Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Realme C35 and the Samsung Galaxy A05. Both phones are aimed at the budget-conscious market, but there are some critical differences that will impact your daily usage.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table breaking down the key specs, with a focus on what they mean for you in the real world:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Samsung Galaxy A05 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Size | 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1mm | 168.8 x 78.2 x 8.8mm | A05 is larger and slightly bulkier. C35 might feel more compact in hand. |
| Weight | 189g | 195g | C35 is slightly lighter, which can be more comfortable for prolonged use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.7" | A05 offers marginally larger screen, which is only slightly more immersive. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 720x1600 | C35 has a much sharper display (more pixels), resulting in clearer text and images. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 401 | 262 | C35’s display is noticeably crisper. Better for reading, browsing, and viewing detailed images |
| Technology | IPS LCD | PLS LCD | IPS LCD in C35 typically offers better viewing angles and color accuracy. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | Both displays are standard 60Hz, fine for casual use but not super smooth for gaming. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc T616 (12nm) | Helio G85 (12nm) | Both are similar in performance. Helio G85 has a slightly more efficient CPU and more advanced GPU |
| AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 225,154 | Both deliver similar real-world performance, suitable for basic tasks and light gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Mali-G52 MC2 | A05's GPU is more advanced, which means better gaming performance compared to the C35 |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP f/1.8 | 50MP f/1.8 | Main cameras are similar in specs; both are good for everyday shots. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP f/2.0 | 8MP f/2.0 | Front-facing cameras are identical, suitable for selfies and video calls. |
| Additional Lenses | 2MP Macro, 2MP B&W | 2MP Depth | C35 has macro and B&W lens, while the A05 has a depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps | 1080p@30/60fps | A05 has better options for video recording (60fps). |
| Camera Features | More autofocus and shooting modes | Basic Autofocus & shooting modes | C35 offers more flexibility with camera controls and modes |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both have good battery life for a full day of normal usage. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 25W fast charging | A05 charges faster, so you'll spend less time plugged in. |
| Software | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 13 | A05 comes with a newer version of Android, potentially longer software support. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | 802.11ac | Both have similar Wi-Fi speeds and features. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | A05 has a newer version of Bluetooth that offers more efficient connectivity |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | A05 supports Galileo which may increase accuracy in certain regions |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64GB or 128 GB | 64 GB or 128 GB | Both devices offer similar storage options |
| RAM | 4GB | 4 GB or 6 GB | A05's 6GB RAM variant is better for multi-tasking and running more demanding apps smoothly |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both lack expandable storage; you’re stuck with what you buy. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic security features | Only the C35 has a fingerprint sensor, for quick secure access. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Proximity | Accelerometer, Proximity | C35 has better motion sensor configuration. |
2. Key Insights
- Realme C35: The C35 stands out with its higher resolution display, better pixel density and inclusion of macro and black and white cameras. The fingerprint sensor is a nice addition for security. It's a good all-rounder if you value a better visual experience and have a passion for photography.
- Samsung Galaxy A05: The A05 takes the lead with its newer operating system, faster charging, newer version of Bluetooth, and option for 6 GB of RAM and slightly more powerful GPU. It's a better choice if you value long-term software support and more performance during gaming. The ability to record 1080p videos at 60fps makes it a better device for social media content creation.
Trade-offs:
- Realme C35: Lacks the more efficient software that the A05 has, and the C35 does not have expandable storage.
- Samsung Galaxy A05: Has a lower screen resolution and only has a depth sensor instead of the macro and B&W lens that the C35 has.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35: Best for users who prioritize display quality and camera features. Suitable for casual photographers, social media users, and those who enjoy consuming content on their phones. Its fingerprint sensor adds extra convenience for daily use.
Samsung Galaxy A05: Ideal for users who want the latest software experience and better gaming performance. The faster charging is a significant plus, and the 6GB RAM variant will help with multitasking. This is a solid option for someone who uses their phone for extended periods of time and wants to ensure they have support for new features for a bit longer than the C35 would offer.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three practical questions to help you decide:
- How much do I value display quality? If you are someone who values high-resolution display for better visual clarity when watching videos and browsing the internet, the C35 is the better option.
- Is software support important? If you want more long term software support and the possibility of getting new features later on, the A05 is the device to buy.
- How important is performance and gaming to me? If you need a bit more power for better performance in gaming and apps, the A05 will be a better choice with its superior GPU and a 6GB Ram version.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Budget-conscious Media Consumer: If you mostly watch videos, browse social media, and read on your phone, the Realme C35 offers a better visual experience.
- Scenario 2: Performance-focused Multitasker: If you do a lot of work on your phone, switch between apps often, and game often, the Samsung Galaxy A05 provides more reliable performance for this kind of use.
- Scenario 3: Long Term Usage If you like to keep your phone for a long time and enjoy receiving updates, the Samsung Galaxy A05 is better because it has a newer operating system than the C35.
My Choice
If I had to pick between these two, I would go with the Samsung Galaxy A05. Here's why: while I appreciate the higher resolution display on the Realme C35, the Samsung Galaxy A05’s newer operating system and faster charging give it a greater appeal. The option to have 6GB of Ram and a better GPU makes it a bit more future-proof and provides a better experience while using more demanding apps. As someone who is constantly using my phone for various tasks, a better performing device is something that I prioritize a little bit more than display quality.
