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, potentially less comfortable for smaller hands. Realme 12 Pro+ is thicker, might feel bulkier in pocket. |
| Weight | 208g | 196g | Realme 12 Pro+ is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build Quality (Screen Protection) | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | Note20 Ultra has superior screen protection against scratches and drops. |
Display
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.9" | 6.7" | Note20 Ultra offers a slightly larger viewing area, better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1440x3088 | 1080x2412 | Note20 Ultra has a significantly sharper display, resulting in crisper images and text. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 496 | 394 | Note20 Ultra's higher pixel density provides a noticeably clearer and more detailed viewing experience. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and gaming experiences. |
| Brightness (nits) | 1500 | 0 | Note20 Ultra has dramatically better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight. Missing Realme 12 Pro+ brightness. |
Performance
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Exynos 990 (7 nm+) - Global | Qualcomm SM7435-AB Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4 nm) | Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 is a newer architecture but real-world usage difference may be minor. |
| AnTuTu Score | 666,551 | 603,400 | Note20 Ultra has marginally better overall performance based on benchmarks. |
| GPU | Mali-G77 MP11 - Global | Adreno 710 | Gaming performance may vary; Note20 Ultra's GPU was top-tier at launch, but Adreno 710 is a modern mid-range GPU. |
Camera
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera Resolution | 108MP | 50MP | Note20 Ultra captures more detailed images in optimal lighting. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/1.33" | 1/1.56" | Note20 Ultra gathers more light, potentially better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera Resolution | 10MP | 32MP | Realme 12 Pro+ captures higher-resolution selfies with more detail. |
| Telephoto Lens Resolution | 13MP | 64MP | Realme 12 Pro+ captures higher-resolution zoomed photos |
| Telephoto Lens Aperture | f/3.0 | f/2.6 | Realme 12 Pro+ may perform better in low light when using the telephoto lens |
| Wide Angle Lens | Yes (12.2MP) | No | Note20 Ultra allows capturing wider scenes in photos. |
| Macro Lens | No | Yes (8MP) | Realme 12 Pro+ allows capturing detailed close-up photos. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | Note20 Ultra supports higher-resolution video recording for professional use. |
Battery
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | Realme 12 Pro+ likely offers longer battery life on a single charge. |
| Charging | 45W fast charging | 67W fast charging | Realme 12 Pro+ charges significantly faster. |
| Wireless Charging | Yes (Fast Qi/PMA, 9W reverse) | No | Note20 Ultra offers convenient wireless charging and reverse wireless charging for accessories. |
Other
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G | Realme 12 Pro+ | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Android 10 (upgradable to 13) | Android 14 | Realme 12 Pro+ has a more up-to-date OS and potentially longer software support. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both phones do not support expandable storage. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.2 | Realme 12 Pro+ has a newer Bluetooth version for potentially better connectivity and audio codec support. |
| Unique Features | S Pen Stylus | N/A | Note20 Ultra includes the S Pen stylus for enhanced productivity and creativity. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Higher resolution and brightness for sharper visuals and better outdoor visibility.
- S Pen Functionality: Enhanced productivity with the included stylus.
- Wireless Charging: Added convenience and reverse wireless charging capability.
- 8K Video Recording: Professional-grade video recording capabilities.
- Wider Angle lens: Greater versatility for landscape and group photos.
- Screen protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus is more drop resistant.
Realme 12 Pro+ Advantages:
- Newer Device: Released in 2024, potentially longer software support.
- Larger Battery: Likely provides longer battery life.
- Faster Charging: Significantly faster charging speeds.
- Higher Resolution Telephoto Lens: Better zoomed photos.
- Macro Lens: Enhanced capability for detail close up shots.
- Newer Bluetooth: Includes a newer bluetooth version.
Trade-offs:
- Note20 Ultra users trade newer software and longer battery life for a superior display and S Pen functionality.
- Realme 12 Pro+ users trade a higher-end display and stylus for a more modern device with a better battery.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G Ideal User:
- Power users who prioritize display quality and productivity features.
- Users who value the S Pen stylus for note-taking, drawing, and precise control.
- Photographers and videographers who need 8K video recording capabilities.
- Those who appreciate wireless charging and reverse wireless charging.
Use Cases:
- Professional tasks requiring detailed visuals and precise input (e.g., graphic design, photo editing).
- On-the-go note-taking and annotation during meetings or lectures.
- Outdoor photography and videography in bright sunlight.
Realme 12 Pro+ Ideal User:
- Users who prioritize battery life and fast charging.
- Those who want a more modern device with the latest software.
- Users who take a lot of selfies.
- Users who take a lot of zoom photos
Use Cases:
- All-day usage without needing to constantly worry about battery life.
- Gamers who need extended gaming sessions and quick charging.
- Users who want the latest Android features and security updates.
4. Decision Framework
Consider these questions to make the right choice:
- How important is display quality and brightness? If you prioritize a vibrant, sharp display and excellent outdoor visibility, the Note20 Ultra is the better choice.
- How much do you value battery life and charging speed? If you need all-day battery life and fast charging, the Realme 12 Pro+ is more suitable.
- Do you need the S Pen stylus? If you can benefit from the S Pen's productivity features, the Note20 Ultra is the clear winner.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For outdoor professionals (e.g., site surveyors, real estate agents): Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G (superior display visibility).
- For frequent travelers: Realme 12 Pro+ (longer battery life, fast charging).
- For creative professionals (e.g., designers, artists): Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G (S Pen, display quality).
- For budget-conscious users: Assuming similar pricing, Realme 12 Pro+ (newer device, better battery).
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would pick the Realme 12 Pro+. While I appreciate the superior display and S Pen functionality of the Note20 Ultra, the Realme 12 Pro+ offers a more modern package with better battery life, faster charging, and newer software. The higher resolution telephoto lense is also a plus, making it more appealing for my personal use.
