unknown. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 3700mAh | M12 has a larger battery which potentially results in longer usage, although the Z Flip4 is more efficient. |
| Charging | 15W Wired | 25W Wired, 15W Wireless | Z Flip4 charges significantly faster with both wired and wireless charging. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Reverse charging, Fast charging 25W, 50% in 30 min, Fast wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W, Non-removable | Z Flip4 offers additional features which enhances user convenience. |
Other
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 12 (upgradeable to 14) | Z Flip4 has more up-to-date software, better features and more security. |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | Z Flip4 supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi standards. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.1 LE | Z Flip4 has a newer Bluetooth standard for better performance, more efficiency and additional features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Z Flip4 has better location accuracy thanks to support for additional GPS systems. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Z Flip4 supports eSIM for more flexibility; M12 uses physical SIMs |
| Internal Storage | 32/64/128 GB | 128/256/512 GB | Z Flip4 offers much more storage and flexibility. |
| RAM | 3/4/6 GB | 8 GB | Z Flip4 can handle more apps running simultaneously without slowdown. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone allows storage expansion. |
| Audio Quality | Basic | Stereo Speakers | Z Flip4 gives a more immersive audio experience with stereo speakers. |
| Security | Side Fingerprint Sensor | Side Fingerprint Sensor | Both phones have the same side-mounted fingerprint sensor. |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity, Barometer, Fingerprint | Z Flip4 has extra environmental sensors |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Here's a summary of the major advantages each phone offers:
Samsung Galaxy M12 Advantages:
- Larger Battery: The 5000mAh battery offers potentially longer battery life.
- Lower Price: Typically much more affordable than the Z Flip4.
- Dedicated Macro and Depth Lenses: Offers additional camera lenses for creative photography.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Advantages:
- Foldable Design: Unique form factor, pocketable, stylish.
- Superior Performance: Significantly faster processor and more RAM for a smoother experience.
- Higher Quality Display: Sharper, brighter display with a higher refresh rate.
- Better Camera System: Improved image quality, video recording, and optical image stabilization.
- Faster Charging: Supports fast wired and wireless charging.
- Modern Features: Includes newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards, eSIM, better sensors, and stereo speakers.
- Premium Build: More durable screen with Gorilla Glass Victus protection.
Trade-offs:
- M12: Offers good battery life, but sacrifices performance, display quality, and camera capabilities. It also has an outdated OS.
- Z Flip4: Expensive, and battery may not last as long as the M12.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy M12 Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious users looking for basic functionality
- Users who prioritize battery life over other features.
- Users who want a large screen for basic tasks.
- Users who need dedicated macro and depth lenses for creative photos.
Use Cases for M12:
- Daily communication (calls, texts, social media)
- Basic web browsing and media consumption
- Occasional photography.
- Long periods without charging.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Ideal User:
- Users who want a unique, stylish phone.
- Users who prioritize high performance and a premium experience.
- Users who require a high quality display and camera.
- Users who need advanced features such as wireless charging and good speakers.
Use Cases for Z Flip4:
- High-end gaming and demanding apps
- Professional photography and videography.
- Frequent multimedia consumption.
- Users who like the flexibility of a foldable device.
- Users who need a pocketable, stylish phone.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- M12: Offers excellent value for basic needs; it's a budget-friendly option.
- Z Flip4: Expensive but provides premium features and performance. The value depends on how much you value those premium capabilities.
4. Decision Framework
Here are three key questions for buyers to consider:
- What is your budget? The M12 is a budget device whereas the Z Flip4 is a premium device.
- What do you prioritize? The M12 prioritizes battery life and affordability while the Z Flip4 prioritizes premium features and performance.
- What are your primary use cases? If you just need to make calls, send texts, and browse social media, the M12 is adequate. If you need to play the latest games and use a high quality camera, the Z Flip4 is the better choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget User: If your main concern is cost and you need a phone with a long lasting battery, the Samsung Galaxy M12 is the better option.
- Scenario 2: Performance Seeker: If you want a premium device with smooth performance, a high quality screen, and a capable camera, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the better choice.
- Scenario 3: Unique Design: If you are looking for a more stylish and unique device with a foldable display, the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is the better choice.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4.
Here's why:
While the Samsung Galaxy M12 offers a larger battery and a much lower price, the Z Flip4 provides a far superior overall experience. The Z Flip4 offers vastly improved processing power, a much better quality screen, a superior camera and a host of modern features that are missing from the M12.
The unique foldable design also sets it apart, which increases portability. Despite the smaller battery on paper, the Z Flip4's efficient processor should still offer a very good battery life for normal use.
While the price is a major consideration, the improvements in performance and overall user experience make the Z Flip4 a better choice for me. I value a smooth, responsive device with a great display and camera, and the Z Flip4 delivers on all those fronts. For me, the benefits of the Z Flip4 outweigh its higher price tag, especially since I'm also looking for a device that offers advanced features and future-proofing capabilities.
