1. Specifications Comparison
Design
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 161.2 × 77.3 × 9.1 mm | 161.7 × 78 × 8.2 mm | The A35 is slightly larger and thinner. Note 9T is slightly more compact. A35 feels more premium due to thin design. |
| Weight | 199g | 209g | The Note 9T is slightly lighter, which may be preferable for extended use, though 10g is barely noticeable. |
Display
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 6.53" | 6.6" | Minimal difference; both provide a large viewing area. |
| Resolution | 1080x2340 | 1080x2340 | Both provide sharp and clear images. |
| PPI | 395 | 390 | Similar pixel density; both look sharp. |
| Technology | IPS LCD | AMOLED | AMOLED offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and better contrast, making media consumption more enjoyable. Better for dark mode. |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz | The A35 offers smoother scrolling and animations, improving user experience, especially for gaming. |
| Brightness | 0 nits | 0 nits | Peak brightness is not provided, this limits comparison on outdoor visibility. |
Performance
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 800U (7 nm) | Exynos 1380 (5 nm) | The A35 has a newer, more efficient chip, leading to faster app loading and better multitasking. |
| AnTuTu Score | 343,150 | 578,500 | The A35 provides significantly better performance, smoother gaming, and faster overall experience. |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC3 | Mali-G68 MP5 | The A35 has a more powerful GPU, enhancing gaming and graphic-intensive tasks. |
Camera
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Camera | 48MP, f/1.79, 1/2" | 50MP, f/1.8, 1/1.96" | A35 has slightly higher resolution and larger sensor, for better low-light performance. |
| Selfie Camera | 13MP, f/2.25, 1/3.1" | 13MP, f/2.2 | A35 has a wider aperture for better low light performance |
| Wide Angle | N/A | 8MP, f/2.2 | The A35 has an ultra-wide lens, for landscape shots. The Note 9T has no wide-angle lens. |
| Portrait Mode (depth) | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | N/A | Note 9T has a dedicated depth sensor for portrait mode. |
| Macro Lens | 2MP, f/2.4, 1/5" | 5MP, f/2.4 | The A35 has higher resolution for better macro shots. |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 4K@30fps with EIS | The A35 has EIS for stable videos. Both offer high quality video recording. |
| DXOMark | N/A | Mobile: 104 Photo: 107 Video: 110 | The A35 has a proven camera system with good scores for photos and videos. The Note 9T has no dxomark score. |
| Features | Manual Focus | 2x2 OCL, Pro Video Mode, OIS, Ultra stable video, AutoFraming, All Pixel Omni- Directional PDAF, NPU AI Engine, Night Mode, RAW 12 bits, DOL HDR | The A35 has more advanced video and photography features including OIS. |
Battery
| Feature | Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Practical Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 5000mAh | 5000mAh | Similar battery life expected for both phones under normal use. |
| Charging | 18W fast charging | 25W fast charging | The A35 charges faster, reducing downtime. |
| Features | 22.5W charger inbox | Non-removable | Note 9T has inbox charger, A35 does not. |
2. Key Differences Analysis
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T Advantages:
- Slightly lighter: At 199g, it's more comfortable for extended holding than the A35.
- Inbox Charger: The Note 9T includes a 22.5W charger.
- Side mounted fingerprint sensor: Some users find this more convenient.
- Manual Focus: Has the feature for more creative control of the camera
- Dedicated depth camera: For portrait photos
Practical Implications for Note 9T:
- Good for people that value affordability, lightweight feel and convenience with a charger included.
- Ideal for users who prefer side mounted fingerprint sensors.
- Suitable for users who prefer manual focus when taking pictures
Samsung Galaxy A35 Advantages:
- Superior Display: AMOLED with 120Hz offers vibrant visuals and smoother animations.
- Better Performance: Faster chipset and GPU result in a snappier user experience and better gaming.
- Enhanced Camera: Better main sensor, wide angle lens, more features, OIS, more advanced video features, higher macro resolution, and a good dxomark rating.
- Faster Charging: The 25W charging reduces wait times.
- Newer Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3 offers better energy efficiency and stability.
- More Satellite Systems: Supports more satellite systems for accurate location tracking.
- More RAM: Better for multi-tasking.
- More Storage: Higher storage capacity option.
- Better Screen Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus offers better drop protection.
- Dolby Atmos: Improved audio experience, better surround sound.
- Newer Android: Comes with Android 14.
Practical Implications for A35:
- Best for those who want a superior multimedia experience, including better display and audio.
- Ideal for users who want a snappier user experience and better gaming.
- Great for those who require a versatile camera system with lots of features and good performance.
- A good choice for someone who prefers the latest Android updates.
- Suitable for users who would like the best screen protection.
- Good for users who want the fastest charging speed.
Significant Trade-offs:
- The Note 9T has a more compact design, but a less impressive display.
- The A35 is more expensive than the Note 9T
- The Note 9T includes a charger in the box, while the A35 does not
3. User Profiles & Recommendations
Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T:
- Ideal User: Budget-conscious users who want a reliable phone for everyday use, and value convenience.
- Use Cases:
- General communication (calls, texts, social media).
- Light multimedia consumption.
- Users who prefer a physical fingerprint sensor.
- Users who prefer manual focus in cameras
Samsung Galaxy A35:
- Ideal User: Users who want a premium multimedia experience, better performance and a more advanced camera system, and are willing to spend a little more.
- Use Cases:
- Gaming and graphic-intensive tasks.
- Extensive multimedia consumption (movies, streaming).
- Mobile photography and videography.
- Users who want the latest Android features.
4. Decision Framework
Key Questions for Buyers:
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend? The A35 is likely more expensive, is it worth it for the additional features?
- Primary Use: Is the phone primarily for basic use, or do you need advanced features?
- Display Preference: Do you value a high-quality, vibrant display over a standard LCD?
Scenario-Based Recommendations:
- Scenario 1 (Budget-Conscious, Basic Use): If budget is the main concern and you only need a phone for everyday tasks, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T provides good value with it's reliable performance. It includes a charger which is helpful for those on a tight budget.
- Scenario 2 (Multimedia Enthusiast, Gamer): If you prioritize gaming, streaming, and having a great display, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is the better choice. It has a higher refresh rate, AMOLED, and a better chipset.
- Scenario 3 (Mobile Photographer): If you want a more versatile camera with more features the Samsung Galaxy A35 is superior. With a wide angle lens, and OIS the camera on the A35 is a clear upgrade from the Redmi Note 9T.
- Scenario 4 (Convenience): If you want a phone with an inbox charger, the Redmi Note 9T is the better choice. If you do not mind purchasing a charger separately, then the A35 is the better phone.
My Choice
If I were choosing between these two phones, I would choose the Samsung Galaxy A35. While the Xiaomi Redmi Note 9T offers good value at a lower price point, the A35 provides a superior overall experience that aligns with my needs.
Here's why:
- Display Quality: The AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate makes a significant difference in daily usage, particularly for media consumption and browsing.
- Performance: The Exynos 1380 chipset offers noticeably better performance, making the phone snappier for multitasking and gaming.
- Camera System: As someone who enjoys mobile photography, the A35's more versatile camera system with OIS, a wide angle lens, and a better main sensor is a clear advantage.
- Software & Features: The A35's newer Android OS and additional features, like Dolby Atmos, are welcome.
While the included charger and a slightly lighter design of the Note 9T are attractive, the Samsung Galaxy A35 offers a more substantial upgrade in areas that matter most to me, including display, performance and camera. The added cost of the A35 would be justified by these improvements. The A35 provides a more modern smartphone experience, making it the better overall choice.
