Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G and the Realme 12 Pro. It’s a fascinating matchup, pitting a foldable marvel against a more traditional smartphone. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed decision.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G | Realme 12 Pro | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Form Factor | Foldable | Standard | The Z Fold3 offers a unique tablet-like experience when unfolded, while the Realme 12 Pro is a traditional phone. |
| Dimensions | 158.2 × 128.1 × 6.4 mm | 161.5 × 74 × 8.8 mm | Z Fold3 is significantly wider when unfolded; Realme 12 Pro is taller and thicker, with the Z Fold 3 being larger in overall volume. |
| Weight | 271g | 190g | Realme 12 Pro is much lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use, while the Fold3 feels substantial and heavy. |
| Display | |||
| Main Size | 7.6" | 6.7" | Z Fold3 offers a larger screen, ideal for multitasking and media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1768x2208 | 1080x2412 | Z Fold3 has a noticeably sharper display with more pixels overall. |
| Pixel Density | 374 ppi | 394 ppi | Realme 12 Pro has a slightly sharper display based on pixel density despite the lower resolution. |
| Technology | Unknown | AMOLED | Realme 12 Pro’s AMOLED display offers better contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colors. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 950 nits | Realme 12 Pro is significantly brighter, offering superior visibility in sunny conditions. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 888 5G (5nm) | Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 (4nm) | Z Fold3’s chipset is older but more powerful based on benchmark scores. The Realme 12 Pro uses a more efficient but less powerful chipset |
| Antutu Score | 898,700 | 574,000 | Z Fold3 scores significantly higher, offering better performance in demanding tasks and games. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Adreno 710 | Different GPU configurations, with Adreno 660 in the Fold3 offering more graphical processing power based on its benchmark score but is older. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4400mAh | 5000mAh | Realme 12 Pro’s larger battery offers the potential for longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 67W Fast Charging | Realme 12 Pro charges much faster, reducing the amount of time you spend plugged in. |
| Features | Wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, bypass charging | Non-removable | Z Fold3 offers wireless charging, reverse wireless charging and bypass charging |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Realme 12 Pro has a higher resolution sensor for more detailed shots. The Z Fold3 has larger individual pixels, which should translate to better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2 | 16MP, f/2.4 | Realme 12 Pro has a higher resolution, while the Z Fold3 has a slightly wider aperture. |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP, f/2.4 | 32MP, f/2.0 | Realme 12 Pro offers better zoom quality and better low light performance due to wider aperture. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 13MP, f/2.2 | Not included | Z Fold3 has a dedicated wide-angle lens; Realme 12 Pro doesn't offer this but it offers a wide angle + macro in a single sensor. |
| Wide Angle + Macro Lens | Not included | 8MP, f/2.2 | The Realme 12 Pro has a dedicated wide-angle+macro lens while the Z Fold3 doesn't. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR, EIS | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Z Fold3 records up to 4k at 60fps with HDR and EIS; Realme 12 Pro can record up to 4k at 30fps with EIS. |
| DXoMark | Mobile: 120, Selfie: 83 | Not tested | Z Fold3 has been tested and rated, while the Realme 12 Pro lacks camera testing scores. |
| Additional Camera Features | Manual Focus, Laser AF, Laser autofocus (LAF), Dual front camera, Under display camera, RAW, Night Mode | Not included | Z Fold3 has many additional professional level features when using its camera. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G Strengths:
- Unique Foldable Design: Its transformative display offers a tablet-like experience and enhances multitasking.
- Strong Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chip still delivers robust processing power, though it's not the latest.
- Versatile Cameras: A comprehensive camera system, including a wide-angle lens and professional-level features, plus it has the additional capability of an under-display camera.
- Premium Build: High-quality materials and construction give it a luxurious feel.
- Advanced Features: Includes wireless charging, reverse wireless charging, and bypass charging.
Realme 12 Pro Strengths:
- Modern Design: Sleek, lightweight, and more pocketable, making it comfortable to carry.
- Superior Display Technology: The AMOLED screen offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, and its brightness is significantly higher.
- Fast Charging: 67W charging is incredibly fast, a huge plus for busy users.
- Better battery: Larger capacity providing longer usage in general.
- Excellent Telephoto Lens: Enhanced zoom quality with a wider aperture for low-light photography.
- Latest Software: Runs on the newest Android version, with potential for future updates.
Trade-Offs and Limitations
- Z Fold3: Heavy and bulky, less pocket-friendly, older chipset, and lower brightness which will make outdoor visibility in bright sunlight more difficult.
- Realme 12 Pro: Lacks a wide-angle lens, and while the processor is efficient, it is less powerful overall in terms of benchmark scores. It also lacks features like wireless charging and bypass charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G:
- Ideal for: Power users, multitaskers, media enthusiasts, professionals who need a pocketable tablet, tech enthusiasts who appreciate cutting-edge design.
- Use Cases: Reading, video conferencing, multitasking between apps, editing documents on the go, watching movies, enjoying gaming.
- Strengths for This User: The unique form factor, ample screen real estate, versatile camera system.
Realme 12 Pro:
- Ideal for: Everyday users, photography enthusiasts, users who prioritize battery life and a lighter form factor.
- Use Cases: General daily use, social media browsing, capturing photos and videos, long phone calls, extended gaming, those that need a bright screen for outdoor use.
- Strengths for This User: Lightweight design, outstanding camera, superior display brightness, fast charging, newer OS.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to ask yourself:
- Do you need a large screen for multitasking and content consumption? If yes, the Z Fold3 is better suited for you.
- Is battery life, a lightweight design and fast charging a priority for your day-to-day usage? If yes, then the Realme 12 Pro is a better fit.
- Are you willing to compromise on a slightly older chipset for the sake of a unique and versatile design? If yes, then the Z Fold3 is your option. However, if you prefer a more modern experience, the Realme 12 Pro is preferable.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- For the Media Creator: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 is great due to its powerful processor and under-display camera. It excels in multimedia consumption.
- For the Busy Professional: The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 with its large screen and powerful chipset allows for multitasking and on the go work.
- For The Everyday User: The Realme 12 Pro offers a well-rounded experience, with its bright AMOLED display, fast charging, and capable camera system.
Final Decision
If I were choosing between these two, I would personally go with the Realme 12 Pro. While the Galaxy Z Fold3 is an amazing piece of technology with its foldable screen and powerful processor, the Realme 12 Pro offers a more practical and modern experience for my daily needs. The Realme's bright AMOLED display is something I would greatly appreciate, especially in outdoor conditions. Its fast charging and lighter design would also make it a very convenient daily driver. I also feel that the Realme 12 Pro's camera would be more suited for a photographer enthusiast with a powerful telephoto lens. And finally, having the latest Android OS would be a great plus point.
