Samsung Galaxy M12 vs Sony Xperia 1 VI - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date April 30, 2021 June 3, 2024
Release Year 2021 2024

Physical

Volume 120.74 cm³ 98.3 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.07 "/g 3.39 "/g
Weight 212 g 192 g
Height 164 mm 162 mm
Width 75.9 mm 74 mm
Thickness 9.7 mm 8.2 mm
Foldable Design No No
Available Colors
  • Black
  • Blue
  • Green
  • Black
  • Platinum silver
  • Khaki green
  • Scar red

Display

Screen Size 6.5 " 6.5 "
Resolution 720 x 1600 1080 x 2340
Aspect Ratio 20:9 19.5:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 81.9 % 86.5 %
Pixel Density 270 PPI 396 PPI
Refresh Rate 90 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A N/A
Peak Brightness N/A N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 118.34 mAh/in² 118.34 mAh/in²
Battery Density 41.41 mAh/cm³ 50.86 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 5000 mAh 5000 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Exynos 850 (8 nm) Qualcomm SM8650-AB Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm)
CPU Octa-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (1x3.3 GHz Cortex-X4 & 3x3.2 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x3.0 GHz Cortex-A720 & 2x2.3 GHz Cortex-A520)
GPU Mali-G52 Adreno 750

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 3.2
OTG Support 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0 USB Type-C 3.2, OTG, Video Output

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 14
Maximum OS Version 17

Comparison Summary

1. Specifications Comparison

FeatureSamsung Galaxy M12Sony Xperia 1 VIPractical Impact
Design
Dimensions164 × 75.9 × 9.7 mm162 × 74 × 8.2 mmXperia 1 VI is more pocketable and comfortable for one-handed use due to its smaller size and thinner profile.
Weight212g192gThe Xperia 1 VI is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended periods of use.
Display
Size6.5"6.5"Both have the same screen size, offering similar viewing area.
Resolution720x16001080x2340Xperia 1 VI has a significantly sharper display, resulting in clearer text, images, and videos.
Pixel Density270 ppi396 ppiXperia 1 VI offers noticeably clearer and sharper images due to the higher pixel density.
TechnologyPLS LCDOLEDXperia 1 VI has superior color accuracy, contrast, and deeper blacks, making visuals more vibrant and engaging.
Refresh Rate90Hz120HzXperia 1 VI provides smoother scrolling, animations and gameplay.
Brightness0 nits0 nitsBoth phones are have the same brightness which is 0 nits, however this specification seems to be missing.
Performance
ChipsetExynos 850 (8 nm)Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (4 nm)Xperia 1 VI offers significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
AnTuTu Score117,3412,110,000Xperia 1 VI is significantly more powerful, leading to a much more responsive and enjoyable user experience.
GPUMali-G52Adreno 750Xperia 1 VI will provide superior graphics processing capabilities, beneficial for gaming and graphically intensive applications.
Battery
Capacity5000mAh5000mAhBoth phones have the same battery capacity, meaning similar battery life under typical usage scenarios.
Charging15W fast charging30W fast chargingXperia 1 VI charges faster, reducing downtime.
FeaturesNon-removableBypass Charging, Reverse charging, Non-removable, Reverse wireless chargingXperia 1 VI offers advanced features like bypass charging, reverse charging and reverse wireless charging for added versatility.
Camera
Main Camera48MP, f/2.0, 1/2"48MP, f/1.9, 1/1.4"Xperia 1 VI has a larger sensor and wider aperture for better low-light performance and image quality.
Selfie Camera8MP, f/2.2,12MP, f/2.0, 1/2.93"Xperia 1 VI takes higher-resolution and brighter selfies.
Telephoto LensNone12MP, f/2.3, 1/3.5"Xperia 1 VI offers optical zoom capabilities, allowing for closer shots without significant quality loss.
Wide Angle Lens5MP, f/2.2,12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55"Xperia 1 VI captures wide-angle photos with more detail.
Portrait Mode (Depth)2MP, f/2.4,NoneSamsung Galaxy M12 can take portrait photos, but might not be as good as a proper telephoto lens.
Macro Lens2MP, f/2.4,NoneSamsung Galaxy M12 can take macro photos with dedicated sensor.
Video1080p@30fps4K up to 120fps, with OIS, EIS and HDRXperia 1 VI records high-quality 4K videos with advanced stabilization.
Camera FeaturesDigital zoom, Quadruple camera, Autofocus, Touch focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timerNoise reduction, Time-Lapse, 4K Video, Digital zoom, Optical zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, Autofocus, Touch focus, Continuous autofocus, Manual focus, Phase detection autofocus (PDAF), Contrast detection autofocus (CDAF), Continuous shooting, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face detection, White balance settings, ISO settings, Exposure compensation, Scene mode, Self-timer, RAW, Night ModeXperia 1 VI has advanced video features, enhanced stabilization and manual controls for more creative options.
Software
OSAndroid 11Android 14Xperia 1 VI will receive more software updates and has access to newer Android features.
Connectivity
Wi-Fi802.11b/g/n802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/beXperia 1 VI supports the latest Wi-Fi standards for faster and more reliable connections.
Bluetooth5.05.4 LEXperia 1 VI offers more reliable and energy-efficient connections with advanced audio codecs.
GPSGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, BeidouGPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5)Xperia 1 VI provides superior location accuracy with more satellite systems.
SIMDual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM)Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM)Xperia 1 VI supports eSIM for digital carrier switching, while Samsung Galaxy M12 supports two physical SIM cards.
Storage
Internal32/64/128 GB256/512 GBXperia 1 VI offers significantly more storage for apps, media and other data.
RAM3/4/6 GB12 GBXperia 1 VI has significantly more RAM for better multitasking and smooth app performance.
ExpandableNoNoNeither device supports microSD card expansion, so user cannot expand memory.
Audio
QualityBasic audio featuresDolby Atmos, Stereo SpeakersXperia 1 VI has superior sound quality and immersive audio for media consumption.
Security
Featuresside-mounted fingerprint sensorside-mounted fingerprint sensorBoth phones offer basic biometric security through fingerprint sensors.
Build Quality
ProtectionUnknownCorning Gorilla Glass Victus 2Xperia 1 VI offers better protection against scratches and drops
SensorsBiometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, GyroscopeBiometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: Barometer, PedometerXperia 1 VI offers a comprehensive suite of sensors useful for advanced features and apps.

2. Key Differences Analysis

Samsung Galaxy M12 Advantages:

  • Lower price: The M12 is significantly more affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.
  • Macro Lens: Dedicated macro lens for close-up shots, not present in the Xperia 1 VI.
  • Physical Dual Sim: Two physical sim slots, unlike Sony which uses one physical and one Esim.
  • Depth Sensor: Has a depth sensor, which can create better portrait photos with blurred backgrounds.

Practical Implications:

  • The M12 is suitable for users who prioritize budget over performance and advanced features. It will do basic tasks well and take some decent photos.
  • The macro lens may attract users who like to photograph small objects or get creative close ups.
  • The physical dual sim may attract users who want the flexibility to use two physical sim cards.
  • The depth sensor may be useful for creating bokeh effect in portrait photography.

Sony Xperia 1 VI Advantages:

  • Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset provides vastly better performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications.
  • Significantly Enhanced Display: The OLED panel with higher resolution, pixel density, and refresh rate provides a much better visual experience.
  • Advanced Camera System: Larger sensors, wider apertures, telephoto lens, and 4K video capabilities result in far superior image and video quality.
  • Comprehensive Video Features: OIS, EIS, 4K up to 120fps with HDR provide professional grade video recording functionality.
  • Faster Charging: 30W fast charging reduces charging time.
  • More RAM and Storage: Significantly more RAM and storage ensures smoother performance and room for all your media.
  • Better Audio Quality: Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos enhance the multimedia experience.
  • Advanced Connectivity: Latest Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards for faster and more reliable connections.
  • Esim Support: Provides extra versatility by offering an esim slot.
  • Screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 offers protection from scratches and cracks.
  • Better Sensor Suite: Provides a comprehensive sensor suite for improved functionality.

Practical Implications:

  • The Xperia 1 VI is ideal for users who prioritize performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and advanced features.
  • It offers a premium experience for users who need a high-performing device for gaming, photography, videography and entertainment.
  • The esim will provide versatility to people who like to switch plans and carriers.

Significant Trade-offs:

  • The Xperia 1 VI is significantly more expensive than the M12.
  • The M12 lacks the premium features, performance, and camera capabilities of the Xperia 1 VI.
  • The Xperia 1 VI doesn't have a dedicated macro lens or depth sensor.

3. User Profiles & Recommendations

Samsung Galaxy M12 Ideal Users:

  • Budget-conscious users who need a basic smartphone for communication and light usage.
  • Users who prioritize battery life over top-tier performance.
  • Users who occasionally need a macro lens or depth sensor.
  • Users who need two physical sim cards.

Use Cases:

  • Basic communication (calls, texts, emails)
  • Social media browsing and casual web surfing
  • Playing simple games
  • Taking occasional macro and portrait photos
  • Long trips with only a power bank to charge, thanks to good battery life.

Sony Xperia 1 VI Ideal Users:

  • Tech enthusiasts who want the best performance, display, and camera quality.
  • Gamers who need a high-performing device for demanding games.
  • Professional photographers or videographers who want advanced camera capabilities in a smartphone.
  • Users who need a premium smartphone for content creation, editing, and consuming.
  • Users who need versatile connectivity options with esim support.

Use Cases:

  • Playing high-end games and other demanding apps
  • Capturing professional-quality photos and videos
  • Creating and editing multimedia content
  • Enjoying high-resolution movies and TV shows
  • Demanding multitasking and productivity tasks.
  • Having the versatility to easily change sim plans using esim.

Price-to-Value Ratio:

  • The Samsung Galaxy M12 offers a good value for users who need a basic smartphone at a low price point, with a dedicated macro lens.
  • The Sony Xperia 1 VI is a premium device with a higher price but provides incredible performance, display, camera capabilities and other premium features, justifying its cost for users who prioritize these aspects.

4. Decision Framework

Key Questions for Buyers:

  1. What is your budget? The Galaxy M12 is significantly more affordable.
  2. How important are performance and camera quality? The Xperia 1 VI far exceeds the M12 in both these areas.
  3. What are your primary use cases? Basic usage vs. gaming, photography, or content creation?

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • Scenario 1: Budget-Conscious User: If you need a basic phone for communication and light use, the Samsung Galaxy M12 is a good option.
  • Scenario 2: Performance and Camera Focused User: If you prioritize high performance, excellent camera capabilities, and a premium display, the Sony Xperia 1 VI is the best choice.
  • Scenario 3: Multimedia Enthusiast: If you watch a lot of videos and listen to music, the better display, speakers and audio quality of the Sony Xperia 1 VI, will make for a much better experience.

My Choice

If I had to choose between these two phones, I would choose the Sony Xperia 1 VI.

Here's why:

While the Samsung Galaxy M12 is a capable budget phone, it simply cannot compete with the premium experience offered by the Sony Xperia 1 VI. The vast differences in processing power (1,698% higher AnTuTu score), display quality (OLED, 1080x2340), camera capabilities (larger sensors, telephoto lens, 4K video with HDR, OIS, EIS), and software (Android 14 vs 11) make the Xperia 1 VI the clear winner for my priorities.

I personally use my phone for demanding tasks, mobile gaming, photography, and content creation, all of which the Xperia 1 VI is much better equipped for. The smoother performance, sharper display, enhanced audio, and significantly better camera are all factors that drastically improve my daily user experience.

While the price is substantially higher, the superior user experience and future-proof performance of the Sony Xperia 1 VI justify the additional cost for my use case. The improved screen protection will also help with peace of mind.

The Galaxy M12 has a dedicated macro lens, but I'm personally not a heavy user of this feature, and the Xperia's overall superior camera quality wins out.

Emily Harper
Emily Harper

Technology Insights Specialist

Dedicated technology writer specializing in mobile device analysis and technology communication. Expert at translating complex smartphone features into clear, actionable insights for diverse audiences.

Key Strengths:

  • Mobile technology analysis
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Bridging technical complexity with engaging, accessible narratives.