Okay, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Nokia G21 and the Samsung Galaxy A35. I'll break it down with my usual blend of technical understanding and practical insights, making sure we focus on what really matters to you, the user.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table comparing the specs, with a focus on what each difference means for you in the real world:
| Feature | Nokia G21 | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.6 × 75.9 × 8.5 mm | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm | G21 is slightly taller and thicker but A35 is wider. A35 is a bit more compact for average hands. |
| Weight | 190g | 209g | G21 is lighter making it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Minimal difference, both are large enough for media consumption. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2340 | A35 has significantly sharper text and images, better for detail-oriented users. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 270 | 390 | A35 offers much more clarity and less pixilation, enhancing the viewing experience. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | A35 delivers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, especially noticeable in dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | A35 offers slightly smoother scrolling and animations, making UI feel more responsive. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Both will likely struggle under direct sunlight at this brightness level. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T606 (12 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | A35 has a much more powerful and efficient chipset, leading to faster app loading and overall performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,300 | 578,500 | A35 handles multitasking and gaming much better. G21 might feel slow with demanding apps. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 (ARM Mali-G57) | Mali-G68 MP5 (ARM Mali-G68 MP5) | A35 has a more capable GPU resulting in better graphical performance. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5050mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery capacity, should provide comparable day-long usage on a single charge. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | A35 will charge faster, getting you back up and running more quickly. |
| Charger Included | 10W in Box | No | G21 includes a basic charger out of the box, while A35 users will have to source their own. |
| Camera | |||
| Rear Main Camera | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/2.76") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/1.96") | A35 has a larger sensor which is great for low light performance, leading to better overall image quality. |
| Front Camera | 8MP (f/2.0) | 13MP (f/2.2) | A35 has higher resolution selfies. |
| Wide Angle Camera | No | 8MP (f/2.2) | A35 allows for wider shots, more versatile for landscape and group photos. |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP (f/2.4) | No | G21 provides a dedicated depth sensor to assist in portrait mode. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP (f/2.4) | 5MP (f/2.4) | A35's Macro camera provides better detail in close up pictures. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps with EIS | A35's 4k capability and electronic image stabilization (EIS) is a huge plus for sharper footage. |
| Video Stabilization | No | Yes with EIS | A35 will provide smoother footage. |
| Slow-Motion Video | No | Yes, 240 fps | A35 can capture slow motion for more creative videos. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Tested | 104 Mobile 107 Photo 110 Video | A35's camera performance is tested and provides an idea on what to expect. |
| Camera Features | Basic set | Extensive set including OIS, 4K video and Pro Mode | A35 provides more control over photography and videography. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 (max 13) | Android 14 (max 18) | A35 has the latest OS version with more future updates promised. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11n | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | A35 has faster and more reliable Wi-Fi, especially with modern routers. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 | A35 has better connectivity with newer Bluetooth devices, better audio quality. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | A35 supports QZSS for potentially better accuracy in certain regions. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64 GB or 128 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | A35 offers more storage for apps, photos, and videos. |
| RAM | 4 GB or 6 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | A35 will handle multitasking much more smoothly and have better background app management. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both require you to make do with the available storage, making storage capacity critical when choosing between variants. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Features | 2 microphones | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | A35 has much better audio quality, and allows for an immersive experience, especially for media consumption. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint sensor | G21 features a more accessible side mounted fingerprint scanner |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | A35 has superior screen protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Hall, Geomagnetic, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | A35 has a more extensive set of sensors, especially useful for gaming. |
2. Key Insights
- Samsung Galaxy A35: The Clear Performer: The A35 is superior across nearly every metric. It boasts a significantly better display (AMOLED with higher resolution and refresh rate), a much more powerful processor, better camera quality, faster charging, improved connectivity, and a more extensive software experience. The inclusion of an AMOLED display is a game-changer for visual quality, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks that the Nokia’s IPS LCD just can’t match.
- Nokia G21: The Value Option: The G21's strengths lie in its price point and it includes a charger in the box. It's lighter, which might appeal to users who prioritize portability. It has a bigger battery (only by 50 mAh) and it features a more ergonomic side mounted fingerprint scanner.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
- Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Ideal For: Users who prioritize performance, display quality, and camera capabilities. Gamers, avid photographers, social media users, and those who consume a lot of video content will appreciate what the A35 has to offer.
- Use Cases: Mobile gaming, high-quality photography and videography, content consumption (streaming, browsing), multitasking between demanding apps, and those who want a long lasting device.
- Nokia G21:
- Ideal For: Budget-conscious users who need a reliable phone for basic tasks. Users who prioritize battery life and a lighter design will find G21 more appealing.
- Use Cases: Basic social media browsing, calls and messages, some light gaming, or as a secondary device. It’s also a reasonable choice for those who prefer a lighter phone.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- How much do you value display quality? If an excellent, vibrant screen is a must-have, the Galaxy A35's AMOLED display is the clear winner.
- How important is performance? For smoother, faster app switching, gaming, and multitasking, the A35 offers a much more powerful experience.
- What is your budget? If you're on a tight budget, the Nokia G21 provides the necessary features at a lower cost and you don't need to buy a charger for it.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Casual User: If you primarily use your phone for basic tasks like calling, texting, browsing social media, and some light media consumption, the Nokia G21 is a cost-effective choice.
- For the Power User: If you need a phone that can handle more intensive tasks, like gaming, editing photos and videos, and multitasking, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is the better option.
- For the Multimedia Enthusiast: If you enjoy consuming lots of video content and want a visually stunning experience, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is the device for you, offering better display, camera and audio.
- For the Budget-Conscious User: If budget is the biggest concern, the Nokia G21 will save you money, but be aware you’ll have to compromise on performance and display quality.
Which one would I choose?
Honestly, after going through this, I would pick the Samsung Galaxy A35 without hesitation.
Here's why:
- Future Proofing: The A35's Exynos 1380 chipset is far more powerful, which means it will run smoothly for longer. The software upgrades also ensure the phone remains compatible with the latest technologies.
- Overall Experience: The combination of the AMOLED display, higher refresh rate, better camera, faster charging, and superior performance just adds up to a much more satisfying daily experience. For me, a phone is something I use constantly, and I'd happily spend more for the features that enhance that experience.
- Camera Versatility: As someone who takes a lot of photos and videos, especially on the move, the A35's larger sensor and stabilization features are essential.
While I recognize the Nokia G21 has value for budget-conscious consumers, the improvements in the A35 are worth the extra investment. It’s not just about specs on paper—it’s about how those specs translate into a more fluid, enjoyable, and capable device that fits my needs better.
That's my take on the Nokia G21 vs. Samsung Galaxy A35. If you have any more questions, just ask!
