Is the Samsung Galaxy M35 the Right Choice? Exploring Common Issues, Problems, and Key Considerations
The Samsung Galaxy M35, with its appealing specifications and competitive price tag, has generated considerable interest among budget-conscious smartphone buyers. However, like many budget and mid-range smartphones, the Galaxy M35 is not without its share of quirks, issues, and limitations. In this article, we’ll delve deeply into the most commonly reported Samsung Galaxy M35 issues and bugs, drawing on user feedback, expert analysis, and Samsung’s reputation for software and hardware. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of the Galaxy M35’s strengths and weaknesses and insights on whether it’s a wise investment or if other smartphones offer better value.
Device Overview: Samsung Galaxy M35
Brand: Samsung
Model: Galaxy M35
Release Date: 2023
Operating System: One UI Core based on Android 12
Price Range: Mid-range (~$250-$300)
Key Features of the Samsung Galaxy M35
- Display: 6.6-inch Super AMOLED, 90Hz refresh rate, Full HD+ resolution
- Processor: Exynos 1280 chipset
- Memory and Storage: 6GB/8GB RAM options, 128GB internal storage
- Camera Setup: Triple rear (64MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP depth) and 20MP front camera
- Battery: 5000 mAh, 25W fast charging
- Operating System: One UI Core (Lite version of Samsung’s UI)
- Other Features: Side-mounted fingerprint scanner, Samsung Knox security
Common Issues and Problems with the Samsung Galaxy M35
Here, we’ll walk through the most frequently reported issues Galaxy M35 users encounter, from software glitches to performance hiccups. These observations are based on user testimonials, expert reviews, and feedback on forums and social media.
1. Performance Lag and Slowdowns
Performance complaints have been a recurring theme for Galaxy M35 users. Samsung’s Exynos 1280 processor, while capable for daily tasks, has been observed to struggle with sustained performance during multitasking or gaming.
Symptoms:
- System lag during multitasking and switching between apps.
- Occasional app freezing or crashing, particularly when multiple apps are running.
- Gaming issues, with frame drops and heating after extended play.
Possible Causes:
The Exynos 1280 chipset is optimized for efficiency over power, and with One UI Core’s background processes, the Galaxy M35 can experience performance limitations, particularly with intensive apps. Additionally, RAM management on the M35 can be aggressive, closing apps in the background and causing slowdowns.
Potential Fixes:
- Disable animations: By reducing animations in the Developer Options, users report smoother navigation.
- Clear cache regularly to free up system resources.
- Disable background apps by going to Settings > Battery and device care > Battery > Background usage limits.
User Feedback:
“I love the screen and design, but the phone slows down sometimes when I have too many apps open. I end up clearing RAM every couple of hours to keep it smooth.” — Kevin R., Galaxy M35 user
2. Battery Drain and Heating Issues
While the Galaxy M35 comes with a 5000 mAh battery, users often report that battery life doesn’t live up to expectations, especially given Samsung’s claim of extended usage on a single charge.
Symptoms:
- Battery drains faster than anticipated, even with light usage.
- Noticeable heating on the device, especially during gaming or video streaming.
- High power consumption when idle, causing overnight battery drains.
Possible Causes:
Battery drain issues are likely due to background apps and network services that aren’t optimized. The 90Hz refresh rate also consumes more battery, and the Exynos 1280, though efficient, struggles under heavy load, causing excess heat and power usage.
Potential Fixes:
- Switch to 60Hz in settings to reduce battery consumption.
- Enable battery saver mode for everyday use, especially if not gaming.
- Turn off unused connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPS) to reduce drain when not needed.
- Update software regularly, as battery optimizations are often part of software patches.
User Feedback:
“I’ve had to charge my M35 twice a day sometimes, especially when using Instagram or YouTube for more than an hour. It heats up and drains fast, which is disappointing.” — Sarah K., Galaxy M35 user
3. Camera Quality Issues
The Galaxy M35 boasts a 64MP main camera, and while it can take excellent photos under optimal conditions, users report some recurring issues with camera quality, particularly in low light or when using specific modes.
Symptoms:
- Photos appear grainy or blurry in low-light conditions.
- Slow shutter speed, leading to motion blur in photos.
- Inconsistent color reproduction, with photos appearing too saturated or washed out.
- Issues with autofocus, especially in video mode.
Possible Causes:
These camera issues could stem from software optimizations in One UI Core, which doesn’t include the full suite of Samsung’s camera software. The hardware itself, while decent, may also struggle in low-light conditions without proper stabilization or a dedicated night mode.
Potential Fixes:
- Use Pro Mode to manually adjust exposure, ISO, and focus for better results in low light.
- Install a third-party camera app (e.g., GCam) if compatible for potentially better image processing.
- Regular software updates might improve camera performance as Samsung optimizes firmware.
User Feedback:
“The camera is good during the day, but at night, the quality drops a lot. I have to use other apps to get better low-light shots.” — Liam M., Galaxy M35 user
4. Display Issues and Touch Sensitivity Problems
While the Galaxy M35’s Super AMOLED display is one of its highlights, some users have noted issues related to touch sensitivity and screen responsiveness.
Symptoms:
- Unresponsive or delayed touch input, particularly near the edges of the screen.
- Brightness fluctuation, where the screen dims or brightens unexpectedly.
- Occasional ghost touches without actual user input, affecting typing and scrolling.
Possible Causes:
These issues might be due to a software glitch in the One UI Core touch calibration, or even a hardware issue with the digitizer. The ambient light sensor could also be overly sensitive, leading to fluctuating brightness.
Potential Fixes:
- Calibrate touch sensitivity in the settings (Developer Options) if available.
- Disable Auto-Brightness and adjust brightness manually to avoid fluctuations.
- Restart the device frequently, as this can temporarily alleviate ghost touch issues.
User Feedback:
“I’ve noticed sometimes when I’m typing, the screen doesn’t catch every letter, and I end up having to go back and fix a lot of typos.” — Jenna L., Galaxy M35 user
5. Connectivity Issues (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Mobile Data)
Some users report connectivity issues on the Galaxy M35, with frequent drops in Wi-Fi or mobile data connectivity, as well as occasional Bluetooth pairing issues.
Symptoms:
- Wi-Fi drops intermittently, even in areas with strong signals.
- Bluetooth disconnection, especially when connected to earbuds or other accessories.
- Weak mobile data signals and inconsistent data speeds.
Possible Causes:
Connectivity issues could arise from network-related bugs in One UI Core or from compatibility issues with certain routers or devices. Limited frequency support in budget models like the Galaxy M35 can also be a factor.
Potential Fixes:
- Reset network settings (Settings > General Management > Reset > Reset Network Settings) to address temporary connectivity issues.
- Forget and reconnect to Wi-Fi networks to establish a fresh connection.
- Keep software up-to-date, as connectivity improvements are often part of Samsung’s updates.
User Feedback:
“I get dropped connections on Wi-Fi sometimes, and I’ve noticed my Bluetooth disconnects occasionally while using my earbuds. It’s a minor annoyance, but I expected better stability.” — Amir H., Galaxy M35 user
6. Software Bugs and Stability Issues
One UI Core, Samsung’s simplified version of One UI for mid-range devices, occasionally shows signs of instability on the Galaxy M35.
Symptoms:
- Random app crashes and freezing, especially with heavier apps.
- Delayed notifications, particularly with messaging apps.
- Interface lag when navigating the device or accessing the notification bar.
Possible Causes:
These issues might stem from resource allocation in One UI Core, as it lacks the full optimization of Samsung’s flagship One UI versions. The Exynos 1280’s processing limitations can also add to the instability.
Potential Fixes:
- Clear app cache and system cache to improve app performance.
- Disable or limit background processes in Developer Options.
- Perform a factory reset if issues persist, though this should be a last resort.
User Feedback:
“Sometimes my apps crash randomly, or I’ll notice a lag when I’m trying to pull down the notification bar. It’s not terrible, but it’s not as smooth as I’d hoped for.” — Ravi P., Galaxy M35 user
Final Verdict: Is the Samsung Galaxy M35 Worth Buying?
The Samsung Galaxy M35 is a decent option for budget-conscious users who want a vibrant display, decent battery life, and Samsung’s ecosystem advantages. The phone works well for light to moderate users who don’t require heavy gaming or multitasking capabilities. However, the issues with performance lag, camera quality, connectivity, and display responsiveness should be carefully considered by potential buyers.
Alternative Options in the Same Price Range
If you’re open to other options in a similar budget, consider the following:
- Realme 10 Pro: Offers a competitive Snapdragon processor, potentially better for gaming and multitasking.
- Poco X5: Known for its reliable performance with a Snapdragon chipset, better suited for users needing stability.
- Redmi Note 12: Features a balanced camera and good battery life with fewer connectivity complaints.
- OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite: An option with better software optimization for smoother performance and reliable updates.
Conclusion
The Galaxy M35 is a capable device for users looking for a solid screen, reliable software support, and a familiar Samsung experience. However, for those prioritizing smoother performance, more consistent camera results, and better connectivity, alternatives may offer better value without the reported issues found in the M35.
Recommendation: The Galaxy M35 can serve well for Samsung enthusiasts seeking an affordable device, but it’s essential to consider your specific needs and whether this phone’s occasional glitches align with your expectations for performance and stability.