Both the Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM and the Nokia Lumia 635 represent entry points into the Windows Phone ecosystem, released around the same time. However, they cater to slightly different priorities. The Lumia 535 emphasizes dual-SIM functionality and a more recent software experience, while the Lumia 635 focuses on maximizing battery life and offering a slightly more refined display experience. This comparison dissects their core differences to help you choose the right device.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user prioritizing longevity and usability, the Nokia Lumia 635 is the better choice. Its significantly superior battery endurance – 66 hours versus the 535’s 44 hours – provides a tangible benefit in daily use. While the 535 offers dual-SIM, the performance difference isn't substantial enough to offset the battery advantage.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 900 / 2100 - RM-1090 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 - RM-974 |
| 4G bands | - | 3, 7, 20 - RM-974 |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat3 100/50 Mbps |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1900 / 2100 - RM-1092 | 2, 4, 5, 7, 17 - RM-975 |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2014, November. Released 2014, December | 2014, April. Released 2014, June |
| Status | Discontinued | Discontinued |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 140.2 x 72.4 x 8.8 mm (5.52 x 2.85 x 0.35 in) | 129.5 x 66.7 x 9.2 mm, 78.5 cc (5.10 x 2.63 x 0.36 in) |
| SIM | Dual SIM (Micro-SIM, dual stand-by) | Micro-SIM |
| Weight | 146 g (5.15 oz) | 134 g (4.73 oz) |
| Display |
|---|
| Protection | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 | Corning Gorilla Glass 3 |
| Resolution | 540 x 960 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~220 ppi density) | 480 x 854 pixels, 16:9 ratio (~221 ppi density) |
| Size | 5.0 inches, 68.9 cm2 (~67.9% screen-to-body ratio) | 4.5 inches, 54.3 cm2 (~62.9% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| | - | ClearBlack display |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 | Quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 (28 nm) | Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 (28 nm) |
| GPU | Adreno 302 | Adreno 305 |
| OS | Microsoft Windows Phone 8.1 | Microsoft Windows Phone 8.1 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 8GB 1GB RAM | 8GB 512MB 8GB 1GB RAM |
| | eMMC 4.5 | eMMC 4.5 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Features | LED flash | Panorama |
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.4, 28mm (wide), 1/4.0", AF | 5 MP, 1/4.0", AF |
| Video | 480p@30fps | 720p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP | - |
| | - | No |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 4.0, A2DP, LE, aptX | 4.0, A2DP, LE/ aptX after WP8 Denim update |
| NFC | No | No |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | microUSB 2.0 | microUSB 2.0 |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA, hotspot | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, DLNA, hotspot |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity | Accelerometer, sensor core |
| Battery |
|---|
| Music play | Up to 78 h | Up to 58 h |
| Stand-by | Up to 336 h | Up to 648 h |
| Talk time | Up to 11 h (2G) / Up to 13 h (3G) | Up to 12 h (2G) / Up to 14 h (3G) |
| Type | Li-Ion 1905 mAh, removable (BL-L4A) | Li-Ion 1830 mAh, removable (BL-5H) |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Orange, green, white, black, gray, blue | Bright Orange, bright green, bright yellow, white, black |
| Price | About 80 EUR | About 110 EUR |
| SAR | 0.49 W/kg (head) 0.44 W/kg (body) | 0.97 W/kg (head) 0.77 W/kg (body) |
| SAR EU | 0.60 W/kg (head) 0.55 W/kg (body) | 0.75 W/kg (head) 0.79 W/kg (body) |
| Tests |
|---|
| Audio quality |
Noise -93.9dB / Crosstalk -94.2dB | - |
| Battery life | Endurance rating 44h |
Endurance rating 66h
|
| Camera |
Photo | - |
| Display | - |
Contrast ratio: 771:1 (nominal), 2.056 (sunlight) |
| Loudspeaker |
Voice 66dB / Noise 64dB / Ring 71dB |
Voice 68dB / Noise 65dB / Ring 75dB
|
Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM
- Dual-SIM functionality for convenient multi-number management.
- More recent software release (potentially more updates).
- Slightly more modern design aesthetic.
- Significantly shorter battery life (44h endurance).
- Less efficient Snapdragon 200 chipset.
- Inferior display contrast ratio (data unavailable).
Nokia Lumia 635
- Exceptional battery life (66h endurance).
- More efficient Snapdragon 400 chipset.
- Superior display contrast ratio for better visibility.
- Lacks dual-SIM functionality.
- Older software release (potentially fewer updates).
- Design may appear slightly dated.
Display Comparison
The Nokia Lumia 635 boasts a superior display experience, primarily due to its contrast ratio of 771:1 (nominal) and 2.056 (sunlight). While both phones share the same resolution, the higher contrast ratio on the 635 translates to deeper blacks and more vibrant colors, making it more readable outdoors. The Lumia 535 lacks any specified display contrast data, suggesting a less optimized viewing experience. Both devices likely utilize LCD panels, common for this price point, but the 635’s contrast advantage is a clear win.
Camera Comparison
Both devices feature a basic photo camera, but detailed specifications are limited. Without megapixel counts or aperture information, it’s difficult to make a definitive judgment. However, given the market positioning, it’s safe to assume both cameras deliver similar image quality – adequate for casual snapshots in good lighting conditions. The lack of advanced features like Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on either device suggests a focus on simplicity rather than photographic excellence. The Lumia 535's camera is simply listed as 'Photo', offering no further detail.
Performance
Both the Lumia 535 and 635 are equipped with a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7 CPU, but the chipset differs significantly. The Lumia 535 utilizes the Qualcomm Snapdragon 200, while the 635 features the Snapdragon 400. The Snapdragon 400, built on the same 28nm process, offers a more efficient architecture and a slightly faster GPU, resulting in smoother performance during multitasking and light gaming. While neither phone is a performance powerhouse, the 400 provides a noticeably more responsive experience. The difference isn't massive, but it's measurable in app loading times and UI fluidity.
Battery Life
The most significant difference between these two devices lies in their battery endurance. The Nokia Lumia 635 achieves an impressive 66-hour endurance rating, compared to the Lumia 535’s 44-hour rating. This 50% increase in battery life is a substantial advantage, translating to a full day or more of typical usage on the 635. While both phones likely have similar battery capacities (data unavailable), the more efficient Snapdragon 400 chipset in the 635 is the primary driver of this difference. The 635 allows users to spend less time tethered to a charger.
Buying Guide
Buy the Microsoft Lumia 535 Dual SIM if you absolutely require dual-SIM functionality for managing multiple phone numbers or traveling internationally. Buy the Nokia Lumia 635 if you prioritize battery life, a slightly more visible display in sunlight, and a generally more efficient user experience, especially if dual-SIM isn't a necessity.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Snapdragon 200 in the Lumia 535 struggle with modern apps, even basic ones?
The Snapdragon 200 is a very entry-level chipset. While it can handle core Windows Phone functions, you may experience noticeable lag and slowdowns when running more demanding apps or multitasking. The Snapdragon 400 in the Lumia 635 offers a smoother experience, even if it's not a powerhouse.
❓ Is the difference in battery life between the two phones noticeable in everyday use?
Absolutely. The 22-hour difference in endurance rating is significant. Users of the Lumia 635 can realistically expect to go a full day without needing to charge, while Lumia 535 users may find themselves reaching for the charger before the end of the day, especially with moderate to heavy usage.
❓ Does the Lumia 635's 4G LTE support vary by region?
Yes, the Lumia 635's 4G LTE band support varies depending on the region it was originally sold in. It's crucial to verify that the specific model you're considering supports the LTE bands used by your carrier to ensure compatibility.
