Samsung Galaxy A35

Samsung Galaxy A35 Review

The Samsung Galaxy A35, launched on March 15, 2024, positions itself in the medium price range, offering a blend of features aimed at a wide audience.

Key Features

• Display: 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, 1080 x 2340 pixel resolution, and 1000 nits peak brightness. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus.
• Processor: Exynos 1380 (5nm) chipset with an octa-core CPU (4x2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) and Mali-G68 MP5 GPU.
• Cameras: Triple rear camera setup featuring a 50MP main sensor (Samsung GN8, OIS), 8MP ultrawide, and 5MP macro lens. A 13MP front-facing camera. Video recording up to 4K@30fps.
• Battery: 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging support.
• Operating System: Android 14, upgradeable to Android 18.
• Connectivity: 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, USB Type-C 2.0 with OTG support.
• Build: Dimensions of 161.7 x 78 x 8.2 mm and a weight of 209g. Available in Navy, Iceblue, Lilac, and Lemon colors.
• Other: Under-display fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos and Hi-Res Audio support.

Pros & Cons

• Pros:

  • Vibrant and smooth 120Hz Super AMOLED display with good brightness and protection.
  • Capable Exynos 1380 chipset provides a balance of performance and power efficiency.
  • Versatile triple camera system with OIS on the main sensor, capable of quality images and 4K videos.
  • Large 5000mAh battery ensures all-day usage.
  • Stereo speakers enhance the multimedia experience.
  • Future proof with Android OS upgrades.
  • Good range of connectivity features including 5G, Wi-Fi 6 and NFC.

• Cons:

  • 25W fast charging is not the fastest available in the market.
  • Macro camera performance can be underwhelming.
  • No SD card slot for expandable storage.
  • USB 2.0 speed may limit transfer times.

User Experience

The Samsung Galaxy A35 offers a smooth and responsive user experience, thanks to its 120Hz Super AMOLED display and the Exynos 1380 processor. The display is vibrant and bright, making it enjoyable for media consumption and gaming. The user interface is typical of Samsung's One UI, which is well-optimized and offers a range of customization options. The inclusion of stereo speakers enhances the multimedia experience, while the fingerprint sensor is reliable and quick. Daily tasks are handled with ease and the 5000mAh battery comfortably lasts a full day of moderate to heavy use. While 25W charging is adequate, it's not the fastest available compared to some competitors. The camera system, while versatile, performs best in good lighting conditions, with the macro lens being the weakest of the three. The device is relatively large and may not be ideal for one-handed use for all users.

Hardware & Design

The device measures 161.7 x 78 x 8.2 mm and weighs 209g, featuring a glass front (Gorilla Glass Victus) and back, with a plastic frame. The build quality feels sturdy, and the available color options (Navy, Iceblue, Lilac, and Lemon) provide a decent level of aesthetic choice. The phone features an under-display fingerprint sensor for secure authentication. Internally, the Exynos 1380 chipset, coupled with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, provides enough power for most tasks and gaming needs. It incorporates UFS 3.1 storage, offering fast app loading times and file transfers. The absence of a headphone jack might be a drawback for some, while the inclusion of NFC, dual SIM capability and USB Type-C 2.0 with OTG support is a plus. The phone is also equipped with a suite of sensors including accelerometer, gyro, compass, light and proximity sensors.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy A35 is a competent mid-range smartphone that excels in several key areas. Its vibrant Super AMOLED display, capable processor, and versatile camera system make it a strong contender in its price range. The long-lasting battery and inclusion of stereo speakers add to its appeal. While not without its minor drawbacks, such as the lack of expandable storage and slightly slower charging, the overall user experience is compelling. The A35 represents a good balance between performance and features for the typical smartphone user, making it a good choice for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich mid-range option.