Samsung A51 Vs A12 Is The A51 Still Worth It Or Is The A12 Good Enough

When shopping for an affordable Samsung smartphone, two models consistently come up in conversation: the Galaxy A51 and the Galaxy A12. Released just months apart, both devices target budget-conscious users who don’t want to sacrifice too much on performance or features. But nearly four years after the A51’s launch, the question remains: is it still worth buying over the newer, more accessible A12? Or has the A12 closed the gap enough to be “good enough” for most users?

This isn’t just about specs on paper. It’s about real-world usability, longevity, software support, camera quality, and value for money—especially in today’s market where older phones are often sold secondhand or reconditioned.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

The heart of any smartphone experience lies in its processor, RAM, and overall system responsiveness. The Galaxy A51 runs on Samsung’s Exynos 9611 chip—a mid-tier octa-core processor paired with 4GB or 6GB of RAM. In its time, this setup delivered smooth multitasking and decent gaming performance for casual titles like Candy Crush or Subway Surfers.

In contrast, the A12 uses the MediaTek Helio P35, a less powerful chipset designed primarily for entry-level tasks. While it handles basic apps like WhatsApp, YouTube, and web browsing adequately, it stutters under heavier loads. Users report lag when switching between multiple apps or attempting to record video while running background processes.

Feature	Samsung Galaxy A51	Samsung Galaxy A12
Processor	Exynos 9611	MediaTek Helio P35
RAM Options	4GB / 6GB	3GB / 4GB / 6GB
Storage (Expandable)	128GB (microSD up to 512GB)	64GB / 128GB (microSD up to 1TB)
Battery Capacity	4000 mAh	5000 mAh
Charging Speed	15W Fast Charging	15W Fast Charging

Despite having a smaller battery, the A51 benefits from a more efficient processor and optimized software integration. However, the A12’s 5000mAh battery gives it a clear edge in endurance, especially for users who stream music or videos throughout the day.

Tip: If you frequently use GPS navigation or take photos on long outings, the A12’s larger battery may outweigh the A51’s processing advantages.

Display and Build Quality

The A51 features a 6.5-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. This means deeper blacks, vibrant colors, and better outdoor visibility compared to LCD panels. It also supports Always-On Display and has a sleek, minimalist design with a centered punch-hole front camera.

The A12, meanwhile, uses a 6.5-inch PLS LCD screen at the same resolution. While sharp, it lacks the contrast and viewing angles of AMOLED. Colors appear flatter, and blacks look grayish in low light. For media consumption, especially at night, the difference is noticeable.

In terms of build, both phones have plastic backs and frames. The A51 feels slightly more premium due to its symmetrical bezels and smoother finish. However, neither device is water-resistant, so caution around moisture is essential.

“Display quality impacts user satisfaction more than most realize—even small upgrades in screen tech can make daily interactions feel significantly better.” — Lena Park, Mobile UX Analyst at TechInsight Group

Camera Capabilities: Who Shoots Better?

The A51 boasts a quad-camera array: 48MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro, and 5MP depth. Its primary shooter captures well-balanced photos in daylight with accurate color reproduction. Low-light performance is modest but usable thanks to Night Mode. The ultra-wide lens adds versatility for landscapes and group shots.

The A12 offers a similar quad-camera layout: 48MP main, 5MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro, and 2MP depth. On paper, it looks competitive, but image processing is weaker. Photos tend to be oversharpened, with inconsistent dynamic range. The ultra-wide lens is lower quality, and there's no dedicated Night Mode—only a basic \"Night\" filter that does little to improve exposure.

For video, both shoot 1080p at 30fps. The A51 stabilizes footage slightly better, though neither handles motion well. Neither supports 4K recording.

Real-World Example: Maria’s Weekend Trip

Maria used her friend’s A51 and her own A12 during a weekend hike. She noticed immediate differences: the A51 captured richer greens in forest scenes and preserved details in shaded areas. The A12 struggled with backlighting, producing washed-out skies and dark foregrounds. When uploading to Instagram, she spent extra time editing A12 photos to match the A51’s output.

For someone who values photography without wanting a flagship phone, the A51 still holds up surprisingly well.

Software, Updates, and Longevity

One of the most critical factors in deciding between these two is software support. The Galaxy A51 launched with Android 10 and received updates up to Android 12 with One UI 4.1. As of 2024, it no longer receives security patches from Samsung.

The A12 launched with Android 10 or 11 (depending on region) and was updated to Android 12 with One UI Core 4.1. Like the A51, it has reached end-of-life for major updates, though some regional variants may receive occasional minor security fixes.

Without ongoing updates, both phones are increasingly vulnerable to security threats and may struggle with newer app requirements. Apps like Google Maps, banking platforms, and social media tools are becoming more resource-intensive, which could lead to slowdowns over time.

Tip: Install only trusted apps from the Google Play Store and avoid sideloading APKs to reduce malware risks on outdated Android versions.

Is the A51 Still Worth It in 2024?

The answer depends on your priorities. If you value a better display, faster performance, and superior photo quality—and can find the A51 at a fair price—it remains a stronger all-around device. However, availability is limited since it’s discontinued, and many units on the market are used or refurbished.

The A12, while less capable, offers one undeniable advantage: battery life. With 5000mAh, it easily lasts a full day and often stretches into a second with moderate use. Combined with microSD support up to 1TB, it’s a solid choice for users who prioritize storage and uptime over speed and visuals.

For seniors, secondary phone users, or those on extremely tight budgets, the A12 is genuinely “good enough” for calls, texts, light browsing, and emergency use.

Checklist: Choosing Between A51 and A12

• ✅ Need fast performance and smooth app switching? → Lean toward A51
• ✅ Want better photo quality? → Choose A51
• ✅ Prioritize battery life above all else? → A12 wins
• ✅ Plan to keep the phone for more than a year? → Consider both lack update support
• ✅ Using it as a kid’s phone or backup device? → A12 is cost-effective
• ✅ Watching videos or reading frequently? → A51’s AMOLED screen is superior

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Galaxy A51 run modern apps smoothly in 2024?

Most everyday apps like WhatsApp, Gmail, and YouTube still run acceptably on the A51. However, newer versions of TikTok, Instagram, and games like Genshin Impact will show lag or fail to run optimally. Heavy multitasking leads to app reloads.

Is the Samsung A12 suitable for seniors?

Yes. Its large screen, loud speaker, long battery life, and simple interface make it ideal for older users who mainly use calling, messaging, and basic apps. The lower price point also reduces financial risk if lost or damaged.

Which phone holds resale value better?

Historically, the A51 held value better due to its higher initial specs. However, by 2024, both models have depreciated significantly. Refurbished A51 units sell for only $10–$20 more than equivalent A12s, reflecting their similar age and limitations.

Final Verdict: Making the Right Choice

The Samsung Galaxy A51 was clearly the better phone at launch—and it still shows in key areas like display, performance, and camera. If you can verify the condition of a used unit and get it at a reasonable price (under $120), it remains a worthwhile option for light daily use.

But the Galaxy A12 shouldn’t be dismissed. For users who need a durable, long-lasting device for basic functions, its massive battery and expandable storage offer real utility. And at times priced $30–$50 lower than the A51, the savings might be better spent on a case, screen protector, or even saved toward a future upgrade.

Ultimately, “good enough” depends on what you do with your phone. If your routine involves scrolling, texting, and occasional photos, the A12 suffices. But if you expect a responsive, visually pleasing experience with better photos, the A51 still earns its reputation—even years later.

🚀 Ready to decide? Assess your usage habits, set a realistic budget, and choose based on what matters most—not just what’s cheapest today. Your next phone doesn’t have to be new to be right for you.