1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 161.6 × 75.2 × 8.3 mm | 161.8 × 74.2 × 8.6 mm | Virtually identical size; A96 slightly thicker but likely unnoticeable. |
| Weight | 192g | 193.9g | Virtually identical weight; no practical difference. |
| Build Quality (Screen) | Corning Gorilla Glass 6 | Unknown | Note20 5G offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops. A96 screen protection is unknown. |
| Security | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Blackview A96 features a more advanced side-mounted fingerprint sensor; Provides basic biometric security. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | Note20 5G has a slightly larger screen, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2400 | Identical sharpness; both screens will appear equally crisp. |
| PPI | 393 | 405 | Virtually identical pixel density, virtually identical image detail. |
| Technology | AMOLED | IPS LCD | Note20 5G's AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency, especially with dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | A96's 120Hz provides noticeably smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Assuming values are invalid. Without the actual brightness, it's impossible to know which screen will be more visible outdoors. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 990 (7 nm+) - Global | Mediatek Helio G99 (6 nm) | Exynos 990 offers slightly better overall performance and faster app loading times based on benchmark scores. |
| AnTuTu Score | 515,090 | 423,393 | Note20 5G has faster performance for demanding games and applications. |
| GPU | Mali-G77 MP11 - Global | Mali-G57 MC2 | Note20 5G's GPU provides better graphics performance for gaming and video editing. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 8 GB or 12 GB | Blackview A96 configuration with 12 GB RAM allows for smoother multitasking and handling of more apps simultaneously. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76" sensor | 48MP, f/1.6, 1/2" sensor | A96's higher megapixel count allows for more detailed photos in good lighting. Note20 5G's larger sensor could lead to better low-light performance. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72" sensor | None | Note20 5G offers optical zoom capabilities for capturing distant subjects with more detail. |
| Ultrawide Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" sensor | 8MP, f/2.4 | Note20 5G's ultrawide lens captures more detail and potentially better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.0, 1/3.2" sensor | 16MP, 1/3" sensor | A96's selfie camera might produce slightly more detailed selfies. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 1440p@30fps | Note20 5G allows for professional-grade video recording with higher resolution and frame rates. |
| Features | OIS, EIS, Optical Zoom, RAW, Night Mode, Laser AF | PDAF, Front Flash | Note20 5G offers superior video stabilization, better zoom capabilities, and more advanced shooting modes. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4300mAh | 4380mAh | Virtually identical battery capacity, should offer comparable battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 18W Fast Charging | Note20 5G charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (15W) | No | Note20 5G allows for convenient wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging, Fast Qi/PMA wireless charging, 9W reverse wireless charging | Non-removable | More convenience with the Note 20 5G |
Software
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| OS | Android 10 (Upgradable to 13) | Android 13 | A96 has a more recent version of Android, potentially offering better security and features, but Note20 5G is also running 13 so they are the same. |
Connectivity
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Note20 5G supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi connections. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE | 5.0 | Similar Bluetooth performance. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | Note20 5G provides slightly better GPS accuracy with more satellite support. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano/eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano + Nano) | Note20 5G offers more flexibility with eSIM support. |
Storage
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal | 128GB or 256GB | 256GB | A96 comes standard with 256GB. Note20 5G offers either 128GB or 256GB depending on configuration. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage, so choose the storage option that fits your needs. |
Audio
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G | Blackview A96 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Stereo Speakers | Both provide good sound quality. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED technology offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency.
- Better Performance: Exynos 990 chipset offers faster app loading, smoother operation, and better graphics for gaming.
- Advanced Camera System: Telephoto lens with optical zoom, OIS, and 8K video recording provide more versatility and higher-quality results.
- Faster Charging & Wireless Charging: 25W fast charging and wireless charging offer convenience and reduced downtime.
- Wi-Fi 6: Supports faster and more efficient Wi-Fi connections.
- eSIM Support: Adds flexibility for carrier switching.
- Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass 6 provides better scratch and drop resistance.
- Audio Quality: Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus offers enhanced spatial audio, enhanced surround sound.
Blackview A96 Advantages:
- Higher Refresh Rate: 120Hz display provides a smoother visual experience.
- Potentially More RAM: 12GB RAM configuration may offer better multitasking capabilities.
- Newer Android Version: Ships with Android 13 out of the box, potentially offering better security and features.
- Front Flash: Good for selfies.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Note20 5G: Older phone released in 2020.
- Blackview A96: Unknown screen protection.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G Ideal User:
- Content Creators: Benefits from 8K video recording, OIS, and telephoto lens.
- Media Consumers: Enjoys the vibrant AMOLED display for movies and videos.
- Power Users: Demands smooth performance and multitasking capabilities.
Blackview A96 Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious Users: Looking for a modern Android experience at a lower price point.
- Casual Gamers: Appreciates the smoother 120Hz display.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: Similar battery capacity with lower power requirements.
Use Cases:
- Note20 5G: Professional photography/videography, gaming, media consumption.
- Blackview A96: Everyday use, social media browsing, casual gaming.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The Galaxy Note20 5G has been out for a few years so, depending on the price, it might offer great value, but you have to consider that this phone is old.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is my budget? The Blackview A96 will likely be the more affordable option.
- How important is camera quality and features to me? If you need excellent photo and video capabilities, the Note20 5G is the better choice.
- Do I prioritize a smoother display or a more vibrant screen? The A96 offers a 120Hz refresh rate, while the Note20 5G has an AMOLED panel.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Professional photographer/videographer - Choose Note20 5G for its superior camera system.
- Scenario 2: Budget-conscious user wanting a smooth experience - Choose Blackview A96 for its 120Hz display.
- Scenario 3: General user wanting a good all-around phone - Consider both phones based on price and availability, weighing the advantages of each.
My Choice
If both phones were the same price, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G. Despite its older age, the superior display technology (AMOLED), faster performance (Exynos 990), and more versatile camera system (telephoto lens, 8K video) are more important to me. The added features like wireless charging, better screen protection, and higher-end audio quality also contribute to a better overall user experience. However, if the price difference is significant, the Blackview A96 offers good value for its smoother display and newer Android version.
