In the highly competitive mid-range smartphone market, Samsung continues to make a mark with its Galaxy A series. The Samsung Galaxy A35 stands out as a notable entry, offering a compelling combination of performance, design, and features at a reasonable price point. This detailed review will explore the strengths and weaknesses of the Galaxy A35, providing a comprehensive look at what this $400 phone has to offer.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that catches the eye about the Samsung Galaxy A35 is its sleek and modern design. The device sports a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display, boasting vivid colors and deep blacks, making it a visual treat for users. The resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels ensures sharp and clear images, perfect for media consumption and gaming.
The build quality is solid, with a polycarbonate back that mimics the look and feel of glass, offering durability without the fragility. The phone's slim profile and lightweight design make it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The minimalist design is complemented by the placement of buttons and ports, which are conveniently accessible.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy A35 is powered by the Exynos 1280 processor, paired with 6GB of RAM. This combination delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, and multitasking. While it may not be the most powerful chipset in the market, it handles casual gaming and media playback efficiently.
The device comes with 128GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card slot, providing ample space for apps, photos, and videos. The inclusion of a 5000mAh battery ensures that the phone can easily last through a full day of moderate to heavy usage, with support for 25W fast charging to quickly top up the battery when needed.
Camera Quality
One of the standout features of the Galaxy A35 is its quad-camera setup. The primary 48MP sensor captures detailed and vibrant photos in good lighting conditions. The 8MP ultra-wide lens is perfect for landscape shots and group photos, while the 5MP macro lens allows for close-up shots with intricate details. Additionally, the 2MP depth sensor helps create a pleasing bokeh effect in portrait mode.
The camera app is user-friendly, offering various modes and settings to enhance the photography experience. The night mode is particularly impressive, producing clear and well-exposed images in low-light conditions. The front-facing 20MP camera also performs well, making it a great choice for selfies and video calls.
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Software and Features
The Samsung Galaxy A35 runs on One UI 4.1 based on Android 12, providing a clean and intuitive user interface. Samsung's One UI is known for its user-friendly design and extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor the experience to their preferences. The software is packed with useful features such as Samsung Pay, Knox security, and Bixby integration.
The phone also supports 5G connectivity, ensuring fast and reliable internet speeds for streaming, downloading, and browsing. The in-display fingerprint sensor offers quick and secure access to the device, while the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome addition for those who prefer wired audio accessories.
Audio and Multimedia
The audio quality on the Galaxy A35 is commendable, with a single bottom-firing speaker that delivers clear and loud sound. While it may not match the stereo setups found in higher-end models, it performs well for media playback and casual listening. The phone supports Dolby Atmos, enhancing the audio experience when using compatible headphones or speakers.
The Super AMOLED display is a highlight for multimedia enthusiasts, offering vibrant colors and deep contrasts. Watching videos, playing games, and browsing photos are all enjoyable experiences on this screen. The phone's slim bezels and high screen-to-body ratio contribute to an immersive viewing experience.
Value for Money
At a price point of $400, the Samsung Galaxy A35 offers excellent value for money. It strikes a balance between performance, design, and features, making it a strong contender in the mid-range smartphone market. While there are areas where it may not excel, such as raw processing power for intensive gaming, it more than makes up for it with its well-rounded package.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Impressive display quality with Super AMOLED technology.
Good camera performance, especially in well-lit conditions.
Long battery life with fast charging support.
5G connectivity for fast internet speeds.
Expandable storage via microSD card.
Cons:
Processor may struggle with demanding tasks and heavy gaming.
Single speaker setup lacks the richness of stereo sound.
A plastic back will not be as expensive as a glass back.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy A35 is an enjoyable and sometimes surprising $400 phone that delivers a lot of value for its price. It is well-suited for users looking for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone without breaking the bank. With its impressive display, versatile camera setup, and robust battery life, the Galaxy A35 stands out as a worthy choice in the mid-range segment.