Galaxy A04S Vs iPhone 12

Galaxy A04S
Galaxy A04S
Starting at

Refurbished price:£99.00

Versus £179.00 new

See options
iPhone 12
iPhone 12
Starting at

Refurbished price:£141.00

Versus £649.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A04s, released in 2022, and the Apple iPhone 12, launched in 2020, represent distinct approaches to the modern smartphone experience. While the Galaxy A04s is designed as a practical, everyday device with a focus on longevity and essential features, the iPhone 12 was built as a high-performance flagship that introduced several modern standards to the mobile market. These devices run on different ecosystems—Android and iOS respectively—offering distinct user interfaces and software experiences tailored to different types of mobile users.

Scores

Durability

The two devices offer different perspectives on longevity, influenced by their release dates and the software support policies of their respective manufacturers.

  • Software Support: The iPhone 12, despite being the older model, typically benefits from Apple's long-term update cycle, which often provides security and feature updates for six to seven years from the launch date. The Galaxy A04s, while newer, follows a more modest update schedule common for entry-level devices, usually receiving security patches for a few years.
  • Build and Repair: The iPhone 12 features a glass and aluminium construction with a specialised ceramic shield for drop protection, whereas the Galaxy A04s uses a sturdy plastic unibody that is resilient against minor impacts. In terms of repair, the Galaxy's simpler internal layout often makes screen or battery replacements more straightforward for technicians compared to the more integrated components of the iPhone.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users can expect both devices to remain functional for several years, though the iPhone's more powerful internals may help it feel responsive for a longer period as apps become more demanding over time.

Year of Release

2022

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

When comparing how these phones handle daily tasks, the difference lies between consistent high-speed responsiveness and steady, basic functionality.

  • Daily Responsiveness: The iPhone 12 is designed to handle intensive multitasking, high-end mobile gaming, and demanding creative apps without hesitation. In contrast, the Galaxy A04s is better suited for standard activities like web browsing, social media, and messaging, where it maintains a reliable but more deliberate pace during app transitions.
  • Battery Endurance: The Galaxy A04s prioritises staying power, featuring a large battery capacity that can easily last through two days of moderate use. The iPhone 12 focuses on efficiency but generally requires a daily charge, especially for users who frequently use navigation or video streaming services.
  • Storage Flexibility: While the iPhone 12 offers fixed internal storage options that cannot be expanded, the Galaxy A04s includes a dedicated slot for memory cards, allowing users to significantly increase their storage space for photos and offline media as their needs grow.

Memory (GB)

3 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience on these devices is shaped by different technologies, with one focusing on colour accuracy and the other on motion smoothness.

  • Display Technology: The iPhone 12 uses an advanced OLED panel that provides deep blacks, high contrast, and vibrant colours, making it excellent for watching high-definition films. The Galaxy A04s utilises a standard LCD screen which offers natural colours and good visibility for everyday reading and navigation.
  • Motion and Smoothness: The Galaxy A04s features a higher refresh rate, which makes scrolling through lists and menus appear smoother to the eye. The iPhone 12 maintains a standard refresh rate but compensates with high resolution and pixel density, resulting in sharp text and fine details.
  • Size and Comfort: With a 6.5-inch display, the Galaxy A04s provides a larger canvas for video content, while the 6.1-inch iPhone 12 is more compact, making it easier to operate with one hand for users who prefer a more pocketable device.

Resolution

720 x 1600

1170 x 2532

Screen type

PLS LCD

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Photography and media consumption are handled differently by each device, reflecting their original positions in the market.

  • Camera Versatility: The iPhone 12 features a dual-camera system that includes an ultra-wide lens, perfect for capturing expansive landscapes or group shots in tight spaces. The Galaxy A04s opts for a triple-lens setup that includes a dedicated macro sensor for close-up photography, though it lacks the wide-angle perspective found on the iPhone.
  • Image and Video Quality: In various lighting conditions, the iPhone 12 produces detailed images with consistent exposure and is widely recognised for its stable, high-quality video recording. The Galaxy A04s performs well in bright daylight, capturing clear 50-megapixel photos that are ideal for sharing on social platforms.
  • Audio Experience: For media playback, the iPhone 12 includes stereo speakers that provide a more immersive soundstage for music and movies. The Galaxy A04s uses a single speaker but retains a traditional headphone jack, allowing users to easily connect wired earphones without needing an adapter.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

5 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond the core specs, several practical features influence how these phones fit into a user's daily routine.

  • Connectivity Standards: The iPhone 12 supports 5G networks, enabling faster download speeds and better performance in crowded areas where 5G is available. The Galaxy A04s is limited to 4G connectivity, which remains reliable for standard internet use but lacks the future-proofing of the newer network standard.
  • Security and Access: Users of the iPhone 12 utilise facial recognition technology for secure unlocking and payments, which is integrated deeply into the software experience. The Galaxy A04s features a physical fingerprint sensor built into the power button, offering a tactile and quick way to access the device.
  • Physical Design: The iPhone 12 is notably thinner and lighter, featuring flat edges that provide a secure grip. The Galaxy A04s is slightly thicker and heavier due to its larger battery, with rounded edges that sit comfortably in the palm during extended use.

Weight

195 g

164 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.1

Mobile network

4G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

The choice between the Galaxy A04s and the iPhone 12 often comes down to a user's specific daily requirements and software preferences. According to community discussions, the iPhone 12 is frequently praised for its enduring speed and high-quality video capabilities, though some users note that its battery life can be limiting during heavy use. On the other hand, the Galaxy A04s receives positive remarks for its exceptional battery endurance and expandable storage, though performance can lag when running multiple complex applications simultaneously.

Users who prioritise a high-quality display, fast 5G connectivity, and a compact design will likely find the iPhone 12 to be the better fit. Conversely, those who need a device that lasts for days on a single charge and prefer a headphone jack may lean towards the Galaxy A04s. Choosing a quality-assured refurbished option for either model is a sustainable choice that helps reduce electronic waste. Ultimately, both devices serve their intended audiences well, offering a clear path toward making an informed decision that balances personal needs with environmental considerations.

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