Samsung Galaxy M36 5G (8GB + 128GB) Review | 197 Data compared

The Samsung Galaxy M36 5G is characterized by GadgetByte Nepal as a dependable mid-range device, featuring a vibrant 6.7-inch 120Hz Super AMOLED display and exceptional software support with six years of updates. While the device includes premium AI features like Circle to Search, it suffers from an outdated waterdrop notch design, a regression from its predecessor. Performance is driven by the Exynos 1380, which is adequate for daily use but not top-tier for gaming. The camera system includes a 50MP main sensor with OIS, offering decent daylight shots but struggling with detail in low-light conditions, according to the review. Battery life is supported by a 5,000mAh cell, down from the previous generation, and is limited by a slow 25W charging speed. The device also features a single, relatively quiet speaker, which hinders the Key pros highlighted by GadgetByte include the excellent display, superior software longevity, and flagship-level AI capabilities. Conversely, the, cons include the dated design, sluggish charging speed without an included adapter, and mediocre audio performance.

The Samsung Galaxy M36, as reviewed by The Times of India, features a 7.7mm slim profile, Gorilla Glass Victus+, and a 120Hz Super AMOLED display that offers impressive outdoor visibility. Performance is driven by the Exynos 1380 chipset, complemented by a standout six-year software update promise, though the design is hampered by a dated Infinity-U notch and thick bezels. While the 50MP camera excels in daylight and the 5,000 mAh battery offers solid endurance, the device is limited by slow 25W charging and a lack of stereo speakers. The

The Samsung Galaxy M36 5G is characterized by a premium, slim metal design and a 6.7-inch 120Hz Super AMOLED display, although it features a dated waterdrop notch compared to its predecessor. Performance is driven by the Exynos 1380 chipset, offering capable daily usage, but the device is prone to overheating under heavy load. Notably, the software package is a standout, featuring Android 15, AI tools, and a six-year update promise. Camera performance is highlighted by a competent 50MP main sensor with OIS that delivers good daylight and night shots, complemented by 4K video recording capabilities. Conversely, the 8MP ultra-wide lens is considered average due to exposure issues, and the 25W charging speed is slow, with no charger included in the box. Overall, the device balances a premium feel and long-term software support against some performance and charging limitations. Pros include the premium design, vibrant display, extensive software support, and a solid main camera. Cons, however, feature the dated display notch, thermal issues, slow charging, and the lack of an in-box charger.

The Samsung Galaxy M36 5G is described as a budget-friendly device with premium features, including a slim 7.7mm design, a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, and advanced AI tools previously exclusive to flagship models. Running on the Exynos 1380 chipset with a vapour cooling chamber, the phone offers a strong software experience with six years of OS and security updates but its design is noted for an outdated water-drop notch and thick chin. While the 50MP main camera performs well in daylight, the device features a smaller 5,000mAh battery than its predecessor and slow 25W charging.

The Moneycontrol review characterizes the Samsung Galaxy M36 5G as a "balanced and no-nonsense" mid-range smartphone notable for its industry-leading software commitment of six years of OS and security updates, which is unusual for a sub-₹20,000 device. It features a slim design with a metallic finish, a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, and a 50MP primary camera with OIS. The phone includes flagship-grade Galaxy AI features and is powered by the Exynos 1380 SoC, providing smooth performance. However, the review notes drawbacks such as a dated waterdrop notch, a single bottom-firing speaker, a reduced 5,000mAh battery compared to its predecessor, slow 25W charging without an included charger, and the absence of stereo speakers.

The Times of India highlights the Samsung Galaxy M36 5G as a mid-range phone prioritizing a sleek design and reliability. Its pros include a slim profile, a 6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED 120Hz display, six years of software updates, and AI features like "Circle to Search". Using an Exynos 1380 chipset, the phone handles everyday tasks and casual gaming well, though it can warm up under heavy use. The camera features a 50MP main sensor with OIS capable of crisp daylight and solid low-light shots, while the 5,000mAh battery offers over a day of mixed usage and is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+. Cons include a dated Infinity-U notch and thick bottom bezel, a single bottom-firing speaker considered a downgrade from previous models, slow 25W fast charging compared to competitors, and the lack of an included charger.

The Mobile Indian review describes the Samsung Galaxy M36 5G as a "mixed bag," offering a refined user experience and a sleeker design but featuring downgrades like a smaller 5,000mAh battery and a single mono speaker compared to its predecessor. Pros include a high-quality 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display and a commitment to six years of updates, while cons involve slow 25W charging, no included charger, and a dated notch design that struggles against 2025 rivals.