Category: Hardware

Samsung Galaxy M51

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The Samsung Galaxy M51 is part of Samsung’s M-series lineup, which is known for offering value-oriented devices with a focus on battery life and essential features. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy M51:

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the Samsung Galaxy M51 was particularly noted for its massive battery, positioning it as a powerhouse for users who prioritize battery life above all else.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Samsung’s One UI 2.1 on top.
  2. Display: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 730G.
  4. Memory: Options of 6/8 GB RAM with 128 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD card.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 12 MP ultrawide lens, 5 MP macro sensor, and 5 MP depth sensor. The front camera is a 32 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: A massive 7000 mAh non-removable battery with 25W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, and USB Type-C port.

Pros:

  1. Battery Life: The 7000 mAh battery ensures multi-day usage for most users, making it one of the standout features of the device.
  2. Display: The Super AMOLED Plus display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and a good overall viewing experience.
  3. Performance: The Snapdragon 730G chipset provides a balanced performance for everyday tasks and moderate gaming.
  4. Camera Capabilities: The versatile camera setup offers a range of shooting scenarios, from ultrawide landscapes to portrait shots.
  5. Value for Money: Given its specifications and the massive battery, the device offers good value for its price.

Cons:

  1. Weight: Due to the large battery, the device is on the heavier side, which might be a concern for some users.
  2. Software Updates: Being a mid-range device, it might not receive as frequent software updates as Samsung’s flagship models.
  3. No High Refresh Rate: Unlike some competitors in its price range, the M51 does not offer a high refresh rate display.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Samsung Galaxy M51 faced competition from:

  • OnePlus Nord: Offering a 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 765G, and a cleaner software experience.
  • Realme 7 Pro: Featuring a 60Hz Super AMOLED display, Snapdragon 720G, and 65W fast charging.
  • Xiaomi Poco X3: With its 120Hz IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 732G, and a 5160 mAh battery.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy M51 was announced in August 2020 and released in September 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Weight and Bulk: Due to the massive battery, some users found the device to be bulky and heavy, making one-handed use challenging.
  2. Software Experience: While One UI offers a feature-rich experience, some users reported occasional lags and stutters, especially with third-party apps.
  3. Camera Processing: While the hardware is decent, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy M51 is a solid offering in the mid-range segment, especially for users who prioritize battery life. With its massive 7000 mAh battery, it stands out in a crowded market and ensures that users don’t have to constantly worry about charging their device. While it does make some compromises, such as the lack of a high refresh rate display, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who value battery life above all else, the Galaxy M51 is a top contender in the mid-range market.

Realme X7 Pro

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The Realme X7 Pro is part of Realme’s X-series lineup, which is known for offering a blend of performance, camera capabilities, and design at a competitive price point. Here’s an in-depth review of the Realme X7 Pro:

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the Realme X7 Pro is positioned as a premium mid-range device within Realme’s lineup, aiming to provide users with a combination of solid performance, camera capabilities, and modern design aesthetics.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Realme UI on top.
  2. Display: 6.55-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate.
  3. Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 1000+.
  4. Memory: Options of 6/8 GB RAM with 128/256 GB internal storage.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 64 MP primary sensor, 8 MP ultrawide lens, 2 MP macro camera, and a 2 MP depth sensor. The front camera is a 32 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 4500 mAh non-removable battery with 65W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 5G connectivity, USB Type-C port, and stereo speakers.

Pros:

  1. Display: The 120Hz Super AMOLED display ensures a smooth and vibrant viewing experience, making scrolling, animations, and media consumption a pleasure.
  2. Performance: The MediaTek Dimensity 1000+ chipset provides smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming, with the added benefit of 5G connectivity.
  3. Fast Charging: The 65W fast charging can charge the device rapidly, ensuring minimal downtime.
  4. Camera Capabilities: The 64 MP primary camera captures detailed shots, and the overall camera setup offers versatility for different shooting scenarios.
  5. Value for Money: Given its specifications, the device offers excellent value for its price.

Cons:

  1. Realme UI: While Realme UI offers a range of features, some users might prefer a cleaner software experience.
  2. Lack of Wireless Charging: The device does not support wireless charging, which some users might expect in this price range.
  3. No Official IP Rating: The device lacks an official IP rating for water and dust resistance.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Realme X7 Pro faced competition from:

  • OnePlus Nord: Offering a 90Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 765G, and a versatile camera setup.
  • Samsung Galaxy M51: Featuring a Super AMOLED Plus display, Snapdragon 730G, and a massive 7000 mAh battery.
  • Xiaomi Mi 10T: With its 144Hz IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 865, and a 64 MP primary camera.

Launch Date:

The Realme X7 Pro was announced in September 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Experience: Some users reported occasional lags and stutters in the Realme UI, especially with third-party apps.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is decent, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in low-light scenarios.
  3. Heating Issues: Some users reported the device getting warm during extended gaming sessions or while using the camera for prolonged periods.

Conclusion:

The Realme X7 Pro is a commendable offering in the premium mid-range segment, especially for users who prioritize a high refresh rate display and solid performance. With its 120Hz AMOLED display, reliable performance, and fast charging, it provides a balanced smartphone experience for its price. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the software experience and lack of wireless charging, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who prioritize display quality and camera capabilities, the Realme X7 Pro is a strong contender in the premium mid-range market.

Samsung Galaxy A42 5G

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The Samsung Galaxy A42 5G is part of Samsung’s A-series lineup, which is designed to offer a blend of features and performance at a more affordable price point compared to its flagship S-series. Here’s an in-depth review of the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G:

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G is positioned as a mid-range device within Samsung’s lineup, aiming to provide users with 5G connectivity and a range of features without the flagship price tag.

Features:

  1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 10, with Samsung’s One UI 2.5 on top.
  2. Display: 6.6-inch Super AMOLED with a resolution of 720 x 1600 pixels.
  3. Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 750G 5G.
  4. Memory: Options of 4/6/8 GB RAM with 128 GB internal storage, expandable via a microSD slot.
  5. Camera: Quad rear camera setup – 48 MP primary sensor, 8 MP ultrawide lens, 5 MP macro camera, and a 5 MP depth sensor. The front camera is a 20 MP shooter.
  6. Battery: 5000 mAh non-removable battery with 15W fast charging.
  7. Other Features: In-display fingerprint scanner, 3.5mm headphone jack, and USB Type-C port.

Pros:

  1. 5G Connectivity: The Snapdragon 750G chipset ensures 5G connectivity, making the device future-ready.
  2. Display: The Super AMOLED display offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, providing a good multimedia experience.
  3. Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery ensures long-lasting usage, suitable for users who are on the go.
  4. Expandable Storage: The inclusion of a microSD slot provides flexibility for users who need more storage.
  5. One UI: Samsung’s One UI offers a range of features and customization options, enhancing the user experience.

Cons:

  1. Display Resolution: The screen resolution is relatively low for its size, which might not be as sharp as some competitors.
  2. Camera Performance: While the primary sensor is decent for well-lit scenarios, the overall camera performance can be inconsistent, especially in low light.
  3. Fast Charging: The 15W fast charging is slower compared to some competitors in the same price range.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G faced competition from:

  • Moto G 5G: Offering a near-stock Android experience, Snapdragon 750G, and a 5000 mAh battery.
  • Realme 7 Pro: Featuring a Super AMOLED display, Snapdragon 720G, and 65W fast charging.
  • Redmi Note 9 Pro Max: With its Snapdragon 720G, 64 MP primary camera, and a 5020 mAh battery.

Launch Date:

The Samsung Galaxy A42 5G was announced in September 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  1. Software Bloat: Some users reported bloatware and unnecessary apps pre-installed, which can be considered intrusive.
  2. Camera Processing: While the hardware is decent, some users felt the camera software processing could be inconsistent, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
  3. Build Quality: The device uses a plastic back, which might not feel as premium as devices with glass or metal builds.

Conclusion:

The Samsung Galaxy A42 5G is a solid offering in the mid-range segment, especially for users who are looking to experience 5G connectivity without spending too much. With its AMOLED display, reliable performance, and decent camera setup, it provides a balanced smartphone experience for its price. While there are certain areas where compromises are evident, such as the display resolution and camera performance, the overall package is compelling for those seeking a balance between features, performance, and price. For users who prioritize 5G connectivity and a good display, the Samsung Galaxy A42 5G is a strong contender in the mid-range market.

Google Pixel 5

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Google Pixel 5
Google Pixel 5

Overview:

Launched in 2020, the Google Pixel 5 represented a strategic shift for Google. Instead of competing directly with high-end flagships, the Pixel 5 was positioned as a premium mid-ranger, focusing on delivering the essential features users loved about the Pixel series at a more accessible price point.

Features:

  • Operating System: Launched with Android 11, with the advantage of direct and swift updates from Google.
  • Display: 6.0-inch OLED capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, boasting a 90Hz refresh rate.
  • Processor: Qualcomm SDM765 Snapdragon 765G Octa-core.
  • Memory: 8 GB RAM with 128 GB internal storage (non-expandable).
  • Camera: Dual rear camera setup with a 12.2 MP primary sensor and a 16 MP ultrawide lens. An 8 MP front camera.
  • Battery: 4080 mAh non-removable battery with fast charging, wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging capabilities.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and 5G connectivity.
  • Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, IP68 dust/water resistance, stereo speakers, and deep Google Assistant integration.

Pros:

  • Balanced Performance: The Snapdragon 765G, combined with 8 GB RAM, provided a smooth user experience for most tasks.
  • Camera Capabilities: The Pixel 5 continued the series’ reputation for excellent photography, with features like Night Sight and Portrait Light.
  • Battery Life: The 4080 mAh battery was a significant improvement over the Pixel 4, offering all-day battery life for most users.
  • Compact Design: The Pixel 5’s hand-friendly design was appreciated by those who preferred smaller phones.
  • 5G Connectivity: The device was 5G-ready, making it future-proof for next-gen network speeds.

Cons:

  • No Telephoto Lens: Unlike the Pixel 4, the Pixel 5 opted for an ultrawide lens, which meant it lacked optical zoom capabilities.
  • Processor Choice: While the Snapdragon 765G was capable, it wasn’t on par with flagship chips like the Snapdragon 865 in terms of performance.
  • Lack of Novel Features: The Pixel 5 skipped features like the Soli radar chip, which was present in the Pixel 4.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2020, the smartphone landscape was diverse, with a focus on 5G and camera innovations. The Google Pixel 5 faced competition from:

  • iPhone 12: Apple’s offering with its A14 Bionic chip, 5G connectivity, and new design language.
  • Samsung Galaxy S20 FE: A fan-favorite offering flagship features at a more affordable price point.
  • OnePlus 8T: Boasting high-end specs, a 120Hz display, and fast charging capabilities.

Launch Date:

The Google Pixel 5 was announced in September 2020 and released in October 2020.

Common Issues/Problems:

  • Speaker Quality: Some users reported that the under-display speaker on the Pixel 5 lacked clarity, especially during calls.
  • Build Concerns: There were isolated reports of a slight gap between the phone’s frame and display, although Google addressed this as a normal part of the design with no impact on the device’s performance or durability.
  • Limited Availability: The Pixel 5 was not available in all regions, which disappointed some potential buyers.

Conclusion:

The Google Pixel 5 marked a change in direction for Google, focusing on delivering a balanced, no-frills experience rather than competing in the high-end flagship space. It was well-received for its camera capabilities, software experience, and value proposition. While it lacked some of the cutting-edge features of its competitors, it offered a cohesive and user-friendly experience that resonated with many Pixel enthusiasts and general users alike.