Introduction
Every year, Samsung’s Galaxy A series smartphones continue to dominate the sales charts, often surpassing even the flagship models. This year, I decided to explore the best of the A series, specifically the Samsung Galaxy A55 and its slightly more affordable counterpart, the Galaxy A35. Both phones aim to deliver Samsung’s core experience in an affordable, balanced package. Let’s dive into what makes these phones stand out in the crowded smartphone market.
Design and Build Quality
The Galaxy A55 boasts a design that rivals even Samsung’s flagship models. With shiny aluminum sides and a patternless camera design, the phone exudes a premium feel. Both the Galaxy A55 and A35 come with an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance, ensuring durability. I even tested this by submerging the A55 in an aquarium for 30 minutes, and it came out unscathed. This level of durability is impressive, especially for mid-range phones.
Display Features
The display is one of the most noticeable improvements. The Galaxy A55 features a 6.6-inch screen with Full HD+ resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate. It also boasts Gorilla Glass Victus for added durability and up to 1,600 nits of brightness for comfortable outdoor use. The slightly chunky bezels are a minor drawback, but the overall display quality is a significant step up from previous models.
Software Experience
Running on One UI 6.1 based on Android 14, both the Galaxy A55 and A35 offer a smooth and intuitive user experience. Samsung has kept the UI light and free of bloatware, which enhances performance. Although some features are reserved for flagship models, the A series still delivers a comprehensive software package that includes most of Samsung’s key functionalities.
Performance
Under the hood, the Galaxy A55 is powered by the Exynos 1480 chip with a 4nm process and an AMD GPU. This combination ensures efficient performance and extended battery life. The 5,000mAh battery comfortably lasts over a day, and in some cases, up to two days, depending on usage. Whether it’s social media, navigation, or gaming, the A55 handles it all smoothly.
Camera Capabilities
The Galaxy A55 features a triple camera setup: a 50MP main lens, a 12MP ultra-wide lens, and a 5MP macro sensor. The A35 shares the same main camera but has an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 13MP front camera. Both phones offer impressive camera performance, with vibrant colors and good low-light capabilities. Video recording supports 4K at 30fps across all lenses, with both optical and digital stabilization for smooth footage.
Video Recording Features
The ability to switch lenses while recording 4K video at 30fps is a standout feature. The front 32MP camera on the A55 and 13MP on the A35 also support 4K recording, making them versatile for vlogging and video calls. The combination of optical and digital stabilization ensures high-quality video capture, even in challenging conditions.
Gaming and Multimedia
The inclusion of an AMD GPU enhances gaming performance, allowing you to play games at medium to high settings without significant issues. The A55’s efficient power management means you can enjoy gaming sessions for longer periods. The high-refresh-rate display and good brightness levels further enhance the multimedia experience.
Durability and Longevity
The Galaxy A55’s real-world durability is commendable. The IP67 rating and Gorilla Glass Victus make it resilient to drops and spills. This level of durability is often reserved for flagship models, making the A55 a standout in its price range.
Affordability and Value
Priced between $300 to $400, the Galaxy A55 and A35 offer exceptional value. The A55, with its higher specs and features, is ideal for those seeking a premium experience without the flagship price. The A35, on the other hand, provides similar core features at an even more affordable price, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
User Experience
As someone accustomed to flagship phones, I was pleasantly surprised by the Galaxy A55’s performance. The seamless software, robust hardware, and excellent camera capabilities made it a joy to use. The A35, while slightly less powerful, still delivered a solid user experience, proving that mid-range phones have come a long way.
Competition in the Market
The mid-range market is highly competitive, with numerous options from brands like Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Motorola. However, Samsung’s focus on delivering a balanced package with strong software support gives the Galaxy A55 and A35 an edge. They cater to users who prefer Samsung’s ecosystem and are looking for reliable performance without the flagship price tag.
Final Verdict
Pros:
- Premium design and build quality
- Durable with IP67 rating
- Excellent display with high brightness
- Smooth software experience
- Strong camera performance
- Good battery life
Cons:
- Slightly chunky bezels
- Lacks some flagship features
Who Should Buy These Phones?
If you value Samsung’s core experience and want a reliable, durable phone without breaking the bank, the Galaxy A55 is an excellent choice. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option with similar capabilities, the Galaxy A35 is a strong contender.
Conclusion
In 2024, mid-range phones like the Galaxy A55 and A35 have proven that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a great smartphone. With impressive designs, robust performance, and excellent camera capabilities, these phones offer significant value. Whether you’re upgrading from an older device or looking for a reliable daily driver, the Galaxy A55 and A35 are worth considering.
FAQs
What is the price range of the Samsung Galaxy A55 and A35?
The price range for the Galaxy A55 and A35 is typically between $300 to $400, depending on the region and specific model.
How durable are the Galaxy A55 and A35?
Both phones have an IP67 rating for water and dust resistance and feature Gorilla Glass Victus, making them highly durable.
Can the Galaxy A55 and A35 handle gaming?
Yes, the Galaxy A55, in particular, performs well with its AMD GPU, allowing for smooth gaming at medium to high settings.
What is the main difference between the Galaxy A55 and A35 cameras?
The main difference is in the ultra-wide lens and front camera, with the A55 offering slightly higher resolution sensors compared to the A35.
Is the software experience on the Galaxy A55 and A35 smooth?
Yes, both phones run on One UI 6.1 based on Android 14, offering a smooth and bloatware-free user experience.
