Samsung has consistently offered smartphones across a wide range of price points, catering to both budget-conscious consumers and premium phone enthusiasts. Two very different devices in their lineup—the Galaxy A35 5G and the Galaxy S23—highlight Samsung’s range. At first glance, these phones may look similar, but a closer look reveals key differences that make choosing between them a more nuanced decision. For those torn between affordability and flagship-level features, this comparison will dive deep into what each device offers and help users make an informed choice based on their lifestyle and needs.
Design and Build
The Galaxy A35 5G features a sleek design with a plastic back and a metal frame, giving it a modern look without the weight of more premium materials. It strikes a balance between durability and cost-efficiency. On the other hand, the Galaxy S23 is a flagship for a reason. With its glass back and aluminum frame, the S23 looks and feels like a luxury device from the moment you hold it.
Both phones sport a minimalist design with rear cameras neatly aligned in the top left corner. While aesthetically pleasing, the tactile difference is obvious—the S23 feels more refined in hand.
Display
The Galaxy A35 5G has a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and Full HD+ resolution. Colors are vivid, and the scrolling experience is buttery smooth. Despite belonging to the mid-range segment, Samsung didn’t compromise much on the visual quality here.
The Galaxy S23 opts for a smaller 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display but boasts superior features like HDR10+ and peak brightness up to 1750 nits. This makes it ideal for users who spend time streaming content or editing media directly on their phones. The compact size also appeals to users who prefer a one-handed experience without sacrificing screen clarity.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, this is where things really begin to diverge. The Galaxy S23 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor, equipped with 8GB of RAM and offering up to 512GB of storage. It’s a powerhouse built to handle intensive tasks like gaming, multitasking, 4K video editing, and more.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy A35 5G features the Exynos 1380 chipset. It’s a solid performer for daily use—browsing, social media, and even casual gaming. However, when pushed to the limits, its performance clearly lags behind the S23. It ships with up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, which is generous for a phone in this price segment.
Camera Comparison
In terms of camera systems, the Galaxy S23 shines with its triple-lens setup, led by a 50MP primary sensor, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. It offers superior night mode capabilities, detailed image capture, and versatile shot options ideal for photography enthusiasts.
The Galaxy A35 5G also features a triple-camera layout, with a 50MP main sensor, a 5MP macro lens, and an 8MP ultra-wide sensor. While it takes solid photos in well-lit conditions, its low-light performance and versatility are notably limited compared to the S23. The macro lens, though handy, serves more as a novelty than a core photographic tool.
Battery Life and Charging
When it comes to battery capacity, the Galaxy A35 5G actually wins on paper with its 5,000mAh battery, giving it an edge in longevity—especially when paired with its mid-range processor. Users can easily get through a full day of use with some battery to spare.
The Galaxy S23 includes a smaller 3,900mAh battery, but thanks to software optimization and a more efficient processor, it holds its own quite well. However, battery anxiety could become a concern for power users. Both phones support 25W wired charging, but the S23 also supports wireless charging and reverse wireless charging—a feature absent in the A35 5G.
Software and Features
Both devices run on Samsung’s One UI based on Android 14. The user experience remains largely consistent, with features like Samsung Knox, Game Booster, Edge Panels, and DeX compatibility (only for S23).
- Galaxy S23: Offers broader feature integration and better long-term support, including up to 4 years of OS updates and 5 years of security patches.
- Galaxy A35 5G: Still receives strong update support, expected for 4 years, but lacks some features like DeX and advanced AI-based photo editing tools.
Price and Value
Here’s where the decision gets real. The Galaxy A35 5G comes in at nearly half the price of the Galaxy S23. For consumers who want a reliable, modern phone without premium extras, the A35 is a compelling value. It encompasses 5G capabilities, a beautiful AMOLED screen, and a dependable camera setup—all at a more wallet-friendly price.
The S23 targets a different audience. It’s built for those who want premium features, cutting-edge performance, and a device that will stay relevant for years to come. For professionals, creatives, and power users, the investment might be worth every penny.
Final Verdict
So, which one should you buy—the Galaxy A35 5G or the Galaxy S23? That depends entirely on your priorities.
- Choose the Galaxy A35 5G if: You’re looking for a budget-friendly smartphone for casual use, excellent battery life, and modern aesthetics without breaking the bank.
- Choose the Galaxy S23 if: Performance, camera quality, and long-term software support are critical and you’re willing to invest in a truly premium experience.
In short, the A35 is a smart pick for everyday users, while the S23 is the go-to for those who demand more from their device.
FAQ
- Q: Is the Galaxy A35 5G good for gaming?
A: Yes, it can handle light to moderate gaming well, but may struggle with high-end games at max settings compared to the S23. - Q: Does the Galaxy S23 support expandable storage?
A: No, like most modern flagships, the Galaxy S23 does not offer microSD card support. Choose wisely when selecting your storage variant. - Q: Which phone has a better front camera for selfies?
A: The Galaxy S23 includes a 12MP front camera with dual-pixel autofocus, outperforming the A35 5G’s 13MP sensor in clarity and low-light performance. - Q: Which device gets software updates for longer?
A: Both phones get lengthy support, but the S23 benefits from more frequent and faster software updates as a flagship device. - Q: Is the Galaxy A35 5G water resistant?
A: Yes, it comes with an IP67 rating, offering protection against water and dust. The Galaxy S23 has an even higher IP68 rating.
