The sub-$200 smartphone market is fiercely competitive. The Infinix Hot 30 Play NFC and Samsung Galaxy A14 both aim to deliver essential features at an accessible price point, but they take different approaches. The Infinix prioritizes fast charging and NFC inclusion, while the Samsung offers a choice of chipsets and the brand recognition of a global leader. This comparison dissects their key differences to determine which device offers the best value.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing consistent performance and a well-rounded experience, the Samsung Galaxy A14 (specifically the Exynos 850 variant) is the better choice. While the Infinix Hot 30 Play NFC boasts faster charging, the A14’s more efficient processor and potentially better software support provide a smoother, more reliable daily experience.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 20, 28, 38, 40, 41 |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2023, May 22 | 2023, February 28 |
| Status | Available. Released 2023, May 22 | Available. Released 2023, March 27 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 170.6 x 77.5 x 8.6 mm (6.72 x 3.05 x 0.34 in) | 167.7 x 78 x 9.1 mm (6.60 x 3.07 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | · Nano-SIM· Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | 205 g (7.23 oz) | 201 g (7.09 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density) | 1080 x 2408 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~400 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.82 inches, 110.5 cm2 (~83.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.9 cm2 (~80.2% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 500 nits (peak) | PLS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.7 GHz Cortex-A53) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) - Version AOcta-core (4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) - Version B |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6765 Helio G37 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6769 Helio G80 (12 nm) - Version AExynos 850 (8 nm) - Version B |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 13, XOS 12.6 | Android 13, upgradable to Android 15, One UI 7 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 8GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 16 MP, f/1.8, (wide), PDAF
Auxiliary lens | - |
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama | LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 13 MP, f/2.0, (wide) |
| Triple | - | 50 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/2.75", 0.64µm, PDAF
5 MP, f/2.2, 17mm (ultrawide), 1/5.0", 1.12µm
2 MP (macro) |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | - |
| Single | 8 MP, f/2.0, (wide) | 13 MP, f/2.0, 26mm (wide), 1/3.1", 1.12µm |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 5.1 or 5.3, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | Yes | Yes (market/region dependent) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GALILEO, GLONASS, BDS, QZSS |
| Radio | FM radio | Unspecified |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 15W wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | Li-Po 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Mirage Black, Blade White, Bora Purple | Black, Dark Red, Silver, Green |
| Models | X6835B, X6835 | SM-A145F, SM-A145F/DSN, SM-A145M, SM-A145M/DS, SM-A145P, SM-A145R |
| Price | - | € 85.76 / $ 147.60 / £ 79.95 |
| SAR EU | - | 0.46 W/kg (head) 1.37 W/kg (body) |
Infinix Hot 30 Play NFC
- Faster 18W charging
- NFC support for contactless payments
- Potentially lower price point
- Less powerful processor (Helio G37)
- Likely less efficient CPU architecture
- Potentially shorter software support
Samsung Galaxy A14
- More powerful processor options (Helio G80/Exynos 850)
- Larger 5000mAh battery (typically)
- Samsung’s brand reputation and software support
- Slower 15W charging
- May be slightly more expensive
- NFC availability varies by region
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely utilize LCD panels, common in this price segment. The key difference lies in processing power, which impacts UI smoothness. While specific brightness nits aren't provided, Samsung generally offers better color calibration even on its budget devices. Bezels are likely comparable, and neither phone is expected to feature high refresh rates. The A14’s larger screen size (typically 6.6 inches vs the Hot 30 Play’s 6.52 inches) offers a slightly more immersive viewing experience.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance is likely to be similar, with both phones relying on budget sensors. The Infinix Hot 30 Play NFC’s camera specs are not provided, but the A14 typically features a 50MP main sensor, which is a significant advantage over the likely lower resolution sensor on the Infinix. While both will likely include 2MP macro and depth sensors (often of limited utility), the A14’s larger main sensor and Samsung’s image processing algorithms will likely result in better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. OIS (Optical Image Stabilization) is unlikely on either device.
Performance
This is where the most significant divergence occurs. The Samsung Galaxy A14 comes in two variants: one with the Mediatek Helio G80 and another with Samsung’s Exynos 850. The Helio G80 (12nm) features a more powerful CPU configuration – 2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55 – compared to the Infinix’s Helio G37 (12nm) with its 4x2.3 GHz Cortex-A53 & 4x1.7 GHz Cortex-A53. The Exynos 850 (8nm) is even more efficient, offering better performance per watt and potentially less thermal throttling. The A14’s CPU architecture is more modern, translating to snappier app launches and smoother multitasking. While both phones likely feature similar RAM configurations, the A14’s processor advantage is clear.
Battery Life
The Infinix Hot 30 Play NFC’s 18W charging is its standout feature. This will significantly reduce charging times compared to the Samsung Galaxy A14’s 15W charging. However, battery capacity isn’t specified for the Infinix, while the A14 typically features a 5000mAh battery. The Exynos 850 variant of the A14 is more power-efficient, potentially offsetting the slower charging speed with longer battery life. The Infinix’s faster charging is ideal for quick top-ups, while the A14 prioritizes longevity.
Buying Guide
Buy the Infinix Hot 30 Play NFC if you absolutely need the fastest possible charging speeds in this price bracket and NFC is a must-have. It’s ideal for users who frequently find themselves needing a quick power boost and rely on contactless payments. Buy the Samsung Galaxy A14 if you value a more balanced experience, potentially longer software support, and a slightly more powerful processor (especially the Exynos variant) for everyday tasks and light gaming. It’s better suited for users who prioritize reliability and a familiar user interface.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Does the Exynos 850 chip in the Samsung Galaxy A14 overheat during prolonged gaming sessions?
The Exynos 850 is an 8nm chip, making it relatively efficient. While it won't deliver flagship-level gaming performance, it's unlikely to overheat significantly during moderate gaming. Expect some throttling after extended periods, but it shouldn't lead to a complete shutdown.
❓ Is the 2MP macro camera on either phone actually useful for taking detailed close-up photos?
Generally, 2MP macro cameras on budget phones are of limited utility. The low resolution results in images lacking detail and sharpness. They are often included for marketing purposes but rarely deliver satisfying results. Stick to the main 50MP sensor for better image quality.
❓ Can the Infinix Hot 30 Play NFC fully charge from 0% to 100% in under 2 hours with the included charger?
Yes, the 18W charging on the Infinix Hot 30 Play NFC should allow it to fully charge from 0% to 100% in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on usage during charging. This is a significant advantage over the A14’s 15W charging.
❓ Does the Samsung Galaxy A14 support VoLTE and VoWiFi for improved call quality?
Support for VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) varies by carrier and region. It's crucial to check with your mobile carrier to confirm compatibility before purchasing the Samsung Galaxy A14 to ensure optimal call quality.
