Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy M12 vs. Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy M12 | Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164 × 75.9 × 9.7 mm | 163.6 × 75.8 × 8.8 mm | Poco M4 Pro 5G is slightly thinner and more compact, possibly feeling better in hand; Galaxy M12 is slightly larger and thicker, less ergonomic for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 212g | 195g | Poco M4 Pro 5G is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use and portability. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible size difference in everyday use. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2400 | Poco M4 Pro 5G has significantly sharper and clearer display, better for detailed content, reading text, and watching high-resolution videos. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 399 | Poco M4 Pro 5G offers a noticeably crisper and clearer display with higher detail and less pixelation. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | IPS LCD | Poco M4 Pro 5G generally offers better viewing angles and color reproduction. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz | Both offer a smoother visual experience compared to standard 60Hz displays, beneficial for scrolling and gaming. |
| Peak Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness not available for either phone. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Poco M4 Pro 5G has a significantly more powerful and efficient chipset, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,341 | 438,700 | Poco M4 Pro 5G has a much higher benchmark score, indicating significantly better performance in everyday tasks and demanding apps. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Mali-G57 MC2 | Poco M4 Pro 5G's GPU provides much better graphical performance, essential for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 48MP f/2.0, 1/2" sensor | 50MP f/1.8, 1/2.76" sensor | Poco M4 Pro 5G has a slightly higher resolution and wider aperture for better low-light performance. The Galaxy M12 has a larger sensor, potentially gathering more light. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP f/2.2 | 16MP f/2.45, 1/3.06" sensor, 1.00µm pixels | Poco M4 Pro 5G has higher resolution and larger pixel size for better selfies, especially in low light. |
| Wide-Angle Camera | 5MP f/2.2 | 8MP f/2.2, 1/2.8" sensor, 1.14µm pixels | Poco M4 Pro 5G offers a higher resolution wide-angle lens, which will provide more detailed, clearer, photos. |
| Portrait Mode | 2MP Depth | None | Samsung Galaxy M12 has a dedicated depth sensor for better bokeh effect, while the Xiaomi device does not. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP | None | Samsung Galaxy M12 has a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots while the Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G does not. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps | Poco M4 Pro 5G offers 60 fps recording for smoother video. |
| Slow-motion | No | Yes, 60fps | Poco M4 Pro 5G can capture slow-motion video, adding a creative option for videography. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both offer similar battery life, generally lasting a full day with average use. |
| Charging | 15W | 33W | Poco M4 Pro 5G charges significantly faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion Polymer | Minor difference in battery tech, the practical impact is minimal |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 11 (upgradable to 12) | Poco M4 Pro 5G has a more up-to-date operating system and is upgradable to a later version. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Poco M4 Pro 5G supports newer Wi-Fi standards, offering faster and more stable connection speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 LE | Poco M4 Pro 5G has the newer Bluetooth standard for better power efficiency and connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, BeiDou (B1) | Poco M4 Pro 5G supports more satellite systems for better accuracy in location tracking and navigation. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 32/64/128 GB | 64/128/256 GB | Poco M4 Pro 5G offers more storage, allowing for more photos, videos, and apps. |
| RAM | 3/4/6 GB | 4/6/8 GB | Poco M4 Pro 5G provides better multitasking capabilities due to the higher RAM options. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both phones don't support external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 microphones | Poco M4 Pro 5G offers superior audio quality with more advanced features. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both offer similar placement, ensuring smooth and reliable user experience. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Poco M4 Pro 5G offers better protection against scratches and accidental damage. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Poco M4 Pro 5G has more sensors for enhanced functionality and accuracy. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy M12 Advantages:
- Dedicated Depth & Macro Lens: Provides more flexibility in photography with dedicated sensors for portrait mode and close-up shots. This can be advantageous for users who enjoy creative photography with depth of field or close-up shots.
- Slightly Larger Main Camera Sensor: The 1/2 inch sensor has the potential to gather more light and deliver better results in certain scenarios.
- Cheaper: Generally, the Galaxy M12 will be more affordable than the Poco M4 Pro 5G
Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G Advantages:
- Significantly Superior Performance: The Dimensity 810 chipset offers substantially better CPU and GPU performance, leading to smoother multitasking, faster app loading, and improved gaming experience.
- Higher Resolution Display: The 1080x2400 resolution and higher PPI result in a sharper and more detailed display, making media consumption more enjoyable.
- Faster Charging: 33W fast charging significantly reduces charging time, a major convenience for daily use.
- Better Audio Features: Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res audio, and stereo speakers enhance the audio experience for media consumption.
- Superior Selfie Camera: Higher resolution and larger pixel size result in better photos, especially in low light.
- Modern Connectivity: Newer Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards provide faster speeds, better range, and power efficiency.
- More Modern Software: The Poco M4 Pro 5G comes with the option to update to Android 12.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass 3, while older, does offer some protection to the screen of the Poco M4 Pro 5G.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Samsung Galaxy M12: Sacrifices performance and display quality for a slightly more diverse camera system and a likely lower price point. It lacks some of the more modern features that are found in the Poco M4 Pro 5G.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G: Forgoes a dedicated depth and macro lens, focusing on overall better performance, display, and audio experience. It has slightly smaller primary camera sensor.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy M12:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who prioritize affordability and are willing to compromise on performance and display quality.
- Casual Photographers: Users who enjoy taking casual photos with different lens options but do not need the best image quality.
- Basic Smartphone Users: Individuals who primarily use their phones for calls, texts, social media, and light browsing.
- Those who specifically want a depth and macro sensor.
Ideal User for Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G:
- Performance Enthusiasts: Users who want a smooth and fast smartphone experience for daily use and gaming.
- Media Consumers: Those who frequently watch videos, stream content, and play games on their phones will appreciate the higher-resolution display and better audio.
- Power Users: Users who need faster charging and want to future-proof their devices.
- Users who want better selfies
- Those who prioritize faster performance over a more varied camera system.
Specific Use Cases:
- Samsung Galaxy M12: Ideal for daily use with basic functions, simple photography, and users with less demanding usage patterns. Good for users who enjoy taking portrait or macro photos.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G: Suited for resource-intensive tasks like gaming, video editing, streaming, and users who prioritize performance and immersive media consumption.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- Samsung Galaxy M12: Offers reasonable value for its price point, focusing on a varied camera system with a lower price.
- Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G: Provides a superior overall experience with better performance and modern features, justifying a slightly higher price point if those features are desired.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers to Consider:
- What is your budget? The Galaxy M12 will generally be cheaper.
- How important is performance? Do you prioritize smooth performance for multitasking and gaming, or is basic performance enough?
- What type of photography do you do most often? Do you prefer the versatility of depth and macro cameras, or is overall image quality a priority?
- How important are display and sound quality? Do you want a higher resolution display and higher quality audio?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Basic User on a Strict Budget: If budget is the primary concern and basic functionality is sufficient, the Samsung Galaxy M12 is a viable choice.
- Scenario 2: Performance-Oriented User: If smooth performance, immersive media consumption, and fast charging are essential, the Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G is the better option.
- Scenario 3: Photography Focused User: If you want a varied camera system with dedicated depth and macro cameras, and do not mind slightly lower overall performance, the Samsung Galaxy M12 is a solid choice.
My Choice
Given my understanding of smartphone technology and user needs, I would choose the Xiaomi Poco M4 Pro 5G. Here's why:
- Superior Performance: The Dimensity 810 chipset makes a significant difference in everyday usage, offering a smoother and more responsive experience. This is crucial for long-term satisfaction and handling resource-intensive tasks.
- Enhanced Media Experience: The 1080p display and superior audio features greatly enhance the experience of watching videos, playing games, and enjoying other media.
- Future-Proofing: With its modern connectivity (Wi-Fi ac, Bluetooth 5.1), better software and fast charging, the Poco M4 Pro 5G will likely perform better for longer.
- Overall Value: While it may cost slightly more, the Poco M4 Pro 5G offers a much better balance of features and performance for a modern smartphone.
While the Galaxy M12 offers some flexibility with its depth and macro lenses, the Poco M4 Pro 5G's better performance, higher quality display and audio, faster charging, and more modern software features give it an edge in the overall user experience. The Poco M4 Pro 5G is a superior option for most use cases.
