1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 164.8 × 77.2 × 8.1 mm | 161.5 × 74 × 8.8 mm | Note20 Ultra is slightly larger and thinner. Realme 12 Pro is more compact and a bit thicker. |
| Weight | 208g | 190g | Realme 12 Pro is lighter, potentially more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Note20 Ultra offers superior screen protection against scratches and drops. Realme 12 Pro screen protection is unknown, which is a risk. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.9" | 6.7" | Note20 Ultra provides a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1440x3088 | 1080x2412 | Note20 Ultra has a significantly sharper and more detailed display, improving visual clarity. |
| PPI | 496 | 394 | Note20 Ultra has noticeably sharper text and images. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, typical of AMOLED displays. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations, enhancing the user experience. |
| Brightness | 1500 nits | 950 nits | Note20 Ultra is significantly brighter, offering better visibility in direct sunlight. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 990 (7 nm+) - Global | Qualcomm SM6450 Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4 nm) | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 is more power efficient. |
| AnTuTu Score | 666,551 | 574,000 | Note20 Ultra offers better overall performance, especially in demanding applications. |
| GPU | Mali-G77 MP11 - Global | Adreno 710 | Note20 Ultra's GPU is better for graphically intensive tasks like gaming. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.8, 1/1.33" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2" | Note20 Ultra captures more detail and has better low-light performance due to larger sensor. |
| Telephoto Lens | 13MP, f/3.0, 1/3.4" | 32MP, f/2.0, 1/2.74" | Realme 12 Pro offers better zoom capabilities due to higher resolution and wider aperture. |
| Ultrawide Lens | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/7.6" | Not Available | Note20 Ultra provides ultrawide shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2" | 16MP, f/2.4 | Realme 12 Pro captures more detailed selfies in good lighting. |
| Macro Lens | Not Available | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8" (Wide Angle + Macro) | Realme 12 Pro can take close-up macro shots. |
| Video | 8K@24fps | 4K@30fps | Note20 Ultra can record higher resolution videos. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme 12 Pro likely offers longer battery life. |
| Charging | 45W | 67W | Realme 12 Pro charges faster. |
| Features | Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging | None | Note20 Ultra offers more versatile charging options. |
Other
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 10 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | Realme 12 Pro has a newer Android version. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Limited to internal storage, consider storage needs carefully. |
| eSIM | Yes | No | Note20 Ultra offers more flexibility with carrier options. |
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Realme 12 Pro has better audio playback due to Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers and 2 microphones. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and brightness provide a sharper, more vibrant viewing experience, especially outdoors.
- Better Performance: Stronger chipset and GPU provide better performance for gaming and demanding apps, though the performance gap is closing over time with software updates.
- More Versatile Camera System: Offers a wider range of camera features, including 8K video recording, ultrawide lens, and more advanced camera software features.
- Wireless Charging: Supports both fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, offering added convenience.
- eSIM Support: Allows for using two phone numbers without needing two physical SIM cards.
- Build Quality: Better screen protection.
Practical Implications:
- The Note20 Ultra is better for users who prioritize a premium visual experience, mobile gaming, and versatile photography/videography.
Realme 12 Pro Advantages:
- Longer Battery Life: Larger battery capacity ensures all-day battery life for most users.
- Faster Charging: 67W charging allows for quick top-ups, minimizing downtime.
- Newer Software: Ships with a newer version of Android, though software update lifespan should be considered.
- Better Telephoto Lens: Better zoom capabilities for distant subjects.
- Macro Lens: Can take close-up macro shots
- Lighter Weight: Comfortable for extended use.
- Better Audio: Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation microphone, Stereo Speakers and 2 microphones
Practical Implications:
- The Realme 12 Pro is better for users who prioritize battery life, faster charging, and a more modern software experience.
Trade-offs:
- Choosing the Note20 Ultra means sacrificing battery life and faster charging for a better display, camera, and performance.
- Choosing the Realme 12 Pro means sacrificing display quality, camera versatility, and performance for longer battery life and faster charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G:
- Ideal User:
- Power users who demand high performance for gaming and productivity.
- Photography enthusiasts who want a versatile camera system.
- Users who consume a lot of media and appreciate a high-quality display.
- Use Cases:
- Mobile gaming at high settings.
- Shooting high-resolution photos and videos.
- Watching movies and streaming content.
Realme 12 Pro:
- Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize battery life and fast charging.
- Users who want a modern software experience.
- Users who want great value for their money.
- Use Cases:
- All-day use without needing to recharge frequently.
- Quickly topping up the battery before heading out.
- Everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and communication.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions to Consider:
- What is your budget? The older Note20 Ultra 5G can sometimes be found at competitive prices but the original price was significantly higher.
- How important is battery life to you? If you need all-day battery life, the Realme 12 Pro is the better choice.
- What do you use your phone's camera for? If you need a versatile camera system with ultrawide and high-resolution video, the Note20 Ultra is better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gaming Enthusiast: Choose the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G for its superior performance and display.
- Scenario 2: All-Day User: Choose the Realme 12 Pro for its longer battery life and faster charging.
- Scenario 3: Budget-Conscious Buyer: The Realme 12 Pro offers a better value proposition with its modern features and lower price.
My Choice:
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G. While the Realme 12 Pro offers a longer battery life and faster charging, the Note20 Ultra 5G's superior display, more versatile camera system, and higher performance are more important to me. I prioritize a premium visual experience and the ability to capture high-quality photos and videos, which the Note20 Ultra 5G delivers exceptionally well. The inclusion of wireless charging and eSIM support are also valuable additions that enhance the overall user experience.
