Alright, let's dive deep into the showdown between the Xiaomi 12X and the Samsung Galaxy A35. I've got my engineering hat on, and I'm ready to break down these specs and see what they mean for your everyday life.
1. Specifications Breakdown
Here’s a detailed table comparing these two contenders:
| Feature | Xiaomi 12X | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 152.7 × 69.9 × 8.2 mm | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm | The A35 is noticeably larger, possibly less comfortable for one-handed use. |
| Weight | 176g | 209g | Xiaomi 12X is significantly lighter, making it more portable and comfortable for extended use. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.28" | 6.6" | The A35 offers a more immersive viewing experience with a larger screen. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both provide a crisp display with similar sharpness. |
| Pixel Density (PPI) | 419 | 390 | Xiaomi 12X has slightly sharper images, but the difference may be subtle. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both use vibrant AMOLED technology for rich colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 120Hz | 120Hz | Both offer smooth scrolling and fluid animations. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Xiaomi 12X will be much easier to see outdoors in bright sunlight. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 (7nm) | Exynos 1380 (5nm) | The Xiaomi 12X's Snapdragon 870 offers a substantial edge in processing power, impacting app loading and overall responsiveness. |
| AnTuTu Score | 815,210 | 578,500 | Xiaomi 12X is significantly faster in benchmarks. It'll handle demanding games and heavy apps better. |
| GPU | Adreno 650 | Mali-G68 MP5 | Xiaomi's Adreno 650 is a known performer, better for high-end graphics. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.88, 1/1.56", Sony IMX766 | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.96", Samsung GN8 | Xiaomi 12X’s larger sensor and wider aperture should capture more light and detail, performing better in low-light conditions. |
| Selfie Camera | 32MP, f/2.45, 1/3", Omnivision OV32B | 13MP, f/2.2 | Xiaomi 12X takes higher resolution selfies with a wider aperture on the Samsung. |
| Wide Angle Camera | 13MP, f/2.4, 1/3.06", Omnivision OV13B10 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Xiaomi 12X captures more detail with its 5MP advantage. |
| Macro Camera | 5MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12 µm pixel size | Similar macro capabilities. |
| Video | Up to 8K@24fps with EIS | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | The Xiaomi 12X has a definite edge with 8k video recording capabilities, excellent for professionals. |
| DXOMark | Not tested | Overall: 104, Photo: 107, Video: 110 | The A35 has been tested and performs adequately. |
| Features | 8K Video, OIS, EIS, RAW, various shooting modes | 4K Video, OIS, EIS, Pro Video Mode, AI Features, RAW 12 bits | The A35 offers better software processing and features like AI enhancements. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh | Samsung Galaxy A35 will likely offer better battery endurance due to its larger capacity. |
| Charging | 67W Fast Charging (Li-Polymer) | 25W Fast Charging (Li-Ion) | Xiaomi 12X charges significantly faster, minimizing downtime. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | Samsung Galaxy A35 has a much newer Android version, providing the latest features and updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 | Both devices share the same standards |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.3 | Samsung has a newer, more power-efficient version of Bluetooth, but both are very usable |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, GPS (L1+L5), GLONASS (L1), BeiDou (B1), BeiDou (B2), NavIC System, QZSS (L1 + L5) | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Xiaomi has better location accuracy with more satellite systems. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | Both devices have comparable storage options. |
| RAM | 8/12 GB | 6/8 GB | Xiaomi 12X has more RAM, which will be beneficial for multitasking and gaming |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither device has expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers, 2 mics | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Xiaomi has a slight advantage with 2 microphones. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Basic Fingerprint | Basic Fingerprint | Both offer similar security. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi 12X Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Snapdragon 870 chipset paired with 8/12 GB RAM is a clear winner for smooth, responsive performance, including demanding gaming.
- Better Display (Brightness): The 1100 nits brightness ensures excellent outdoor visibility and readability.
- Enhanced Camera (Sensor and Video): The larger main camera sensor, the better selfie camera resolution, the better wide angle camera resolution and 8K video recording give it an edge for those serious about photography and video.
- Faster Charging: 67W charging greatly reduces charging times, which is a huge convenience.
- More RAM: The Xiaomi 12X offers more RAM, which is beneficial for multitasking.
- Better location accuracy: The Xiaomi 12X uses more satellite systems which could help with more accuracy.
- Slightly better audio quality: Xiaomi 12X comes with 2 microphones for clearer audio recording.
Samsung Galaxy A35 Strengths:
- Newer OS: The A35 ships with Android 14, offering the latest software features and longer update support.
- Larger Battery: A 5000 mAh battery should translate into longer battery life, perfect for those who need all-day power.
- Wider Selfie Aperture: A wider f/2.2 aperture on the selfie camera lets in more light which leads to better pictures
- Wider Wide Angle Aperture: The f/2.2 on the wide angle lens captures more light for better low light performance
- Camera Software Features: Features like NPU AI Engine, AutoFraming, and Pro Video Mode provide useful camera software enhancements.
- Newer Bluetooth version: Bluetooth 5.3 offers more power efficiency.
Significant Trade-offs:
- Xiaomi 12X: Lacks the latest Android OS, expandable storage and might not appeal to those wanting the best low light camera performance.
- Samsung Galaxy A35: The performance lags significantly behind the Xiaomi 12X, and you're giving up the fast charging, better outdoor visibility and the enhanced camera sensor.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi 12X is Ideal For:
- Gamers: The Snapdragon 870 and Adreno 650 handle demanding games with ease.
- Performance Seekers: Users who prioritize responsiveness and speed for heavy app usage.
- Outdoor Users: The brighter display ensures excellent visibility in direct sunlight.
- Content Creators: The 8K Video and enhanced camera make it a strong option for quality video recording.
- Those that want fast charging: The 67W charging is a huge convenience.
Samsung Galaxy A35 is Ideal For:
- Casual Users: Those who want a reliable phone with good battery life for everyday tasks.
- Software Enthusiasts: Users who want the latest Android experience and consistent updates.
- Photo takers: Those that like to take selfies in low light.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to ask yourself:
- Performance or Software? Do you need the best possible performance for gaming and heavy apps (Xiaomi 12X), or do you prioritize the latest software and updates (Samsung Galaxy A35)?
- Battery Life or Charging Speed? Is all-day battery life essential (Samsung A35), or would you prefer lightning-fast charging to top up your device quickly (Xiaomi 12X)?
- Camera Needs: Are you looking for better video recording capabilities and better low light performance (Xiaomi 12X), or do you prioritize AI enhancements and other software features (Samsung Galaxy A35)?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- For the Power User: If gaming, performance, and fast charging are your priorities, go with the Xiaomi 12X.
- For the Average User: If a newer OS, good battery life, and a good selfie camera are important, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is a solid choice.
Final Thoughts
For my personal use, I would choose the Xiaomi 12X. The primary reason is the significantly superior performance of the Snapdragon 870 chipset. I use my phone for various tasks, including some mobile gaming and other demanding applications and the Xiaomi 12X will handle these much better. Additionally, the brighter display and faster charging are huge advantages that would make my daily life easier. While I appreciate the newer OS on the A35, the performance difference is too significant for me to ignore and as a user who frequently takes pictures in well lit areas, the wider aperture will be of less use.
