Samsung Galaxy M36 5G review: Good screen, smart features but plays it safe

In the crowded smartphone market, there’s often a device that, while not making headlines, manages to deliver a solid performance. The Samsung Galaxy M36 5G is just that phone. It isn’t designed to dazzle; instead, it aims to be a trustworthy partner, and for the most part, it achieves that goal. After using the M36 as my main device for over a week, several features stood out, both positively and negatively. The design of the Galaxy M36 is straightforward and user-friendly. I tested the Serene Green variant, which is visually appealing. At a slim 7.7mm, with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front, the device feels durable. However, upon turning the screen on, the Infinity-U notch is quite noticeable, especially in 2025. The prominent bottom bezel adds to the outdated look, contrasting with the otherwise modern design of the phone. When it comes to everyday performance, the M36 shines. Equipped with the Exynos 1380 chipset and One UI 7, the phone operates smoothly without any overheating or lag during typical tasks. Social media apps, video streaming, casual gaming, and quick edits all function seamlessly. Samsung’s new AI features, like Circle to Search, prove beneficial, especially during late-night browsing and shopping sessions. The animations are fluid, and the overall user interface is well-polished. Samsung has a good track record with display technology, and the M36 continues this trend. The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED screen, featuring a 120Hz refresh rate, is vibrant and clear, even under bright sunlight. The disappointment comes with the audio quality. The single speaker fails to impress, with muffled mids and distorted highs at maximum volume. For an optimal viewing experience, headphones are recommended. Additionally, the side-mounted fingerprint sensor feels dated compared to in-display options. In terms of photography, the 50MP main camera with OIS performs adequately. It captures decent daylight shots with reasonable dynamic range, while low-light performance is acceptable, though not exceptional. The ability to shoot 4K video from both the front and back cameras is a welcome addition. However, the images sometimes lack vibrancy and sharpness, and the 13MP selfie camera is functional but not award-winning. The Galaxy M36 is powered by a 5,000mAh battery, which, while slightly smaller than some competitors, comfortably lasts a full day, even with high brightness and a 120Hz refresh rate. The 25W charging speed is adequate but not particularly impressive, so users may want to charge it before heading out for the evening. In summary, priced at ₹16,499, the Galaxy M36 effectively covers the essentials. It boasts fast performance, a pleasing design, and Samsung’s refined UI, along with some useful AI enhancements. However, it also plays it conservatively. The design inconsistencies, average audio quality, and underwhelming camera performance can dampen enthusiasm. If you seek a reliable daily smartphone with a fantastic display and solid functionality, the M36 is a commendable choice, but don’t expect it to be a showstopper.