Alright, let's break down the Huawei nova 8i versus the Samsung Galaxy A35. Here’s a comprehensive, user-focused comparison designed to help you decide which phone is the better fit for your needs.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at the key specs, presented in a way that highlights what each feature actually means for your day-to-day use:
| Feature | Huawei nova 8i | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.9 × 74.7 × 8.6 mm | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm | Nova 8i is slightly narrower, potentially easier to hold in one hand; A35 is a bit thinner. |
| Weight | 190g | 209g | Nova 8i is noticeably lighter, better for extended use. |
| Build | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | A35 has superior screen protection, more resistant to scratches and drops. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.67" | 6.6" | Negligible difference in screen size. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | A35's AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better power efficiency, especially with dark mode. |
| Resolution | 1080x2376 | 1080x2340 | Essentially the same sharpness. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | A35 has smoother scrolling and animations, a more fluid experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Inaccurate data. Brightness levels will vary in reality; AMOLED is generally better in sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 662 (11 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | A35’s Exynos 1380 is significantly faster, better for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps. |
| AnTuTu Score | 201,000 | 578,500 | A35 offers much snappier performance overall. |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G68 MP5 | A35’s GPU handles graphics-intensive tasks and gaming much better. |
| RAM | 6GB | 6GB/8GB | A35 with 8GB RAM provides better multitasking and smoother performance with multiple apps open. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP f/1.9 | 50MP f/1.8 | A35 has a wider aperture, likely better low-light performance and more detail with OIS. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP f/2.0 | 13MP f/2.2 | Nova 8i has slightly better selfie camera. |
| Wide Angle | 8MP f/2.2 | 8MP f/2.2 | Comparable wide-angle lens quality. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP f/2.4 | 5MP f/2.4 | A35 can capture slightly more detailed macro shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps | A35 records higher-quality video, supports better stabilization, and also has EIS. |
| Camera Features | PDAF, DIS | OIS, EIS, Pro Mode | A35’s OIS improves low-light photos and video stabilization, plus better software algorithms. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4300mAh | 5000mAh | A35 likely offers longer battery life. |
| Charging | 66W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Nova 8i charges much faster (66W vs 25W). |
| Software & Other | |||
| OS | Android 10 | Android 14 | A35 has a much newer OS and will receive more updates. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | A35 supports faster and more reliable Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | A35 has a newer Bluetooth version with better efficiency and range. |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB/256GB | A35 offers more storage options. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
2. Key Insights
Huawei nova 8i:
- Strengths: Fast charging, lighter design.
- Competitive Advantages: It wins on weight and charging speed.
Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Strengths: Superior display, significantly faster performance, better camera with OIS, longer battery life, newer software, and better build quality.
- Competitive Advantages: This is the overall better phone given its advantages.
- Trade-offs: It is heavier and has slower charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Huawei nova 8i: Best for users who prioritize fast charging and a lightweight design, and don't need the latest software or top-tier performance. Ideal for basic tasks and casual use.
- Samsung Galaxy A35: Best for users who want a great all-around experience with a smooth display, capable camera, long battery life, and up-to-date software. Ideal for multimedia consumption, social media, photography, and gaming.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to guide your decision:
- How important is fast charging to you? If you need to quickly top up your phone, the Nova 8i is the better choice.
- Do you value a smooth and vibrant display? The Galaxy A35's AMOLED screen is significantly better for watching videos and playing games.
- How much do you care about performance and future software updates? The Galaxy A35 offers much better performance and will receive more updates, ensuring a longer lifespan.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: The Nova 8i might be tempting if it's significantly cheaper, but consider the long-term benefits of the A35's better performance and software support.
- Multimedia Enthusiast: The Galaxy A35 is the clear winner with its superior display and audio features.
- On-the-Go Professional: The Galaxy A35's longer battery life and smoother performance make it a better choice for productivity and communication.
My Choice
If I had to choose between these two, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A35. Even though the Huawei Nova 8i offers faster charging and a lighter build, the A35 provides a far superior overall experience. The combination of the AMOLED display, significantly better performance, a more versatile camera with OIS, and a longer-lasting battery makes it the better long-term investment. Plus, the newer software ensures that you'll receive updates and support for a longer period, which is crucial for security and functionality.
