Which Mid-Range Phone Wins Samsung Galaxy A35 vs OnePlus Nord 3? In the crowded world of mid-range phones, choices can feel overwhelming. You want solid performance without breaking the bank. The Samsung Galaxy M35 5G, A35 and OnePlus Nord 3 stand out as top picks. Samsung’s A-series brings reliable features at a fair price.
OnePlus Nord delivers speed and value in its lineup. This guide breaks down their differences to help you pick the best one for daily use, gaming, or photos.
Performance and Processing Power: Speed Versus Efficiency
The heart of any phone lies in its processor. Both devices aim to handle your apps smoothly, but they take different paths. Let’s see how they stack up.
Chipset Comparison and Benchmarks
Samsung Galaxy A35 uses the Exynos 1380 chip, built on a 5nm process. It has an eight-core setup with strong CPU and GPU parts. OnePlus Nord 3 runs on MediaTek Dimensity 9000, also 4nm for better efficiency. This chip packs more power with its one big Cortex-X2 core at 3.05GHz.
Benchmarks show clear gaps. The Nord 3 scores around 1,000,000 on AnTuTu tests. Galaxy A35 hits about 500,000. In Geekbench, Nord 3 gets 1,400 single-core and 4,500 multi-core. A35 manages 1,000 and 2,800. These numbers mean Nord 3 pulls ahead in raw speed.
You notice this in heavy tasks. The Dimensity chip shines for video edits or quick loads.
Real-World Gaming and Multitasking Experience
Gaming tests reveal more. On Nord 3, titles like Genshin Impact run at high settings without much lag. It stays cool longer thanks to that efficient chip. Galaxy A35 handles games well but may slow after 30 minutes due to heat.
For multitasking, switch between apps fast on both. Nord 3 feels snappier with its faster core. A35 keeps up for emails and browsing. If you game daily, Nord 3 wins. Casual users won’t spot big differences.
Daily tasks like scrolling social media feel fluid on either. Nord 3 edges out for power users.
RAM and Storage Options
Nord 3 offers 8GB or 16GB RAM with 128GB or 256GB storage. It uses fast UFS 3.1, so apps open in seconds. Galaxy A35 sticks to 6GB or 8GB RAM and 128GB or 256GB. Its UFS 2.2 storage is solid but slower than Nord’s.
More RAM on Nord 3 means better juggling of tabs or edits. Both expand storage via microSD. For budget buyers, A35’s base setup works fine. Power users love Nord’s higher options.
Choose based on your load. Light use? A35 suffices. Heavy? Go Nord.
Display Quality: Brightness, Smoothness, and Protection
Screens define your phone experience. Both have vibrant panels, but details matter. From colors to toughness, here’s the breakdown.
Panel Technology and Resolution Deep Dive
Galaxy A35 features a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display at 1080×2340 resolution. It supports 120Hz refresh for smooth scrolls. OnePlus Nord 3 has a larger 6.74-inch AMOLED at the same resolution, also 120Hz.
Samsung’s screen uses dynamic refresh rates to save battery. Nord 3’s LTPO tech adjusts from 1Hz to 120Hz for even better efficiency. Colors pop on both, but Samsung’s AMOLED often looks richer in videos.
You get sharp views for movies or maps. Nord’s bigger size suits media fans.
Peak Brightness and Outdoor Visibility
A35 reaches 1,000 nits peak brightness. It handles sunny days without glare issues. Nord 3 hits 1,100 nits, slightly better for direct light.
In tests, both shine outdoors. Read texts or navigate easily. Samsung’s auto-brightness adjusts quick. Nord feels a tad brighter in harsh sun.
No major winner here. Both beat older budget phones.
Durability and Protection Features
Galaxy A35 uses Gorilla Glass Victus+ on front and back. It has IP67 rating for dust and water dips up to 1 meter. OnePlus Nord 3 has Gorilla Glass 5 and IP54 for splashes only.
Samsung’s build feels premium with that glass. Nord’s plastic frame is lighter but less tough. Drop tests show A35 survives better like the Samsung Galaxy M35 5G.
For active lifestyles, A35’s protection gives peace of mind. Nord suits careful users.
Camera Capabilities: Hardware Meets Software Tuning
Photos matter in mid-range picks. Both pack 50MP mains, but results vary. Let’s compare lenses and shots.
Main Sensor Specifications and Day/Night Performance
A35’s 50MP main sensor has f/1.8 aperture and OIS. It captures vibrant colors with Samsung’s tuning. Nord 3’s 50MP Sony sensor with OIS leans natural tones.
Day shots look great on both. Samsung boosts saturation for fun pics. OnePlus keeps details real. At night, Nord 3 edges with less noise thanks to larger pixels.
Low-light tests show Nord handling street scenes clearer. A35 washes out a bit. Pick Samsung for punchy colors. Nord for true-to-life.
Check out my in-depth Samsung Galaxy M35 5G Performance Review for an expert analysis on speed, gaming, battery life, and more!
Ultra-Wide, Macro, and Depth Sensors Analysis
A35 adds 8MP ultra-wide and 5MP macro. The wide lens covers 123 degrees but lacks detail. Macro is fixed focus, good for close-ups.
Nord 3 has 8MP ultra-wide and 2MP depth. Its wide matches angles but colors better. No macro, but main lens zooms close.
Ultra-wide on Nord feels sharper in landscapes. A35’s macro adds fun for flowers. Depth sensors aid portraits on both, with Samsung’s edge blur smoother.
Utility depends on needs. Travelers like Nord’s wide. Hobbyists prefer A35’s extras.
Video Recording Features and Stabilization
Both record 4K at 30fps. A35 adds gyro-EIS for steady clips. Nord 3 supports 4K 60fps with better OIS.
Shaky hands? Nord stabilizes walks well. A35 suits basic vlogs. Samsung offers pro modes for tweaks.
For social videos, Nord’s speed wins. Casual recorders stick with A35.
Battery Life and Charging Speeds: Endurance vs. Refuel Time
Power keeps you going. Both have big batteries, but habits change everything. Check endurance and top-ups.
Battery Capacity and Real-World Endurance Testing
Each packs 5,000mAh batteries. A35 lasts 10-12 hours screen time in mixed use. Nord 3 pushes 12-14 hours with its efficient chip.
Heavy gaming drains A35 faster. Nord holds up better. Tests from sites like GSMArena confirm Nord’s lead.
You get a full day easily on both. Nord suits travelers.
Wired Charging Technology Comparison
Nord 3 charges at 80W, full in 30 minutes. A35 does 25W, taking 70 minutes. Neither includes a charger.
Fast top-ups favor Nord for quick breaks. A35 feels slow after Nord’s speed.
Budget tip: Buy a charger separate.
Software Optimization and Power Management
One UI on A35 optimizes background apps well. It learns your habits for savings. OxygenOS on Nord 3 runs clean, with less drain.
Both manage power smart. Samsung’s tools let you tweak more.
Software Experience and Long-Term Support
Updates keep phones fresh. These brands differ in promises. See what fits your style.
Operating System Versions and Customization
A35 launches on Android 14 with One UI 6. It’s user-friendly with themes. Nord 3 starts on Android 13 with OxygenOS 13, now up to 14.
One UI has more features like edge panels. OxygenOS feels lighter, less bloat. Customize icons easy on both.
Samsung suits beginners. OnePlus for clean fans.
Update Commitment and Longevity Promise
Samsung promises 4 years OS upgrades and 5 years security for A35. OnePlus offers 3 years OS and 4 years patches for Nord 3.
Long-term, A35 stays secure longer. Nord gets timely updates but shorter run.
Value grows with Samsung’s support.
Pricing, Design, and Overall Value Proposition
Looks and cost seal the deal. These phones balance style and savings. Let’s weigh them.
Aesthetic Design and Build Materials
A35 measures 161.7x78x8.2mm, weighs 209g. Glass back in colors like blue. Nord 3 is 162.6×75.1×8.2mm, 193g lighter. Plastic back in green or blue.
Samsung feels sturdy. OnePlus slimmer for pockets. Both have side fingerprint sensors.
Hand feel favors Nord’s lightness.
Pricing Analysis and Value Assessment
A35 starts at $400 for 128GB. Nord 3 at $450. Comparable specs make them close.
Samsung wins on display and support for price. Nord excels in speed and charge.
- Gamers: Pick Nord 3 for performance boost.
- Photographers: A35 for versatile cameras.
- Power users: Nord’s RAM edges out.
Assess your needs against cost.
Conclusion: Final Verdict and Recommendation
Samsung Galaxy A35 shines in display quality, build toughness, and software support. It offers reliable all-around use at a steal. OnePlus Nord 3 leads with raw power, fast charging, and battery life. Its speed suits demanding tasks.
In categories, Nord 3 takes performance and charging. A35 wins display, cameras, and updates. For most folks in 2024, go with Galaxy A35. It gives better long-term value in the mid-range fight.
| Category | Winner | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | OnePlus Nord 3 | Faster chipset, better RAM |
| Camera | Samsung Galaxy A35 | Versatile lenses & OIS |
| Battery & Charging | Nord 3 | Longer life + 80W charging |
| Display & Build | Galaxy A35 | Sturdy, bright, premium glass |
| Software Updates | Galaxy A35 | Longer OS/security support |
Overall Recommendation:
- Casual users, photographers, durability seekers: Samsung Galaxy A35
- Gamers, power users, travelers: OnePlus Nord 3
Ready to buy? Your perfect mid-range phone depends on your priorities. Check deals on Samsung or OnePlus stores before buying.
FAQs: about Samsung Galaxy A35 vs OnePlus Nord 3
Q1: Is the OnePlus Nord 3 a better choice for gamers compared to the Samsung Galaxy A35?
- Yes, OnePlus Nord 3 outpaces the Galaxy A35 in gaming thanks to superior GPU performance and more efficient cooling. It runs graphic-intensive titles like Genshin Impact and PUBG Mobile at higher settings with less lag.
Q2: Is the OnePlus Nord 3 suitable for photography?
- Yes, the OnePlus Nord 3 is well-suited for photography. It features a 50MP primary camera with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) that captures sharp and vibrant photos in daylight and low-light conditions. The ultra-wide lens offers wide scenic shots, while the macro lens adds creative options, though it is less powerful. Overall, it delivers versatile and high-quality imaging, making it a strong choice for smartphone photography at its price range.
Q3: Which phone offers better real-world performance for daily use: Samsung Galaxy A35 or OnePlus Nord 3?
- The OnePlus Nord 3 delivers noticeably faster app loading and multitasking due to its powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9000 processor and higher RAM. The Galaxy A35, powered by Exynos 1380, is reliable for everyday browsing, social media, and basic tasks, but Nord 3 feels snappier for demanding routines.
Q4: Which phone has better long-term software updates?
- The Samsung Galaxy A35 promises longer software support with 4 years of major Android OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates, offering excellent long-term value for users. The OnePlus Nord 3 typically provides around 3 years of OS updates and 4 years of security patches, which is somewhat shorter than Samsung’s commitment. Therefore, the Galaxy A35 is the better choice for longer software and security update support in the US market.
Q5: Can the Samsung Galaxy A35 survive water spills?
- Yes, the Samsung Galaxy A35 has an IP67 water resistance rating, which means it can survive water spills and accidental submersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. This makes it highly resistant to everyday water accidents like spills and splashes. However, it is not recommended for swimming or beach use. To enhance protection, using a waterproof case is advised for wet environments. Overall, the Galaxy A35 offers strong water protection for a mid-range phone, giving you peace of mind against common water exposure.
6. What are the software support and update commitments for each phone in the United States?
- Samsung Galaxy A35 receives 4 years of Android OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates, among the longest in the industry. OnePlus Nord 3 offers 3 years of OS upgrades and 4 years of security patches, ensuring both phones remain protected for years.
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