Alright, let's break down the Xiaomi Redmi 10 and Samsung Galaxy A35. These two phones, while both aiming for the mid-range market, take different approaches in what they offer. Here’s a detailed, user-focused comparison:
1. Specifications Breakdown
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi 10 | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Real-World Implications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Dimensions | 162 × 75.5 × 8.9 mm, 181g | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm, 209g | The Redmi 10 is slightly taller and thicker but noticeably lighter; the A35 is wider and heavier. Redmi 10 will be more comfortable for extended one-handed use due to its weight. |
| Build | Standard | Standard | Both are standard smartphone builds, meaning no foldable screens or anything out of the ordinary. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Almost identical size, the difference is barely noticeable in everyday use. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both offer a crisp viewing experience, with the slight difference being negligible for most users. |
| PPI | 405 | 390 | Very similar pixel density; both displays will appear sharp. |
| Technology | - | AMOLED | The A35's AMOLED display will provide more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, especially noticeable when viewing photos and videos or using dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | The A35's 120Hz refresh rate results in noticeably smoother scrolling and animations, which translates into an overall more fluid user experience. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Neither specification is particularly useful as they both have identical brightness (assuming it's a typo) - but it’s worth noting AMOLED screens are known for excellent brightness. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G88 (12 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | The A35's 5nm Exynos chip will provide significantly faster processing, better energy efficiency, and improved overall performance compared to the Redmi 10’s Helio G88. |
| AnTuTu Score | 253,600 | 578,500 | This benchmark difference indicates that the A35 is more than twice as powerful, providing a smoother experience in demanding apps and games. |
| GPU | Mali-G52 MC2 | Mali-G68 MP5 | The A35’s GPU is significantly more capable, leading to better graphics performance for gaming and other GPU-intensive tasks. |
| Battery Life | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both phones have comparable battery capacity, meaning similar day-to-day battery life. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging, Li-Polymer | 25W fast charging, Li-Ion | The A35 will charge considerably faster. |
| Features | Reverse charging, 9W reverse wired | Non-removable | The Redmi 10 can be used as a portable power bank (though slow at 9W). The A35, while not offering the same, is a more up-to-date and efficient design. |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2.76", 0.64µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.96", 0.80µm | The A35 has a larger sensor with bigger pixels, which means it will capture more light and produce higher-quality images in a variety of lighting conditions. |
| Selfie Camera | 8MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12µm | The A35 has higher resolution and larger pixel size; both will capture decent selfies. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2, 1/2.8", 1.14µm | 8MP, f/2.2 | Both phones have very similar wide-angle lens capabilities. |
| Depth Sensor | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | The Redmi 10 has a dedicated depth sensor, which should provide slightly better bokeh effect than what can be achieved by software processing. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.4, 1.12µm | A35 will take sharper macro photos thanks to its higher resolution sensor. |
| Video | 1080p@30fps | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@60fps with EIS | A35 offers higher quality video recording, and has image stabilization (EIS) on all resolutions. |
| DXOMark | - | Main_score: 104, Photo score: 107, Video Score: 110 | Only the A35 has been tested, suggesting a good overall performance. |
| Camera Features | 4K Video, Quadruple camera, DIS, RAW | 2x2 OCL, Pro Video, Triple camera, OIS, Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, NPU AI Engine, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits, DOL HDR | The A35 has superior features including OIS which results in better photos, especially in low light situations and steady footage for videos. |
| Software & Connectivity | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 (upgrade to 18) | The A35 ships with newer Android, and is upgradeable to 18. |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 6, MiMO | The A35 offers faster Wi-Fi, better performance in crowded environments. |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.1 LE | Bluetooth 5.3 | The A35 has a newer Bluetooth version with more features, providing more compatibility with audio devices. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | The A35 supports additional satellite system, offering slightly more accurate and faster GPS. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | The A35 has larger base storage and a higher max option, better for those with a lot of apps and media. |
| RAM | 4/6 GB | 6/8 GB | The A35 provides more RAM, resulting in a better multitasking experience. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither phone supports external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | The A35 provides better sound quality thanks to Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support. |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Basic Fingerprint Sensor | While both have fingerprint sensors, the Redmi 10's side-mounted sensor has a more advanced design. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass Victus | The A35 offers much stronger screen protection, less prone to scratches and cracks. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic proximity virtual, Hall, Geomagnetic | A35 offers additional sensors like Hall and Geomagnetic that may enable unique features. |
2. Key Insights
Xiaomi Redmi 10 Strengths:
- Lightweight and Comfortable: It's significantly lighter than the A35 making it better for long use sessions or for users with smaller hands.
- Depth sensor: Has a dedicated sensor for better bokeh effects
- Reverse Charging: Can charge other devices (albeit slowly).
Xiaomi Redmi 10 Limitations:
- Outdated Chipset: The Helio G88 is significantly less powerful than the A35's Exynos.
- Older Software: Ships with Android 11, while A35 ships with 14.
- Basic Display: It lacks the vibrancy and contrast of an AMOLED screen.
- No expandable storage: It can fill up faster.
Samsung Galaxy A35 Strengths:
- Superior Performance: The Exynos 1380 offers a much faster and more responsive experience.
- Vibrant Display: The AMOLED screen provides a richer viewing experience.
- Better Camera: Larger sensor, OIS, and features like 4K video and advanced video stabilization.
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 14, plus guaranteed future updates.
- Faster Charging: It recharges more quickly.
- Better Audio: Offers Hi-Res Audio and Dolby Atmos
- Better Protection: Superior screen protection with Gorilla Glass Victus.
- Better Connectivity: Offers Wi-Fi 6 and improved Bluetooth capabilities
Samsung Galaxy A35 Limitations:
- Heavier and wider: Less comfortable to use one-handed.
- More expensive: Likely to cost more.
3. User Profiles and Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi 10:
- Budget-Conscious Users: Ideal for those who need a functional smartphone for basic tasks and prefer a lighter device.
- Casual Users: Suitable for users who do not need cutting-edge performance or features.
- Users Who Prefer Physical Buttons: The side-mounted fingerprint scanner may be preferable for some users who are used to this design.
Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Performance Enthusiasts: A great option for users who need fast processing for multitasking and gaming.
- Multimedia Lovers: Perfect for those who enjoy watching high-quality videos, and for those that take a lot of pictures and video.
- Users Who Prefer a Fluid Experience: The 120Hz display and powerful chipset will result in a more enjoyable overall user experience.
- Long Term Use: It has the newest software and support, it'll remain relevant for much longer.
4. Buying Decision Framework
Here are three questions to help you decide:
How much do you value performance? If smooth performance for gaming and apps is essential, the A35 is the clear choice. If basic usage is sufficient, the Redmi 10 will do fine.
How important is display quality? If you love vibrant colours and deep blacks for your photos and videos, the A35’s AMOLED display is the winner. If you're fine with a decent but less advanced screen, the Redmi 10 will work.
What is your budget? If you are strictly budget conscious, the Redmi 10 will be the better option. If you can stretch your budget, the A35 provides much better value for money.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
Scenario 1: Basic User with Budget Constraints
- Recommendation: Xiaomi Redmi 10. It's a solid budget device that handles everyday tasks without issues.
Scenario 2: Casual Gamer or Multimedia Enthusiast
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A35. Its superior display, and performance provide a much better overall experience.
Scenario 3: User Seeking Future-Proof Device
- Recommendation: Samsung Galaxy A35. The newer Android software and upgrades, coupled with a more powerful processor, means it will remain up to date and performant for much longer.
My Choice
Personally, I'd choose the Samsung Galaxy A35. As someone who uses their phone for everything from work tasks, to gaming, to taking photos and videos, the A35 is a significant upgrade in multiple areas that I value. It has the superior screen, significantly faster processor, better camera quality, and a more modern software and security ecosystem, all of which are vital to my user experience. Even if it is a little heavier, the benefit is worth the trade-off for me.
While the Xiaomi Redmi 10 is a decent budget option, it feels outdated when compared to what the A35 brings to the table. For me, the A35 is the clear winner and much better value for the money.
