Samsung continues to expand its popular M-series lineup with the launch of a new smartphone, Galaxy M36 5G, which goes on sale on July 12 during Amazon’s Prime Day sale.
While the M36 arrives as the newer model, a closer inspection reveals that the Galaxy M35 5G still holds distinct advantages in some key areas, making it a compelling choice for certain users.
Both smartphones cater to the mid-range segment with a price under 20,000 Rupees, having some common specifications, but subtle differences in design, battery, and pricing could influence buying decisions.
Performance: On Par with Exynos 1380
Both the Samsung Galaxy M35 and M36 5G smartphones are powered by Samsung’s in-house Exynos 1380 chipset, a 5nm processor that delivers reliable everyday performance, smooth multitasking, and support for 5G connectivity.
This means that in terms of raw performance and software experience, users can expect a similar level of fluidity and responsiveness on both devices.
Design & Display: Modern and Familiar
The Samsung Galaxy M35 5G features a modern Infinity-O punch-hole display, giving it a more premium and updated look. While the M36 retains the Infinity-U notch design, which feels slightly outdated in 2025 compared to punch-hole alternatives.
Display-wise, both phones sport a Super AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and vibrant visuals. However, the M35 offers a 6.6-inch display, while the M36 comes with a slightly larger 6.7-inch screen. But, both have Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection, providing better durability.
Battery Life: M35 Leads the Charge
The Galaxy M35 shines in terms of endurance with a massive 6000mAh battery, ideal for users who prioritize long-lasting usage without frequent charging.
In contrast, the Galaxy M36 houses a 5000mAh battery, which is still respectable, but slightly less suited for heavy usage or multi-day power users.
Camera Capabilities: Same Hardware
Both models offer a triple rear camera with a 50MP main sensor paired with an 8MP ultra-wide lens and a 2MP macro lens, along with a 13MP front camera.
The camera hardware is the same, but the newer M36 may have slightly better image processing and nightography. But that won’t make much difference for a normal user.
Samsung Galaxy M35 vs M36 5G
Galaxy M35 5G was announced in May 2024 and now retails at a starting price of around 15,000 Rupees. It is still a monster mid-ranger at that price in comparison to the newly-launched M36.
The Samsung Galaxy M36 5G launched in June 2025, which goes on sale from 12 July, the day Amazon Prime Day sale starts, with a launch price of ₹16,499, including bank offers. But, its usual price will be around 20,000 Rupees.
Both the phones have almost same hardware specifications with some minor changes, and the newer M36 comes with better software processing, and AI features.
If you’re still confused about which phone to buy, then you can go with the Galaxy M35 5G if you want better specifications in an affordable budget. The Samsung Galaxy M36 5G makes sense only if you want a newer phone with updated design, on a premium pricing.
