1. Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design | |||
| Launch Date | 2021-04-28 | 2024-03-15 | Samsung is significantly newer, likely with longer software support. |
| Dimensions | 160.5 × 74.5 × 8.3 mm | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm | Samsung is slightly taller and wider, potentially less comfortable for one-handed use for some. |
| Weight | 178.8g | 209g | Xiaomi is significantly lighter, more comfortable for long usage and carrying. |
| Display | |||
| Size | 6.43" | 6.6" | Samsung has a slightly larger screen for more immersive media consumption. |
| Resolution | 1080x2400 | 1080x2340 | Both have very similar sharpness. |
| Pixel Density | 409 PPI | 390 PPI | Both screens appear equally sharp to the naked eye. |
| Technology | AMOLED | AMOLED | Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | Samsung's display is much smoother for scrolling and gaming. |
| Brightness | 1100 nits | 0 nits | Xiaomi's screen is much more visible in bright sunlight. Note: Samsung brightness is missing. |
| Performance | |||
| Chipset | Mediatek Helio G95 (12 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | Samsung's chip is more powerful and efficient, offering better app performance and battery life. |
| AnTuTu Score | 409,874 | 578,500 | Samsung scores significantly higher, translating to smoother multitasking and faster loading times. |
| GPU | Mali-G76 MC4 | Mali-G68 MP5 | Samsung's GPU is generally more powerful, leading to better gaming performance. |
| Battery | |||
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Both should provide similar battery life for a full day for average use. |
| Charging | 33W Fast Charging | 25W Fast Charging | Xiaomi charges the battery faster. |
| Battery Type | Li-Polymer | Li-Ion | Minor difference in construction, negligible practical difference. |
| Features | Reverse Charging | None | Xiaomi can be used to charge other devices (limited capacity). |
| Camera | |||
| Main Camera Resolution | 64MP | 50MP | Xiaomi has a higher resolution sensor for more detailed images (in theory). |
| Main Camera Aperture | f/1.79 | f/1.8 | Xiaomi's wider aperture may allow slightly better low-light performance. |
| Main Camera Sensor Size | 1/2" | 1/1.96" | Samsung's larger sensor may perform better in low light. |
| Selfie Camera Aperture | f/2.45 | f/2.2 | Samsung's wider aperture may allow slightly better low-light performance. |
| Wide Angle Lens | 8MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.2 | Similar capabilities for wide-angle photos. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4 | None | Xiaomi has a dedicated depth sensor for better portrait mode effects. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4 | 5MP, f/2.4 | Samsung provides higher quality macro shots. |
| Video Recording | Up to 4K@30fps | Up to 4K@30fps with EIS | Both record in 4K, Samsung offers electronic image stabilization (EIS) for smoother videos |
| Video Slow-Motion | 960 fps | 240 fps | Xiaomi offers greater slow-motion. |
| DXOMark Score | Not Available | 104 (Mobile) | Samsung provides better camera performance based on DxOMark score |
| Camera Features | Quadruple camera, Digital Image stabilization | Optical stabilization (OIS), Triple camera, Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, NPU AI Engine | Samsung offers more advanced video features and OIS for better image quality, especially in challenging conditions. |
| Software | |||
| OS | Android 11 (up to 13) | Android 14 (up to 18) | Samsung offers a more recent version and longer-term software updates. |
| Connectivity | |||
| WiFi | 802.11ac | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) | Samsung has newer standard supporting faster speeds. |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.3 | Samsung has more advanced Bluetooth capabilities and wider codecs. |
| GPS | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo | GPS, A-GPS, GLONASS, Beidou, QZSS, Galileo | Samsung supports more satellite systems for potentially better accuracy. |
| Storage | |||
| Internal Storage | 64/128 GB | 128/256 GB | Samsung offers more storage by default (128 and 256) |
| RAM | 6/8 GB | 6/8 GB | Both are capable of good multitasking performance. |
| Expandable Storage | No | No | Neither support external storage. |
| Audio | |||
| Audio Quality | Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, Stereo Speakers | Samsung provides more immersive audio with Dolby Atmos. |
| Security | |||
| Fingerprint Sensor | Side-mounted | Basic fingerprint sensor | Xiaomi features more advanced fingerprint placement. |
| Build Quality | |||
| Screen Protection | Gorilla Glass 3 | Gorilla Glass Victus | Samsung offers superior screen scratch and impact protection. |
| Sensors | |||
| Sensors | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Compass, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity | Fingerprint, Accelerometer, Gyroscope, Ultrasonic Proximity, Hall, Geomagnetic | Both have similar sensor setups, with Samsung offering a few additional sensors. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S Advantages:
- Lighter Build: More comfortable for extended use and carrying.
- Faster Charging: Charges faster with 33W, beneficial for those always on the go.
- Reverse Charging: Can act as a power bank for other devices.
- Higher Brightness: Much better screen visibility in bright sunlight.
- Dedicated Depth Sensor: Better portrait mode.
- Higher Slow Motion: Capable of 960 fps slow motion video.
- Side Mounted Fingerprint Sensor: More convenient to access and use.
Samsung Galaxy A35 Advantages:
- Newer & More Powerful Chipset: Better performance for demanding apps and games, as well as improved efficiency.
- Smoother Display: 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations.
- Larger Display: A slightly bigger display for a more immersive viewing experience.
- Better Main Camera Sensor and Stabilization: Higher quality images, better performance in low light and smooth videos.
- Superior Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers better scratch resistance.
- More Storage Options: Offers a 256GB option, and at least 128GB as standard.
- Newer Software: Comes with a newer version of Android and longer-term software support.
- Advanced Connectivity: Supports newer WiFi 6 standard for faster speeds.
- Better Audio: Immersive audio experience with Dolby Atmos
- Additional Sensors: The addition of sensors enables some unique features.
- DxOMark Score: Provides a benchmark to determine better performance.
Trade-offs:
- The Redmi Note 10S prioritizes a lighter build, faster charging, and better outdoor screen visibility at the cost of processing power and refresh rate.
- The Galaxy A35 focuses on performance, display smoothness, and camera quality while being heavier and having slower charging.
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S is ideal for:
- Users who prioritize comfort and portability: Lighter weight makes it suitable for extended holding and use.
- Budget-conscious buyers who need good basic performance: Offers good features at a more affordable price point.
- Those who need a very bright screen: Offers high brightness for outdoor visibility.
Users needing longer slow motion: A much higher frame-rate is available on this model.
Use Cases:
- Casual social media browsing and messaging.
- Basic photography and video recording in well-lit conditions.
- Everyday tasks, emails, and calls.
Samsung Galaxy A35 is ideal for:
- Users who need good gaming and app performance: The powerful chipset ensures smoother gameplay and faster loading.
- Users who appreciate a smooth, immersive display: 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations much smoother.
- Those who want good cameras : A great camera experience with good photos and video.
- Users who need larger storage: Comes with at least 128GB of internal storage.
- Users who need long-term software support: Comes with the latest Android and will likely be updated.
Users who want advanced features : The addition of OIS, and Ultra Stable Video enhances the camera capabilities, for example.
Use Cases:
- Playing graphically intensive games.
- Watching videos and streaming content.
- Taking high-quality photos and videos.
- Multitasking with several applications.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Do you prioritize performance and a smooth display, or weight and brightness? If performance, the Samsung is the clear winner; for comfort and brightness the Xiaomi should be considered.
- Do you need the highest quality photos and videos? Samsung has superior camera features like OIS and better video quality overall, despite the higher megapixel counts of the Xiaomi.
- How important is fast charging and reverse charging to you? The Xiaomi offers faster charging and the ability to charge other devices. The Samsung has slower charging but benefits from better overall camera performance, performance and superior longevity.
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1: Everyday user focused on social media and calls: If you are primarily doing lightweight tasks, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S might be the more convenient option because of the lighter weight and lower cost.
- Scenario 2: Mobile gamer and content creator: The Samsung Galaxy A35 is the better choice due to its more powerful processor, smoother display, and better camera capabilities.
- Scenario 3: Frequent traveler or outdoor enthusiast: The Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S might be preferred due to the better sunlight visibility and reverse charging capabilities; however, consider if the benefits of the Samsung (such as OIS and a newer android) would be of more benefit.
What I would choose and why!
I would choose the Samsung Galaxy A35. While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 10S has some attractive points like a lighter build, faster charging, and a brighter screen, the A35 offers a more compelling overall experience. Its significantly more powerful processor and smoother 120Hz display make a noticeable difference in daily use, from app loading and multitasking to browsing and gaming. The Samsung also has a more capable camera with OIS and better video quality, which is important for me. Additionally, the newer software and extended software support of the A35 are valuable benefits that ensure the phone stays up-to-date for longer, and with superior screen protection, the device is likely to last longer. Finally, the superior audio capabilities provide an all-around more immersive user experience. While the Xiaomi has some pros, the Samsung provides a better overall experience and a higher performance to value ratio in the long term.
