1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G | Samsung Galaxy M35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-04-28 | 2024-05-24 | Samsung is much newer, likely better software support |
| Dimensions | 161.8 × 75.3 × 8.9 mm | 162.3 × 78.6 × 9.1 mm | M35 is slightly larger, may be less comfortable in smaller hands |
| Weight | 190g | 222g | Redmi Note 10 5G is lighter, better for extended use |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.5" | 6.6" | Negligible difference in screen size |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Minor difference, not noticeable in daily use |
| PPI | 405 | 390 | Very similar sharpness, both appear crisp |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better viewing angles |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 120Hz | M35 provides slightly smoother scrolling and animations |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Brightness is not available for either phone |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 700 (7 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Exynos 1380 is more powerful, faster app loading, better multitasking |
| AnTuTu Score | 381,300 | 578,500 | M35 has superior performance, better for gaming and demanding apps |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G68 MP5 | M35 has a more capable GPU, better graphics in games |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 6000mAh | M35 has a larger battery, should offer longer battery life |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 25W fast charging | M35 charges faster |
| Features | Reverse charging, Non-removable | Non-removable | Redmi Note 10 5G can charge other devices |
| Camera | |||
| Standard Lens | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2", 0.8µm | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/2", 1.0µm | M35 has higher resolution & larger pixel, potentially better low-light performance |
| Selfie Lens | 8MP, f/2.0 | 13MP, f/2.2, 1.12 µm pixel size | M35 has higher resolution, better selfies |
| Wide Angle Lens | None | 8MP, f/2.2 | M35 has a wide-angle lens for more versatile shots |
| Portrait Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1.75 µm pixel size | None | Redmi Note 10 5G has a dedicated depth sensor |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5", 1.75 µm pixel size | 2MP, f/2.4 | Similar macro camera capabilities |
| Video | 1080p@30fps, Slow-motion 120fps | 4K@30fps with EIS, 1080p@60fps with EIS, Slow-motion 480fps | M35 has better video recording quality with 4K and better EIS |
| Features | Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Autofocus, Touch focus, Geotagging, HDR, Face detection, White balance, ISO, Exposure, Scene, Self-timer, Night Mode | 2x2 OCL, Pro Video, 4K, Digital zoom, Triple camera, Digital image stabilization, Optical Stabilization (OIS), Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, Autofocus, Touch focus, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, NPU AI, Continuous, Geotagging, Panorama, HDR, Face, White, ISO, Exposure, Scene, Self-timer, Night, RAW 12 bits, DOL HDR | M35 has more advanced camera features including OIS, Pro Video, and better HDR |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 | Android 14 | M35 has a newer OS, likely with better features and support |
| Connectivity | |||
| Wi-Fi | 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | M35 has newer Wi-Fi, faster speeds |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 LE | 5.3 | M35 has newer Bluetooth, better range & efficiency |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | M35 has more satellite support for better accuracy |
| SIM | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Dual SIM Dual Standby | Both support dual SIM functionality |
| Storage | |||
| Internal | 64/128/256 GB | 128/256 GB | M35 has 128GB or 256 GB |
| RAM | 4/6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | M35 has 6/8 GB of RAM for smoother performance |
| Expandable | No | No | Neither phone has expandable storage |
| Audio | |||
| Quality | Hi-Res Audio | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | M35 offers enhanced audio with Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers |
| Security | |||
| Features | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Side-mounted fingerprint sensor | Both have a side-mounted fingerprint reader |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass Victus | M35 has superior screen protection |
| Sensors | |||
| Fingerprint, Proximity, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity Virtual, Hall, Geomagnetic | M35 has a better suite of sensors including an Ultrasonic Proximity sensor |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G Advantages:
- Lighter Weight: At 190g, it's significantly lighter than the M35, making it more comfortable for extended holding.
- Reverse Charging: Allows it to charge other devices, a useful feature for some users.
- Dedicated Portrait Camera: Offers a dedicated depth sensor for portrait photography.
- Lower price: Older phone at a lower price bracket
Samsung Galaxy M35 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED screen with 120Hz refresh rate, offering better visuals, colors and smoother animations.
- More Powerful Performance: Exynos 1380 chipset provides significantly better performance in benchmarks and real-world use.
- Larger Battery: 6000mAh battery offers longer battery life, ideal for heavy users.
- Faster Charging: 25W charging fills the larger battery quicker.
- Better Cameras: Higher resolution sensors, wider lens, OIS, and 4K video capabilities for better overall image and video quality.
- Newer Software: Ships with Android 14, providing a more up-to-date experience.
- Better Connectivity: Newer Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3 for faster and more reliable connections.
- Enhanced Audio: Dolby Atmos and stereo speakers for a more immersive audio experience.
- Better Screen Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus for added durability.
Trade-offs:
- The Samsung Galaxy M35 is heavier and slightly larger, which might not be as comfortable for some users as the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G.
- The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G has a portrait sensor but lacks a wide-angle lens found on the M35, limiting versatility.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G Ideal User:
- Budget-conscious buyers: Looking for an affordable 5G phone.
- Users who prioritize lightweight phones: Prefer a lighter, more comfortable device for everyday use.
- Users needing reverse charging: Occasionally need to charge other devices.
- Basic users: With basic smartphone needs who are not looking for high performance for gaming
Specific Use Cases for Redmi Note 10 5G:
- Casual social media browsing and messaging.
- Basic photography and video recording.
- Users who prioritize lightweight and lower price tag.
Samsung Galaxy M35 Ideal User:
- Performance-oriented users: Gamers or users who need fast app loading and multitasking.
- Multimedia consumers: Enjoy watching videos, consuming content with a high-quality display and audio experience.
- Photography enthusiasts: Who want versatile camera options and better overall image/video quality.
- Users who need longer battery life: Require a phone that can last a full day on heavy usage.
- Users who prioritize a future-proofed phone: With the newest OS and connectivity features
Specific Use Cases for Galaxy M35:
- Mobile gaming and graphics-intensive apps.
- High-quality video recording and photography.
- Long hours of mobile use with minimal need for charging.
- Users who want a more up-to-date, modern smartphone experience.
Price-to-Value:
- The Samsung Galaxy M35 offers better value if the price difference is not too significant. It is a more modern phone with better specs that justify the higher price.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- What is my budget? The Redmi Note 10 5G is likely to be more affordable, while the M35 will be pricier, but with greater benefits.
- How important is performance and display quality? If these are a priority, the M35 is the clear choice.
- How important is battery life, and which features are a must? If a large battery and faster charging are needed and/or features such as reverse charging, or dedicated depth sensors, the M35 and Redmi Note 10 5G, respectively, are the clear choices.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Budget User: If your budget is extremely tight and you're okay with a basic phone, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G will do the job for basic tasks.
- Power User: If you prioritize performance, a high-quality display, excellent camera and a larger battery, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is a better investment.
- Balanced User: If you want a modern phone at a lower price point, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is the better option.
- Specific Feature User: if you are looking for reverse charging, or a dedicated depth sensor the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G is a better fit.
My Choice
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy M35.
Here's why:
While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10 5G has the advantage of a slightly lighter build and reverse charging, the Samsung Galaxy M35 offers a much more comprehensive package that aligns better with my priorities. The AMOLED screen is superior for media consumption, and the performance boost with the Exynos 1380 chip is noticeable in everyday use and gaming. The larger battery and faster charging are essential for heavy use, and the improved camera system adds versatility. The M35's newer Android version and connectivity standards ensure it will remain relevant for longer. Even though it is slightly heavier, the benefits it offers are more important than a lightweight build, for me. The improved experience in almost all aspects is well worth the price difference. Therefore the Samsung Galaxy M35 is my choice.
