Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Nokia C31 and the Samsung Galaxy M35. As a tech journalist with a passion for understanding the real-world impact of these gadgets, I'll break down these phones, not just as spec sheets, but as potential everyday companions.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a detailed look at the specifications, focusing on what they mean for you:
| Feature | Nokia C31 | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-09-01 | 2024-05-24 | The M35 is significantly newer (by almost 9 months), suggesting more up-to-date features and software. |
| Form Factor | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphones; no foldable or unique form factors. |
| Dimensions | 169.2 x 78 x 8.6mm | 162.3 x 78.6 x 9.1mm | The Nokia is taller but slightly thinner; M35 is more compact and a bit thicker. The difference in hand feel can be noticeable. |
| Weight | 200g | 222g | The Nokia C31 is lighter, potentially more comfortable for extended periods of usage, especially one-handed use. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.75" | 6.6" | Nokia C31 offers a slightly bigger screen but with a noticeable downgrade in other display aspects. |
| Resolution | 720 x 1600 | 1080 x 2340 | The M35 has a much sharper display; text will appear clearer, and images will have better detail. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 260 | 390 | The M35's screen will look significantly crisper due to higher pixel density. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED offers richer blacks, better contrast, and generally more vibrant colors. The M35 display will be superior in quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The M35 screen will feel smoother in everyday usage. Animations and scrolling appear much fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both have the same brightness, however this is almost certainly an error in the given data. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc SC9863A (28 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | The M35's chipset is far superior; it will handle apps, gaming, and multitasking much better. It also is significantly more power efficient. |
| AnTuTu Score | 109,200 | 578,500 | The M35’s AnTuTu score indicates much higher performance and faster overall operation. |
| GPU | IMG8322 (PowerVR GE8322) | Mali-G68 MP5 (ARM Mali-G68 MP5) | M35's GPU is more powerful, allowing for better graphics performance in games and other GPU-intensive applications. |
| BATTERY LIFE | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 6000mAh | The M35 has a larger battery, likely providing significantly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 10W | 25W | The M35 charges considerably faster, reducing downtime. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Both are non-removable but slight differences in chemical make up. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 13MP | 50MP (1/2", f/1.8, 1.00 µm, Sony LYT-600) | The M35 offers higher resolution, better sensor, and larger pixel sizes. It will capture more detailed, and better quality photos. |
| Selfie Camera | 5MP (f/2.2) | 13MP (f/2.2, 1.12 µm pixel size) | The M35 offers higher quality selfies with higher resolution and larger pixel size on the sensor. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | N/A | 8MP (f/2.2) | The M35 gives the option of an ultra wide field of view for more creative shooting. |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP (f/2.4) | N/A | The C31 offers a dedicated depth sensor for portraits. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP (f/2.4) | 2MP (f/2.4) | Both have similar macro lenses. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps (EIS), 1080p@60fps (EIS), 720@480fps (EIS) | The M35 records in higher quality and smoother video thanks to EIS and 60FPS option in 1080p. The M35 will have slow-motion recording. |
| Camera Features | Basic Features | Extensive Features, including OIS | The M35 has additional advanced features, especially in video and low-light photography. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| OS | Android 12 | Android 14 | The M35 ships with a more recent version of Android, providing newer features and security updates. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11b/g/n | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax | The M35 supports faster Wi-Fi standards, for better data speeds and connection stability, especially on modern networks. |
| Bluetooth | 4.2 LE | 5.3 | The M35 has a more modern Bluetooth, offering higher data rates, better efficiency, and range. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, SUPL, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | M35 supports more satellite systems, allowing it to be more precise in location finding. |
| SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Dual Nano SIM | Both support dual SIM usage, allowing for more flexibility. |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128GB | 128/256GB | The M35 offers more built-in storage, giving users more room for apps, photos, and videos. |
| RAM | 4GB | 6/8GB | The M35's higher RAM enables more seamless multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports SD card for storage expansion. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | M35 provides a significantly enhanced audio experience with stereo speakers and support for Hi-Res Audio. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Security Features | Rear-Mounted Fingerprint | Side-Mounted Fingerprint | The side mounted fingerprint scanner is better for usage ergonomics. |
| BUILD QUALITY | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | The M35 offers much better screen protection against scratches and breaks. |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Hall, Geomagnetic, Ultrasonic Proximity | M35 offers a more comprehensive suite of sensors for advanced features and enhanced functionality. |
2. Key Insights
- Samsung Galaxy M35: This phone is a clear winner in terms of performance and features. Its standout qualities include a vibrant AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a powerful processor, a superior camera system with OIS and 4K video, and a larger battery with fast charging. The audio system is better thanks to stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio playback.
- Nokia C31: This phone is more of a budget option, with a focus on basic functionality, and can still be a reliable entry-level phone for everyday tasks. Its larger display size and lighter weight are its main draws, but it lags behind significantly in almost all other aspects.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy M35: This phone is for users who value performance, display quality, camera capabilities, and fast charging. It is suitable for gamers, photographers, videographers, and anyone who wants a smooth and responsive smartphone experience.
- Nokia C31: This phone is best suited for users on a very tight budget who prioritize a larger screen and a lighter phone but are okay with basic performance and camera quality. It is a decent pick for those who need a simple, functional phone for everyday calls, messages, and browsing.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to guide your purchase:
- How important is display quality? If you value vibrant colors, sharp images, and smooth animations, the M35’s AMOLED 120Hz display is a clear choice. If you are OK with a more basic display, the C31 may suffice.
- What are your performance needs? If you need a phone for heavy multitasking, gaming, and photography/videography the M35’s superior processor is a must. If your requirements are simple and undemanding, the C31 might be acceptable.
- What's your budget? If you're on a strict budget, the Nokia C31 is more affordable but will feel dated. If you have more budget and want a much better experience, the M35 is worth it.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: Go for the Nokia C31. It provides a basic smartphone experience with a larger screen and lighter weight.
- Everyday User: The Samsung Galaxy M35 is the better all-around pick offering better performance, a much better display, and better cameras.
- Power User: The Samsung Galaxy M35 is the clear winner due to its better display, powerful processor, more advanced cameras, and fast charging.
My Choice and Why
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy M35. It is simply a much more compelling package. The performance difference, the superior display, the faster charging, and the significantly better cameras make it a clear winner. It also has the better audio experience, thanks to the inclusion of stereo speakers and Hi-Res audio support. The extra cost over the Nokia C31 is completely justifiable with all the upgrades you get, making it the better investment over the long term.
While the Nokia C31 is a capable budget smartphone, it simply cannot compete with the Galaxy M35's significantly more modern features.
