Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Huawei P50 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy A35. As a tech journalist, I'll break down the specs and give you my take on how these phones stack up in the real world.
Huawei P50 Pro vs. Samsung Galaxy A35: A Detailed Comparison
Here's a structured look at the key specifications, focusing on what they mean for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Feature | Huawei P50 Pro | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
---|---|---|---|
Design | |||
Launch Date | 2021-08-12 | 2024-03-15 | The A35 is significantly newer, benefiting from more recent tech and software updates. |
Dimensions | 158.8 × 72.8 × 8.5 mm, 195g | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm, 209g | P50 Pro is more compact and lighter, making it easier to handle, especially for one-handed use. |
Build Quality | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | A35 has better screen protection against scratches and impacts. |
Display | |||
Size | 6.6" | 6.6" | Identical screen size means similar viewing experience for content consumption. |
Resolution | 1228x2700 (450 PPI) | 1080x2340 (390 PPI) | P50 Pro's higher resolution offers a noticeably sharper and more detailed display, improving visual clarity. |
Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, but the difference is subtle and may not be noticeable to the average user. |
Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both devices, enhancing the overall user experience. |
Performance | |||
Chipset | Kirin 9000 (5 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Kirin 9000 provides superior performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps. |
AnTuTu Score | 697,566 | 578,500 | P50 Pro will feel faster and more responsive in most scenarios. |
GPU | Mali-G78 MP24 (Adreno 660) | Mali-G68 MP5 (ARM Mali-G68 MP5) | P50 Pro's GPU is significantly more powerful, resulting in better graphics performance in games and other GPU-intensive tasks. |
Camera | |||
Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" sensor | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.96" sensor | P50 Pro's larger sensor captures more light, resulting in better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
Telephoto Lens | 64MP, f/3.4, 1/2" sensor | None | P50 Pro offers optical zoom capabilities, allowing for detailed close-ups without significant quality loss. |
Wide Angle Lens | 13MP (Wide Angle + Macro) | 8MP | A35 gives you a standard wide-angle perspective for group shots or landscapes, which the P50 Pro lacks. |
Macro Lens | None | 5MP | A35 lets you take extreme close-up shots of small objects, something the P50 Pro can't do directly. |
Black & White Lens | 40MP | None | P50 Pro has a dedicated B&W sensor, enhancing monochrome photography with greater detail and dynamic range. |
Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.4 | 13MP, f/2.2 | A35's wider aperture (f/2.2) might result in slightly better low-light selfies. |
Video | Up to 4K@60fps, EIS | Up to 4K@30fps, EIS | P50 Pro offers smoother video recording at 4K with 60fps and has better slow motion (960fps). |
DxOMark Score | Mobile: 143, Selfie: 144 | Mobile: 104 | P50 Pro has significantly better camera performance overall, especially in photo and video quality. |
Battery Life | |||
Capacity | 4360mAh | 5000mAh | A35 should offer longer battery life on a single charge due to its larger battery capacity. |
Charging | 66W fast charging, 50W wireless charging, reverse wireless charging | 25W fast charging | P50 Pro charges much faster and offers convenient wireless charging capabilities. |
Software | |||
OS | Unknown | Android 14 | A35 has the advantage of running the latest Android version, with guaranteed future updates. P50 Pro software is less clear. |
Connectivity | |||
Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | A35 has the latest Bluetooth version, offering potentially better connectivity and efficiency. |
GPS | More satellite systems | Fewer satellite systems | P50 Pro offers more accurate and reliable GPS performance, especially in challenging environments. |
Storage | |||
Internal | 128/256/512 GB | 128/256 GB | P50 Pro offers a larger maximum storage option. |
Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
Audio | |||
Quality | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | A35 offers Hi-Res Audio support, potentially providing a better listening experience for audiophiles. |
Security | |||
Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Both phones offer standard fingerprint security. |
Sensors | Barometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Gyroscope | P50 Pro has additional sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Huawei P50 Pro:
- Strengths: Superior camera system (DxOMark score of 143 vs 104), faster performance (Kirin 9000 chipset), higher resolution display (450 PPI), faster charging (66W wired, 50W wireless), and more comprehensive sensor suite.
- Competitive Advantages: Exceptional photography capabilities, premium performance for demanding users, and advanced features like wireless charging.
- Trade-offs: Older device (launched in 2021), software support unclear, possibly higher price (depending on current market), bulkier and heavier, and no wide-angle lens.
Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Strengths: Newer device with up-to-date software (Android 14), larger battery capacity (5000mAh), and inclusion of a wide-angle lens.
- Competitive Advantages: Likely better software support and longevity, longer battery life for all-day usage, and more versatile camera with the wide-angle lens.
- Trade-offs: Lower performance compared to the P50 Pro, lower resolution display, slower charging, and lower DxOMark camera score.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Huawei P50 Pro:
- Ideal for: Photography enthusiasts who prioritize image quality and versatility, users who need top-tier performance for gaming and demanding apps, and those who value premium features like fast wireless charging.
- Use Cases: Professional photography, high-end gaming, content creation, and users who want a flagship-level experience.
Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Ideal for: Everyday users who prioritize battery life and software support, those who want a modern device with a wide-angle lens, and users on a budget.
- Use Cases: General smartphone usage, social media, photography, and users who need a reliable and long-lasting device.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is camera quality to you? If photography is a top priority, the P50 Pro is the clear winner.
- Do you need the latest software and long-term updates? The A35 will have the advantage here.
- What is your budget? The A35 is likely more budget-friendly.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious Photographer: Samsung Galaxy A35
- Performance Enthusiast: Huawei P50 Pro
- All-Day Battery Life Seeker: Samsung Galaxy A35
- Flagship Camera Lover: Huawei P50 Pro
My Choice
If I were personally choosing between these two phones, I would lean towards the Huawei P50 Pro.
Here's why:
As a tech journalist, I value a great camera above most other features. The P50 Pro's camera system, with its superior DxOMark score, larger sensor, telephoto lens, and advanced features, would allow me to capture significantly better photos and videos. Additionally, the faster performance of the Kirin 9000 chipset would make a noticeable difference in my daily usage, particularly when multitasking and running demanding applications. While the older software and lack of guaranteed updates are a concern, the trade-off is worth it for the significantly better camera and performance.