Alright, let's dive into a head-to-head comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G and the newer Galaxy A35. While both phones aim for the mid-range market, they have some key differences that will appeal to different types of users. Let's break down the specs, see what they mean in real-world terms, and then figure out which one might be the better pick for you.
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm | The A35 is slightly larger, making the A52s a tad more pocketable. |
| Weight | 189g | 209g | A52s is lighter by 20g, which can make it more comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Both are very similar, a negligible 0.1" difference. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Practically the same sharpness. A minor difference in the vertical pixel count. |
| PPI | 405 | 390 | Again, very similar sharpness; hardly noticeable in daily use. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both provide smooth scrolling and animations. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 0 nits | A52s is considerably brighter, making it much more usable outdoors under direct sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 778G 5G (6 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Both perform similarly in benchmarks; the Snapdragon may offer slightly better sustained performance for gaming. |
| Antutu Score | 570,752 | 578,500 | Very similar performance in synthetic tests; expect comparable everyday app experience. |
| GPU | Adreno 642L | Mali-G68 MP5 | Minor differences in graphic capabilities. The Adreno 642L usually has an edge in gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard | 64MP (f/1.8, 1/1.7") | 50MP (f/1.8, 1/1.96") | A52s has a higher resolution and larger sensor, potentially better low-light performance. |
| Selfie | 32MP (f/2.0) | 13MP (f/2.2) | A52s has much better resolution for selfies; wider aperture allows more light. |
| Wide Angle | 12MP (f/2.2) | 8MP (f/2.2) | A52s takes higher resolution wide shots. |
| Portrait | 5MP (f/2.4) | NA | A52s has a dedicated depth sensor; A35 uses software. |
| Macro | 5MP (f/2.4) | 5MP (f/2.4) | Both offer similar macro capabilities. |
| Video Recording | 4K@30fps (EIS), 1080p@60fps (EIS) | 4K@30fps (EIS), 1080p@60fps (EIS) | Both have similar video modes; A35 has better slow motion and extra Pro features. |
| DXoMark Score (A35) | NA | Mobile: 104, Photo: 107, Video: 110 | A35 has been benchmarked for its camera performance; no data for A52s |
| Camera Features | Quad, OIS, PDAF | Triple, OIS, All-Pixel Omni-Directional PDAF | A35 boasts some additional AI-powered shooting modes. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 5000mAh | A35 has a larger battery, likely leading to better battery life, especially with mixed use. |
| Charging | 25W fast charging | 25W fast charging | Both support the same charging speeds. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (upgradable to 14) | Android 14 (upgradable to 18) | A35 ships with the latest software and is promised longer software support, which is useful for long-term use and security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Wi-Fi MIMO | A35 supports extra MIMO for better Wi-Fi performance. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3, APT-x, LDAC, Apt-x Adaptive | A35 has newer Bluetooth, with a wider range of audio codec support for improved audio quality over wireless headphones/speakers |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | A35 is compatible with more satellite navigation systems, offering more accurate location services. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128 GB or 256 GB | 128 GB or 256 GB | Both offer ample storage for most users; neither support expandable storage so plan accordingly. |
| RAM | 6 GB or 8 GB | 6 GB or 8 GB | Both provide adequate RAM for smooth multi-tasking. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external microSD cards. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | A35 has a richer audio experience due to dedicated stereo speakers. |
| Security | |||
| Security Features | basic fingerprint sensor | basic fingerprint sensor | Basic fingerprint security on both. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | A35 offers superior screen protection for a tougher device. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Biometric: Fingerprint; Motion: Accelerometer, Gyroscope; Proximity: Ultrasonic proximity virtual | A52s has a compass sensor; the A35 has a slightly more streamlined suite. |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G Strengths:
- Brighter Display: Its 800-nit display makes a huge difference in outdoor visibility.
- Superior Camera Resolution: The 64MP main and 32MP selfie cameras offer more detail compared to the A35.
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: The dedicated depth sensor helps improve the portrait mode.
- Lighter Design: More comfortable for one-handed use and carrying around all day.
- Compass: A useful sensor for outdoor use and orientation.
Samsung Galaxy A35 Strengths:
- Longer Battery Life: The 5000mAh battery is a big upgrade for those who need all-day power.
- Better Software: Arrives with Android 14 and is promised several more software updates.
- Enhanced Audio: Stereo speakers and Hi-Res Audio support elevate the multimedia experience.
- Superior Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus is more durable.
- Better Connectivity: More advanced Bluetooth and GPS for better accuracy and audio quality.
- Advanced Camera Features: Better AI powered features such as Pro Video Mode, AutoFraming, and Ultra stable video
- Improved Slow-motion: A35 offers a higher 240 fps compared to the 120fps.
Trade-offs:
- A52s 5G's older software: The A52s, while receiving upgrades, is based on an older Android version that's nearing the end of its official support period.
- A35's display brightness: Its lack of a specified brightness means it may struggle in direct sunlight.
- Camera Resolution: A35's cameras are not as high resolution as A52s, especially the front camera.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize a bright screen, excellent selfie quality, a lighter form factor, and do not mind slightly older software.
- Use Cases: Social media enthusiasts who take many selfies, users who spend a lot of time outdoors in bright sunlight, and those who need a lighter more pocketable phone.
Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Ideal for: Users who value longer battery life, the latest software, enhanced audio quality, better Wi-Fi connectivity, and superior screen protection.
- Use Cases: Gamers or users that enjoy multimedia, users who are often away from a charger, or are looking for long-term support, those who prefer the better Bluetooth connection with a wider range of audio codec support, as well as more accurate location services.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
- How important is screen brightness for you? If you frequently use your phone outdoors, the A52s is the clear winner.
- How much do you value having the latest software and future updates? For users wanting long term support and security updates, the A35 is the better option.
- Is battery life or camera resolution more important? If you prioritize all-day battery, pick the A35. For more detailed photos and selfies, the A52s is better.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- The Social Media Star: Go with the A52s for its superior selfie camera and bright screen.
- The Power User: The A35's longer battery life and software longevity will be a better fit.
- The Audio Enthusiast: Choose the A35 for its enhanced audio and better Bluetooth connectivity.
- The Outdoor Adventurer: The A52s is better due to its brighter display and compass.
- The Practical Shopper: The A35 has a slight edge as the newer phone with better features for the price.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I'd personally lean towards the Samsung Galaxy A35. While the A52s has a brighter screen and higher-resolution cameras, the A35's longer battery life, superior software support, enhanced audio, more advanced connectivity, and better screen protection are more compelling to me. It's more future-proof and has several quality-of-life enhancements that would make daily use more enjoyable.
