In the crowded entry-level smartphone market, the Karbonn A27 Retina and Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562 represent attempts to deliver functionality at an accessible price point. Both devices target users prioritizing affordability and essential features, but differ significantly in their underlying hardware. This comparison dissects these differences to determine which phone provides the better overall experience.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a slightly more responsive experience, the Karbonn A27 Retina emerges as the better choice. Its dual-core 1.2 GHz processor, while still modest, offers a performance edge over the Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562’s 1.0 GHz Cortex-A5, making everyday tasks feel smoother.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 |
| Speed | HSPA 7.2/0.384 Mbps | HSPA 7.2/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2013, March. Released 2013, March | 2012, July. Released 2012, September |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | - | Glass front, plastic back, plastic frame |
| Dimensions | 133.6 x 66 x 9.1 mm (5.26 x 2.60 x 0.36 in) | 121.5 x 63.1 x 10.5 mm (4.78 x 2.48 x 0.41 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM) | Dual SIM (Mini-SIM, dual stand-by) |
| Weight | 126.5 g (4.44 oz) | 120 g (4.23 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~256 ppi density) | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~233 ppi density) |
| Size | 4.3 inches, 51.0 cm2 (~57.8% screen-to-body ratio) | 4.0 inches, 45.5 cm2 (~59.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | TFT |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Dual-core 1.2 GHz | 1.0 GHz Cortex-A5 |
| Chipset | - | Qualcomm MSM7227A Snapdragon S1 |
| GPU | - | Adreno 200 |
| OS | Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) | Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDHC (dedicated slot) | microSDHC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 4GB 512MB RAM | 4GB (1.8GB user available), 768MB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP, AF | 5 MP, f/2.6, AF |
| Video | Yes | 480p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 2 MP | VGA |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | Yes | 3.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | - |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, A-GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | Stereo FM radio, RDS |
| USB | Proprietary | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Wi-Fi Direct, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer | Accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Stand-by | Up to 180 h | Up to 445 h (2G) / Up to 330 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 4 h | Up to 13 h (2G) / Up to 7 h 25 min (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 1800 mAh battery | Removable Li-Ion 1500 mAh battery |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black | White, Black, La Fleur |
| Models | - | GT-S7562 |
| Price | About 160 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.27 W/kg (head) 0.65 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 1.00 W/kg (head) | 0.47 W/kg (head) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality | - |
Noise -81.6dB / Crosstalk -80.5dB |
| Battery life | - | Endurance rating 43h |
| Camera | - |
Photo |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 964 (nominal) / 1.400:1 (sunlight) |
| Loudspeaker | - |
Voice 61dB / Noise 60dB / Ring 65dB |
Karbonn A27 Retina
- Slightly faster dual-core processor
- Potentially smoother multitasking
- More recent release (likely better software support)
- Battery life is unknown and potentially lower than Samsung
- Camera specifications are not available
Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562
- Excellent 43-hour battery endurance
- Samsung brand recognition
- Proven Qualcomm Snapdragon S1 chipset
- Slower single-core processor
- Older chipset architecture
- Limited multitasking capabilities
Display Comparison
Both the Karbonn A27 Retina and Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562 share a contrast ratio of 964 (nominal) and 1.400:1 (sunlight). This suggests a similar viewing experience in direct sunlight, with reasonable readability. However, the specific panel technology and resolution remain unspecified for the Karbonn A27 Retina. Given the market segment, it's likely both utilize TN panels, prioritizing cost over color accuracy. The Samsung, being a slightly older model, may benefit from more refined color calibration, though this is speculative without direct testing.
Camera Comparison
Both devices are listed as having a 'Photo' camera, offering no specifics on resolution or features. In this price bracket, image quality is unlikely to be a strong point for either device. Expect low-resolution sensors and limited dynamic range. The absence of details suggests neither phone offers any standout camera capabilities, and users should temper their expectations. The inclusion of a camera is more for basic documentation than serious photography.
Performance
The core difference lies in the processors. The Karbonn A27 Retina features a dual-core 1.2 GHz CPU, while the Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562 utilizes a 1.0 GHz Cortex-A5 processor based on the Qualcomm MSM7227A Snapdragon S1 chipset. While both are entry-level, the dual-core architecture of the Karbonn offers a theoretical advantage in multitasking. The Snapdragon S1, while efficient, is an older architecture, and its single-core performance is likely lower. RAM specifications are missing for both devices, but it's reasonable to assume both have limited RAM (likely 512MB or 1GB), which will significantly impact multitasking capabilities.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562 boasts an endurance rating of 43 hours, a significant advantage. This suggests a well-optimized combination of battery capacity and power efficiency. The Karbonn A27 Retina’s battery capacity is unknown, but given its slightly more powerful processor, it may struggle to match the Samsung’s longevity. The 43-hour rating implies the Samsung can handle a full day of moderate use without requiring a recharge, making it ideal for users who prioritize battery life.
Buying Guide
Buy the Karbonn A27 Retina if you prioritize a marginally faster processor for smoother app switching and basic multitasking. Buy the Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562 if long battery life is paramount, as its 43-hour endurance rating suggests it can comfortably last a full day of moderate use, and you value the Samsung brand recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Qualcomm Snapdragon S1 in the Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562 still capable of running modern apps?
While the Snapdragon S1 is a capable chipset for basic tasks, it's an older architecture. Expect limitations with demanding apps and newer versions of Android. It will handle calls, texts, and basic social media, but may struggle with graphically intensive games or complex applications.
❓ How does the dual-core processor in the Karbonn A27 Retina impact real-world performance compared to the Samsung?
The dual-core processor in the Karbonn A27 Retina allows for better multitasking. You'll likely experience smoother transitions between apps and less lag when running multiple applications simultaneously compared to the single-core processor in the Samsung Galaxy S Duos S7562.
❓ Given the lack of camera details, should I expect good photo quality from either phone?
No. Both phones are entry-level devices, and the absence of specific camera specifications suggests image quality will be basic. Expect low resolution, limited dynamic range, and subpar performance in low-light conditions. These cameras are best suited for casual snapshots.
