Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Infinix Hot 12 Play and the Samsung Galaxy M35. As always, we'll be focusing on the real-world implications of these specs, so you can make an informed choice.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Infinix Hot 12 Play | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 171 × 78 × 8.9 mm, 209g | 162.3 × 78.6 × 9.1 mm, 222g | Infinix is slightly taller and lighter, while the M35 is a bit more compact and heavier. The weight difference is minimal but noticeable for some, might prefer the more compact feel of the M35. |
| Foldable | Standard | Standard | Both are standard, not foldable phones |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.82" | 6.6" | Infinix has a slightly larger display, great for media consumption. M35 is more compact for better one-handed use. |
| Resolution | 720x1612 | 1080x2340 | M35 has a much sharper screen; text and images appear clearer and more detailed. |
| PPI | 259 | 390 | M35's higher pixel density ensures sharper images and text, providing a better visual experience. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | M35’s AMOLED screen offers deeper blacks, better contrast, more vibrant colors and superior power efficiency, particularly with dark mode enabled. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | M35 provides smoother scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have identical peak brightness at 0 nits, a strange result, could be missing data |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G37 (12 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | M35's Exynos 1380 offers significantly better performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding applications. M35 also is more power-efficient with it's smaller fabrication process. |
| AnTuTu Score | 168,500 | 578,500 | M35 demonstrates significantly higher performance and is much faster. |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | Mali-G68 MP5 | M35 has more powerful graphics, better for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 13MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8, Sony LYT-600 | M35's main camera has a higher resolution, a larger sensor, and a more advanced model, resulting in far better image quality. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP | 13MP, f/2.2 | M35 has a higher resolution selfie camera for better quality selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | Not Available | 8MP, f/2.2 | M35 offers additional wide-angle camera for more flexible photography. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | Not Available | Infinix has a depth sensor for better bokeh effects. |
| Macro Lens | Not Available | 2MP, f/2.4 | M35 allows you to take close-up shots. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@60fps | M35 provides higher resolution and better stabilization options, providing higher quality video recordings. |
| Camera Features | Basic | OIS, EIS, 4k, Pro Video | M35 provides more advanced camera features for better quality photos and videos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 6000mAh | 6000mAh | Both phones should offer similar battery life for typical usage. |
| Charging | 10W | 25W | M35 charges much faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Both types of batteries are reliable, though Li-Ion is more common. |
| Removable Battery | Non-removable | Non-removable | Both have non-removable batteries, a common trend. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | M35 offers the latest Android version, ensuring enhanced security, performance and features. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | M35 supports a newer Wi-Fi standard, allowing for faster, more reliable connections. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 LE | Bluetooth 5.3 | M35 supports a newer Bluetooth version, offering better performance, energy efficiency, and more audio codec support. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS etc | M35 provides more precise and reliable location tracking due to support of multiple GPS standards |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support two SIM cards, convenient for multi-network users. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | M35 offers more storage space for apps, media, and other files. |
| RAM | 4 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | M35 handles multitasking and more demanding apps smoothly with more RAM. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic audio features | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio | M35 offers much better audio quality, spatial audio and better separation. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Rear-mounted fingerprint | Side-mounted fingerprint | M35's side-mounted sensor is more convenient, both will provide basic security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Samsung M35 has a much better protection with its Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Samsung has gyroscope, more accurate proximity and better for AR/VR. Infinix has compass, useful for navigation |
2. Key Insights
Infinix Hot 12 Play:
- Strengths: The Infinix Hot 12 Play stands out with its larger display and lighter weight. The large battery capacity should give you a full day's use. Its lower price point makes it an affordable choice.
- Competitive Advantages: Its price point.
- Trade-offs: The trade-offs of the Infinix are in its lower display resolution, less powerful processor, basic camera system, slower charging, and older Android OS.
Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Strengths: The Samsung Galaxy M35 excels with its superior AMOLED display, significantly faster processor, and higher quality camera system. The faster charging, newer OS, and better audio features are clear advantages.
- Competitive Advantages: Superior display, significantly faster processing, enhanced camera capabilities, a more advanced audio experience and a more up-to-date software.
- Trade-offs: The trade-offs are the heavier weight and higher price point.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Infinix Hot 12 Play:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious individuals who prioritize a larger screen for basic daily tasks, media consumption, and a phone that can last a full day without needing to be plugged in.
- Use Cases: Ideal for casual browsing, social media, and watching videos, or as a secondary phone. A good phone for someone who is not bothered about photo quality, gaming performance or smooth scrolling.
- Recommendation: This is a good fit if you need a basic phone that does not break the bank, is less demanding and can last a full day on one charge.
Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Ideal User: Tech enthusiasts, avid photographers, and mobile gamers who need good performance and features. Someone who wants a smooth experience, good photos and videos and a phone that is more future proof.
- Use Cases: Excellent for gaming, streaming, social media, video production, and anyone looking for a well-rounded device that does not compromise on camera and performance.
- Recommendation: This is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a capable and well-rounded device with excellent performance, a vibrant display, and a capable camera. It’s suitable for more demanding tasks and offers a far more complete and premium experience, while also having a great battery life.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- What is your primary use case? If you just need a basic device for calls, texts and basic tasks the Infinix may be enough. However, for more demanding tasks, gaming, social media, photography, or video content creation, the Samsung is better equipped.
- How important is display quality? If a sharp, vibrant display is a priority for you, the Samsung is a clear winner thanks to its AMOLED screen and superior pixel density.
- What is your budget? The Infinix is an affordable entry level device. The Samsung offers higher performance and features, so you have to consider what is more important for your use case and adjust accordingly.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Basic User, Budget-Conscious: If you're primarily looking for a phone for basic communication and browsing and your budget is very tight, the Infinix Hot 12 Play could meet your needs.
- Scenario 2: Demanding User, Moderate Budget: If you enjoy photography, gaming, content creation, or want a smoother everyday experience the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the far better option, it delivers a far better experience in almost every category.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would definitely go for the Samsung Galaxy M35. The improvements in display quality with the AMOLED screen and higher resolution, the far superior performance with the Exynos 1380 chipset, the drastically improved camera system, and the newer Android version all provide a much better user experience. Yes, it is slightly heavier and likely more expensive, but the added features and performance are worth it. The Samsung Galaxy M35 is the better phone in all areas except size, and offers much more for your money.
