Galaxy A26 Vs Galaxy A35

Galaxy A26
Galaxy A26
Starting at

Refurbished price:£152.00

Versus £419.55 new

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Galaxy A35
Galaxy A35
Starting at

Refurbished price:£118.00

Versus £367.31 new

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Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A26 (released in 2025) and the Samsung Galaxy A35 (released in 2024) are both Android-based smartphones from Samsung's popular A series. While sharing the same operating system and a similar design philosophy, the A26, being the newer model, introduces an extended software support timeline and minor refinements, whereas the A35 offers a slightly more established feature set from the previous year.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support are key factors.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy A35 was released in March 2024, making it a year older than the Galaxy A26, which launched in March 2025. This difference in release date directly impacts their expected software longevity.
  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy A26 is expected to receive up to six years of software updates, offering a longer period of security patches and Android version upgrades. The Galaxy A35, while still providing substantial support, is promised four years of OS updates (up to Android 18) and five years of security patches.
  • Durability Features: Both devices feature an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, indicating protection against immersion in up to 1 meter of fresh water for 30 minutes. They also both utilize Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front for enhanced screen protection. The Galaxy A26 additionally features Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the back.

Year of Release

2024

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both the Galaxy A26 and A35 are designed to handle everyday tasks efficiently, though there are subtle differences in their underlying hardware that can affect responsiveness.

  • Processing Power: The Galaxy A35 is equipped with the Exynos 1380 processor. The Galaxy A26 also uses the Exynos 1380 in most regions, though some Latin American versions may feature the Exynos 1280. This means both devices generally offer comparable performance for daily applications, web browsing, and moderate gaming.
  • Storage and Responsiveness: The Galaxy A35 typically comes with UFS 2.1 or UFS 3.1 storage, which can contribute to quicker app loading times and file transfers. The Galaxy A26 uses UFS 2.2 storage. Both models offer configurations with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, with expandable storage via a microSD card slot.
  • Battery Behavior: Both smartphones are powered by a 5000 mAh battery and support 25W wired fast charging. User experiences with battery life vary; some A35 users report good screen-on time, while some A26 users have noted that the battery may not last a full day with heavy use and have reported instances of overheating.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both devices is characterized by vibrant displays, though there are distinctions in size and brightness.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both the Galaxy A26 and A35 feature Super AMOLED displays with a Full HD+ resolution (2340x1080 pixels for A35, 2400x1080 pixels for A26). This technology provides deep blacks and vivid colors, enhancing the viewing experience for media consumption and general use.
  • Size and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy A26 offers a slightly larger 6.7-inch display, while the A35 has a 6.6-inch display. Both screens boast a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smoother scrolling and more fluid animations.
  • Brightness for Outdoor Use: The Galaxy A35's display can reach a peak brightness of 1000 nits, which aids visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The Galaxy A26 is also listed with a peak brightness of 1000 nits in some specifications, though other sources indicate around 800 nits. Users prioritizing maximum screen visibility under direct sunlight may find the A35's consistent brightness advantageous.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2340

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer versatile camera systems capable of capturing a range of photos and videos, with some shared and distinct capabilities.

  • Rear Camera System: Both the Galaxy A26 and A35 feature a triple-camera setup. The main sensor on both is 50 megapixels with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), designed for clear and stable shots. They also include an 8-megapixel ultrawide lens for broader scenes. The A35 adds a 5-megapixel macro lens, while the A26 includes a 2-megapixel macro lens.
  • Photography Performance: For everyday photography, both devices perform well in good lighting conditions. The OIS on the main sensor helps reduce blur. User feedback suggests that daylight photos from the A35 are generally good, but low-light performance can be less detailed and noisy. The A26's camera is described as adequate for general use.
  • Video and Audio Recording: The Galaxy A35 supports 4K video recording at 30 frames per second with both its main and front cameras. The Galaxy A26's front camera supports 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second. The A35 features stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience, while the A26 typically has a single bottom-firing speaker.

Front camera

13 megapixels

13 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical features differentiate these two Samsung Galaxy models.

  • Connectivity Standards: Both devices support 5G connectivity for faster mobile data speeds. The Galaxy A35 supports Wi-Fi 6, offering potentially faster and more efficient wireless connections with compatible routers. The Galaxy A26 supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac). Both include Bluetooth 5.3 and NFC.
  • Physical Design and Ports: The Galaxy A26 measures 164 x 77.5 x 7.7 mm and weighs around 200 grams, making it slightly larger but marginally lighter than the A35, which measures 161.7 x 78.0 x 8.2 mm and weighs 209 grams. Both utilize a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer. The A26 does not include a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Security and Sensors: The Galaxy A35 incorporates an in-display fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication. In contrast, the Galaxy A26 features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button. Both devices include standard sensors like an accelerometer, gyroscope, and compass.

Weight

197 g

209 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.6

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

User feedback for the Galaxy A35 often highlights its smooth performance for daily tasks, vibrant display, and generally good battery life, especially when optimized. Some users appreciate its modern design and the inclusion of an in-display fingerprint sensor. Criticisms sometimes point to its outdoor display visibility, less impressive low-light camera performance, and occasional stutters with heavier applications.

For the Galaxy A26, users generally find it to be a capable device for general use, with an adequate camera and a large display. However, some concerns have been raised regarding battery longevity for heavy users and instances of the device overheating. Its side-mounted fingerprint sensor is noted for being fast and reliable.

Users prioritizing extended software support and a slightly larger screen might lean towards the Galaxy A26. Its newer release date also means it will remain current for a longer period. Conversely, users who value a consistently bright display, potentially faster storage, and stereo audio may find the Galaxy A35 more aligned with their needs. Both devices offer a robust set of features for their segment, and choosing between them often comes down to these specific preferences. For those considering either model, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative.

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