The Microsoft Lumia 532 and 435 represent Microsoft’s attempt to capture the ultra-budget smartphone market with Windows 8.1. Both devices utilize the Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 platform, but diverge in core specifications, primarily CPU configuration and resulting performance. This comparison dissects these differences to determine which phone offers the best value for users prioritizing affordability.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking the most responsive experience, the Lumia 532 edges out the 435. Its quad-core processor, despite sharing the same Snapdragon 200 chipset, provides a noticeable performance boost for multitasking and app loading. However, the Lumia 435 offers slightly better battery endurance, making it a viable option for those prioritizing longevity.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2015, January. Released 2015, February | 2015, January. Released 2015, March |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 118.9 x 65.5 x 11.6 mm (4.68 x 2.58 x 0.46 in) | 118.1 x 64.7 x 11.7 mm (4.65 x 2.55 x 0.46 in) |
| SIM | Micro-SIM | Micro-SIM |
| Weight | 136.3 g (4.80 oz) | 134.1 g (4.73 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~233 ppi density) | 480 x 800 pixels, 5:3 ratio (~233 ppi density) |
| Size | 4.0 inches, 45.5 cm2 (~58.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 4.0 inches, 45.5 cm2 (~59.6% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, | IPS LCD, |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 | Dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm MSM8212 Snapdragon 200 (28 nm) | Qualcomm MSM8210 Snapdragon 200 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 302 | Adreno 302 |
| OS | Microsoft Windows Phone 8.1 | Microsoft Windows Phone 8.1, upgradable to Windows 10 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 8GB 1GB RAM |
| | eMMC 4.5 | eMMC 4.5 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 28mm (wide) | 2 MP, f/2.7, 36mm (standard), 1/5.0" |
| Video | 480p@30fps | 480p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | VGA | VGA |
| Video | 480p | 480p |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP | 4.0, A2DP |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | A-GPS, GLONASS | A-GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio, RDS | FM radio, RDS |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 61 h | Up to 64 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 528 h (2G) / Up to 528 h (3G) | Up to 504 h (2G) / Up to 504 h (3G) |
| Talk time | Up to 21 h (2G) / Up to 12 h (3G) | Up to 21 h (2G) / Up to 11 h 45 min (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 1560 mAh, removable | Li-Ion 1560 mAh, removable |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, White, Green, Orange | Black, White, Green, Orange |
| Price | About 90 EUR | About 70 EUR |
| SAR | - | 0.81 W/kg (head) 0.53 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | - | 0.58 W/kg (head) 0.54 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Battery life | Endurance rating 55h |
Endurance rating 58h
|
Microsoft Lumia 532
- Quad-core processor offers better multitasking performance.
- Slightly more responsive user interface.
- Better suited for running multiple apps simultaneously.
- Slightly lower battery endurance compared to the 435.
- May experience more heat under sustained load.
Microsoft Lumia 435
- Longer battery life for extended usage.
- Potentially cooler operation due to fewer cores.
- Excellent value for users prioritizing battery longevity.
- Dual-core processor can struggle with multitasking.
- Slower app loading times compared to the 532.
Display Comparison
Neither device boasts a standout display. Both likely feature similar LCD panels with resolutions around 480x854, typical for this price point. Detailed display specs like brightness and color gamut are unavailable, but given the target market, we can assume they prioritize power efficiency over visual fidelity. Bezels are likely substantial on both models, reflecting the design trends of the time.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices is expected to be basic. Details regarding sensor size and aperture are unavailable, but both likely feature low-resolution sensors (likely 5MP or less) capable of capturing acceptable photos in good lighting conditions. Image processing will be limited, and low-light performance will be poor. The focus here isn't on photography, but on providing a functional camera for basic documentation.
Performance
The core difference lies in the CPU: the Lumia 532 features a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7, while the Lumia 435 utilizes a dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7. Both are based on the Qualcomm MSM8212 and MSM8210 Snapdragon 200 chipsets respectively, both fabricated on a 28nm process. While clock speeds are identical, the additional cores in the 532 provide a significant advantage in multi-threaded tasks. This translates to faster app loading times and smoother multitasking, especially when running multiple Windows Phone apps concurrently. The 435 will likely exhibit more noticeable slowdowns under heavier load.
Battery Life
The Lumia 435 claims a slightly superior endurance rating of 58 hours compared to the Lumia 532’s 55 hours. This difference, while not massive, suggests more efficient power management or a slightly larger battery capacity within the 435. Given the less demanding workload on the dual-core processor, the 435 can likely stretch a single charge further, making it a better choice for users who frequently find themselves away from a power outlet. Charging times are likely similar, given the lack of fast charging support on either device.
Buying Guide
Buy the Microsoft Lumia 532 if you need a slightly more responsive user experience for basic tasks and appreciate the benefit of a quad-core processor for smoother multitasking. Buy the Microsoft Lumia 435 if you prioritize maximizing battery life and are willing to trade a small amount of processing power for extended usage between charges. Both are ideal for first-time smartphone users or as a reliable secondary device.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Lumia 435 struggle with modern apps, even basic ones?
While the Lumia 435 can handle basic apps like calling, texting, and web browsing, its dual-core processor and limited RAM may result in slow loading times and occasional lag when running more demanding applications. It's best suited for users with minimal app requirements.
❓ Is the difference in battery life between the 532 and 435 noticeable in real-world use?
The 3-hour difference in endurance rating translates to a potentially noticeable difference in daily use. The Lumia 435 is likely to last a full day with moderate usage, while the 532 might require a top-up charge if heavily used. This is especially relevant for users who frequently travel or have limited access to power outlets.
❓ Can either of these phones be upgraded to Windows 10?
Both the Lumia 532 and 435 were officially supported for the Windows 10 upgrade. However, given their limited hardware, performance on Windows 10 may be sluggish and the experience is not optimal. They are best used with Windows 8.1.
