Okay, let's break down the Apple iPhone 14 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy A35. I'll put on my tech journalist hat and aim for a detailed yet accessible analysis, focusing on what really matters to you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table, keeping real-world implications in mind:
| Feature | Apple iPhone 14 Pro | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 147.5 x 71.5 x 7.9 mm | 161.7 x 78 x 8.2 mm | A35 is noticeably larger and a bit thicker; 14 Pro is more compact and pocketable |
| Weight | 206g | 209g | Both have a substantial feel; weight difference is negligible |
| Build | Premium materials | Glass back, plastic frame | The iPhone likely has a more premium hand-feel; the A35 has Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen protection which is very good. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.1" | 6.6" | A35 has a larger display for immersive viewing; 14 Pro is more compact |
| Resolution | 1179x2556 | 1080x2340 | 14 Pro offers sharper text and images; noticeable difference in pixel density |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 460 | 390 | 14 Pro's display is visibly sharper |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks; Very similar display technology |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animation; similar user experience in this regard |
| Brightness | 2000 nits | 0 nits | 14 Pro offers superior visibility in bright sunlight; A35's brightness is unknown and possibly much less |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Apple A16 Bionic (4 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | 14 Pro's chip is significantly faster; expect quicker app loading, better multitasking and graphics for intensive gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 1,474,011 | 578,500 | 14 Pro offers much higher performance and speed across all use cases |
| GPU | Apple GPU (5-core) | Mali-G68 MP5 | 14 Pro will handle graphics-intensive tasks with ease; A35 should still run most games adequately |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.78, 1/1.3" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.96" | 14 Pro has a larger sensor, likely better low-light performance; similar aperture, but larger sensor size is key |
| Selfie Camera | 12MP, f/1.9 | 13MP, f/2.2 | 14 Pro has a wider aperture for better low-light selfies; A35 has a higher MP count; Similar in performance |
| Telephoto Lens | 12MP, f/2.8 | Not available | 14 Pro has optical zoom capabilities; A35 is limited to digital zoom |
| Wide Angle Lens | 12MP, f/2.2, 1/2.55" | 8MP, f/2.2 | 14 Pro's wide-angle lens captures more detail |
| Macro Lens | Not available | 5MP, f/2.4 | A35 allows you to take detailed macro shots; 14 Pro requires a third-party lens or zoom |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@60fps with HDR | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Both have good video but 14 Pro has higher quality HDR |
| DxoMark Score | Mobile: 146, Selfie: 145 | Mobile: 104 | 14 Pro has significantly better camera performance in both photos and videos |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 3200mAh | 5000mAh | A35 has a significantly larger battery; likely much longer battery life |
| Charging | 20W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | A35 charges slightly faster; both are reasonable; the 14 Pro supports wireless charging |
| Wireless Charging | MagSafe 15W, Qi 7.5W | Not available | 14 Pro offers convenient wireless charging options; A35 does not have wireless charging |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | iOS 16 (Upgradable to 18) | Android 14 (Upgradable to 18) | Two different ecosystems; iOS has tighter ecosystem integration, Android is more customizable |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256/512/1024 GB | 128/256 GB | 14 Pro offers much more storage options, but also cost more; both do not support expandable storage |
| RAM | 6 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | A35 can have more RAM for better multitasking |
| Other | |||
| Security | Basic Security Features | Fingerprint Sensor | A35 has a fingerprint sensor for quicker, more secure unlocking |
| WiFi | WiFi 6 | WiFi 6 | Both offer fast and stable connectivity |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 LE | 5.3 | Both support similar standards, Samsung A35 has more supported codecs |
| SIM | Nano SIM+eSIM | Nano SIM+Nano SIM | Apple supports eSIM, Samsung doesn't |
2. Key Insights
Apple iPhone 14 Pro Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The A16 Bionic chip delivers significantly higher performance, making it ideal for demanding apps and games.
- Exceptional Display: Sharper and brighter display for better visibility, especially outdoors.
- Better Camera System: More versatile camera setup with a telephoto lens, larger sensor, and superior image processing.
- Premium Build and Ecosystem: Premium build with a more refined design, integrated iOS ecosystem, with wireless charging options.
- Much better Video: Significantly better quality Video, plus more versatility at 4K 60fps.
- Better Audio: More microphones, better spatial audio, more immersive audio output.
Samsung Galaxy A35 Strengths:
- Larger Display: More immersive viewing experience due to its bigger screen.
- Significantly Longer Battery Life: The larger battery ensures longer usage without worrying about charging, though performance will be much lower.
- Fingerprint Sensor: Secure and quick unlocking.
- Macro Lens: Can get really close up to your subject.
- More RAM: Certain models have more RAM, allowing for better multitasking
- Wider Codec Support: Has support for more audio codecs for high quality audio on Bluetooth devices.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- iPhone 14 Pro: Higher price and potentially shorter battery life compared to the A35.
- Galaxy A35: Lower performance, less impressive camera system, lower pixel density and brightness, and no wireless charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
iPhone 14 Pro is Best For:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for gaming, video editing, or other demanding tasks.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who want a versatile and high-quality camera system, with optical zoom and a better main sensor.
- Ecosystem Lovers: Those who are already invested in the Apple ecosystem and want seamless integration with other Apple devices.
- Premium Seekers: Those looking for a premium experience with a superior screen and overall build.
- Video Lovers: Those looking to shoot 4K 60fps videos with HDR.
- Audio Lovers: Those looking for the best audio performance in a smartphone.
Samsung Galaxy A35 is Best For:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those who want a larger screen and good battery life without spending too much on a smartphone.
- Casual Users: Those who primarily use their phone for browsing, social media, and media consumption.
- Long Battery Life Seekers: Users that prioritize battery life above all else.
- Macro Photography: Users who enjoy taking macro pictures without any added accessories.
- Android Enthusiasts: Users who prefer the Android ecosystem, flexibility, and customisation.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- Do you need top-tier performance? If yes, the iPhone 14 Pro is the clear winner. If no, the Galaxy A35 is a much more affordable option, especially for day to day usage.
- How important is the camera? If photography is a priority, the iPhone 14 Pro offers a superior and more versatile camera system.
- What is your budget? If you are cost-conscious, the A35 offers excellent value, while the iPhone 14 Pro commands a premium price.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: The Tech Enthusiast
- Recommendation: iPhone 14 Pro. The superior performance, camera, display and build quality make it ideal for demanding tasks and multimedia creation.
- Scenario 2: The Social Media User:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A35. Offers a large screen, and a decent camera and battery at an affordable price.
- Scenario 3: The Budget Buyer:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A35. Provides a great balance of good features and performance at a lower price point.
- Scenario 4: The Long Battery Life Seeker:
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A35. The significantly larger battery offers an advantage for users who need their phone to last more than a day.
Final Thoughts
Both the iPhone 14 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy A35 have their strengths. The iPhone 14 Pro is a powerhouse designed for top-tier performance, while the Galaxy A35 is a budget-friendly device that excels in battery life and a larger display. Your choice will ultimately depend on your specific needs, budget, and brand preference.
My Choice:
Personally, I would choose the Apple iPhone 14 Pro. While it is definitely more expensive, the performance boost of the A16 Bionic Chip is a massive advantage, especially when handling heavy workloads and playing games. Furthermore, the higher quality main camera sensor and the telephoto lens makes it a better overall camera system, and the 4K60 video is superior to the Samsung Galaxy A35. I prefer iOS over Android, and I like the premium experience and higher build quality that the iPhone offers. The Samsung Galaxy A35 is a great, more budget friendly phone, but the higher price of the iPhone 14 Pro justifies the higher performance and quality of the phone, at least for my needs.
