Alright, let's dive into a detailed comparison between the Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G and the newer Galaxy M35. It's always interesting to see how Samsung refines its mid-range offerings, so let's break it down.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here's a table comparing the key specifications of the two phones, focusing on what these specs mean for you in the real world.
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 159.9 × 75.1 × 8.4 mm | 162.3 × 78.6 × 9.1 mm | M35 is a bit bigger, which may affect comfort in hand and pocket. |
| Weight | 189g | 222g | A52s is noticeably lighter, better for long use without fatigue. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Both have similar screen real estate. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both offer sharp, detailed visuals. The difference is negligible. |
| PPI | 405 | 390 | Both have similar pixel density. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both will provide vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations, great for gaming and video. |
| Brightness | 800 nits | 0 nits | A52s is significantly brighter, offering better visibility in direct sunlight (M35 data missing) |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Snapdragon 778G (6 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Different chips; Both offer smooth performance for daily use and gaming. |
| AnTuTu Score | 570,752 | 578,500 | Almost identical performance level for most tasks. |
| GPU | Adreno 642L | Mali-G68 MP5 | Different GPUs, each with strengths, but performance is similar in daily use. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500mAh | 6000mAh | M35 has a much larger battery, likely providing significantly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Standard fast charging, adequate for quick top-ups. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 64MP, f/1.8, 1/1.7", IMX682 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2", LYT-600 | A52s has slightly higher resolution, but M35 has larger individual pixels. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.2 | A52s has much higher resolution. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 12MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | A52s offers more detail in wide shots. |
| Portrait (Depth) | 5MP, f/2.4 | N/A | A52s has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait shots. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | 2MP, f/2.4 | A52s takes more detailed macro shots. |
| Video | 4K@30fps, EIS | 4K@30fps, EIS | Both capable of high quality video recording with stabilization. |
| Slow-Motion | 120 fps | 480 fps | M35 supports better slow motion video. |
| Features | Quad, OIS | Triple, OIS | A52s with more cameras, M35 with newer features |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (Upgradable to 14) | Android 14 | M35 has a newer OS out of the box, ensuring more modern features and security. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both have fast and modern Wi-Fi capabilities. M35 has Wi-Fi MiMO for higher efficiency. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | M35 has newer Bluetooth, offers better efficiency and new audio codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, etc. | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, etc. | M35 has more precise positioning (QZSS). |
| SIM | Dual SIM Standby | Dual SIM Standby | Both support dual SIM, but only one can use 5G while the other is on standby |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Plenty of room for apps, photos, and videos; same storage options |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | Both have sufficient RAM for smooth multitasking. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither offers expandable storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Stereo | M35 has an edge with high-res audio and stereo speakers. |
| Security | Basic Fingerprint | Side-mounted Fingerprint | M35 has a more convenient and modern fingerprint placement. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 5 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 has superior screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Accelerometer, etc., Compass | Accelerometer, etc. | A52s has an additional compass sensor |
2. Key Insights
Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G Strengths:
- Brighter Display: The A52s shines (literally) with its 800 nits brightness, making it much more suitable for outdoor use, although M35 data is missing here and may have more brightness.
- Better Camera Array: While both are solid, the A52s has higher resolution sensors for both the main and selfie cameras, plus a dedicated depth sensor and a more detailed macro camera.
- Compass Sensor: Useful for navigation and advanced sensor suite.
Samsung Galaxy M35 Strengths:
- Newer OS: Comes with Android 14 out of the box, ensuring the latest features and security updates.
- Much Larger Battery: The 6000mAh battery is a huge upgrade, likely resulting in significantly longer battery life compared to the A52s.
- Better Audio Quality: Hi-Res Audio and Stereo Speakers will offer a better multimedia experience.
- Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3 is more efficient and future-proof.
- Improved Fingerprint Sensor: The side-mounted fingerprint sensor is more convenient to access.
- Better Screen Protection: Victus provides a significant upgrade over Gorilla Glass 5.
Trade-offs and Limitations:
- Weight: The M35 is significantly heavier than the A52s, which could be a deal-breaker for some users.
- Camera Trade-offs: The M35 has a great main camera with big pixels, but it sacrifices resolution for selfie and wide angle shots.
- Missing Brightness Data: The missing brightness data on the M35 makes comparison difficult.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G:
- Ideal for: Users who prioritize a brighter display, higher-resolution camera, and a lighter device. Gamers will appreciate the Snapdragon processor and 120hz screen and compass sensor.
- Use Cases: Outdoor photography, detailed selfie captures, users who are always on the move, and those who prefer a lighter phone.
Samsung Galaxy M35:
- Ideal for: Users who value long battery life, updated software, good audio quality, and improved screen protection.
- Use Cases: Media consumption, frequent travelers, power users who need their phone to last all day.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three key questions to help you decide:
- How much do I value battery life? If you need your phone to last a very long time between charges, the M35 is the clear winner.
- What's more important - Camera specs or a better screen? If high-resolution camera shots are crucial, the A52s is the stronger option. However, the M35 excels with its screen protection.
- Do I prioritize portability or newer tech and audio? If a lightweight design is important, the A52s is preferable, while the M35 offers the latest technology with Hi-Res audio and stereo speakers.
Scenario-Based Recommendations
- For the mobile photographer: A52s offers higher-resolution cameras, depth sensor, and better macro,
- For the heavy user: The M35 provides superior battery life, newer software, and better audio.
- For the budget conscious: The A52s might be found at a lower price now that it is older.
My Choice
If I had to choose, I'd lean towards the Samsung Galaxy M35. While the A52s has an excellent camera setup and better brightness (though M35's lack of data here is suspicious), the M35's significantly larger battery, combined with the newer Android version and updated audio quality, makes it a more appealing choice for my needs. The added screen protection of Gorilla Glass Victus and a convenient side-mounted fingerprint sensor are also compelling. For me, having the peace of mind of knowing I won't run out of battery is a massive advantage. I don't mind a slightly heavier device for all the improvements in performance and usability that the M35 brings to the table.
