Samsung Galaxy A35 5G Review

Top Features of the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G

• 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with 120 Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass Victus+, ~1317 nits peak brightness
• Exynos 1380 chipset with 6 GB or 8 GB RAM
• 128 GB or 256 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD up to 1 TB
• Triple rear cameras: 50 MP main (with OIS), 8 MP ultra-wide, 5 MP macro
• 13 MP front camera with 4K video support
• 5,000 mAh battery with 25 W fast charging
• Android 14 with One UI 6.1, plus four years of OS updates
• IP67 dust and water resistance, stereo speakers
• In-display fingerprint sensor and NFC support

Introduction – Solid Mid-Range Choice

The Galaxy A35 5G offers a premium feel without the premium price. With a high-refresh screen, versatile cameras, and dependable performance, it’s a great fit for users needing a reliable daily phone.

Design & Build – Premium Feel, Durable Build

The A35 features Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front and an IP67-rated body, giving it a strong, splash-resistant build. Weighing around 209 g with a sleek, flat-frame design, it looks and feels modern.

Display – Bright and Smooth

The 6.6-inch Super AMOLED panel brings punchy colours and deep contrast. With a 120 Hz refresh rate and over 1,300 nits of brightness, it performs well in all lighting conditions, including outdoors.

Performance – Responsive for Daily Use

Running on the Exynos 1380 chip and up to 8 GB of RAM, the A35 handles web browsing, social media, and casual gaming smoothly. It’s not a powerhouse, but for everyday tasks, it performs reliably.

Battery Life – Full-Day Staying Power

The 5,000 mAh battery easily lasts a full day. With 25 W fast charging, it reaches over 50% in about 30 minutes, keeping you off the charger and on the go.

Camera Quality – Versatile Photography

The triple-camera setup covers all the basics:

• 50 MP main camera delivers sharp, vibrant shots
• 8 MP ultra-wide handles group and landscape photos
• 5 MP macro lens is useful for close-ups
• The 13 MP front camera supports 4K video, great for selfies and video calls

Software & Updates – Long-Term Assurance

Shipping with Android 14 and One UI 6.1, the A35 comes with a clean interface and handy features. Samsung promises four years of OS updates and five years of security patches — uncommon in this price range.

Storage & Memory – Plenty of Room

Choose between 128 GB and 256 GB storage options, with support for up to 1 TB via microSD. RAM goes up to 8 GB, which keeps multitasking snappy.

Connectivity – Modern Essentials Covered

You get 5G, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC, stereo speakers, USB-C, and an in-display fingerprint scanner — covering all the basics and more.

Audio – Clear with No Frills

The stereo speakers offer solid sound for media and calls. While it lacks a 3.5 mm headphone jack, wireless and USB-C audio options make up for it.

Price vs Value – Strong Mid-Range Competitor

Expected to cost around R6,500–R7,500 in South Africa, the A35 offers serious value. It goes head-to-head with models like the Pixel 8a or OnePlus 12R, offering better battery and expandability.

Final Thoughts – Dependable Everyday Performer

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G hits the sweet spot in the mid-range category. With a beautiful screen, solid battery life, dependable performance, and long-term support, it’s a smart pick for South African buyers who want a balanced and future-ready phone.