Alright, let's break down the Huawei P50 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy M35. I'll be your guide through the tech jungle, translating specs into real-world user experiences.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed comparison of the key specs, focusing on what they actually mean for you:
| Feature | Huawei P50 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 158.8 × 72.8 × 8.5 mm | 162.3 × 78.6 × 9.1 mm | M35 is larger and slightly thicker, which may affect one-handed use and pocketability. |
| Weight | 195g | 222g | P50 Pro is noticeably lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended use. |
| Build Quality | Unknown screen protection | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 has superior screen protection, reducing the risk of scratches and cracks. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.6" | Both offer the same screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1228x2700 | 1080x2340 | P50 Pro's higher resolution leads to sharper images, finer text, and a more immersive viewing experience. |
| PPI | 450 | 390 | P50 Pro's higher pixel density means crisper visuals. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks, but differences are subtle and subjective. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Kirin 9000 (5 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Kirin 9000 offers better performance for demanding tasks and games. |
| AnTuTu Score | 697,566 | 578,500 | P50 Pro is faster in benchmarks, translating to snappier app loading and smoother multitasking. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP24 (Adreno 660) | Mali-G68 MP5 (ARM Mali-G68 MP5) | P50 Pro has a more powerful GPU, beneficial for graphically intensive games. |
| RAM | 8 GB or 12 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | P50 Pro with 12GB RAM can handle more apps in the background and provides smoother multitasking. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.55" sensor | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2" sensor | P50 Pro's larger sensor captures more light, potentially resulting in better low-light performance and dynamic range. |
| Telephoto Lens | 64MP | None | P50 Pro offers optical zoom capabilities for better zoomed shots. |
| Ultrawide Lens | 13MP (Wide Angle + Macro) | 8MP | Both have ultrawide, but Huawei has combined with macro lens, which is unique. |
| Macro Lens | None | 2MP | M35 has dedicated macro lens. |
| Black & White Lens | 40MP | None | P50 Pro offers a black & white lens. |
| Video | 4K@60fps | 4K@30fps | P50 Pro records video at a higher framerate. |
| DxOMark | 143 (Mobile) | N/A | P50 Pro has a well-regarded camera system. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4360mAh | 6000mAh | M35 has a significantly larger battery, offering potentially longer battery life. |
| Charging | 66W Fast Charging, 50W Wireless | 25W Fast Charging | P50 Pro charges much faster, both wired and wirelessly. |
| Other | |||
| Software | EMUI (Huawei) | Android 14 (Samsung) | M35 has latest Android with guaranteed updates. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Security | Basic fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | M35 has side-mounted fingerprint sensor, provides a basic biometric security |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.3 | M35 has newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | More satellite systems | Fewer satellite systems | P50 Pro has more robust GPS. |
2. Key Insights
- Huawei P50 Pro:
- Strengths: Superior camera system (especially zoom capabilities), faster performance, sharper display, faster charging (wired and wireless).
- Competitive Advantages: Premium design, flagship-level performance, top-tier camera, and faster charging are all strengths.
- Limitations: Older software, no Google Play Services, no expandable storage.
- Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Strengths: Significantly longer battery life, latest Android version, better screen protection.
- Competitive Advantages: Long battery, latest software, better value.
- Limitations: Slower performance, inferior camera system, slower charging.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Huawei P50 Pro:
- Best Suited For: Photography enthusiasts, users who prioritize performance and display quality, those willing to work around the lack of Google services.
- Use Cases: Capturing high-quality photos and videos, playing demanding mobile games, enjoying multimedia content on a vibrant display.
- Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Best Suited For: Users who prioritize battery life, need the latest Android version, and seek a reliable daily driver without breaking the bank.
- Use Cases: All-day usage without needing to recharge, consuming media on the go, basic photography and social media.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Ask Yourself:
- How important is battery life to you? If you need a phone that lasts all day (or even two), the Galaxy M35 is the clear winner.
- Do you rely heavily on Google services? The P50 Pro requires workarounds for Google apps.
- How much do you care about camera quality and zoom capabilities? The P50 Pro's camera is significantly better, especially for zooming.
Scenarios:
- Scenario 1: Power User
- You need the best possible performance and camera capabilities.
- Recommendation: Huawei P50 Pro (if you can manage without native Google services).
- Scenario 2: Budget-Conscious User
- You want a reliable phone with long battery life at a reasonable price.
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy M35.
- Scenario 3: All-Day Traveler
- You need a phone that can last through long trips and heavy usage.
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy M35.
My Choice:
If I were choosing between these two phones, I'd personally lean towards the Huawei P50 Pro. While the lack of Google services is definitely a drawback, the superior camera system is a massive draw. I value photography and videography, and the P50 Pro's ability to capture stunning images and videos, especially with its optical zoom capabilities, is something I wouldn't want to compromise on. Plus, the faster performance and sharper display would enhance my overall experience.
However, and this is a big however, if battery life and having the latest Android with guaranteed updates are non-negotiable, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the more sensible choice. It's a reliable workhorse that will last you through the day and beyond, and the peace of mind of having the latest software is definitely worth considering. But for me, the P50 Pro's camera is too tempting to resist.
