Okay, let's break down the Realme C35 and the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. These are two very different devices aimed at very different markets, so this comparison should be quite interesting. Let's dive in!
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison, focusing on what these specs mean for real-world use:
| Feature | Realme C35 | Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| DESIGN | |||
| Launch Date | 2022-02-14 | 2022-08-25 | The Z Flip4 is roughly 6 months newer, which usually means updated tech and software |
| Foldable | Standard | Foldable | The Z Flip4's foldable design allows for a smaller form factor when closed and some unique use cases like "flex mode" for hands-free photos and videos. |
| Dimensions | 164.4 x 75.6 x 8.1mm | 165.2 x 71.9 x 6.9mm | C35 is wider and thicker, while Z Flip4 is more compact when open and very compact when folded. |
| Weight | 189g | 187g | Negligible weight difference. Both should feel similar in hand. |
| DISPLAY | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.7" | Z Flip4 has a slightly larger screen, but the difference isn't significant. |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2408 | 1080 x 2640 | Z Flip4 has a slightly sharper display, noticeable in side-by-side comparisons. |
| Pixel Density | 401 PPI | 426 PPI | Z Flip4 has a moderately crisper display. Text and images will appear sharper. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | C35 has an LCD display, while Z Flip4 has an AMOLED, which translates to better colors, contrast, and power efficiency. (missing from the dataset) | |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Z Flip4 has much smoother scrolling and animations, making it feel more fluid. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 1200 nits | Z Flip4 is much easier to see outdoors, especially in bright sunlight. C35 has an unknown brightness. |
| PERFORMANCE | |||
| Chipset | Unisoc Tiger T616 (12 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 (4 nm) | Z Flip4 has a much more powerful and efficient processor, making it significantly faster. |
| AnTuTu Score | 230,726 | 1,050,371 | Z Flip4 is over four times faster in benchmarks. This means better performance in all scenarios from gaming to productivity. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MP1 | Adreno 730 | Z Flip4's GPU provides significantly better graphics performance, crucial for gaming and GPU-intensive apps. |
| BATTERY | |||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 3700 mAh | C35 has a significantly larger battery, potentially leading to longer battery life. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Z Flip4 charges faster, but the C35 might last longer on a full charge. |
| Features | Non-removable | Bypass/Reverse/Fast Charging, Wireless Charging | Z Flip4 has far more versatile charging features, and is a more modern device. |
| CAMERA | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 12.2MP, f/1.8, 1/2.55" | C35 has higher resolution, but Z Flip4 has larger sensor pixels, which leads to better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 10MP, f/2.4, 1/3.2" | Z Flip4 has better sensor size, potentially better low-light selfies. |
| Wide-Angle Lens | None | 13MP, 1/3.06" | Z Flip4 has a wide-angle lens, allowing for more versatile photography. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | C35 has a macro lens for close-up shots. |
| Black and White lens | 2MP, f/2.8 | None | C35 has a Black and White lens. |
| Video Resolution | 1080p@30fps | 4K@60fps, 1080p@240fps with HDR | Z Flip4 shoots much higher resolution videos with better frame rates and features. |
| DxoMark Score | N/A | 112 Mobile | Z Flip4 has a solid camera score for a smartphone, while the C35 has no ranking available. |
| SOFTWARE | |||
| Operating System | Android 11 | Android 12 (up to 14) | Z Flip4 has a newer OS with more modern features and should be supported longer. |
| CONNECTIVITY | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) | Z Flip4 supports faster WiFi 6 for enhanced network speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.1 | Z Flip4 has a slightly newer Bluetooth version with more features. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo, GPS (L1+L5) | Z Flip4 supports more satellite systems for better location accuracy. |
| SIM | Dual SIM | Dual SIM + eSIM | Z Flip4 supports eSIMs for flexible network options. |
| STORAGE | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128GB | 128/256/512GB | Z Flip4 has higher storage options, suitable for users with large media libraries. |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB | Z Flip4 has more RAM for better multitasking and smoother performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone offers expandable storage, which is a notable limitation for both. |
| AUDIO | |||
| Quality | Basic | Stereo Speakers | Z Flip4 has an immersive audio experience. |
| SECURITY | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both provide basic biometric security. |
| BUILD | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | Z Flip4 has robust screen protection for everyday use. |
| SENSORS | |||
| Sensors | Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Barometer | Z Flip4 offers more environmental and biometric sensors. |
2. Key Insights
Realme C35:
- Strengths:
- Large Battery: The 5000 mAh battery is a big advantage for users who need long battery life.
- Decent Main Camera: 50MP camera for high-resolution photos.
- Price: Designed to be a budget-friendly device.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Longer Battery Life: The 5000 mAh battery can last a full day and possibly more for the average user.
- Macro & B/W Lens: Allows for close-up shots & artistic B/W shots
- Trade-offs:
- Performance: The Unisoc chipset is not as fast or efficient as the Snapdragon processor.
- Display: The LCD display lacks the vibrant colors and high refresh rate of AMOLED screens.
- Software: Running on Android 11, which is outdated.
- Build: Has no screen protection, unlike the Flip.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4:
- Strengths:
- Foldable Design: Unique form factor with a compact size and a large screen when unfolded.
- Performance: Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset provides top-tier performance.
- Display: High-quality AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate.
- Camera: Better all-around camera system with wide-angle and good low-light capabilities, along with 4k video.
- Software: Modern OS and robust software support.
- Build Quality: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus screen.
- Competitive Advantages:
- Unique User Experience: The foldable design offers several use cases and stands out from traditional smartphones.
- Top-tier Performance: Excellent for gaming, multitasking, and resource-intensive applications.
- Premium Features: Advanced camera system, wireless charging, and a high-quality display.
- Trade-offs:
- Battery Life: Smaller battery that may not last a full day for heavy users.
- Price: A much more expensive device.
- Durability: While better than before, foldable phones still have some durability concerns.
- Camera: No Macro Lens.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Realme C35:
- Best For:
- Budget-conscious users who prioritize battery life and large screen size.
- Users who mostly use their phone for basic tasks (calls, texts, social media) and occasional photos.
- Individuals not concerned with high-performance gaming.
- Use Cases:
- Extended use without needing to recharge (great for traveling).
- Reliable phone for daily tasks with good camera for casual use.
- Budget phone for students or secondary device.
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4:
- Best For:
- Tech enthusiasts who value cutting-edge design and top-tier performance.
- Users who take lots of photos and videos.
- Users who appreciate a compact and unique phone experience.
- Those willing to pay a premium for the latest technology.
- Use Cases:
- Power users who demand top performance for gaming and productivity.
- Those who want a compact and fashionable phone that can still offer an immersive display experience.
- Creative professionals who benefit from the camera and unique form factor.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to guide your decision:
- How important is battery life to you?
- If crucial: Realme C35 might be a better fit.
- If you can charge regularly: Samsung Z Flip4 is still a good option.
- How much do you value raw performance and a high-quality display?
- If you need the best performance and best-in-class visual experience: Samsung Z Flip4 is the clear choice.
- If you’re okay with a solid mid-range experience: Realme C35 will do the job.
- Are you drawn to unique design and are you willing to pay extra for premium features?
- If yes: Samsung Z Flip4 is for you.
- If not: The Realme C35 is a more practical option.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget-Conscious User: Get the Realme C35. It’s a reliable phone for daily tasks with longer battery life.
- Performance and Tech Enthusiast: Get the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. The latest and greatest performance with a unique form factor.
- Casual User: If you don't need the absolute best, the Realme C35 will do the job for basic tasks while saving money.
- Camera Enthusiast: Get the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 for a more capable camera with 4k video and more versatility.
- Power User: Get the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. Top performance and the latest in tech.
My Choice:
If I had to choose between these two phones, I'd go with the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4. While I acknowledge that the Realme C35 has a better battery, the Z Flip4 offers a significantly better overall experience. For me, the combination of the foldable form factor, high refresh rate AMOLED display, powerful processor, better camera system, and modern software makes it far more appealing. As a tech journalist, I enjoy using the latest in tech and this phone definitely delivers on that front, plus I prefer to take advantage of the extra features of the Z Flip 4 for the better all-round experience. The C35 has its place, for example as a secondary device or for a user on a strict budget, but the Z Flip4 wins in this head-to-head.
