Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G vs Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G - Detailed Phone Comparison

Detailed Comparison

Specification

General

Launch Date August 27, 2021 September 1, 2021
Release Year 2021 2021

Physical

Volume 82.7 cm³ 100.87 cm³
Screen Size to Weight Ratio 3.66 "/g 3.44 "/g
Weight 183 g 189 g
Height 166 mm 159.9 mm
Width 72.2 mm 75.1 mm
Thickness 6.9 mm 8.4 mm
Foldable Design Yes No
Available Colors
  • White
  • Green
  • Phantom Black
  • Pink
  • Gray
  • Thom Browne Edition
  • Wooyoungmi Edition
  • Lavender
  • Cream
  • Bespoke Edition
  • Dream White
  • Awesome Black
  • Awesome White
  • Awesome Purple
  • Awesome Mint

Display

Screen Size 6.7 " 6.5 "
Resolution 1080 x 2640 1080 x 2400
Aspect Ratio 22:9 20:9
Screen-to-Body Ratio 84.7 % 84.9 %
Pixel Density 426 PPI 405 PPI
Refresh Rate 120 Hz 120 Hz
Typical Brightness N/A N/A
HBM Brightness N/A 800 nits
Peak Brightness 1200 nits N/A

Hardware

Battery Capacity per Screen Area 73.51 mAh/in² 106.51 mAh/in²
Battery Density 39.9 mAh/cm³ 44.61 mAh/cm³
Battery Capacity 3300 mAh 4500 mAh
NFC Support Yes Yes
Chipset Qualcomm SM8350 Snapdragon 888 5G (5 nm) Qualcomm SM7325 Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm)
CPU Octa-core (1x2.84 GHz Cortex-X1 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) Octa-core (1x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 3x2.2 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x1.9 GHz Cortex-A55)
GPU Adreno 660 Adreno 642L

Connectivity

USB Version 2.0 2.0
OTG Support 1 1
DisplayPort
DisplayPort Version N/A N/A
USB Features USB Type-C 2.0, OTG USB Type-C 2.0, OTG

Software

Operating System Android Android
Initial OS Version 11 11
Maximum OS Version 14 14

Comparison Summary

Okay, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G and the Galaxy A52s 5G. We’ve got a foldable marvel going up against a solid mid-ranger, and the differences go far beyond just the form factor. I’ll break it all down for you, focusing on what these specs mean in your day-to-day life.

1. Specifications Breakdown

Here's a detailed look at how these two Samsung devices stack up, with an emphasis on real-world implications:

FeatureSamsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5GSamsung Galaxy A52s 5GReal-World Implications
DESIGN
Form FactorFoldableStandardZ Flip3 offers unique portability and novelty; A52s has conventional ease of use.
Dimensions166 x 72.2 x 6.9 mm (Unfolded)159.9 x 75.1 x 8.4 mmZ Flip3 is taller, narrower, and thinner (when unfolded); A52s is wider and thicker. Folded Flip3 is much more compact.
Weight183g189gZ Flip3 is slightly lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use.
DISPLAY
Size6.7"6.5"Z Flip3 provides a slightly larger screen for media consumption.
Resolution1080 x 26401080 x 2400Z Flip3 has a marginally higher resolution, meaning slightly sharper visuals.
PPI426405Z Flip3 offers slightly greater pixel density, resulting in finer details.
TechnologyAMOLEDA52s delivers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency with its AMOLED screen.
Refresh Rate120Hz120HzBoth offer smooth scrolling and animations.
Brightness1200 nits800 nitsZ Flip3's higher brightness ensures better visibility in sunny conditions.
PERFORMANCE
ChipsetSnapdragon 888 5G (5 nm)Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm)Z Flip3 has a more powerful processor for demanding tasks, faster app loading and smoother gameplay.
AnTuTu Score898,700570,752Z Flip3 offers significantly better performance for gaming and heavy multitasking.
GPUAdreno 660Adreno 642LZ Flip3 has a more powerful GPU, resulting in smoother graphics rendering.
BATTERY
Capacity3300mAh4500mAhA52s has a significantly larger battery, potentially offering longer battery life.
Charging15W Fast Charging, Li-Polymer25W Fast Charging, Li-IonA52s charges faster and may have improved longevity due to the better power handling of Li-Ion battery tech.
Battery FeaturesReverse ChargingNoneZ Flip3 can reverse charge other devices wirelessly; A52s does not offer this option.
CAMERA
Standard Lens12.2MP (f/1.8, 1/2.55", 1.40 µm)64MP (f/1.8, 1/1.7", 0.80 µm)A52s has much higher resolution with a bigger sensor.
Selfie Lens10MP (f/2.4, 1/3.2", 1.22 µm)32MP (f/2.0)A52s captures higher-resolution selfies with a wider aperture for better low-light shots.
Wide Angle Lens13MP (1/3.06", 1.12 µm)12MP (f/2.2)Comparable wide-angle capabilities.
Portrait (Depth)None5MP (f/2.4)A52s has dedicated depth sensor for improved portrait effects.
Macro LensNone5MP (f/2.4)A52s can capture detailed close-up shots.
VideoUp to 4K@60fps with HDRUp to 4K@30fps with EISZ Flip3 offers slightly higher frame rate in HDR and also offers 1080p@240fps and 720p@960fps. A52s features EIS for stabilized video.
DXOMark Score111 overall, 118 photo, 110 videoNot TestedZ Flip3 has been evaluated by DXOMark, offering a reference point for image quality. A52s is untested.
Camera FeaturesTracking AF, Dual cameraQuadruple Camera, Digital image stabilizationZ Flip3 has a very advanced autofocus system; A52s has more versatile multi-camera setup with digital image stabilization.
SOFTWARE
OSAndroid 11 (upgradable to 14)Android 11 (upgradable to 14)Both phones are running the same core software.
CONNECTIVITY
Wi-FiWi-Fi 6 with MiMOWi-Fi 6Z Flip3 has superior WiFi technology (faster speeds and bandwidth).
BluetoothBluetooth 5.1 LE, with aptX & ANT+Bluetooth 5.0Z Flip3 has the latest version of Bluetooth with a better selection of audio codecs and more versatility.
GPSGPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1) , BeiDou (B1) , Galileo (E1+E5a)GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, GalileoZ Flip3 offers more accurate location tracking with more comprehensive satellite support.
SIMDual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM)Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM)Z Flip3 has the flexibility of an eSIM. A52s allows two physical SIMs.
STORAGE
Internal128GB/256GB128GB/256GBBoth phones offer the same storage options.
RAM8GB6GB/8GBZ Flip3 is better equipped for multitasking. A52s has a base 6GB model, though 8GB option is available.
ExpandableNoNoNeither phone has expandable storage.
AUDIO
QualityStereo SpeakersDolby AtmosZ Flip3 offers a wider sound stage. A52s has more advanced sound processing.
SECURITY
FeaturesSide-mounted fingerprint sensorbasic fingerprint sensorZ Flip3's side-mounted fingerprint sensor allows for quick unlocking, while A52s has a more traditional sensor.
BUILD QUALITY
Screen ProtectionCorning Gorilla Glass VictusCorning Gorilla Glass 5Z Flip3's screen is more resistant to scratches and impact, offering improved durability.
SENSORS
Biometric: Fingerprint; Proximity: Proximity; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Environmental: BarometerBiometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtualZ Flip3 offers more comprehensive sensor suite, adding to functionality with altitude and air pressure. A52s utilizes a basic proximity sensor.

2. Key Insights

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G:

  • Strengths:
    • Unique Form Factor: The foldable design offers portability and a distinctive experience.
    • High-Performance Chipset: The Snapdragon 888 delivers superior performance for gaming and demanding apps.
    • Bright Display: The 1200-nit screen is ideal for outdoor use.
    • Advanced Features: Reverse charging, Tracking AF on camera, and MiMo WiFi support.
    • Premium Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus offers superior screen protection, which is ideal for the foldable mechanism.
  • Competitive Advantages:
    • Ideal for users who value cutting-edge technology and unique design.
    • Better for gaming, multitasking, and outdoor use due to processing power and brightness.
  • Trade-Offs:
    • Battery Life: Its battery is significantly smaller than the A52s, requiring more frequent charging.
    • Camera System: Lacks the versatility of the A52s, particularly with the omission of a macro and depth sensor.
    • Price: More expensive than the A52s.

Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G:

  • Strengths:
    • Excellent Battery Life: Larger battery provides all-day power.
    • Versatile Camera System: Dedicated macro and depth sensors offer more creative options.
    • Good Display: AMOLED technology provides superior contrast and colors.
    • Fast Charging: 25W charging gets you back up and running quickly.
  • Competitive Advantages:
    • Ideal for users who prioritize battery life, photography, and value.
    • Good all-around smartphone that offers great user experience.
  • Trade-Offs:
    • Performance: Snapdragon 778G is less powerful than the Z Flip3's chipset.
    • Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass 5 is good, but less durable than the Z Flip3's screen.
    • Less feature rich compared to Z Flip3.

3. User Profiles and Recommendations

  • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G:
    • Ideal For: Tech enthusiasts, early adopters, users who prioritize performance, unique design, and portability. Great for those who want a head-turning device.
    • Use Cases: High-end gaming, heavy multitasking, content creation, travel (compact and easy to carry).
  • Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G:
    • Ideal For: Practical users who prioritize battery life, versatile camera capabilities, and overall value for money. Good for the average smartphone user.
    • Use Cases: Everyday photography, social media, video streaming, travel, and users who need long battery life.

4. Buying Decision Framework

Here are three questions to consider when choosing between these two smartphones:

  1. Do you prioritize portability and unique design, even at the expense of battery life? If yes, the Z Flip3 is for you. If not, the A52s would be the better option.
  2. Are you a heavy gamer or someone who pushes their phone to its limits? If yes, the Z Flip3 with its more powerful chipset is the way to go. If not, the A52s will serve you well.
  3. Do you need a versatile camera system with macro and depth sensors? If yes, the A52s is a more capable photography tool. If not, the Z Flip3's primary cameras will still deliver good results.

Scenario-Based Recommendations:

  • The Tech Enthusiast: If you're a tech enthusiast who loves trying new things and wants a device that's ahead of the curve, the Z Flip3 is the clear choice.
  • The Photography Lover: If you're passionate about mobile photography and want a phone with a wide range of creative options and a fantastic screen for viewing, the A52s is the way to go.
  • The Practical User: If you need a reliable, all-around performer with excellent battery life, the A52s is the better value option.
  • The Gamer/Multitasker: If you need all the power you can get for the latest games or doing multiple things at once, the Z Flip3 is going to be smoother.
  • The Business Professional: If you want a compact yet powerful phone, with a large display for on the go work, the Z Flip3 offers a unique blend of style and power.

My Pick

Personally, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G. While I value the battery life of the A52s, the draw of the cutting-edge foldable technology and the superior performance of the Snapdragon 888 is just too compelling for a tech journalist and avid mobile gamer like me. The folding mechanism makes the phone extremely compact when on the go, making it easy to carry in pockets. Additionally, the brighter display and powerful processing makes this phone a joy to use. Although I would prefer the A52s camera system and its improved flexibility, I would still opt for the Z Flip3. In the end, the Z Flip3 feels like a step into the future.

Alex Griffin
Alex Griffin

Technology analyst specializing in mobile devices and consumer electronics.

Core Expertise

  • Mobile technology analysis
  • Consumer electronics evaluation
  • Technical specification interpretation
  • User experience insights

Professional Mission Empowering readers to make informed technology decisions by transforming intricate specifications into understandable, practical guidance.

Demystifying technology, one device at a time.