Smartphone Comparison: Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G vs. Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 164 × 75.8 × 8.9 mm | A12 Nacho is slightly taller and thicker, might feel less sleek. |
| Weight | 200g | 205g | S21+ 5G is slightly lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.5" | S21+ 5G has a larger display for immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2400 | 720 x 1600 | S21+ 5G displays sharper, clearer images and text. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 394 | 270 | S21+ 5G has a much sharper screen, leading to finer details. |
| Technology | AMOLED | PLS LCD | S21+ 5G has more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, better contrast, more power efficient. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 60Hz | S21+ 5G offers smoother scrolling and animations, better for gaming and fast-paced content. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | S21+ 5G is significantly better for outdoor visibility, easily readable in direct sunlight, A12 brightness is unknown. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | S21+ 5G is much faster and more efficient for demanding apps, gaming, and future-proofing. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 117,300 | S21+ 5G is drastically faster, offering smoother operation for intensive tasks, and better responsiveness. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G52 | S21+ 5G has better graphics performance, crucial for gaming and visual-heavy applications. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800 mAh | 5000 mAh | A12 Nacho has a slightly larger battery, potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 15W Fast Charging | S21+ 5G charges faster, reducing waiting time. |
| Battery Features | Reverse charging, Wireless charging 15W, Reverse wireless charging 4.5W, No charge in-box | Non-removable | S21+ 5G offers more charging options, flexibility and convenience. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8, 1/1.76", 1.8µm | 48MP, f/2.0 | A12 Nacho has higher resolution, S21+ has wider aperture, better low-light performance, details, and overall image quality |
| Telephoto + Portrait Camera | 64MP, f/2.0, 1/1.72", 0.8µm | N/A | S21+ 5G offers greater zoom capabilities and dedicated portrait shots |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2, 1/3.2", 1.22µm | 8MP, f/2.2 | S21+ 5G offers higher detail in selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | N/A | 5MP, f/2.0 | A12 Nacho offers wide angle camera for capturing more in the frame. |
| Portrait Mode (Depth) Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | A12 Nacho can capture more detailed portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | N/A | 2MP, f/2.4 | A12 Nacho offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Camera | 12.2MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55", 1.4µm | N/A | S21+ 5G offers both wide angle and macro capabilities in single lens |
| Video Recording | 8K@24fps, 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps | 1080p@30fps | S21+ 5G records significantly higher quality videos, more frame rate options, and smoother slow motion. |
| DXOMark Score | 111 (Mobile), 118 (Photo), 89 (Video) | N/A | S21+ 5G has a verified good camera performance. |
| Camera Features | 4K/8K Video, OIS, Optical Zoom, RAW, Night Mode | Autofocus, PDAF | S21+ 5G has more advanced camera features for high-quality results. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 15) | Android 11 (up to 13) | S21+ 5G is likely to get more android updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFI ac | S21+ 5G has faster and more stable Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 LE, aptX, ANT+ | 5.0 LE | S21+ 5G has more audio options, and better connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | Standard GPS | S21+ 5G has more precise location tracking. |
| SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ 5G can support eSIM cards. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256GB | 32/64/128GB | S21+ 5G has larger storage options. |
| RAM | 8GB | 3/4/6GB | S21+ 5G offers more RAM, leading to smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Noise cancellation mic, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos | S21+ 5G has better sound quality. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Basic | Side-mounted | A12 Nacho has more convenient fingerprint scanner. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Unknown | S21+ 5G has superior screen protection, less prone to scratches. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Accelerometer | S21+ 5G has a comprehensive sensor suite for advanced features and gaming. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Display: Significantly higher resolution, refresh rate, brightness, and AMOLED technology offer a much better viewing experience, especially outdoors.
- Much Faster Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides vastly superior processing power for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Advanced Camera System: Offers higher video quality, optical zoom, OIS, RAW support, and better overall image quality, especially in low light.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Supports WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 with additional codecs, more precise GPS, and eSIM.
- Premium Features: Includes wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, stereo speakers, Hi-Res Audio, and more sensors for advanced features.
- Better Build Quality: Gorilla Glass Victus offers improved screen protection against scratches and drops.
- More Software Updates: With Android up to 15, it is likely to get more android updates.
Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho Advantages:
- Marginally Larger Battery: Slightly larger battery capacity may offer slightly longer battery life.
- Dedicated Macro, Depth, and Wide Angle Lens: Offers versatile camera setup for creative photography.
- Side-Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: Provides a more convenient and ergonomic way to unlock the phone.
- Lower Price: More budget-friendly, suitable for users not needing high-end features.
Significant Trade-offs:
- S21+ 5G: Higher price, no in-box charger, no expandable storage.
- A12 Nacho: Significantly lower performance, less advanced display, inferior cameras, slower charging, and less software support.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Ideal Users:
- Power Users: Individuals who need top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Content Creators: Users who require high-quality video and photo capabilities.
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Those who prioritize a high-quality display, audio, and overall user experience for media consumption.
- Users Wanting Future Proofing: Individuals wanting more software updates.
Use Case Examples: High-graphic mobile gaming, professional photography/videography, streaming 4K content, seamless multitasking for work.
Samsung Galaxy A12 Nacho Ideal Users:
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users seeking a functional smartphone at a lower cost.
- Casual Users: Individuals with basic needs for browsing, social media, and light app usage.
- Users Prioritizing Battery Life: Those who want a phone that can last through the day.
- First-Time Smartphone Buyers: An entry-level phone for new users.
Use Case Examples: Basic browsing, social media, basic photography, communication, long battery life for day-long use.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The S21+ 5G is significantly more expensive than the A12 Nacho.
- How important is performance? If you need smooth performance for gaming or multitasking, the S21+ 5G is essential.
- What are my photography needs? If you need a versatile and high-quality camera, the S21+ 5G is the superior choice.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious Users: If your budget is tight, and you need a reliable device for basic tasks, the A12 Nacho offers good value.
- Performance-Focused Users: If you prioritize speed, gaming, and high-end features, the S21+ 5G is the only choice.
- Photography Enthusiasts: If you value high-quality photos and video with advanced features, the S21+ 5G is the clear winner.
- Basic Users: If you want to perform basic tasks, and long battery life is what you are looking for, go with A12 Nacho.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. The performance difference is significant. The S21+ 5G's superior display, processing power, camera capabilities, and overall premium experience make it a far more compelling option for most users. While the A12 Nacho might seem appealing due to its lower price and slightly larger battery, the compromises in performance, display quality, and camera are simply too significant for me. I prioritize a smoother, more responsive user experience, better photo and video quality, and future-proofing, which the S21+ 5G provides in spades. The lack of an in-box charger with the S21+ is a drawback, but it is a one-time expense that can be overcome, and the benefits of the device far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
