Score Breakdown
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Budget-friendly AMOLED display
- Large 5000mAh battery
- MicroSD card slot
- 4 OS updates guaranteed
- Samsung ecosystem access
Cons
- Slow Exynos 1380 processor
- Only 25W charging
- Camera quality basic
- Plastic construction
- No wireless charging
Full Review
Budget Samsung Done Properly
The Galaxy A35 proves Samsung hasn’t forgotten budget buyers. At $349 it delivers a Super AMOLED display and 5000mAh battery that compete with phones at $450-500 from rival brands. The design borrows from the S24 range, giving the A35 a look above its station.
Display Is the Hero
The 6.6-inch Super AMOLED at 120Hz is the A35’s standout feature. Blacks are deep, colours are vivid, and the refresh rate is smooth. YouTube videos, gaming, and daily scrolling all feel pleasant. For display-focused users on a budget, the A35 is a strong choice.
Camera: Basic but Functional
The 50MP main camera captures decent daylight shots with accurate colours. The 8MP ultrawide is adequate for landscapes. The 5MP macro camera is largely a gimmick. Night photography falls behind phones with larger sensors. For social media photography it’s perfectly acceptable; for enthusiasts it’s limiting.
Four Years of Updates
Samsung’s commitment to four OS updates and five years of security patches on the A35 is exceptional for a $349 phone. This extends the useful life significantly and represents excellent long-term value.
Key Specifications
| Processor | Exynos 1380 |
|---|---|
| RAM | 6GB / 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB (microSD expandable) |
| Display | 6.6" Super AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Camera | 50MP main + 8MP ultrawide + 5MP macro |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 25W wired |
| Price | From $349 |
Verdict
The Galaxy A35 is Samsung's entry into mid-range at $349, offering a large Super AMOLED display and long battery life. Performance and camera are basic but the display quality punches above its price.