Samsung Galaxy A35 vs Galaxy A34 – which is better?

The two latest additions to the Galaxy A series are closer matched in specs and performance than ever: so, how does the more affordable Galaxy A35 shape up compared to its 2023 predecessor? We’re comparing the Galaxy A35 vs the Galaxy A54 to find out.

The upgrades of the Galaxy A35 stand to close the gap between it and the more premium Galaxy A55 5G, and while it might look visually similar to the Galaxy A34, it’s what’s going on under the surface that separates these two A3 generations. So, when it comes to choosing between the two, it can be hard to know which one to go for without diving into the nitty-gritty details.

We’re here to provide you with an in-depth comparison of the Samsung Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A34, examining their specs, features, and prices to help you determine which is the better choice – at least on paper.

Samsung Galaxy A35 vs Galaxy A34 specs

Samsung Galaxy A35 vs Galaxy A34 features

Now, let’s delve into the features of both devices to give you a clearer picture of what they have to offer.

Design

In terms of design, both the Galaxy A35 and A34 boast a minimalist aesthetic that represents a budget Galaxy S series. Each rectangular candy bar body features a glossy back with a trio of floating cameras on its left, and a polycarbonate plastic frame. The glossy, plastic rear, also known as ‘glasstic’ in Samsung’s parlance, contributes to a lightweight feel. Although not visible to the eye, the A35 gets encased in Gorilla Glass Victus Plus, which is a step up from the Gorilla Glass 5 used on the A34 and is a massive bonus considering its budget nature. Both phones get an IP rating of IP67.

As the newer model out of the two, the Galaxy A35 got a slight redesign in the way of the raised Key Island on its side bezel, which houses the power button and volume rocker, upgrading the in-hand feel and functionality. There’s also a change-up in terms of colorways: the A35 and A34 come in a variety of vibrant colors, so you can add an extra touch of personalization. This time around, the Galaxy A35 came with a lineup of Awesome Ice Blue, Awesome Navy, Awesome Lilac, and Awesome Lemon. This was a slight spin on the Awesome Lime, Awesome Graphite, Awesome Violet, and Awesome Silver offered by the A54.

Display

Moving on to the display, you won’t find much difference here either. Both the Galaxy A34 and Galaxy A35 sport a 6.6-inch screen, that features a Full HD+ resolution, ensuring crisp and clear visuals that are above the model’s price points. In terms of refresh rate, both devices offer a 120Hz refresh rate, offering smoother scrolling and optimum responsiveness to other budget models which only may reach rates of 90Hz or lower.

Camera

In the camera department, the Galaxy A35 and Galaxy A34 both feature the triple-lens setups that are iconic of Samsung Galaxy smartphones. However, the A35 boasts a 50MP wide angle and a slightly larger 1/1.96-inch sensor and OIS, compared to the A34’s 48MP lens. It’s a marginal difference, but an upgrade is an upgrade. As is often the case with midrange smartphones, most of the budget has gone into the main lens, leaving the two other lenses as an 8 MP f/2.2 ultra-wide and a 5MP macro lens.

For selfies, the A35 uses a 13MP camera, and the A34 offers a 13MP front-facing sensor too. So, what you can expect overall is decent photography that matches up to the sub-£350 price point, but probably nothing revolutionary.

Performance

Now, performance is where you can separate the wood from the trees in terms of which phone is actually better. The two devices employ different chipsets, and the Exynos 1380 definitely takes the performance of the Galaxy A35 up a notch from the A34’s MediaTek Dimensity 1080. The A35’s Exynos chip uses the newer 5nm process, meaning it has a smaller transistor size than the 6nm MediaTek. NanoReview’s comparison of the two found the Exynos 1380 beating its MediaTek alternative in CPU performance, GPU performance, and overall chip score.

What’s more, compared to its last-gen predecessor, the Exynos 1280 used on the Galaxy A53, the 1380 delivers roughly 40% faster execution speed, 20% faster game loading, and a 30% more powerful multi-core performance. So, while both are competent processors, the Exynos 1380 in the A35 might offer a slight edge in terms of performance, as well as longevity: newer chips will naturally outlast older ones.

Is the Galaxy A35 cheaper than the Galaxy A34?

Price plays a significant role in the decision-making process, so how do these two models compare? Well, last years Galaxy A34 was not initially released for the US market, but had a UK MSRP of £349, roughly translating to $444. What’s more, following its launch in the UK, we can confirm that the Galaxy A35 has the exact same starting price of £349: however, while it has been confirmed by Samsung that the Galaxy A35 will launch in the US instead of the Galaxy A55, there hasn’t been any official information to let us know when that will be, or any exact USD pricing.

Is the Galaxy A35 better than the Galaxy A34?

When comparing the Galaxy A35 and A34, it’s clear that both phones offer strong performances in their respective areas. There’s not really a huge generational leap between the two devices, but more of a subtle upgrade that gives the A35 a more well-rounded performance thanks to its new processor and improved Samsung Knox Vault security. The downside is, the Galaxy A35 is still not available in the US, and we’re currently unsure of how long we’ll be waiting for Samsung to bring its latest Galaxy A series across the border.

So, in terms of which one is better the Galaxy A35, with its superior specifications and features, seems to be the clear winner in this comparison. The only drawback is that if you really want the A35, you’ll have to wait a little longer rather than making your purchase straight away. However, both phones offer compelling features and solid performance, making them great options in the mid-range smartphone market.