1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 161.5 × 75.6 × 7.8 mm | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm | S21+ is slightly slimmer and narrower, potentially more comfortable for one-handed use; A35 is a bit bulkier. |
| Weight | 200g | 209g | S21+ is lighter, noticeable during prolonged use; A35 is slightly heavier, might feel more substantial. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.7" | 6.6" | S21+ offers a slightly larger screen for more immersive viewing; A35 is a bit more compact. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Very similar sharpness, negligible difference in real-world use. |
| PPI | 394 | 390 | Similar pixel density, both provide crisp visuals. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Identical display tech; vibrant colors and deep blacks on both. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Smooth scrolling and animations on both phones. |
| Brightness | 1300 nits | 0 nits | Significant difference: S21+ is much better in bright sunlight, with high outdoor visibility; A35's outdoor visibility is unknown due to missing specification. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Exynos 2100 (5 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | S21+ has a more powerful chipset (higher benchmark scores), providing faster performance for demanding tasks; A35 is a mid-range chipset, suitable for everyday use, but can handle most tasks. |
| AnTuTu Score | 749,100 | 578,500 | S21+ scores significantly higher, indicating better performance for gaming, heavy apps, and multitasking; A35 is decent, but won't be as smooth. |
| GPU | Mali-G78 MP14 | Mali-G68 MP5 | S21+ has a more powerful GPU, better for graphically intensive games; A35 has a capable GPU for casual gaming. |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Camera | 12MP, 1/1.76", f/1.8 | 50MP, 1/1.96", f/1.8 | A35 has higher resolution, while the S21+ has a larger sensor and potentially better low-light performance; different sensor models could impact image processing. |
| Telephoto/Portrait | 64MP, f/2.0 | None | S21+ offers a dedicated telephoto lens for zoomed photos and portrait shots; A35 lacks this feature. |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP, f/2.2 | 13MP, f/2.2 | A35 offers a slightly higher resolution front-facing camera. |
| Wide Angle | 12.2MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | S21+ has a wide angle lens in the combined module, A35 has a separate wide angle lens, slight pixel advantage with S21+. |
| Macro Lens | None | 5MP, f/2.4 | A35 offers a dedicated macro lens for close-up photography; S21+ does not have a dedicated macro lens. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps | Up to 4K@30fps | S21+ can record higher resolution video, offers more options for professional video; both offer stabilization. |
| DxOMark Score | 111 (Photo: 118, Video: 89) | 104 (Photo: 107, Video: 110) | S21+ has a higher photo score, and A35 a higher video score. S21+ is a better overall photo taker, but A35 is superior in video. |
| Camera Features | OIS, Optical zoom, PDAF, 8K Video | OIS, 2x2 OCL, Pro Video Mode, Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF | Both have OIS, S21+ has true optical zoom and more features for advanced photography; A35 has more video features and the 2x2 pixel binning in the sensor (OCL) |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 4800mAh | 5000mAh | A35 has a slightly larger battery, potentially offering slightly longer battery life. |
| Charging | 25W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Both offer identical fast charging speeds; however, battery tech is different (Li-Polymer vs Li-Ion). |
| Features | Wireless Charging, Reverse Charging | None | S21+ offers additional features like wireless and reverse wireless charging, lacking on the A35 |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11, up to 15 | Android 14, up to 18 | A35 has a more recent Android version, ensuring longer software support and updates and a more modern User Interface. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both have Wi-Fi 6, A35 has an extra feature (Wi-Fi MiMO) |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 | Bluetooth 5.3 | A35 has a newer version, potentially better power efficiency and connection stability; both phones have multiple audio codecs. |
| GPS | GPS (L1+L5), Galileo (E1+E5a) | QZSS | Similar location support but with different additions. |
| SIM | Dual SIM, eSIM | Dual SIM | S21+ offers eSIM support for easier digital carrier switching. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both offer identical storage options. |
| RAM | 8 GB | 6/8 GB | S21+ has a fixed 8GB, A35 comes in two options 6GB and 8GB. Both phones are capable for multitasking and gaming. |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage expansion. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res, Noise cancellation mic | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res | Both have Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res. S21+ offers noise cancellation microphone for calls. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Fingerprint sensor | Fingerprint sensor | Similar fingerprint sensor technology on both phones. |
| Build | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass Victus | Gorilla Glass Victus | Both use very good screen protection; Both phones are built tough. |
| Sensors | Barometer, Compass | Ultrasonic proximity virtual | S21+ offers more sensors for environment; A35 uses Ultrasonic proximity. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G Advantages:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 2100 chipset provides significantly better processing power, which is noticeable in demanding apps and gaming.
- Brighter Display: Much higher brightness (1300 nits) makes the display significantly more readable in bright sunlight.
- Better Camera Features: Includes telephoto lens, 8K video recording, optical zoom, and better DxOMark photo score, making it better for versatile photography and video.
- Wireless Charging: Offers 15W wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, adding convenience for users with compatible accessories.
- eSIM support: Allows for digital SIM management and easier carrier switching.
- Noise cancelling microphone: Better call quality
Samsung Galaxy A35 Advantages:
- Newer Software: Ships with a newer version of Android (Android 14), offering longer software update support.
- Dedicated Macro Lens: Offers a macro lens for detailed close-up photography.
- Slightly Larger Battery: Has a slightly larger battery (5000mAh vs 4800mAh), potentially offering slightly better battery life.
- Better Video Camera: The A35 has a higher video rating on DxOMark and has more built in video features.
- Newer Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 5.3 offers slightly improved connection stability and energy efficiency.
Trade-offs:
- S21+: Sacrifices a dedicated macro lens for better zoom capabilities and superior performance. No guarantee of long software update lifecycle.
- A35: Sacrifices peak performance, telephoto lens, wireless charging and outdoor visibility for a more up-to-date software experience, a dedicated macro lens and lower price.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G:
- Power Users: Those who need top-tier performance for gaming, multitasking, and demanding apps.
- Photography Enthusiasts: Users who prioritize high-quality photos, especially those who utilize optical zoom.
- Frequent Travelers: Those who may benefit from eSIM support for international roaming and wireless charging.
- Users who frequently use their phone outdoors. The brighter display is significantly better in direct sunlight.
Ideal User for Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Those looking for a good all-around smartphone with modern features, and don't necessarily need top-of-the-line performance.
- Casual Photographers: Users who value a versatile camera system, including a macro lens, and those who value video features more.
- Users Prioritizing Software: Those who want a phone with the latest Android version and longer software support.
Users who prioritize battery life Specific Use Cases:
S21+:
- Gaming: Runs graphically intense games smoothly with better frame rates.
- Professional Photography/Videography: Better zoom capabilities, and ability to shoot 8K footage.
- Outdoor Usage: The brighter screen is significantly more visible in sunlight.
- A35:
- Social Media & Casual Use: Good for browsing, social media, and everyday tasks.
- Macro Photography: Shoots detailed close-up photos.
- Long Battery Life: Offers slightly better battery performance for all-day usage.
Price-to-Value:
- The S21+ is older and may be available at a reduced price, offering flagship-level performance at a potentially lower cost.
- The A35 is a newer, mid-range device with a more modest price tag, providing a better balance of features and affordability.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize performance or software updates? The S21+ excels in performance, while the A35 offers a newer OS.
- How important is photography? S21+ has a better telephoto lens and overall better camera for stills, while A35 excels in video.
- What is your budget and do you need wireless charging? The S21+ has more features but the A35 is more budget friendly.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Performance Matters Most: If you are a gamer or need the highest performance, choose the Galaxy S21+.
- Scenario 2: Software and Affordability are Key: If you prefer a more recent Android version and want to save money, choose the Galaxy A35.
- Scenario 3: Versatile Camera is Essential: If you value a versatile camera setup, including a dedicated macro lens and newer video features, choose the Galaxy A35.
- Scenario 4: Outdoor Display Visibility: If you often use your phone outdoors, choose the Galaxy S21+ for its much brighter display.
My Choice:
Given the choice, I would personally choose the Samsung Galaxy S21+ 5G. While the Galaxy A35 offers a newer OS and a slightly larger battery, the S21+'s superior performance, brighter display, wireless charging capabilities, and versatile camera system, specifically the optical zoom and 8K video, align more closely with my usage needs and preferences. Although the A35 offers a newer software experience, the S21+ still receives software updates and provides a smoother experience, especially when gaming and doing heavy multitasking. While both phones have strong points, the additional performance, camera capabilities, and features of the S21+ outweighs the benefits the A35 provides.
