Galaxy A54 Vs iPhone 12

Galaxy A54
Galaxy A54
Starting at

Refurbished price:178.00

Versus €527.33 new

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iPhone 12
iPhone 12
Starting at

Refurbished price:174.00

Versus €829.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A54, released in March 2023, and the iPhone 12, launched in October 2020, represent distinct approaches to smartphone design and functionality. While the Galaxy A54 operates on Android, offering extensive customization, the iPhone 12 runs on Apple's iOS, known for its integrated ecosystem. Key differences lie in their display technology, camera capabilities, and overall software support timelines, catering to varying user preferences.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their respective release timelines and software support policies are important factors.

  • Release Timeline: The iPhone 12 was released in October 2020, making it an older device compared to the Galaxy A54, which launched in March 2023. This age difference directly impacts their remaining software support.
  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy A54 is expected to receive four major OS upgrades and five years of security updates, extending its support until 2027. The iPhone 12, having launched with iOS 14, has already received several major iOS updates and is expected to be compatible with iOS 26, released in 2025.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy A54 generally scores well in repairability, with some sources giving it a score of 6.25 out of 10, or even 8.4 under French environmental legislation, indicating a relatively straightforward repair process for common issues. The iPhone 12 received an iFixit repairability score of 6 out of 10, but some repairs, particularly for cameras and screens, may require proprietary software calibration, which can complicate independent repairs.

Year of Release

2023

2020

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from navigating applications to managing multiple processes simultaneously.

  • Storage Options: The Galaxy A54 offers configurations with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage and includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage up to 1TB, providing flexibility for users with large media libraries. The iPhone 12 comes with 64GB, 128GB, or 256GB of internal storage, without an option for expansion.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy A54 is equipped with a 5000 mAh battery, which typically provides over 10 hours of web browsing on a single charge. The iPhone 12 features a 2815 mAh battery, offering around 8.5 hours of web browsing on 5G and approximately 10.5 hours on 4G, suggesting that heavy 5G usage may require more frequent charging.
  • System Responsiveness: Both devices handle demanding applications and multitasking smoothly. The Galaxy A54's processor is designed for efficient performance in its category, while the iPhone 12's internal components deliver a responsive user experience across various tasks and applications.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer distinct visual experiences.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy A54 features a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display, providing vibrant colors and deep blacks. The iPhone 12 has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, also known for its rich contrast and color accuracy.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy A54 offers a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, resulting in clear visuals. The iPhone 12 provides a higher resolution of 2532 x 1170 pixels at 460 pixels per inch, contributing to sharp text and detailed images.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy A54's display supports a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations, with a peak brightness of 1000 nits for good outdoor visibility. The iPhone 12 features a 60Hz refresh rate and a peak HDR brightness of 1200 nits, ensuring content is visible even in bright conditions.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a significant consideration for many users, and both smartphones offer versatile systems for capturing photos and videos.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy A54 is equipped with a triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 5MP macro lens. The iPhone 12 features a dual 12MP camera system, comprising a wide lens with OIS and an ultrawide lens with a 120-degree field of view.
  • Photography Performance: Both devices perform well in everyday lighting conditions, producing detailed and color-accurate images. The iPhone 12's Night Mode is available across all its cameras, enhancing low-light photography. The Galaxy A54's larger main sensor also contributes to capable low-light performance.
  • Video Recording: Both phones support 4K video recording at 30 frames per second (fps), with the iPhone 12 capable of 4K at up to 60fps and featuring Dolby Vision HDR video recording for enhanced dynamic range. The Galaxy A54 also offers 4K video recording at 30fps.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

32 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity: Both the Galaxy A54 and iPhone 12 support 5G connectivity, along with Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) for fast wireless internet. The Galaxy A54 uses Bluetooth 5.3, while the iPhone 12 uses Bluetooth 5.0.
  • Ports and Biometrics: The Galaxy A54 features a USB-C 2.0 port for charging and data transfer, and includes an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The iPhone 12 utilizes a Lightning port and relies on Face ID for biometric authentication. Neither device includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Build Materials and Durability: The Galaxy A54 has a glass front and back (Gorilla Glass 5) with a plastic frame, and is rated IP67 for dust and water resistance. The iPhone 12 features a Ceramic Shield front cover, a glass back, and an aluminum frame, with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, offering slightly greater immersion depth protection.

Weight

202 g

164 g

Screen size (in)

6.4

6.1

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Users often praise the Samsung Galaxy A54 for its vibrant 120Hz AMOLED display, long-lasting battery, and the flexibility of expandable storage. Its camera system is generally well-regarded for its versatility and performance in various conditions. Some users, however, note that its processor, while capable, may not match the raw power of higher-end chipsets, and its plastic frame might feel less premium to some.

The iPhone 12 is frequently lauded for its consistent performance, the quality of its OLED display, and its capable dual-camera system, particularly its low-light photography and video capabilities with Dolby Vision HDR. Criticisms often point to its average battery life, especially when using 5G, and the limitations of its 60Hz display refresh rate compared to newer devices.

Users prioritizing a smooth, high refresh rate display, extensive battery life, and expandable storage may find the Galaxy A54 better suited to their needs. Its Android operating system also offers greater customization. Conversely, users who value a highly optimized ecosystem, strong video recording capabilities, and a compact design might lean towards the iPhone 12. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for those looking to make a sustainable choice while still getting a capable smartphone.

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