Galaxy A05s Vs iPhone 12

Galaxy A05s
Galaxy A05s
Starting at

Refurbished price:£89.00

Versus £129.00 new

See options
iPhone 12
iPhone 12
Starting at

Refurbished price:£141.00

Versus £649.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A05S (2023) and the Apple iPhone 12 (2020) represent two distinct eras and philosophies in the smartphone market. While the Galaxy A05S is a modern entry-level device designed for essential daily tasks, the iPhone 12 is a former flagship that continues to offer a high-end experience through its integrated software and hardware. These devices cater to different user needs, with the Galaxy focusing on a large viewing area and long battery life, while the iPhone prioritises a compact design, high-quality display technology, and a mature operating system ecosystem.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy A05S and iPhone 12 offer different perspectives on longevity and software support based on their release timelines and manufacturer policies. The iPhone 12, despite being released several years earlier, benefits from Apple's long-term update policy, which typically provides major software versions for six to seven years. This means the device is expected to remain compatible with the latest apps and security features for a significant period. The Galaxy A05S is a much newer release, ensuring it starts its lifecycle with modern hardware standards, though entry-level Android devices often receive a more limited number of major operating system upgrades compared to flagship models.

  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 12 is likely to receive official updates until 2026 or 2027, whereas the Galaxy A05S will receive security patches for several years but fewer major version changes.
  • Physical Build: The iPhone 12 features a glass and aluminium construction with high water and dust resistance, while the Galaxy A05S uses a durable plastic build that is resilient against drops but lacks formal water resistance ratings.
  • Repairability: Both devices have widely available replacement parts, though the Galaxy A05S features a more straightforward internal layout that may simplify certain common repairs like screen or battery replacements.

Year of Release

2023

2020

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

When comparing how these devices handle daily activities, the differences in their internal capabilities become apparent through responsiveness and efficiency. The iPhone 12 is designed to provide a smooth and responsive experience even when running demanding applications or multitasking between several heavy programmes. It remains highly capable for mobile gaming and high-definition video editing. The Galaxy A05S is optimised for reliability during standard usage, such as browsing the internet, using social media, and streaming content. While it handles these tasks efficiently, users may notice a difference in speed when launching large applications or processing complex data.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 12 offers near-instant app launches and fluid transitions, while the Galaxy A05S provides a steady performance suitable for general productivity and communication.
  • Battery Life: The Galaxy A05S features a large internal battery that can comfortably last through two days of moderate use, whereas the iPhone 12 typically requires a daily charge, especially for active users.
  • Multitasking: With its efficient memory management, the iPhone 12 keeps background apps ready for use, while the Galaxy A05S is better suited for focusing on one or two primary tasks at a time.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on these two smartphones is shaped by different display technologies and physical sizes that impact media consumption. The Galaxy A05S boasts a 6.7-inch screen, which is ideal for users who enjoy a larger canvas for watching videos or reading long articles. It also includes a higher refresh rate, which makes the movement of content on the screen appear more fluid when scrolling through feeds. The iPhone 12 uses a 6.1-inch display that, while smaller, utilises OLED technology. This allows for much deeper blacks and more vibrant colours, as each pixel can be controlled individually, providing a more immersive experience for high-quality media.

  • Display Technology: The iPhone 12 features an OLED panel with exceptional contrast and colour accuracy, while the Galaxy A05S uses an LCD panel that provides natural colours and good visibility.
  • Motion Smoothness: The Galaxy A05S includes a 90Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations, whereas the iPhone 12 operates at a standard 60Hz rate.
  • Outdoor Visibility: Both screens offer sufficient brightness for most environments, though the iPhone 12's display technology often provides better clarity when viewed under direct sunlight.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1170 x 2532

Audiovisual

Photography and media consumption are handled differently by each device, reflecting their original positions in the market. The iPhone 12 features a dual-camera system that is well-regarded for its consistency and natural colour reproduction in various lighting conditions. It is particularly strong in video recording, offering stable and clear footage for social media or personal memories. The Galaxy A05S uses a triple-camera setup with a high-resolution main sensor that captures detailed images in bright outdoor settings. It also includes dedicated lenses for close-up photography and depth effects, though it lacks the ultra-wide perspective found on the iPhone.

  • Camera Versatility: The iPhone 12 includes an ultra-wide lens for capturing expansive landscapes, while the Galaxy A05S focuses on high-detail main shots and macro photography.
  • Video and Audio: The iPhone 12 supports high-quality video formats and features stereo speakers for a balanced audio experience, while the Galaxy A05S provides clear mono or stereo output depending on the content.
  • Low-Light Performance: The iPhone 12 includes advanced processing for night-time photos, resulting in clearer images with less noise compared to the Galaxy A05S in similar conditions.

Front camera

13 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical features and connectivity also distinguish these two models in terms of daily convenience and future readiness. The iPhone 12 was one of the first to introduce 5G connectivity to its line, allowing for faster mobile data speeds where networks are available. It also uses FaceID for secure unlocking and supports MagSafe for easy attachment of wireless chargers and accessories. The Galaxy A05S is a 4G-only device, which is sufficient for most current mobile needs, and it includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick access. Notably, the Galaxy model retains a traditional headphone jack and uses a standard USB-C port for charging and data transfer.

  • Connectivity: The iPhone 12 supports 5G for future-proof mobile data, while the Galaxy A05S relies on established 4G LTE networks.
  • Security and Sensors: The iPhone 12 uses facial recognition for security, whereas the Galaxy A05S provides a physical fingerprint reader integrated into the power button.
  • Physical Handling: The iPhone 12 is lighter and more compact, making it easier to use with one hand, while the Galaxy A05S's larger dimensions are better suited for two-handed use and media viewing.

Weight

194 g

164 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.1

Mobile network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

User feedback from various online communities suggests that the iPhone 12 remains a popular choice for those who value a premium feel and a reliable camera in a compact size. Many users appreciate the continued software support and the overall speed of the device even years after its release. However, some note that the battery capacity is smaller than modern standards, which may be a consideration for those away from a charger for long periods. The Galaxy A05S is frequently praised for its impressive battery life and large, clear display, making it a favourite for users who prioritise media consumption and long-term endurance over high-end gaming or 5G speeds.

When deciding between these two, users who prioritise a high-quality OLED screen, 5G connectivity, and a compact design will likely find the iPhone 12 more aligned with their needs. Conversely, those who prefer a much larger screen for reading and video, along with a battery that can last multiple days, may find the Galaxy A05S to be the more practical choice. For those looking to make a sustainable choice, a quality-assured refurbished option provides a way to access these features while reducing electronic waste. Whether you choose the expansive Galaxy or the compact iPhone, opting for a refurbished device ensures you receive a thoroughly tested product that fits your lifestyle and supports a more circular economy.

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