1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Realme GT 5G | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 158.5 × 73.3 × 8.4 mm | 162.3 × 78.6 × 9.1 mm | M35 is larger and thicker, may feel less comfortable in hand and pocket than the GT 5G. |
| Weight | 186g | 222g | GT 5G is significantly lighter, more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.6" | M35 has a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Similar sharpness on both; minor difference is negligible in daily use. |
| PPI | 409 | 390 | Similar pixel density, both offering sharp images and text. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both provide vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is unknown for both devices; a key spec to evaluate outdoor visibility. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 (5nm) | Exynos 1380 (5nm) | GT 5G's Snapdragon 888 offers significantly higher performance for gaming and demanding apps. M35's Exynos handles daily tasks well. |
| Antutu Score | 912,342 | 578,500 | GT 5G significantly outperforms the M35 in benchmark scores, translates to snappier performance. |
| GPU | Adreno 660 | Mali-G68 MP5 | GT 5G's Adreno 660 offers better graphics performance, especially for gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7" Sony IMX682 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2" Sony LYT-600 | GT 5G has a larger sensor and higher resolution; M35 has larger pixel size, potentially better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera | 16MP, f/2.5 | 13MP, f/2.2 | GT 5G has slightly higher resolution, but M35 has a wider aperture that might allow more light in. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.3 | 8MP, f/2.2 | M35 has a slightly wider aperture for slightly better low-light performance. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both offer similar macro lens quality. |
| Video | Up to 4K@60fps with EIS | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Both record 4K video, GT 5G offers higher frame rate options for smoother footage and M35 offers Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) |
| Camera Features | PDAF, Laser AF, RAW | OIS, All Pixel Omni PDAF, RAW 12-bit | M35 has OIS for more stable video and better low-light photos. GT 5G uses Laser AF which could result in fast focus, while having RAW support. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 6000mAh | M35 has a much larger battery, likely to offer significantly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 65W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | GT 5G charges much faster, but M35 can last much longer on a single charge. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | M35 has newer OS out of the box, but GT 5G can be upgraded to 14 |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | M35 supports a faster Wi-Fi standard. |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 LE | 5.3 | M35 has a newer Bluetooth version, potentially offering a more stable and efficient connection. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5) | GPS, QZSS | GT 5G has additional GPS standards for better accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer the same storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 6/8 GB | GT 5G offers more RAM options, allowing for better multitasking and performance. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo, 2 Mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | GT 5G offers better audio capture with dual microphones and the same playback options as the M35. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | side-mounted fingerprint sensor | M35 offers more modern biometric security with a side-mounted sensor. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Unknown | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 provides better protection against scratches and drops. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Compass, Proximity, Fingerprint | Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Geomagnetic, Hall, Ultrasonic Proximity Sensor, Fingerprint | M35 features a more comprehensive suite of sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Realme GT 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 888 chipset and higher Antutu score translate to significantly faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance.
- Faster Charging: 65W fast charging allows for quicker battery replenishment.
- Better Main Camera Sensor: Larger main camera sensor (1/1.7") and higher resolution (64MP) could lead to better overall image quality, although the pixel size is smaller.
- More RAM: Availability of 12 GB RAM provides better multitasking capabilities.
- Better GPS: Support for more GPS standards which could improve accuracy.
- Audio quality: Dual microphones.
Practical Implications: The GT 5G is the clear winner for users who prioritize performance, fast charging, and potentially more detailed photos with its larger sensor and higher resolution.
Samsung Galaxy M35 Advantages:
- Significantly Larger Battery: 6000 mAh battery offers much better battery life for those needing their phone to last all day without needing to charge.
- Newer Operating System: Comes with Android 14 out of the box.
- Optical Image Stabilization (OIS): Provides more stable video recording and better low-light photos.
- More Comprehensive Sensor Set: Includes a gyroscope which is useful for AR and gaming, along with an ultrasonic proximity sensor.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus offers better resistance to scratches and drops.
- More Modern Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Standards: Supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3.
- Wider Aperture on Front and Wide Lens: Potentially better low-light selfies and wide photos.
- Side-mounted Fingerprint Scanner: Faster and more convenient biometric security than basic finger print sensor.
Practical Implications: The M35 excels for users who value extended battery life, a more modern OS, and improved video stabilization, screen protection, and connectivity.
Trade-offs:
- GT 5G: Trades battery life, OIS, and screen protection for significantly higher performance and faster charging.
- M35: Trades processing power and charging speed for better battery life, video stabilization, and screen protection.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Realme GT 5G:
- Ideal User: Gamers, power users, and anyone who demands top-tier performance and fast charging.
- Use Cases:
- High-end gaming with demanding titles
- Video editing or other intensive tasks.
- Users who prioritize quick charging times
- Those who want better GPS accuracy for things like mapping and exploration.
- Value: The Realme GT 5G provides flagship-level performance at a potentially lower price compared to other phones with the same chipset.
Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Ideal User: Users who prioritize battery life, stability, and a more modern user experience.
- Use Cases:
- Long days of use without needing to charge.
- Taking a lot of videos, especially on the move.
- Users who prefer the latest Android OS.
- People who want additional protection on their screen.
- Users who prefer side-mounted fingerprint sensors.
- Value: The M35 offers a balance of battery, camera, and software features at a competitive price point.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is raw performance and gaming capability? If this is a top priority, the GT 5G is the clear choice.
- How important is battery life? If you need your phone to last all day on a single charge, the M35 is the better option.
- Do you prioritize a modern OS and the latest features? The M35 comes with Android 14 out of the box, while GT 5G needs an update.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Gamer/Power User: If you're a gamer or a power user who needs the best possible performance, the Realme GT 5G is the better choice.
- Scenario 2: All-Day Battery User: If you primarily prioritize long battery life, a more modern user experience, and more stable video recording, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the better choice.
- Scenario 3: Balanced User: If you want a good balance of performance, features, and battery life, the Samsung Galaxy M35 would be suitable; however, you will be giving up better raw performance.
My Choice
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy M35. While the Realme GT 5G offers significantly better performance, the M35's advantages in battery life, a more modern OS, OIS, and enhanced screen protection better fit my personal usage needs and are, in my opinion, more important for a smoother daily experience. I value having a phone that lasts all day without needing a recharge and a more modern device. I am also more interested in having more advanced camera and security features rather than the performance the GT 5G offers.
