Smartphone Comparison: Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max vs. Samsung Galaxy A35
1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2020-11-13 | 2024-03-15 | Galaxy A35 is a newer device ( ~3.5 years difference), so it may benefit from more modern features and longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 160.8 × 78.1 × 7.4 mm | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm | A35 is slightly taller and thicker, but similar width. IPhone is thinner and more compact. |
| Weight | 228g | 209g | The A35 is noticeably lighter, making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.6" | The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1284x2778 | 1080x2340 | iPhone 12 Pro Max has a significantly sharper display. Text and images will be clearer. |
| PPI | 458 | 390 | The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers significantly higher pixel density, resulting in a noticeably sharper display. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both use high-quality screen technology with vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The A35 offers much smoother animations and scrolling, leading to a more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 1200 nits | 0 nits (Unconfirmed) | The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a significantly brighter display, providing better outdoor visibility in direct sunlight. Samsung's brightness is not specified. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Apple A14 Bionic (5 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Different chipsets indicate that these phones perform differently. The A14 Bionic is known for very strong performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,121,803 | 578,500 | The iPhone 12 Pro Max delivers much better performance for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. |
| GPU | Apple GPU (4-core graphics) | Mali-G68 MP5 | Different GPUs mean varied graphics performance. The A14's GPU is designed for optimized iOS performance and demanding graphics tasks. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 3687mAh | 5000mAh | The A35 has a significantly larger battery, potentially offering much longer battery life. |
| Charging | 20W fast charging | 25W fast charging | The A35 has slightly faster-charging capabilities, potentially reducing charging times. |
| Wireless Charging | 15W MagSafe, 7.5W Qi | None | iPhone 12 Pro Max offers the convenience of wireless charging, a feature not present on the A35. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, f/1.6, 1.70µm, Sony IMX603 | 50MP, f/1.8, 0.80µm, Samsung GN8 | A35 has a higher resolution sensor, but the iPhone has a wider aperture and larger pixel size, likely improving low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/2.2, Sony IMX514 | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm pixel size | Similar front-facing cameras, with A35 having a slight resolution edge but with unknown sensor model. |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1.00µm, Sony IMX590 | None | The iPhone 12 Pro Max offers optical zoom capabilities, a feature the A35 lacks, allowing for better zoomed-in photos without loss of quality. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.4, 1.40µm, Sony IMX372 | 8MP, f/2.2 | The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a higher resolution wide-angle lens, while A35 has a wider aperture. |
| Macro Lens | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | The A35 includes a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography, a feature not available on the iPhone. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps HDR | Up to 4K@30fps EIS | Both offer 4K recording but iPhone has a slight edge with higher fps. Samsung has EIS for better stabilization. |
| DxOMark (Mobile) | 131 | 104 | The iPhone 12 Pro Max demonstrates significantly better overall camera performance according to DxOMark tests. |
| Software | |||
| OS | iOS 14.1 (Up to iOS 18) | Android 14 (Up to Android 18) | Different operating systems with distinct user interfaces and ecosystems. iPhone offers smooth and optimized performance, while Android is more customizable. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6, Direct, Display | Both support WiFi 6. A35 offers Wi-Fi Direct and Display. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 LE | Bluetooth 5.3 | The A35 features newer Bluetooth technology for better speed and power efficiency. |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + eSIM) | Dual SIM (Nano SIM + Nano SIM) | Both support dual SIM, but the iPhone utilizes an eSIM for added flexibility. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256 GB | The iPhone offers more storage options, up to 512GB, compared to A35's 256GB maximum. |
| RAM | 6 GB | 6 GB/8GB | A35 has an 8GB RAM option, potentially offering better multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Dolby Atmos, Dolby Digital Plus | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | Both have high-quality audio, with the iPhone focusing on Dolby Digital Plus and A35 supporting Hi-Res Audio. |
| Security | |||
| Security features | Basic security features | Fingerprint sensor | A35 has a fingerprint sensor for biometric security, a feature not specified for iPhone 12 Pro Max. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unconfirmed | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | The A35 uses much more durable screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Hall, Geomagnetic | Each has a different collection of sensors, leading to different user experiences. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max Advantages:
- Significantly Higher Performance: The A14 Bionic chipset and higher AnTuTu scores translate to noticeably faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming performance.
- Superior Display Sharpness: The higher resolution and pixel density (PPI) result in a much clearer and sharper display, beneficial for reading, viewing photos, and detailed content.
- Better Camera Performance: The iPhone excels in DxOMark tests and offers a telephoto lens for optical zoom, leading to superior overall image quality, especially in low-light conditions.
- Brighter Display: The higher brightness makes the iPhone much more usable outdoors, especially in direct sunlight.
- Wireless charging: Includes convenient wireless charging options.
- More Storage Options: Offers up to 512GB of internal storage, catering to users with extensive media libraries.
- Premium Feel: Overall a more premium and solid feel.
Samsung Galaxy A35 Advantages:
- Newer Device: Being a newer device means a more modern design, potentially better software updates, and other modern features.
- Smoother Display: The 120Hz refresh rate provides a much smoother and more fluid visual experience, beneficial for scrolling and animations.
- Larger Battery: The significantly larger battery capacity potentially leads to a much longer battery life.
- Faster Charging: The 25W charging allows for slightly faster charging times.
- Macro Lens: Includes a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography, adding versatility to the camera system.
- More Modern Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3 offers more features and might provide better performance.
- Fingerprint sensor: Has fingerprint sensor for unlocking.
- Screen Protection: Uses superior and more durable Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
- Lighter: More comfortable for extended use, as it is much lighter.
Trade-offs:
- The iPhone sacrifices a higher refresh rate and larger battery for performance and camera quality.
- The Samsung trades top-tier performance and camera capabilities for a smoother display and potentially longer battery life.
- iPhone comes with higher price, but with more premium build and features.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max is Ideal For:
- Power Users: Those who need high performance for gaming, video editing, and other demanding tasks.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who value image quality and flexibility, especially in low-light, thanks to a superior camera system with optical zoom.
- Media Consumers: Those who appreciate a sharp, vibrant display for watching videos and viewing photos.
- Ecosystem Users: People who are heavily invested in the Apple ecosystem and value seamless integration with other Apple devices.
- Users who need a phone that performs best in bright sunlight.
Specific Use Cases for iPhone 12 Pro Max:
- Professional photography and videography
- Mobile gaming on high settings
- Running resource-intensive creative apps
- Viewing media content in bright, outdoor conditions.
- Using as primary and only device, due to premium feel.
Samsung Galaxy A35 is Ideal For:
- Everyday Users: People who need a reliable phone for daily tasks, browsing, social media, and casual gaming.
- Battery-Focused Users: Those who prioritize a long-lasting battery that can easily last a full day with heavy usage.
- Casual Photographers: People who want a decent camera for everyday photos and occasional macro shots.
- Value-Conscious Buyers: Users who are looking for a good all-around phone at a more affordable price.
- Users who value having the latest Android version and security features.
- Users who value having modern security features such as fingerprint sensor.
- Users who want a phone with the best screen protection.
Specific Use Cases for Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Daily social media browsing and communication
- All-day usage without needing frequent charging
- Casual mobile gaming
- Close-up photography using the macro lens.
- Everyday use for an extended period, due to lighter design.
Price-to-Value Ratio:
- The iPhone 12 Pro Max is generally a more premium and more expensive option, offering top-tier performance and camera capabilities for a higher price.
- The Samsung Galaxy A35 is a more budget-friendly option, providing a well-rounded set of features and performance at a more accessible price point.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Performance Needs: Do you need top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, or other demanding tasks? If so, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is preferable.
- Battery Life Preference: Is long battery life a high priority, or are you okay with more frequent charging for better performance? The Galaxy A35 is better in this aspect.
- Camera Requirements: Are you a serious photographer who needs the best image quality, or are you content with a capable camera for everyday use? The iPhone 12 Pro Max is ideal for serious photographers, whereas the Galaxy A35 is suitable for everyday use.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Power User on the go: If you require the best possible performance and camera on the go, the iPhone 12 Pro Max is the obvious choice, despite its heavier build and frequent charging needs.
- Scenario 2: Everyday user on a budget: If you want a reliable, budget-friendly phone for everyday use with excellent battery life and smooth display, the Samsung Galaxy A35 would be the perfect choice.
- Scenario 3: Casual user who wants a modern phone: If you want a modern phone with smooth display, modern security features and great battery life, the Samsung Galaxy A35 would be the perfect choice.
Personal Choice
If I had to choose, I would personally pick the Samsung Galaxy A35. Here's why:
- Battery Life: As someone who doesn't want to charge their phone multiple times a day, the larger battery of the A35 is a major advantage.
- Smooth Display: The 120Hz refresh rate is a significant improvement over the iPhone's 60Hz, making the user experience much more enjoyable for everyday scrolling and animations.
- Modern features: The fingerprint sensor, and modern bluetooth would be very useful in daily use.
- Latest Android OS: I prefer having the latest Android OS due to the customizability options available, and better support.
- Lighter build: I prefer a lighter phone, due to the increased comfort it offers, and the Galaxy A35 is significantly lighter.
- Price: While the iPhone 12 Pro Max is a fantastic device, the price of the Galaxy A35 makes it a more reasonable and accessible option for my needs.
- Screen Protection: The screen protection is a critical factor for me, as I do not like using screen protectors, so having a better, more durable screen would be beneficial.
While I acknowledge the superior performance and camera of the iPhone 12 Pro Max, I find the advantages of the Samsung Galaxy A35 are more aligned with my priorities and use case. I am not a power user and my gaming and video editing needs are not very demanding.
