Choosing a new smartphone, especially a budget-friendly one, can feel like navigating a maze. With so many options emerging, finding the perfect balance between features, performance, and price is key. Today, we’re diving deep into an exciting matchup: the Samsung Galaxy M36 versus the Infinix Hot 60i. Both are vying for the title of the best budget phone in 2025, offering compelling features without breaking the bank.
This comprehensive phone comparison will dissect every aspect, from dazzling displays to powerful processors, battery life, and camera capabilities. If you’re looking for a new budget smartphone and are torn between Samsung Galaxy M36 and Infinix Hot 60i, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s find out which device truly shines in this ultimate budget phone battle.
Main Highlights: Samsung Galaxy M36 vs Infinix Hot 60i: Battle of Budget Phones
When comparing the Samsung Galaxy M36 and the Infinix Hot 60i, several key areas immediately stand out. Samsung’s offering leans heavily into a premium visual and performance experience, while Infinix focuses on raw battery endurance and affordability. Understanding these core differences will help you align your choice with your personal priorities.
- Display Quality: The Samsung Galaxy M36 boasts a superior 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with FHD+ (2340×1080) resolution and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This provides vibrant colors and crisp details. In contrast, the Infinix Hot 60i features a 6.7-inch HD+ (720×1600) LCD, also with a 120Hz refresh rate, but with noticeably lower resolution.
- Performance: The M36 is powered by the more robust Exynos 1380 Octa-Core processor, coupled with 6GB or 8GB RAM. This setup promises better multitasking and gaming. The Hot 60i uses a MediaTek Helio G81 processor with 4GB RAM, suitable for daily tasks but less powerful for demanding applications.
- Camera: Samsung takes the lead with a versatile triple rear camera setup, featuring a 50MP main sensor with OIS, an 8MP ultra-wide, and a 2MP macro lens. The Infinix Hot 60i has a simpler single 50MP wide-angle sensor.
- Battery & Charging: The Infinix Hot 60i comes equipped with a slightly larger 5160mAh battery and impressive 45W fast wired charging. The Galaxy M36 offers a respectable 5000mAh battery with 25W wired charging.
- Connectivity & Durability: The Samsung Galaxy M36 supports 5G networks and features durable Gorilla Glass Victus+. The Infinix Hot 60i is limited to 4G but has an IP64 rating for water resistance and likely includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Display Dominance: Visuals That Matter
For many users, the display is the window to their digital world. The Samsung Galaxy M36 truly shines here. Its 6.7-inch Super AMOLED FHD+ (2340×1080) display offers incredibly deep blacks, vibrant colors, and excellent contrast. Watching videos, browsing photos, or playing games on this screen will be a visually immersive experience.
The 120Hz refresh rate on the M36 ensures silky-smooth scrolling and animations, making every interaction feel fluid. Paired with Gorilla Glass Victus+, it also promises enhanced durability against drops and scratches. This makes the Samsung Galaxy M36 a strong contender for those who prioritize a premium viewing experience.
On the other side, the Infinix Hot 60i also features a 6.7-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, which is commendable for its price point. However, it’s an HD+ (720×1600) LCD panel. While the high refresh rate provides smoothness, the lower resolution means less sharpness and detail compared to the M36‘s AMOLED. For casual use, it’s perfectly adequate, but multimedia enthusiasts might notice the difference.
Performance Powerhouse: Speed and Multitasking
Under the hood, the choice becomes clearer for performance-oriented users. The Samsung Galaxy M36 is equipped with the Exynos 1380 Octa-Core processor, which runs at speeds up to 2.4 GHz. This chip is known for its balanced performance, capable of handling demanding applications and multitasking with ease.
Coupled with 6GB or 8GB of RAM, the M36 ensures a smooth and responsive user experience, even when switching between multiple apps or playing graphics-intensive games. This makes the Galaxy M36 a more future-proof option, ready for more complex tasks down the line. You can check more detailed specifications of the Samsung Galaxy M36 via Android Update Tracker.
The Infinix Hot 60i, meanwhile, runs on the MediaTek Helio G81 processor paired with 4GB of RAM. This combination is solid for everyday usage like social media, web browsing, and light gaming. However, for heavy multitasking, high-end gaming, or running very demanding applications, the Hot 60i might show signs of struggle compared to the M36. It’s a capable chip for its budget segment, but not a powerhouse.
Camera Capabilities: Capturing Your World
Photography on a budget phone often involves compromises, but both phones offer decent camera setups. The Samsung Galaxy M36 comes with a versatile triple rear camera array. Its primary sensor is a 50MP wide-angle lens with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). OIS is a significant advantage, helping to reduce blur in photos and stabilize videos, especially in challenging lighting conditions or when shooting handheld.
Accompanying the main sensor are an 8MP ultra-wide lens, perfect for capturing expansive landscapes or group shots, and a 2MP macro lens for close-up detail. The front camera is a 13MP sensor, suitable for selfies and video calls, though it lacks autofocus or OIS. Samsung’s image processing usually delivers vibrant and appealing photos, making the M36 a strong camera phone in its price range.
The Infinix Hot 60i keeps things simpler with a single 50MP wide-angle rear camera. While a single large sensor can perform well in good lighting, the lack of OIS and dedicated ultra-wide or macro lenses means less versatility compared to the M36. Its 8MP front camera should suffice for basic selfie needs. For those who enjoy experimenting with different shot types and value more stable video, the Samsung Galaxy M36 has a clear edge.
Battery and Charging: Endurance and Quick Recharges
Battery life is a critical factor for many users, and both devices offer substantial capacities. The Samsung Galaxy M36 is equipped with a robust 5000mAh battery, which should comfortably last a full day of moderate to heavy use. It supports 25W wired charging, allowing for reasonably quick top-ups.
The Infinix Hot 60i slightly edges out the M36 in raw battery capacity, featuring a 5160mAh battery. Where it truly shines, however, is in charging speed. With impressive 45W fast wired charging, the Hot 60i can get back to full power significantly faster than the M36. This is a major convenience for users who are always on the go and need quick recharges.
Neither phone explicitly supports wireless charging, which is typical for budget smartphones. If speedy charging is a top priority, the Infinix Hot 60i might be the more appealing option. Learn more about the Infinix Hot 60i‘s comparisons with other phones on Smartprix.
Connectivity and Durability: Future-Proofing Your Purchase
In terms of connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy M36 holds a significant advantage with its support for 5G networks. As 5G infrastructure continues to expand globally, having 5G capability future-proofs your device for faster internet speeds and lower latency. The M36 also features newer Bluetooth standards. However, it notably lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack, meaning users will rely on USB-C headphones or Bluetooth audio devices.
Durability is another strong point for the M36, thanks to its Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection on the display. This offers superior resistance against scratches and accidental drops. The phone weighs around 197g, indicating a solid build.
The Infinix Hot 60i, on the other hand, supports 4G networks, which is still widely available but doesn’t offer the same speed potential as 5G. A key advantage for the Hot 60i is its IP64 rating, providing decent protection against dust and splashes, which is a rare find in this price segment. It is also likely to retain the convenient 3.5mm headphone jack, appealing to users with wired audio accessories. While its build materials aren’t specified, its focus on features like IP64 suggests a practical approach to design.
Operating System and User Experience: Software Savvy
The software experience can significantly impact daily usage. The Samsung Galaxy M36 is set to launch with Android 15, which means users will benefit from the latest features, security updates, and a clean, optimized user interface via Samsung’s One UI. Samsung is known for providing multiple years of software updates, ensuring the device remains fresh and secure for an extended period.
The Infinix Hot 60i will run on an Android-based OS, though the exact version is unspecified. Infinix’s XOS custom skin offers a range of unique features and customization options. While generally user-friendly, the update frequency and longevity might not match Samsung’s commitment. For those who prefer a consistently updated and polished software experience, the M36 with Android 15 presents a compelling argument.
Pricing and Availability: The Cost of Innovation
Price is arguably the most decisive factor in the budget smartphone segment. The Samsung Galaxy M36 was released in June 2025 and became available in July 2025. It is positioned at a higher price point compared to the Infinix Hot 60i, reflecting its superior display, processor, 5G connectivity, and camera features. Samsung’s M series typically offers strong value, and the M36 is no exception for its feature set.
You can find out more about the Samsung Galaxy M36 from Samsung’s official website, such as the Serene Green 128GB variant or the Serene Blue 128GB variant. These links provide more specific model information.
The Infinix Hot 60i is squarely aimed at the budget range, with an estimated price around ₹10,999 (India). This aggressive pricing, combined with its large battery and fast charging, makes it an extremely attractive option for users on a strict budget who prioritize core functionalities and endurance. Its availability is generally wider across online and offline retail channels in regions like India, making it an accessible choice.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy M36: Superior Super AMOLED FHD+ 120Hz display, more powerful Exynos 1380 processor, versatile triple camera with OIS, 5G connectivity, Gorilla Glass Victus+ for durability, launches with Android 15, reliable software updates. | Samsung Galaxy M36: Higher price point, slower 25W charging compared to Infinix, no 3.5mm jack, no official IP rating. |
| Infinix Hot 60i: Very competitive budget price, larger 5160mAh battery, ultra-fast 45W wired charging, IP64 rating for splash and dust resistance, likely includes 3.5mm headphone jack. | Infinix Hot 60i: Lower resolution HD+ LCD display, less powerful MediaTek Helio G81 processor, only 4GB RAM, single rear camera setup lacks versatility, limited to 4G connectivity. |
Overall Verdict: Which Budget Phone Reigns Supreme?
The ultimate choice between the Samsung Galaxy M36 and the Infinix Hot 60i boils down to your priorities and budget. Both are strong contenders in the budget smartphone category for 2025, but they cater to slightly different user needs.
The Samsung Galaxy M36 is the clear winner if you prioritize a premium visual experience, stronger performance for gaming and multitasking, and versatile photography. Its AMOLED display, powerful Exynos 1380 processor, and OIS-equipped camera justify its higher price. It’s built for users who want a more complete smartphone experience, offering a glimpse of flagship features at a more accessible cost. The addition of 5G makes it a more future-proof investment.
On the other hand, the Infinix Hot 60i excels as a pure value-for-money champion. If your primary concerns are affordability, long battery life, and incredibly fast charging, the Hot 60i is an excellent choice. Its IP64 rating and probable 3.5mm jack add practical convenience. It’s ideal for basic users, students, or anyone who needs a reliable daily driver without spending too much. The Hot 60i proves that you don’t need to break the bank for solid everyday performance and exceptional endurance.
Consider your daily usage patterns. Are you a multimedia consumer and a moderate gamer? The M36 will serve you better. Are you a user who mainly browses social media, makes calls, and watches occasional videos, with battery life being paramount? The Hot 60i will be your loyal companion. This phone comparison highlights that both have their unique strengths in the budget segment, making the #BudgetPhoneBattle an exciting one.
FAQ
- What is the main difference between the Samsung Galaxy M36 and Infinix Hot 60i displays?
The Samsung Galaxy M36 features a superior 6.7-inch Super AMOLED FHD+ (2340×1080) display, offering vibrant colors and sharper images. The Infinix Hot 60i has a 6.7-inch HD+ (720×1600) LCD, which has a lower resolution but still manages a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.
- Which phone offers better performance for gaming and multitasking?
The Samsung Galaxy M36, with its Exynos 1380 Octa-Core processor and 6GB or 8GB RAM, provides significantly better performance for demanding games and seamless multitasking compared to the Infinix Hot 60i‘s MediaTek Helio G81 and 4GB RAM.
- Which phone has faster battery charging?
The Infinix Hot 60i offers much faster charging with its 45W wired charging, compared to the Samsung Galaxy M36‘s 25W wired charging. Both have large batteries (5160mAh for Hot 60i, 5000mAh for M36).
- Does the Samsung Galaxy M36 support 5G?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy M36 comes with full 5G connectivity, providing faster mobile data speeds. The Infinix Hot 60i is limited to 4G networks.
- Is the Infinix Hot 60i water resistant?
Yes, the Infinix Hot 60i has an IP64 rating, which means it offers protection against dust ingress and splashing water from any direction. The Samsung Galaxy M36 does not have an official IP rating.
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Conclusion
In the vibrant market of budget smartphones in 2025, both the Samsung Galaxy M36 and the Infinix Hot 60i carve out their niches. The M36 stands as a testament to Samsung’s ability to bring premium features like Super AMOLED displays, powerful processors, and advanced cameras into a more affordable package. It’s the ideal choice for users seeking a feature-rich experience that closely mimics higher-end devices.
Conversely, the Infinix Hot 60i makes a compelling case for sheer value and practicality. Its exceptional battery life, ultra-fast charging, and IP64 rating at an incredibly competitive price point make it a strong contender for those who prioritize core functionality and endurance above all else. Ultimately, the best budget phone for you will depend entirely on your individual needs and how you weigh performance against cost.
We hope this detailed phone comparison helps you make an informed decision. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know which budget smartphone you think wins this battle! If you found this article helpful, consider reading our other insightful articles by visiting our About Us page, or feel free to Contact Us with any questions. #SmartphoneComparison
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