Samsung Galaxy M35 Review: Is It the Right Budget Smartphone for You?

If you’re on the hunt for a new budget smartphone, the Samsung Galaxy M35 might just be on your radar. With an array of features packed into a device priced under ₹20,000, it’s designed to cater to those looking for value without breaking the bank. In this detailed review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Samsung Galaxy M35, from its design and performance to its battery life and camera quality. Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

• Design and Build: The M35 features a plastic build but offers a sturdy feel.
• Display: A 6.6-inch Full HD+ screen with a 120Hz refresh rate.
• Performance: Powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, suitable for everyday use.
• Battery Life: Comes with a large 6000mAh battery, promising extended usage.
• Camera: Decent for its price range, with a 13MP front and a versatile rear camera setup.

Samsung Galaxy M35 Design and Build

The Samsung Galaxy M35 adopts a familiar design language, offering a sturdy, if not premium, feel. The back of the phone is made of plastic (polycarbonate), which is common in this price range. While it might lack the premium touch of glass and metal, it is durable and functional.

Weighing in at 222 grams, the M35 is on the heavier side, and its slightly bulky design might take some getting used to. However, after a few days of use, it feels more comfortable in hand. The phone features a hybrid SIM slot, which allows for expansion with a microSD card—an essential feature for those needing extra storage.

The absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack might be a drawback for some, but the dual stereo speakers, with Dolby Atmos support, deliver a decent audio experience.

Connectivity and Network Performance

The M35 supports 5G, which is a significant plus. During testing, it performed well in areas with strong network coverage. However, it struggled with maintaining a consistent 5G connection in areas with weaker signals, often switching back to 4G.

In terms of connectivity, the phone offers standard options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. The proximity sensor, while generally responsive, sometimes lags slightly when ending calls, requiring a brief wait for the screen to come back on.

Display Quality

The Samsung Galaxy M35 sports a 6.6-inch Full HD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate. This screen size and refresh rate are great for fluid scrolling and a smooth visual experience.

The display features a punch-hole cutout for the front camera, which is an improvement over last year’s models. The bezels are a bit thicker compared to some competitors, but the screen quality itself is impressive. Colors are vibrant and viewing angles are generally good. However, in direct sunlight, the brightness could be a bit lacking, which might affect visibility for users who spend a lot of time outdoors.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the standout features of the Galaxy M35 is its massive 6000mAh battery. This large battery ensures you can get through a day or more of heavy usage without reaching for the charger. During testing, the phone lasted around three hours of continuous use before needing a recharge, which is impressive.

Charging is also efficient, and while specific times may vary, the phone supports fast charging. Users should be aware that battery performance can vary based on usage and settings, but overall, the M35 provides a reliable battery life.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is powered by the Exynos 1380 chipset, coupled with LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.1 storage. This configuration offers smooth performance for everyday tasks and moderate multitasking.

In terms of gaming, the phone handles casual games well but might struggle with more demanding titles. You might notice some frame drops in intense gaming sessions. The phone runs on Samsung’s One UI, which is feature-rich and includes options like a secure folder for sensitive data.

Camera Performance

The Galaxy M35 is equipped with a 13MP front camera, which performs adequately for selfies and video calls. The rear camera setup offers decent performance for its price range, capturing sharp and vibrant photos in good lighting conditions.

While it’s not a flagship camera, it does a respectable job for everyday photography. The portrait mode and various shooting options add versatility, but don’t expect professional-grade results. Video recording is functional, but the quality may not impress those seeking high-definition footage.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy M35 is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly smartphone with good all-around performance. It offers a large display, a powerful battery, and decent performance for everyday tasks. While it may not excel in every area, it provides excellent value for its price point.

For those who prioritize battery life and a smooth display experience, the Galaxy M35 stands out. However, if gaming or high-end photography is your primary focus, you might want to explore other options in a slightly higher price range.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy M35 is a commendable option for users looking for a reliable and feature-packed phone under ₹20,000.