The Galaxy M32 is a mid-range Samsung phone with interesting specifications for those who do not want to invest in a high-end model. Both the Galaxy M32 and its predecessor Galaxy M31 bring robust battery and similar technical data. Below you can see how the two smartphones from South Korea compare.
Galaxy M31 vs Galaxy M32
| Specification | Galaxy M31 | Galaxy M32 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch | July 2020 | August 2021 |
| Current price | $329 | $229 |
| Screen | 6.4 inches | 6.4 inches |
| Screen resolution | Full HD+ (2340 x 1080 pixels) | Full HD+ (2400 x 1080 pixels) |
| Processor | Exynos 9611 (octa-core up to 2.3GHz) | Mediatek Helio G80 (octa-core up to 2.0 GHz) |
| RAM | 6GB | 6GB |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB |
| Memory card | microSD (up to 1TB) | microSD (up to 1TB) |
| Main camera | Quad Camera: 64, 8, 5, and 5 megapixels | quadruple: 64, 8, 2, and 2 megapixels |
| Front camera | 32 megapixels | 20 megapixels |
| Operating system | Android 10 | Android 11 |
| Battery | 6,000 mAh | 5,000 mAh |
| Dimensions and weight | 159.2 x 75.1 x 8.9; 191 grams | 159.3 x 74 x 8.4 mm; 180 grams |
| Colors | blue, black, and pink | blue and black |
Screen and design
Similar in appearance and specifications, M31 and M32 have a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution. This type of display is known for providing vibrant colors and a pleasant brightness, even in sunlight. The screen ratio is larger on the M32: it has increased from 19.5:9 to 20:9. This change enables a larger area without increasing the width of the phone so much.
Samsung has also increased the refresh rate of the M32’s screen to 90 Hz. The increase is noticeable especially in games and videos and makes for a more fluid experience. The front camera of both smartphones is housed in a U-shaped notch in the center of the screen.
Although similar in many ways, there are clear changes from one generation to the next. The Galaxy M31, which already featured a metallic-tone body, has been given a distinctive texture. The biometric sensor has been moved from the back of the device to the side, with more comfortable results for the thumb.
Cameras
The camera set has undergone fewer changes, but they are noticeable. Both phones feature a quad camera, but the depth and macro camera sensors have been reduced from 5 MP to 2 MP. Filming in 4K was also left out of the most current model. To compensate, Samsung has embedded artificial intelligence into the software to optimize scenes and combine frames to generate more stable and brighter photos.
The camera module of the Galaxy M31 looked like this:
- 64 MP main (f/1.8)
- 8 MP Ultra Wide (f/2.2)
- 5 MP Macro (f/2.4)
- 5 MP depth sensor (f/2.2)
- 32 MP (f/2.0) Front camera
The Samsung Galaxy M32, on the other hand, looks like this:
- 64 MP main (f/1.8)
- Ultra-wide 8 MP (f/2.2)
- 2 MP Macro (f/2.4)
- 2 MP depth sensor (f/2.4)
- 20 MP (f/2.2) Front camera
Performance and Storage
Some features have remained the same from one generation to the next: both the M31 and the M32 feature 6 GB of RAM, 128 GB of internal memory, and the possibility of using microSD cards up to 1 TB. The graphics chip present in both devices is similar, but in general, according to Notebook Check, the chip present in the Galaxy M32 should perform slightly better. For gaming, the advantage should be seen in the Galaxy M31.
The processor, however, is different. While the Galaxy M31 relies on Samsung’s processor (Exynos), the Galaxy M32 uses a MediaTek processor. And although the Exynos operates at a higher frequency (2.3 GHz vs. 2.0 GHz) and has a more modern architecture (10 nm vs. 12 nm), in practice, the performance of both processors should be similar. In AnTuTu and GeekBench tests, the Galaxy M32 processor performed even better than the Exynos.
Samsung has included Game Booster, an app that learns the phone’s usage patterns to optimize battery, temperature, and memory, which should improve the smartphone’s performance for gaming.
Battery
The battery is one of the highlights of the phones. The Galaxy M31 boasts a powerful 6,000 mAh battery, which should guarantee at least two days away from the power outlet, depending on usage and device conditions. But the upgrade from one generation to the next did not bring any benefits in this regard. The Galaxy M32 loses out, as it is down to “only” 5,000 mAh. The number is not bad, but the fact that it has lost 1,000 mAh should be felt during everyday use.
For recharging, both rely on a 15-watt high-speed charger included in the box. The Galaxy M31 is compatible with the faster, 25 W charger, sold separately.
Android Version
Being the most current model, the Galaxy M32 comes standard with Android 11. The Samsung Galaxy M31 arrives with Android 10, but it is possible to update the device as soon as it is turned on. It is worth noting that Samsung has guaranteed to update the M line devices for at least 4 years, ensuring a long life for both devices.
Additional Features
Perhaps the biggest news is the addition of compatibility with Samsung Pay, the Korean brand’s mobile payment service. This is the first time that the Galaxy M line features the service, which brings more convenience and security to everyday purchases.
In addition, the Galaxy M32 features facial recognition and a fingerprint sensor integrated into the side power button. The Galaxy M31 also has a fingerprint sensor, but it is positioned on the back of the phone.
The current and previous generations feature Bluetooth 5.0 and can connect to 2.4 and 5 GHz Wi-Fi networks. Both also have a USB-C connector, but only the Galaxy M32 has the OTG feature, which allows you to connect other peripheral devices such as USB sticks and keyboards to the phone.
Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy M31 is available for purchase on Amazon for $329, while the Galaxy M32 can also be purchased for $228. It is available in blue and black colors, while the M31 is sold in blue, black, and pink.
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