Alright, let's dive deep into the Samsung Galaxy A23 5G and the Galaxy M35. These two phones represent different approaches within Samsung's mid-range lineup, and understanding their nuances is key to choosing the right one for you. Let's break it down, starting with a detailed look at their specs and what they actually mean.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed comparison table focusing on the specs that matter most, along with their real-world implications:
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A23 5G | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 165.4 × 76.9 × 8.4 mm | 162.3 × 78.6 × 9.1 mm | A23 5G is taller but thinner; M35 is wider and thicker. M35 is slightly more substantial in hand. |
| Weight | 197g | 222g | A23 5G is notably lighter, making it easier for one-handed use. The M35 is heavier, which can feel more premium to some, but less comfortable for longer use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.6" | 6.6" | Both have identical screen sizes, providing the same amount of display real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2408 | 1080x2340 | Practically identical sharpness; minor differences are unlikely to be noticeable to the naked eye. |
| Pixel Density | 400 PPI | 390 PPI | Similar sharpness, meaning both screens will look crisp at normal viewing distances. |
| Technology | PLS LCD | AMOLED | M35's AMOLED screen offers richer blacks, higher contrast, and better visibility in sunlight than the A23 5G's LCD. It's a noticeable step up for visual quality. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both screens offer a smooth scrolling experience and animations, making the phone feel more responsive. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 5G | Exynos 1380 | The M35’s Exynos chip is more powerful, resulting in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and overall snappier performance. |
| AnTuTu Score | 418,000 | 578,500 | The M35 boasts significantly better performance (38% higher), making it more suitable for demanding applications and games. |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Mali-G68 MP5 | The M35's GPU is better equipped for graphical tasks. Expect smoother gameplay at higher settings. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | The M35's larger battery translates to significantly longer battery life. Expect to go longer between charges. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both offer the same fast charging capabilities. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2" | M35 has larger sensor, capturing more light and detail with less noise. Expect slightly better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.2 | M35 has a higher-resolution selfie camera, resulting in more detailed selfies, while the A23 5G has wider aperture which should give better low light results |
| Wide Angle Camera | 5MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | M35’s wide-angle camera captures images with more detail. |
| Depth Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | A23 5G has a dedicated depth camera, potentially offering a bit more control in portrait mode. |
| Macro Camera | 2MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | Both have identical macro cameras. |
| Video Recording | 1080p@30fps, Slow-motion: 120fps | 4K@30fps, 1080p@60fps, Slow-motion: 480fps | M35 captures videos at a much higher resolution (4K), offering significantly better quality for video recording; better slow-mo capabilites. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 12, upgradable to 14 | Android 14 | M35 ships with the latest Android version, offering a newer feature set. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6 | M35 supports faster, more reliable Wi-Fi, a benefit if you have a modern router. |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | M35 has a newer Bluetooth version with better power efficiency and connectivity. |
| SIM | Single SIM | Dual SIM | M35 provides more flexibility with dual SIM support. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 0GB (multiple options) | 128GB or 256GB | M35 offers more internal storage options which are good for storing more photos, videos, apps and files. |
| RAM | 0GB (multiple options) | 6GB or 8GB | M35 has more RAM options for improved multitasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Both lack expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Basic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | M35 provides a superior audio experience with spatial sound and better clarity. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint | Side-Mounted | Side-Mounted | Both phones offer a fingerprint sensor located on the side for quick unlocking. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 has significantly better screen protection against drops and scratches. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A23 5G: Strengths and Trade-offs
- Strengths: The A23 5G is lighter and potentially more comfortable for those with smaller hands. It has a dedicated depth camera which is an advantage for portrait photos.
- Trade-offs: It has an older chipset, a less impressive screen, and a smaller battery. These impact performance, visuals, and battery life.
Samsung Galaxy M35: Strengths and Trade-offs
- Strengths: The M35 boasts a superior AMOLED display, a more powerful processor, a larger battery, better video capabilities, and enhanced audio. It's a significant step up in performance and user experience. It also has the latest Android OS and better screen protection.
- Trade-offs: It’s heavier, thicker, and lacks the depth sensor found on the A23 5G. This might be a minor trade-off for most users considering the other upgrades.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A23 5G is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious users: Those who need a reliable 5G smartphone at a lower price point and are willing to trade some performance.
- Casual users: Individuals who primarily use their phones for web browsing, social media, and basic photography. The light weight will be appreciated by users with smaller hands.
- Users with less demanding requirements: The A23 5G works well for those who don't play graphically intensive games or use complex applications.
Samsung Galaxy M35 is ideal for:
- Performance-seeking users: Those who want a phone that can handle multitasking, gaming, and demanding apps smoothly.
- Media enthusiasts: Users who prioritize a high-quality display for watching videos, playing games, and consuming visual content.
- Photography lovers: Users who prioritize superior image quality for both photos and videos.
- Users who value extended battery life: Those who need their phones to last all day on a single charge without worry.
- Users who want a phone that feels more modern: The M35 has a newer Android OS version, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, better audio experience and better screen protection.
4. Buying Decision Framework
To help you choose, here are three key questions to ask yourself:
- How important is display quality to you? If you value vibrant colours, deep blacks, and sunlight visibility, the M35’s AMOLED screen is a major advantage.
- Do you prioritize performance and battery life? The M35's superior processor and larger battery mean better performance and less time spent charging.
- How much do you prioritize a premium audio/video experience? If this is important the M35 has better audio and video.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Casual user on a tight budget: If you mainly use your phone for basic tasks and want a reliable device without breaking the bank, the A23 5G could suffice.
- Scenario 2: Mobile Gamer: If you want a smooth experience, go for the M35; the better performance chip, display, better audio will improve your mobile gaming.
- Scenario 3: Content creator: The M35 will be much better choice for photo and video taking with the better camera, better audio and video recording features.
- Scenario 4: All-day user: If you need a phone to last all day without needing to charge, the M35, with its larger battery, is the better choice.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two devices, I'd absolutely go for the Samsung Galaxy M35. The improved screen technology alone is a game-changer for everyday use—everything from browsing to watching videos is simply more enjoyable. Additionally, the M35's significantly better processor, larger battery, enhanced camera, better audio and the latest Android OS makes a compelling argument for a much more complete user experience. The slightly heavier feel and lack of depth camera are trade-offs I'm more than willing to accept for all the advantages this device offers. The better screen protection is also something I will value in the long run. While the A23 5G may serve as a decent budget option, the M35 represents a much better value by providing a significant boost in user experience and future-proofing the device. It's a device that I would use daily without any compromises.
