Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A04s and the Galaxy M35. I’ll break down the tech specs into something relatable, focusing on how these differences play out in real life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a breakdown of the key specs, with a focus on what they mean for you:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A04s | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 164.7 x 76.7 x 9.1 mm | 162.3 x 78.6 x 9.1 mm | A04s is slightly taller, while the M35 is a tad wider. Both are the same thickness. It's negligible, you'll barely notice. |
| Weight | 195g | 222g | M35 is heavier, might feel less comfortable for long use compared to A04s |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Almost identical screen sizes. Unlikely to notice a difference. |
| Resolution | 720x1600 | 1080x2340 | M35 is much sharper. Expect clearer text and more detail in videos/photos. |
| Pixel Density | 270 PPI | 390 PPI | M35 display will look significantly more crisp and defined. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | M35’s AMOLED screen offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast than the A04s's PLS LCD. M35 will be more vibrant and power efficient with dark themes |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | M35's screen animations are smoother, making scrolling and gaming feel more fluid. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 850 (8 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | M35's chip is much faster and more efficient. Expect snappier app launches, smoother multitasking, and better gaming performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 117,300 | 578,500 | M35 offers a dramatically faster overall performance – it's not even close. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 | Mali-G68 MP5 | M35's GPU is significantly more powerful and suitable for graphically intensive tasks and games. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | M35 has a larger battery that should provide notably longer battery life. |
| Charging | 15W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | M35 charges faster, getting you back in action quicker. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 50MP, f/1.8 | 50MP, f/1.8, Sony LYT-600, 1/2", 1.0µm | Similar main camera on paper, but M35 likely performs better with its superior sensor. M35 has a better sensor with larger pixels. |
| Selfie Camera | 5MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.2 | M35 takes higher-quality selfies with more detail. |
| Wide Angle | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2 | M35's wide-angle lens allows you to capture more of the scene. |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | N/A | A04s has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode (although the M35's main sensor will do a good job), M35 doesnt |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Similar macro capabilities. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, no stabilization | 4K@30fps/1080p@60fps, EIS | M35 offers much higher video quality, and stabilization makes videos smoother. |
| Features | PDAF, HDR | OIS, EIS, AutoFraming, 4k, many more | M35 camera with extra features means better photos, video quality and more flexibility |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12 (upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | M35 comes with the latest Android version out of the box. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | M35 supports faster, more reliable Wi-Fi. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | M35 supports better, faster and more reliable Bluetooth connectivity |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 32/64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | M35 has much higher storage options. |
| RAM | 3/4GB | 6/8GB | M35 will run apps smoother, faster and multitask better with more RAM |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither device supports expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo Speakers | M35 has superior sound. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Side-mounted | Both have side mounted fingerprint sensor, quick access for security |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen protection | Unknown | Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 has better protection against damage of the screen |
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | M35 has a gyroscope which enhances motion based games and features |
2. Key Insights
- Samsung Galaxy M35 Strengths:
- Superior Display: AMOLED, higher resolution, 120Hz for a more immersive visual experience.
- Much Better Performance: Newer chipset results in a drastically faster experience.
- Enhanced Camera: Superior quality sensors with better stabilization and video capabilities.
- Longer Battery Life & Faster Charging: Larger battery and faster charging.
- Modern Features: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, better audio features, and more RAM/Storage
- Samsung Galaxy A04s Strengths:
- Lighter Build: Might be more comfortable for extended use.
- Price: Likely more affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A04s:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Individuals looking for an affordable smartphone for basic tasks.
- Light Users: Those who primarily use their phone for calls, messaging, browsing, and light social media.
- First-time Smartphone Buyers: A simple and straightforward device for new users.
Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Multimedia Enthusiasts: Users who enjoy watching videos, playing games, and engaging with social media.
- Performance Seekers: Individuals who want a faster and more responsive phone for multitasking and demanding apps.
- Camera Lovers: Users who value higher image and video quality for everyday capture.
- Tech Savvy Users: Those who appreciate having the latest technology and features.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to consider before deciding:
- Budget: Are you on a strict budget or willing to invest in a better experience?
- Usage: Do you need a reliable device for basic tasks or a powerful device for multimedia and demanding apps?
- Features: Is having the best display, performance, and camera essential for your daily use?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Tight Budget
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A04s. It offers basic smartphone functionality at a lower price.
- Scenario 2: Casual Multimedia and Social Media
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy M35. The superior display, performance, and camera will significantly enhance your experience.
- Scenario 3: Mobile Gaming and Demanding Apps
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy M35. The powerful chipset and smooth display will make all the difference.
My Choice
If I were choosing, I would absolutely pick the Samsung Galaxy M35. While the A04s is lighter and probably cheaper, the M35's vast improvements in nearly every aspect make it the clear winner. The AMOLED screen, enhanced performance with a vastly better chipset, significantly better camera, larger battery and faster charging, and extra features like a gyroscope and upgraded WiFi, makes it far more compelling. As a daily driver, the enhanced experience across the board justifies the additional cost. The M35 will be much more satisfying and future-proof with its better tech, and that is worth the investment for me.
