1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A54 | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions (mm) | 158.2 x 76.7 x 8.2 | 162.3 x 78.6 x 9.1 | A54 is slightly smaller and thinner, making it more pocketable and easier to handle. |
| Weight (g) | 202 | 222 | A54 is noticeably lighter, reducing hand fatigue during extended use. |
| Fingerprint Sensor | Under display | Side-mounted | Preference-based; under-display is modern, side-mounted can be faster to access. |
| Display | |||
| Size (inches) | 6.4 | 6.6 | M35 offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive media consumption. |
| Resolution (px) | 1080 x 2340 | 1080 x 2340 | Identical resolution; sharpness is similar given the slight size difference, with the A54 having slightly higher pixel density (403 vs ~400 ppi). |
| Refresh Rate (Hz) | 120 | 120 | Both offer smooth scrolling and animations thanks to the high refresh rate. |
| Display Type | Super AMOLED, HDR10+ | Super AMOLED | A54 supports HDR10+ for better dynamic range and color accuracy in compatible content. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Identical chipsets should result in comparable performance in day-to-day tasks and gaming. |
| CPU | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Identical CPU configurations reinforce similar performance expectations. |
| GPU | Mali-G68 MP5 | Mali-G68 MP5 | Same GPU; gaming performance should be nearly identical. |
| RAM (GB) | 8 | 8 | Equal RAM capacity ensures smooth multitasking on both devices. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera (MP) | 50 (Sony IMX766) | 50 (Sony LYT-600) | Different sensors, A54's IMX766 is generally well-regarded for image quality. More data (e.g., DxOMark score for M35) is needed for detailed comparison. |
| Ultrawide (MP) | 13 | 8 | A54's ultrawide offers higher resolution for capturing wider scenes with more detail. |
| Selfie Camera (MP) | 32 | 13 | A54 boasts a significantly higher resolution selfie camera for sharper self-portraits. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity (mAh) | 5000 | 6000 | M35 has a larger battery, potentially leading to significantly longer battery life. |
| Fast Charging (W) | 25 | 25 | Both support 25W fast charging, though charging times might differ due to battery capacity differences. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy A54 Advantages:
- More Compact and Lighter: Easier to handle and carry.
- HDR10+ Display: Superior dynamic range and color accuracy for compatible content.
- Higher Resolution Ultrawide and Selfie Cameras: Better quality for wide shots and self-portraits. Potentially better main camera, but more data needed for comparison.
- Potentially Lower Price: More price options are available for the A54, including some lower-cost options. (Note: Price fluctuates, check current market value).
Samsung Galaxy M35 Advantages:
- Larger Display: More immersive experience for media consumption.
- Significantly Larger Battery: Potentially much longer battery life.
- Newer OS at Launch: Started with Android 14, offering potential software advantages and longer update support.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Samsung Galaxy A54: Users who prioritize portability, a great display, and camera quality, especially for selfies and ultrawide shots. Suitable for everyday use, social media, and moderate gaming.
Samsung Galaxy M35: Users who value long battery life and a larger screen for media consumption. Ideal for heavy users, travelers, and those who dislike frequent charging. Good for general use, but camera quality is less certain compared to the A54.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- How important is battery life? If all-day battery is crucial, the M35 is likely the better choice.
- Do you prioritize portability or screen size? The A54 is smaller and lighter, while the M35 has a larger display.
- Which camera features matter most? A54 currently has a clear advantage in ultrawide and selfie camera resolution. Main Camera comparison needs more information on the M35's sensor.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Heavy User/Traveler: Samsung Galaxy M35 for its long battery life.
- One-Handed Use/Pocketability: Samsung Galaxy A54 for its compact design.
- Photography Enthusiast (Selfies/Ultrawide): Samsung Galaxy A54 for its higher resolution cameras in those areas.
My Choice: Samsung Galaxy A54
While the M35's larger battery is tempting, the A54 wins me over with its more compact and lightweight design, HDR10+ display, and superior selfie and ultrawide cameras. The IMX766 sensor in the A54's main camera is generally well-regarded, giving it a likely edge in overall camera performance, though more information is needed on the M35 for a definitive conclusion there. For my usage, portability, display quality, and a versatile camera setup are more valuable than a slightly larger battery and screen. I'd rather carry a power bank than a larger, heavier phone daily.
