Our selection of three mid-range smartphones to watch in November

Our selection of three mid-range smartphones to watch in November
Our selection of three mid-range smartphones to watch in November

The three models are distinguished by unique design choices and formats that adapt to every preference. Thus, the Google Pixel 8a features a glass back with a sensor bar that occupies the entire width of the device, a signature design of the Pixel range. Its compact dimensions (152.1 mm in height and 72.7 mm in width) and its moderate weight of 188 grams make it the lightest and most manageable of the three, ideal for users looking for a space-saving smartphone. It is available in several colors (blue, green, black and white) and benefits from IP67 waterproof certification.

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G, on the other hand, takes a clean approach with individually arranged sensors, without visible borders, offering a minimalist aesthetic and a reinforced glass back. With a size of 161.7 mm and a weight of 209 grams, it is slightly larger than the Pixel 8a. It is available in blue, dark blue, lilac and lime, offering a more original range of colors. Its IP67 protection level ensures resistance to splashes and dust, in accordance with the requirements of the category.

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G is distinguished by its sensors located at the top left of the back, slightly protruding, and by its rounded rear edges. More imposing (161.4 mm in height, 74.2 mm in width and a weight of 204.5 grams), it offers a more robust grip. This model is IP68 certified, guaranteeing better waterproofing than its competitors, and is available in black, purple and white.

Which is the most powerful and which is the best screen?

The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G displays the highest power thanks to its MediaTek Dimensity 7200-Ultra processor, coupled with 8 or 12 GB of RAM, depending on the version, and generous storage ranging from 256 GB to 512 GB, without extension possible via micro SD. This model dominates its competitors in terms of performance, particularly in demanding applications.

The Google Pixel 8a is equipped with the Tensor G3 with 8 GB of RAM and storage of 128 or 256 GB, without possible expansion. Although less efficient than the Xiaomi, the Tensor G3 allows optimized management of basic applications and smooth daily use.

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G follows with the Samsung Exynos 1380 processor and 8 GB of RAM (with the possibility of virtual RAM) for storage of 128 or 256 GB, expandable via a micro SD card. This model ensures good fluidity for common applications, but remains below the Xiaomi in terms of raw power.

Samsung Galaxy A35

All three equipped with AMOLED screens, the smartphones each offer distinct advantages. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G stands out with a 6.67-inch screen, a resolution of 1220 x 2712 pixels, an impressive peak brightness of 1800 cd/m² and HDR10+ and Dolby Vision compatibility, offering excellent image quality. remarkable and vibrant colors. Its refresh rate of 120 Hz and its protection by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus ensure a first-rate visual and tactile experience.

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G offers a slightly larger 6.6-inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels, a peak brightness of 1000 cd/m² and HDR10+ compatibility, sufficient for sharp images and an immersive experience. It is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+, but its maximum brightness remains lower than the Xiaomi.

Finally, the Google Pixel 8a offers a more compact 6.1-inch screen with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels, a peak brightness of 1400 cd/m² and a refresh rate of 120 Hz, ideal for users who prefer a handy screen. It is protected by Gorilla Glass 3, less resistant than the Victus models of the other two.

What configurations for photos and what connectivity?

In terms of photography, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G stands out thanks to its 200-megapixel main sensor, optically stabilized, which allows you to capture very detailed images, even in low light. This sensor is accompanied by an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle and a 2-megapixel macro sensor, allowing you to vary perspectives and take close-up shots. On the front, we find a 16-megapixel selfie sensor which ensures clear and well-defined selfies, completing a photo configuration suitable for photography enthusiasts.

The Google Pixel 8a relies on a 64-megapixel main sensor, also optically stabilized, accompanied by a 13-megapixel ultra-wide-angle, which also allows shooting in macro mode. This duo offers excellent versatility, although the resolution is lower than that of the Xiaomi. Despite this, the photos produced by the Pixel 8a are of better quality. The 13-megapixel selfie camera delivers decent quality for selfies and video calls.

The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G opts for a 50-megapixel main sensor, optically stabilized, associated with an 8-megapixel ultra-wide-angle and a 5-megapixel macro sensor. Although this configuration is well balanced, it remains less efficient in terms of image definition compared to other models.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro Plus

In terms of connectivity, all three models are 5G compatible and feature the latest Bluetooth 5.3 and NFC technologies. On the other hand, none of them have an audio jack, preferring wireless solutions or adapters. On the Wi-Fi side, the Google Pixel 8a is the only one to offer Wi-Fi 6E compatibility, faster and stable than the Wi-Fi 6 of the other two models, especially in dense areas. Finally, the Xiaomi stands out with an infrared transmitter, useful for controlling home devices. All three have a fingerprint reader integrated under the screen, making unlocking easier.

What about autonomy and charging capabilities?

Autonomy is also a crucial criterion for these mid-range models. The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G and the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G are both equipped with 5000 mAh batteries, potentially offering better battery life than the Google Pixel 8a, which makes do with 4500 mAh. That said, real autonomy depends strongly on each person’s uses.

For charging, the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G stands out with a power of 120 watts, promising super fast charging that can fully charge the device in less than half an hour, which is a major plus for users in a hurry. The Samsung Galaxy A35 5G offers charging at 25 watts, while the Google Pixel 8a is limited to 20 watts for wired charging, but compensates with the possibility of wireless charging at 18 watts, a function which remains absent on both other models.

In conclusion, these three smartphones each have advantages depending on the priorities of their users: the Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Pro+ 5G shines with its photo capabilities, its bright screen and its fast charging, while the Samsung Galaxy A35 5G offers a good balance between design, autonomy and storage expandability. Finally, the Google Pixel 8a will appeal to those who prefer a compact format, a good user experience under Android with long updates, and wireless charging.

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