Alright, let's dive deep into this head-to-head comparison of the Realme C35 and the Samsung Galaxy A23. Buckle up, because we're about to dissect these two contenders and see which one comes out on top for different types of users.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed look at how these two phones stack up, breaking down the specs into meaningful categories and focusing on real-world implications:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Samsung Galaxy A23 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1 mm | 165.4 x 76.9 x 8.4 mm | The A23 is slightly larger and thicker, which may impact one-handed use. |
| Weight | 189g | 195g | The C35 is a touch lighter, which could be noticeable during extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.6" | Both offer a large display, great for media consumption and browsing. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 | 1080 x 2408 | Both offer sharp and clear visuals for their size. |
| Pixel Density | 401 PPI | 400 PPI | Essentially identical sharpness - both provide clear images. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | PLS LCD | IPS LCD (C35) generally offers better viewing angles and color accuracy. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 90Hz | The A23’s 90Hz refresh rate will make scrolling and animations appear smoother. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | Snapdragon 680 4G (6 nm) | A23’s Snapdragon chipset is significantly more powerful and energy efficient. |
| Antutu Score | 230,726 | 401,000 | The A23 will offer snappier performance across the board, especially in gaming. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Adreno 610 | The Adreno 610 in the A23 handles graphics more smoothly. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8 | Comparable resolution and aperture, but sensor quality on A23 is better. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Wider aperture on C35’s selfie cam should result in slightly better low-light. |
| Wide Angle | None | 5MP, f/2.2 | The A23 offers a wide-angle lens for capturing more in your photos. |
| Portrait Depth | None | 2MP, f/2.4 | A23 has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both include a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography. |
| B&W Lens | 2MP, f/2.8 | None | The C35 features a dedicated black and white sensor for creative shots. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, No stabilization | 1080p@30fps, OIS | A23 has optical stabilization for smoother videos. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should provide all-day battery life for most users. |
| Charging | 18W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | The A23 will recharge faster with its higher-wattage charging. |
| Battery Features | Non-removable | Bypass Charging, Non-removable | A23 can be used whilst charging which prevents overheating for gaming. |
| Software & Storage | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 12 (Upgradable to 14) | A23 has a newer Android version with more up-to-date features. |
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 64/128 GB | Both offer the same storage options for apps, photos, and files. |
| RAM | 4GB | 4GB / 6GB | A23 can have more RAM, which helps with smoother multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device has expandable storage |
| Connectivity & Security | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | 802.11a/b/g/n/ac | Both have similar WiFi standards; A23 offers WiFi Direct. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | A23 has a newer Bluetooth version for improved connectivity. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | A23 supports more satellite systems for more accurate tracking. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both phones have side-mounted fingerprint sensors which provide basic biometric security. |
| Build Quality & Sensors | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | A23 is better protected against screen damage. |
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer, Ultrasonic Proximity | A23 has additional environmental and biometrics sensors useful for advance features and gaming. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A23's Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 680 chipset is a significant upgrade over the Unisoc T616, offering much smoother performance in everyday tasks and gaming.
- Smoother Display: The 90Hz refresh rate makes scrolling feel much more fluid and responsive.
- Enhanced Camera: The addition of a wide-angle lens, depth sensor, and optical image stabilization (OIS) makes the A23’s camera system more versatile.
- Faster Charging: 25W charging means less time plugged in and more time on the go.
- Better Build Quality: The inclusion of Corning Gorilla Glass 5 provides superior screen protection.
- More up to date software The A23 is on a newer android version with guaranteed up to date support.
- Additional Sensors: The A23 has additional sensors including an environmental barometer and biometrics.
Realme C35's Strengths:
- Slightly Lighter Design: A tad lighter, which might be a preference for some users.
- Potentially Better Selfies: The slightly wider aperture on the selfie camera may lead to slightly better low-light performance.
- Unique Camera Features: The Black and White lens provides some creative options.
- IPS LCD: Offers better display viewing angles.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Realme C35: The Unisoc chipset is noticeably slower, the display is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, and its camera system lacks OIS and a wide-angle lens.
- Samsung Galaxy A23: Slightly larger, a little heavier, and more expensive. It also has a lower quality PLS LCD screen.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35 is ideal for:
- Basic Users: Those who primarily use their phones for calls, messaging, browsing, and social media.
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Users looking for a large display and long battery life at an affordable price.
- Occasional Photographers: Those who take the odd snap but don't require advanced features.
Samsung Galaxy A23 is ideal for:
- Performance Seekers: Users who want smooth performance for multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Those who want a versatile camera system, including wide-angle shots and OIS.
- Media Consumers: Users who value a smooth display and an overall better experience.
- Users who value longevity: As the phone is on a newer operating system it will likely have more updates and therefore more longevity.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you make the right choice, ask yourself these three practical questions:
- How much do I value performance? If you need a phone that handles everyday tasks smoothly and can handle gaming, the A23 is the way to go. If you are okay with a slower experience the C35 will suffice.
- How important is the camera? If you want flexibility and image stability, the A23 is the clear winner. But if all you want are simple photos the C35 is more affordable.
- What is my budget? If you are on a very tight budget the C35 is a great option, but if you can stretch your budget a little the A23 is better value.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
The Budget Browser: If your primary concern is cost and you want a large display for basic tasks, the Realme C35 will do the job.
The Everyday Multitasker: If you need a phone that can keep up with you and handle multiple tasks without lag, the Samsung Galaxy A23 is your best bet.
The Mobile Photographer: If you enjoy taking pictures and videos, especially those that require wide-angle shots or some stabilisation the Samsung Galaxy A23 is the most practical choice.
My Choice
If I were in the market for a phone in this price range, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy A23. While it might be slightly more expensive, the performance boost from the Snapdragon 680, the smoother 90Hz display, the additional camera features, and the better build quality make it a much better overall user experience. The faster charging and more recent version of Android also push it further ahead for my personal needs. The A23 has a more complete package, offering a smoother and more versatile smartphone experience. The minor trade-offs of size and weight are worth the upgrade in all other key areas.
