Samsung Galaxy A35 5G vs Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is the mid-range powerhouse here, while the Motorola Moto G Play (2024) targets budget-conscious buyers. If you're looking for extra features and performance, the A35 is worth it with its 6.6" FHD+ display and 5G connectivity. The 120Hz refresh rate on the A35 makes scrolling feel twice as smooth, especially for gaming enthusiasts. Key specs: Display: 6.6" vs 6.5" and Refresh: 120 Hz vs 90 Hz.
Why compare these? The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G (mid-range) and Motorola Moto G Play (2024) (budget-friendly) represent different approaches to smartphones. While they may appeal to different budgets, many buyers consider both options. This 2026 comparison helps you decide if the differences justify the price gap.
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Key Differences at a Glance
| Aspect | Samsung Galaxy | Motorola Moto |
|---|---|---|
| User Rating | ✓4.6★ (389 reviews) | 4.5★ (848 reviews) |
| Top Strength | Excellent software support (4 OS updates, 5 years security) | Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos are excellent for this price tier |
| Main Drawback | Charging speed limited to 25W (Charger sold separately) | Resolution is limited to 720p (HD+) while competitors offer 1080p |
| Market Position | ✓Mid-range | Budget |
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
Android
4 years of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates
Samsung Exynos 1380 (5nm octa-core)
Mali-G68 MP5
Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates (until Jan 2027)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm)
Adreno 610
Only the specs that differ are shown here. Winners are highlighted when the data is clear.
+Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
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Full specs, pros, and cons
Everything side-by-side with ratings and the full spec list.
Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G vs Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
| Criterion | Samsung Galaxy A35 5G | Motorola Moto G Play (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.6(389)Best Buy | ★4.5(848)Best Buy |
Operating System | Android | Android |
Software Support | 4 years of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates | 1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates (until Jan 2027) |
Processor | Samsung Exynos 1380 (5nm octa-core) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm) |
Graphics | Mali-G68 MP5 | Adreno 610 |
RAM | 6GB | 4GB (Plus up to 2GB Virtual RAM Boost) |
Storage | 128GB (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB) | 64GB UFS 2.2 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB) |
Display Size | 6.6" | 6.5" |
Screen Type | Super AMOLED, 120Hz, 1,000 nits (HBM) | IPS LCD, 90Hz, 500 nits (Peak) |
Resolution | 2340 x 1080 (FHD+) | 1600 x 720 (HD+) |
Refresh Rate | 120Hz (Adaptive) | 90Hz (Auto/60Hz/90Hz) |
Peak Brightness | 1,000 nits (High Brightness Mode) | 500 nits (High Brightness Mode) |
Main Camera | 50MP, f/1.8, OIS, AF | 50MP, f/1.8, PDAF, Quad Pixel Technology |
Ultra-Wide Camera | 8MP, f/2.2, 123-degree FOV | No (Not supported) |
Telephoto Camera | No (Not supported) — Includes 5MP Macro f/2.4 | No (Not supported) |
Optical Zoom | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Digital Zoom | Up to 10x | Up to 8x |
Video Recording | 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) @ 30fps; 1080p @ 30/60fps | 1080p @ 30fps |
Front Camera | 13MP, f/2.2 | 8MP, f/2.0, 1.12µm |
Battery | 5,000mAh (Typical) | 5,000mAh (Typical) |
Wired Charging | 25W Super Fast Charging | 15W TurboPower (Charger NOT included in box) |
Wireless Charging | No (Not supported) | No (Not supported) |
Connectivity | 5G (Sub-6), Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.3, NFC | 4G LTE (No 5G), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.1, GPS |
USB | USB Type-C 2.0 (OTG) | USB Type-C 2.0 |
Durability | IP67 (Dust/Water Resistant up to 1m for 30 min); Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ (Front) | IP52 (Water-repellent design); Corning Gorilla Glass 3 (Front) |
Dimensions | 6.37 x 3.07 x 0.32 in (161.7 x 78.0 x 8.2 mm) | 6.45 x 2.95 x 0.33 in (163.8 x 75.0 x 8.3 mm) |
Weight | 7.37 oz (209 g) | 6.53 oz (185 g) |
Biometrics | Optical under-display fingerprint sensor, Face Unlock | Side-mounted fingerprint reader, Face Unlock |
Extras | Stereo speakers (Hybrid slot), Samsung Knox Vault, Samsung Wallet | Stereo speakers (Dolby Atmos), 3.5mm Headphone Jack, microSD slot |
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Samsung Galaxy A35 5G
Android
4 years of OS upgrades and 5 years of security updates
Samsung Exynos 1380 (5nm octa-core)
Mali-G68 MP5
6GB
128GB (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB)
Pros
- Excellent software support (4 OS updates, 5 years security)
- Bright 120Hz Super AMOLED display with Vision Booster
Cons
- Charging speed limited to 25W (Charger sold separately)
- Virtual proximity sensor rather than hardware
Motorola Moto G Play (2024)
Android
1 Android OS upgrade (to Android 14) and 3 years of security updates (until Jan 2027)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 4G (6nm)
Adreno 610
4GB (Plus up to 2GB Virtual RAM Boost)
64GB UFS 2.2 (Expandable via microSDXC up to 1TB)
Pros
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos are excellent for this price tier
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 provides reliable basic performance (better than Helio G37)
Cons
- Resolution is limited to 720p (HD+) while competitors offer 1080p
- No 5G connectivity (4G LTE only)
Which one is better?
The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is the better buy for most people - its 120Hz display crushes the Moto G Play's 90Hz. That said, grab the Moto G Play if you're on a tight budget - it's lighter at 6.53oz and offers strong value for casual use.
Who should buy each?
Choose the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G if: you want a vibrant 6.6" FHD+ display for gaming, need 5G connectivity for faster internet, or require robust software support with 4 OS updates.
Choose the Motorola Moto G Play (2024) if: you need a reliable budget phone for basic tasks, prefer a lighter device at 6.53oz, or want good stereo speakers for media consumption.
Quality Seekers
Higher user rating (4.6★ vs 4.5★) indicates better overall satisfaction
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Safe Choice Buyers
More widely tested with 848 reviews vs 389
→ Choose Motorola Moto
Premium Buyers
Higher-tier option with more premium features and build quality
→ Choose Samsung Galaxy
Value Seekers
Better value proposition for buyers who don't need top-tier features
→ Choose Motorola Moto
Conclusion
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G and Motorola Moto G Play (2024) are both solid choices. Match the strengths above to your budget and workflow to make the best call.
Bottom line: The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G edges ahead with a 4.6★ rating compared to 4.5★. However, Motorola Moto G Play (2024) remains a strong contender if its strengths align better with your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which is better: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G or Motorola Moto G Play (2024)?
Samsung Galaxy A35 5G is the better choice if you prioritize excellent software support (4 os updates, 5 years security). Motorola Moto G Play (2024) wins if you value stereo speakers with dolby atmos are excellent for this price tier. Both are rated highly (4.6★ vs 4.5★), so consider your specific needs and budget.
+What are the main differences between Samsung Galaxy A35 5G and Motorola Moto G Play (2024)?
Key differences: Samsung Galaxy A35 5G offers excellent software support (4 os updates, 5 years security), while Motorola Moto G Play (2024) stands out with stereo speakers with dolby atmos are excellent for this price tier. Consider that Samsung Galaxy A35 5G charging speed limited to 25w (charger sold separately). Meanwhile, Motorola Moto G Play (2024) resolution is limited to 720p (hd+) while competitors offer 1080p. Check the detailed specs table above for a complete comparison.
+Where can US buyers get the best price?
For US buyers, Amazon typically offers competitive pricing with Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. We recommend comparing prices on both products using our affiliate links above—prices fluctuate regularly, and you may find sales or deals.
+Is this comparison up to date?
Yes, this comparison is current for 2026. We regularly verify specs, ratings, and availability. Last verified: January 27, 2026. PageBen uses affiliate links for monetization, but our recommendations are research-driven and independent.
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