Alright, let's break down the Motorola Edge 20 Pro and the Samsung Galaxy M35, focusing on what matters most to you – the actual user. We'll skip the marketing fluff and get straight to the real-world implications.
Motorola Edge 20 Pro vs. Samsung Galaxy M35: A Tech Journalist's Perspective
Here’s a comprehensive comparison, designed to help you make an informed decision.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Motorola Edge 20 Pro | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 163 x 76 x 8 mm | 162.3 x 78.6 x 9.1 mm | The Edge 20 Pro is thinner and slightly narrower, making it potentially easier to hold in one hand. The M35 is a bit bulkier. |
| Weight | 190g | 222g | The Edge 20 Pro feels noticeably lighter, which can be a big plus for all-day comfort. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.6" | The slightly larger screen on the Edge 20 Pro is better for media consumption and multitasking. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both are sharp enough for everyday use; you likely won't notice the minor difference. |
| Technology | OLED | AMOLED | Similar tech; expect vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 144Hz | 120Hz | The higher refresh rate on the Edge 20 Pro results in even smoother scrolling and animations, particularly noticeable in gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Important Note: The provided data says both have 0 nits brightness, which is incorrect, and likely a data error. In reality, both will get sufficiently bright for outdoor use, though we can't compare their relative brightness based on this info. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 870 5G | Exynos 1380 | The Snapdragon 870 offers significantly more processing power. Expect faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance compared to the Exynos 1380. |
| AnTuTu Score | 813,800 | 578,500 | Confirms the Snapdragon 870's performance lead. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G68 MP5 | The Adreno 650 is a more capable GPU, meaning better graphics rendering for demanding games and applications. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 108MP, f/1.9, 1/1.52" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2" | The Edge 20 Pro's larger sensor and higher megapixel count potentially capture more detail and perform better in low light. The wider aperture on the M35 should let in more light, but the smaller sensor will likely result in less detail and dynamic range. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.3 | 13MP, f/2.2 | The Edge 20 Pro should capture significantly more detailed selfies. The slightly wider aperture on the M35 might help a bit in low light, but the resolution difference is key. |
| Telephoto Lens | 8MP | None | The Edge 20 Pro offers optical zoom capabilities, allowing for clearer zoomed-in shots compared to digital zoom. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 16MP (Wide Angle + Macro) | 8MP | The M35 includes a dedicated wide-angle lens for expansive shots, plus a dedicated 2MP Macro. The Edge 20 Pro combines the Wide Angle with the Macro in one lens. |
| Video Recording | Up to 8K | Up to 4K | The Edge 20 Pro can record higher resolution video, offering more flexibility for editing and future-proofing. |
| Camera Features | Optical Zoom, Manual Focus | OIS, Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, NPU AI Engine, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits, DOL HDR | The M35 emphasizes software enhancements and stabilization. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 6000mAh | The Samsung Galaxy M35 should offer significantly longer battery life due to its larger capacity. |
| Charging | 30W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | The Edge 20 Pro charges slightly faster but has a smaller battery to fill. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | The Galaxy M35 has the advantage here with a more modern OS, as well as likely receiving more future updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | The M35 has a slightly newer Bluetooth version. |
| GPS | More systems | Fewer systems | The Edge 20 Pro potentially offers more accurate location tracking due to its support for additional satellite systems. |
| Storage | |||
| RAM | 12GB | 6GB or 8GB | The Edge 20 Pro has ample RAM for smooth multitasking and demanding apps. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Stereo Speakers, Hi-Res Audio | The M35 offers a far superior audio experience with stereo speakers and enhanced audio processing. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 5 | Gorilla Glass Victus | The M35's screen is more scratch-resistant. |
| Sensors | Compass, Proximity | Virtual Proximity, Hall, Geomagnetic | Similar capabilities with minor sensor differences. |
2. Key Insights
- Motorola Edge 20 Pro:
- Strengths: Superior performance thanks to the Snapdragon 870, better camera specs (especially the telephoto lens and selfie camera), lighter design, and higher screen refresh rate.
- Competitive Advantages: Appeals to users prioritizing speed, photography, and a premium feel.
- Trade-offs: Older software (Android 11), smaller battery, basic audio.
- Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Strengths: Massive battery for extended use, more recent software, better audio quality with stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos, and a more durable screen.
- Competitive Advantages: Focuses on longevity, multimedia experience, and up-to-date software.
- Trade-offs: Lower performance, heavier build, less impressive camera specs (on paper, at least).
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Motorola Edge 20 Pro:
- Ideal For: Gamers, photography enthusiasts, power users who demand smooth performance and don't mind charging more frequently.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, capturing high-resolution photos and videos, multitasking between demanding apps.
- Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Ideal For: Users who prioritize battery life, media consumption, and a modern software experience.
- Use Cases: Streaming movies, listening to music, browsing the web, and using social media apps for extended periods without needing to recharge.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- Performance Matters Most? If speed and responsiveness are your top priorities, the Motorola Edge 20 Pro is the better choice.
- Battery Life a Must-Have? If you need all-day or even multi-day battery life, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the clear winner.
- Which Features Resonate? Consider which combination of features resonates most with your use case.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Gamer on a Budget: Motorola Edge 20 Pro (better performance for demanding games).
- Road Warrior: Samsung Galaxy M35 (unmatched battery life for travel).
- Multimedia Enthusiast: Samsung Galaxy M35 (Dolby Atmos, stereo speakers, larger battery).
- Casual User: Samsung Galaxy M35 (More recent OS version)
My Choice
If I were personally choosing between these two, I would lean towards the Samsung Galaxy M35, especially considering its release date. While I appreciate the raw power of the Snapdragon 870 in the Edge 20 Pro, the advantages of the M35 are more aligned with my daily needs and priorities. Here's why:
- Battery Life: As someone who values being able to get through a full day without worrying about charging, the M35's larger battery is a huge plus.
- Software: The newer Android version will get updates longer.
- Audio Experience: I consume a lot of media on my phone, so the stereo speakers and Dolby Atmos support of the M35 are very appealing.
- Screen Protection: The build quality and Gorilla Glass Victus gives an added peace of mind.
While the Edge 20 Pro is undoubtedly a powerful device, the Samsung Galaxy M35's combination of battery life, modern software, and enhanced multimedia features makes it the more practical choice for my needs.
