Samsung Galaxy M05 Review – Amazon India’s Top Tech Bestseller

- Introduction
- Design and Build Quality
- Display
- Performance and Software
- Camera Quality
- Battery Life and Charging
- Connectivity and Extras
- Pros and Cons
- User Reviews and Feedback
- Who Should Buy the Galaxy M05?
- Comparisons with Competing Phones
- Samsung Galaxy M05 vs Xiaomi Redmi A4 5G
- Samsung Galaxy M05 vs Motorola Moto G14
- Buyer’s Guide: Other Notable Alternatives
- Final Verdict
Introduction
Smartphones that combine solid features with an affordable price tag tend to dominate the Indian market. One prime example is the Samsung Galaxy M05, which has rapidly become the top-selling tech product on Amazon India. Priced in the budget segment, this device appeals to a broad spectrum of users – from students and first-time smartphone owners to thrifty tech enthusiasts. In bustling cities like New Delhi, where staying connected on the go is essential, a reliable yet affordable smartphone like the Galaxy M05 is especially relevant. This article provides a detailed Samsung Galaxy M05 Review – Amazon India’s Top Tech Bestseller.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into what makes the Samsung Galaxy M05 such a hit. We’ll explore its features, performance, and camera quality, weigh its pros and cons, and see what real users have to say about their experience. Additionally, we’ll compare the Galaxy M05 with some of its closest competitors and provide a handy buyer’s guide for those considering similar options. By the end, you’ll understand why this phone is creating buzz in India’s tech circles and whether it lives up to the hype of being Amazon’s bestseller. Let’s get started!
Design and Build Quality

The Galaxy M05 sports a straightforward design typical of Samsung’s budget M series. It features a plastic unibody construction with a matte finish, which keeps the phone lightweight at around 195 grams. Despite the plastic build, it feels solid in hand with minimal flex. The phone measures about 8.8mm thick, which strikes a balance between a slim profile and accommodating the large battery inside. Samsung offers the Galaxy M05 in a refreshing Mint Green color that stands out from the usual black or blue, giving it a bit of personality without being too flashy. The back panel houses a simple dual-camera module in the top corner without any protruding camera bump, giving it a clean look.
In terms of ergonomics, the M05’s rounded corners and edges make it comfortable to hold during long calls or browsing sessions. The power and volume buttons are positioned on the right side and are easily reachable. However, unlike some competitors with flashy glass designs or metal frames, the M05’s no-frills plastic build prioritizes durability and lightness over premium materials. This makes it less prone to shattering (a plus for everyday use and travel in a busy city like Delhi), though users may want to use a protective case to prevent scratches on the plastic surface. Overall, the design is functional and practical for daily use, if not particularly eye-catching.
Display
One of the highlights of the Galaxy M05 is its large display, which is excellent for media consumption and browsing. The phone is equipped with a 6.7-inch PLS LCD screen, offering an immersive experience for videos and apps. The resolution is HD+ (720 x 1600 pixels), which translates to decent clarity and sharpness for everyday use. However, it isn’t as crisp as the Full HD panels found on slightly more expensive phones. For most users streaming YouTube videos, scrolling social media, or chatting, the screen resolution gets the job done without noticeable pixelation.
The display supports a standard 60Hz refresh rate, meaning content refreshes at 60 frames per second. While it lacks the smoother 90Hz or 120Hz experience offered by some competitors, the difference is barely noticeable unless you’re used to a high-refresh display. Colors on the Galaxy M05’s screen are reasonably vibrant, thanks to Samsung’s typical LCD tuning – they appear natural with sufficient brightness indoors. Under direct sunlight (like a bright afternoon in New Delhi’s markets), the display remains viewable, though you might need to crank up the brightness to nearly maximum. There is a small waterdrop notch at the top center housing the front camera; it’s unobtrusive, and most users will get used to it quickly. Overall, the M05’s display size and quality are commendable for a phone in this price range, making video watching and web browsing comfortable and enjoyable.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Galaxy M05 is powered by the MediaTek Helio G85 chipset – an octa-core processor designed for efficient everyday performance. Paired with 4 GB of RAM, the M05 handles typical tasks like web browsing, WhatsApp, YouTube, and multitasking between a few apps quite smoothly. Navigating through the interface feels responsive thanks to Samsung’s optimizations. Apps open in a reasonable time, and light games run without significant issues. Casual titles and social media apps are well within this phone’s comfort zone. However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a phone meant for heavy gaming or intense multitasking. Playing games with graphics-heavy content (like BGMI or Call of Duty Mobile) will result in lower graphics settings and occasional frame drops. For an average user, though, the Helio G85 provides a reliable and lag-free experience for day-to-day use.
On the software side, the Galaxy M05 impresses by shipping with the latest Android 14 out of the box, running Samsung’s One UI Core 6.0 skin on top. One UI Core is a slightly streamlined version of Samsung’s complete One UI, tailored for budget devices. It retains the look and feel of Samsung’s interface but may omit some heavy features to keep performance snappy. The user interface is clean and familiar, with Samsung’s usual suite of apps and customization options.
Importantly, Samsung has committed to two years of Android OS updates and four years of security patches for the M05. This level of support is excellent in the budget segment, meaning the phone should receive updates up through Android 16 and stay secure till around 2028. Such longevity is a big selling point for budget-conscious buyers who plan to keep their device for several years.
In terms of day-to-day software experience, features like Dark Mode, Digital Wellbeing, and basic customization are all present. The phone also supports Face Unlock using the front camera for convenient (though less secure) unlocking. All in all, the Galaxy M05’s performance and software combo deliver a user-friendly experience with the promise of long-term updates – a rare find in this price bracket.
Camera Quality
Samsung has equipped the Galaxy M05 with a dual rear camera setup that is quite impressive on paper, considering the phone’s price. The primary lens is a 50MP shooter with a wide f/1.8 aperture, and it’s accompanied by a 2MP depth sensor to assist with portrait shots (bokeh effect). There’s no dedicated ultra-wide or macro lens here – the focus is on making that primary camera as good as possible. In well-lit conditions, the 50MP camera can capture detailed and vibrant photos, especially when using the full resolution mode. Samsung has tuned the camera to produce punchy colors that will look pleasing on the phone’s display.
As Rahul Pahwa, Samsung India’s MX Business Director, noted during the launch, the 50MP dual camera “promises an enhanced camera experience, setting a new benchmark for entry-level smartphones.” In real-world use, this means the Galaxy M05 can hold its own for casual photography – think daytime shots of friends, family, or Delhi’s iconic landmarks on a sunny day.

Low-light photography, however, is a bit of a mixed bag. Thanks to the f/1.8 aperture and some software optimization, the M05 can capture usable photos at night or indoors, but don’t expect miracles. Images in dim settings may lack detail and exhibit some noise, which is common for sensors in this class. There’s no dedicated night mode mentioned, so results will depend on ambient lighting. For best results, sticking to environments with decent lighting is advisable. The 2 MP depth sensor helps when taking portrait mode photos – it adds a nice blur to the background. Portraits of people come out fairly well, with the background separation being decent, although sometimes the edge detection can falter with complex backgrounds (a common issue even in higher-end phones).
On the front, the Galaxy M05 features an 8 MP selfie camera tucked into the notch. It’s adequate for video calls, selfies for social media, and face unlocking. Selfies in good lighting are clear and social-media ready; in darker scenes, you might see some graininess.
As for video, the phone can record up to 1080p Full HD videos with the rear camera. The quality is acceptable for casual use – videos have decent color and clarity in good light, though there’s no advanced stabilization, so keeping a steady hand is important.
Overall, the camera setup on the M05 is versatile enough for everyday snapshots. It excels at daylight photography, handles portraits reasonably well, and while it struggles in low light compared to more expensive phones, it still delivers respectable results for the budget category. For most users who just want to capture daily moments and share on WhatsApp or Instagram, the Galaxy M05’s cameras will be perfectly sufficient.
Battery Life and Charging

If there’s one area where the Galaxy M05 truly shines, it’s battery life. This phone packs a 5000 mAh battery – a capacity now standard in most mid-range and budget phones – and it leverages it well. With moderate use (think a mix of social media, calls, some music streaming, and casual video watching), the M05 easily lasts a full day and often stretches into the next. Many users report ending the day with plenty of charge left, meaning you won’t be anxiously searching for a charger in the middle of your workday or commute. For light users, two days on a single charge is not out of the question. This endurance makes the Galaxy M05 a reliable companion for long days out and about in New Delhi, where you might be navigating maps, taking photos, and messaging all day without a power outlet in sight.
When it’s time to recharge, the Galaxy M05 supports 25W fast charging, a pleasant surprise at this price point (many competitors stick to 10W or 18W charging). With a compatible 25W charger, you can top up the battery much quicker – expect roughly 50% charge in around 30 minutes, which is great for a quick power boost before heading out. A full charge from near empty should take around 1.2 to 1.5 hours. However, an important caveat is that Samsung does not include a charger in the box. This cost-cutting measure, while increasingly common these days, means you’ll have to purchase a 25W USB-C charger separately (or use an existing one) to enjoy those fast charging speeds. Some users have noted this omission as a downside, but at least the USB-C charging cable is provided.
On the upside, the combination of a power-efficient processor and the modest HD+ display resolution actually helps the battery longevity – the phone isn’t pushing as many pixels, which conserves power. The Galaxy M05 also has software optimizations like adaptive battery management in One UI, which can intelligently manage background apps to eke out more life per charge. Overall, battery life is one of the strongest selling points of the Galaxy M05. Whether you’re streaming a long movie or stuck in traffic streaming music, this phone won’t conk out on you prematurely. Just remember to invest in a good fast charger to take full advantage of its 25W charging capability.
Connectivity and Extras
The Samsung Galaxy M05 covers all the essential bases when it comes to connectivity. It is a dual-SIM phone (Nano + Nano), allowing you to use two SIM cards simultaneously – convenient for managing work and personal numbers or two different carriers. It supports 4G LTE on both SIMs (with VoLTE for HD voice calling), ensuring reliable mobile data and call quality across India. There’s no 5G support on this model, which might sound disappointing to future-proofers, but given the phone’s price, 4G is still the standard and offers plenty of speed for streaming and downloads in most areas. For many users in New Delhi, where 4G networks are well-developed, this shouldn’t be a deal-breaker.
On the wireless front, the Galaxy M05 comes with Wi-Fi (802.11 b/g/n/ac) for connecting to 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks at home or office, and Bluetooth 5.3 for fast, stable connections to wireless earbuds, speakers, or car systems. Navigation is handled via GPS/AGPS, which works in tandem with Google Maps or any navigation app to accurately pinpoint your location – handy for those Delhi navigation needs or Ola/Uber rides. The phone features a modern USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, which is expected now (so no outdated Micro-USB thankfully). And yes, Samsung has thankfully retained the beloved 3.5mm headphone jack. This means you can plug in your wired earphones or headphones without needing any adapter – a feature becoming rarer in many smartphones, but one that a lot of users still value.
For storage, the Galaxy M05 comes with 64 GB of internal storage, and if that isn’t enough, you’re in luck: there’s a dedicated microSD card slot that supports expansion up to a whopping 1 TB. You can carry around a huge media library or countless photos without worrying about running out of space.
When it comes to security and extras, the phone opts for face unlock (using the selfie camera) as the primary biometric unlock method. There is no fingerprint scanner on the M05, which is a bit of a letdown since many phones in this range do offer a side-mounted or rear fingerprint sensor. That said, face unlock works fine in good lighting and is convenient enough for most (though it’s less secure than a fingerprint or a strong PIN).
Standard sensors like accelerometer and proximity are on board, but you won’t find NFC or other high-end extras here – again, expected for a budget device.
Audio output from the single bottom-firing speaker is decent for personal use – it can get fairly loud for watching videos or taking calls on speakerphone, but like most phones in this class, it lacks deep bass and can sound a bit tinny at max volume. For a better audio experience, using the headphone jack or a good pair of Bluetooth earbuds is recommended. Summing up the extras, the Galaxy M05 provides everything essential for a smooth experience, skipping only some of the frills. Most importantly, it doesn’t compromise on basics: solid network connectivity, ample storage expandability, and convenience features like the headphone jack are all present, aligning well with the needs of everyday users.
Pros and Cons
User Reviews and Feedback
Any product that sells as much as the Galaxy M05 is bound to have plenty of user feedback online. On Amazon India, the M05 holds an average rating of about 4.0 out of 5 stars from thousands of buyers, indicating generally positive satisfaction. Scanning through the customer reviews, several common themes emerge. Many users praise the battery life and consider it one of the best aspects of the phone – it “easily lasts a full day of heavy use,” as one reviewer noted. The overall performance is also applauded; owners find the phone smooth in daily usage for apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, and YouTube, with one user stating it “meets all demands without breaking the bank”. The large display and modern Android software also get nods of approval, making the phone feel like a very good deal for the price.
Of course, there are also critiques. A number of users have pointed out that the camera, while great in daylight, struggles in low-light conditions, aligning with our observations. Some buyers expected a bit more from the 50MP sensor at night but found the results average – which is understandable given the budget hardware.
Another frequent point of feedback is the missing charger in the box; customers who were not aware of this had to scramble to purchase a compatible charger, leading to some frustration. “No adapter provided, had to buy separately,” notes one verified buyer, echoing a common sentiment.
Additionally, the absence of a fingerprint scanner has been mentioned in a few reviews – while not a deal-breaker for everyone (face unlock does the job for many), a number of users would have preferred having that extra unlocking option for convenience.
On the positive side, even critical reviews often acknowledge that Samsung’s brand reputation and build quality give them confidence in the device’s longevity, something that can be a concern with lesser-known brands.
Overall, the user feedback suggests that Samsung Galaxy M05 owners are, for the most part, getting exactly what they expected – a reliable, all-rounder smartphone that covers the basics very well. Value for money is a phrase that pops up repeatedly in reviews. One customer summarized it aptly by saying the Galaxy M05 is “a fantastic addition to the budget smartphone market, delivering great value for money,”. Complaints are relatively minor and mostly involve expected trade-offs (like the camera and included accessories) rather than any serious defects. This real-world validation from users across Delhi and other parts of India solidifies the Galaxy M05’s position as a trusted choice in the budget segment.
Who Should Buy the Galaxy M05?
With its balance of features and price, the Samsung Galaxy M05 caters to a wide audience. Here are some types of users who would find this smartphone an ideal match:
- Students and Young Professionals: If you’re a student or someone just starting out in your career, the M05 offers all the smartphone essentials without straining your budget. You can attend online classes or meetings, take notes, browse the web, and unwind with videos – all on a single charge thanks to the big battery. The decent camera is a bonus for capturing campus moments or daily life, and the expandable storage means you can keep all your media and study materials handy.
- Everyday Social Media Users: For those whose primary use is WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, the Galaxy M05 hits the sweet spot. The large screen makes scrolling and content viewing enjoyable, and the phone runs these apps smoothly. You won’t need flagship power for social media, and the M05 ensures you can chat and post all day without battery anxiety.
- Travelers and Commuters: Navigating a city like New Delhi or taking long train rides means you need a phone that won’t die on you. The Galaxy M05’s endurance and reliable 4G connectivity make it great for travelers. Whether it’s using Google Maps for navigation, streaming music on a commute, or hotspotting to your laptop in a cafe, this phone can handle it. Just pack a power bank or make use of that fast charging during a quick stop, and you’re set.
- Elderly Users or First-time Smartphone Users: If you’re looking to buy a smartphone for your parents or someone who’s not very tech-savvy, the M05 is a solid choice. Samsung’s One UI is user-friendly with a simple mode available, and the big display helps with readability. The phone’s robust battery means they won’t have to remember to charge it frequently. Plus, Samsung’s brand carries trust and there are service centers widely available (which is comforting if anything goes wrong).
- Secondary Phone for Power Users: Even if you have a high-end smartphone, you might consider the M05 as a backup or secondary device. Its dual-SIM capability allows it to serve as a dedicated work line or travel phone. The strong battery life means it can sit in your bag on standby for days and still have juice when your primary phone runs low. And because it’s affordable, you won’t worry too much about it when traveling or doing outdoor activities.
On the flip side, who might not be the ideal user for the M05? If you are a mobile gamer looking for high graphics performance, or someone who absolutely needs the latest future-proof features like 5G and high-refresh-rate displays, you may find the Galaxy M05 limiting. In such cases, investing a bit more in a higher-tier phone would make sense. But for everyone else seeking a dependable daily driver on a budget, the Galaxy M05 fits the bill perfectly.
Comparisons with Competing Phones
No smartphone exists in a vacuum, and it’s important to see how the Galaxy M05 stacks up against other popular options in the budget segment. Here, we compare it with a couple of notable competitors.
Samsung Galaxy M05 vs Xiaomi Redmi A4 5G
One of the Galaxy M05’s direct competitors is the Redmi A4 5G from Xiaomi. The Redmi A4 5G is priced a bit higher – roughly around ₹8,499 in India compared to the Galaxy M05’s approximately ₹6,299 online price. For that extra ₹2,000, Redmi’s offering brings in a few additional features:
- 5G Connectivity: As its name suggests, the Redmi A4 5G supports the latest 5G networks, which the Galaxy M05 lacks. If you’re keen on having a phone that can take advantage of emerging 5G coverage in India, the A4 has the edge here. That said, 4G is still more than sufficient for most tasks today, and the M05 isn’t exactly outdated in that department yet.
- High-Refresh-Rate Display: The Redmi A4 sports a slightly larger 6.88-inch display (versus 6.7 inches on the M05) and reportedly offers a smoother 120Hz refresh rate. Both phones have an HD+ resolution, so they’re similar in sharpness, but the A4’s higher refresh can make animations and scrolling look smoother. On the flip side, the M05’s 60Hz screen is less demanding on the battery.
- Processor and Performance: Xiaomi’s device uses a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 chipset, which is a budget 5G-capable processor. In day-to-day use, performance between the Snapdragon 4s Gen2 and the M05’s Helio G85 will be comparable for casual tasks. The Snapdragon might pull ahead in efficiency and has the benefit of 5G, but Samsung’s software optimization on the M05 keeps things running equally smooth for 4G tasks. Both phones come with 4GB RAM and 64GB storage in their base models, so multitasking and storage capacity are similar. The M05 fights back with Samsung’s promise of longer software support (updates), whereas Xiaomi typically provides 1-2 Android version updates in this range.
- Camera and Battery: Both the Galaxy M05 and Redmi A4 5G feature a 50MP dual camera setup (with an auxiliary sensor) and an 8MP front camera, so expect comparable results in photography – good in daylight, average in low light. The Redmi A4 has a slightly larger 5160 mAh battery (versus 5000 mAh) and also supports fast charging (18W or higher). In practice, both phones are battery champs. The M05’s slightly smaller battery is offset by not having to power 5G radios, so battery life ends up excellent on both. The difference in longevity is marginal. Both brands omit a charger in the box for these models, so that’s a draw.
- Other Features: The Redmi A4 has an advantage of a side-mounted fingerprint scanner (integrated into the power button) for quick unlocking, something the Galaxy M05 lacks. On the other hand, Samsung’s phone includes the latest software out of the box (Android 14 vs. Xiaomi’s MIUI based on Android 13 at launch) and has the One UI interface which many find more polished and free of ads compared to Xiaomi’s MIUI. Xiaomi’s budget phones are known to occasionally show ads or recommendations in the interface, whereas Samsung’s One UI Core is relatively bloat-free. For some users, this difference in user experience is important.
In summary, choosing between the Galaxy M05 and Redmi A4 5G comes down to priorities. If 5G and a fingerprint sensor are must-haves and you don’t mind spending a little extra, the Redmi A4 5G is a strong contender. It gives you next-gen network capability and a slightly flashier spec sheet. However, if value for money and a cleaner software experience are higher on your list, the Galaxy M05 holds its ground. It delivers nearly the same core experience (battery, camera, everyday performance) while costing less and providing a longer support window. Many buyers in India might find that saving ₹2,000 and sticking with a reliable 4G phone like the M05 is a sensible choice, especially when 5G is not yet essential for their needs.
Samsung Galaxy M05 vs Motorola Moto G14
Another alternative in this segment is the Motorola Moto G14. Priced around ₹8,000–₹9,000 (often about ₹8.5k online), the Moto G14 is in a similar range as the Redmi A4 5G and slightly above the Galaxy M05. Motorola takes a different approach, focusing on display and software experience. Here’s how it compares:
- Display and Design: The Moto G14 comes with a smaller 6.5-inch display but with a higher Full HD+ (1080p) resolution. This means its screen is sharper than the Galaxy M05’s 6.7-inch HD+ panel – text and images will look a bit crisper on the Moto. If you consume a lot of reading content or high-quality videos, the resolution advantage is noticeable. Both phones stick to 60Hz refresh rate. In terms of design, the Moto G14 has a simple aesthetic and crucially features a side-mounted fingerprint scanner for quick unlock, which the M05 lacks. Both phones use plastic builds; Motorola’s device is slightly thinner (~7.99mm) and lighter, which some may prefer.
- Performance: The Moto G14 is powered by a Unisoc T616 octa-core chip (with 4GB RAM), which is another budget-class processor comparable to the Helio G85. In everyday use, performance differences are minor – social media, calls, messaging, and moderate apps run fine on both. Neither is intended for heavy gaming, though they handle casual games. The key difference is software: Motorola ships a near-stock Android experience (Android 13 at launch, upgradable to Android 14) with very little bloatware. It’s clean and simple, which appeals to those who prefer a pure Android feel. Samsung’s M05, on the other hand, offers the feature-rich One UI Core interface on Android 14 and will get updates for longer. So it’s a trade-off between Moto’s minimalism vs. Samsung’s long-term support and extra features.
- Battery and Charging: Both phones have 5000 mAh batteries, so you can expect similarly excellent battery life from the Moto G14 as seen with the M05. One notable difference is that Motorola typically includes a charger in the box (the Moto G14 supports 20W fast charging and usually comes with the proper charger bundled), whereas Samsung does not include one for the M05. This means out-of-the-box, the Moto might be more ready to go, while M05 buyers need to budget for a charger. In terms of battery performance, it’s essentially a tie – both phones comfortably last a full day or more, given their efficient hardware. The M05’s slightly larger screen could consume a bit more power, but the Moto’s higher resolution display could also draw more power, so they even out.
- Camera: Both the Galaxy M05 and Moto G14 sport a dual rear camera with a 50 MP main sensor (and a 2 MP secondary lens). Motorola’s image processing tends to aim for a more natural look, whereas Samsung’s can be a bit punchier in color. In practice, both devices take very good shots in daylight and struggle in very low light – neither has a dedicated night mode magic of higher-end phones. The selfie cameras are also similar (8MP on M05 vs 8 or 16MP on some Moto G14 variants). Essentially, camera performance shouldn’t be a deciding factor between these two – they are on par, with differences coming down to personal preference in color tuning. One small plus for Motorola: the G14 has a Stereo speaker setup, enhancing video watching and speaker calls with a richer sound, whereas the M05 has a single speaker.
- Storage and Extras: The base variant of Moto G14 actually comes with 128 GB storage (double that of the M05’s 64 GB). This is a big selling point if you store a lot of files and apps. Both have microSD expansion (Samsung up to 1TB, Moto similarly high). Connectivity-wise, both are 4G phones with the usual Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS and headphone jacks present. So no major differences there. Again, the Moto has that fingerprint sensor advantage, plus a clean Android UI, while Samsung has face unlock and its One UI perks (like better integration with other Samsung devices, if you use them).
In conclusion, the Motorola Moto G14 is a great option if you value a higher resolution display and a clean Android experience, and don’t mind spending a little more. It gives you a sharper screen and niceties like a fingerprint reader and in-box charger. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy M05 still wins on software longevity and upfront affordability. Samsung’s brand network for after-sales service is also something to consider – in cities like Delhi, Samsung service centers are widespread, whereas Motorola (while improving) might not match Samsung’s reach. Both phones are solid choices; if you lean towards stock Android and a crisp display, the Moto G14 edges out, but if you want the latest Android version now and trust Samsung’s ecosystem, the Galaxy M05 remains extremely compelling for the price.
Buyer’s Guide: Other Notable Alternatives
If you’re shopping for a tech gadget like the Galaxy M05, it’s wise to compare a few options and consider your priorities. Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing a budget smartphone in India:
- Price vs Performance: Set your budget and see which phone offers the best combination of processor, RAM, and storage in that range. A slightly older but higher-tier processor can be better than a new phone with a weaker chip.
- Battery Life: Most budget phones now have 5000 mAh batteries, but check reviews for real-world endurance. Software optimization can make a difference – as we saw, the M05 is optimized well. If you are always on the move in a city like Delhi, battery life should be a top consideration.
- Camera Needs: If photography is important to you, look at camera specs (MP count isn’t everything – sensor quality and image processing matter). The Galaxy M05 is decent, but if you want better low-light pics, you might consider phones known for their camera algorithms in this range (like some from Xiaomi/Redmi or even older mid-range models on discount).
- Future-proofing: Features like 5G, higher refresh rate screens, or more RAM might not be must-haves for everyone, but consider how long you plan to keep the phone. The M05 skips 5G but has assured updates. Some others might include 5G but may not get as many updates. Balance what matters more to you.
- Brand and After-sales Service: Big brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, Realme, Motorola have established service centers in India (Samsung being notably strong in places like New Delhi). Newer brands (Tecno, Infinix, etc.) might offer impressive specs, but check their service availability if that’s a concern.
Now, apart from the Samsung Galaxy M05, here are a few other popular smartphones in the budget range that Indian consumers, especially tech-savvy buyers in cities, are considering:
- Xiaomi Redmi A4 5G: We discussed this above – it’s around ₹8-9k and brings 5G connectivity and a fingerprint sensor to the table. A great option if those are priorities, and it shares a similar 50MP camera and battery size with the M05. MIUI with ads is the trade-off for that low price.
- Motorola Moto G14: Also covered in our comparison, the Moto G14 (around ₹8.5-9k) offers a Full HD+ display and a very clean Android experience. It’s perfect for those who dislike bloatware. Motorola also includes a charger in-box. No 5G here either, but everything else is well-rounded.
- Realme C53: A strong contender around the ₹9k mark, the Realme C53 touts a massive 108MP camera (the highest resolution in this segment) and comes with fast 33W charging. It has a 6.74-inch display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate, giving it an edge in screen fluidity over the M05. Realme’s UI is feature-rich (though it may have some pre-installed apps to clean up). If camera resolution and fast charging are your thing, this is one to look at.
- Poco M6 Pro 5G: Priced near the ₹10k threshold, the Poco M6 Pro 5G is essentially a value-packed phone offering 5G support, a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, and a decent 90Hz LCD display. It has a dual camera similar to the M05 and a 5000mAh battery with 18W charging. Being a Xiaomi sub-brand, it runs MIUI, but Poco devices often have a slightly cleaner interface than Redmi. This is a solid pick if you want 5G but maybe aren’t keen on the Redmi A4.
- Samsung Galaxy F14 5G (or M14 5G): If you love Samsung but wish the M05 had 5G, Samsung’s own Galaxy F14/M14 series (often found around ₹12k after discounts) might be worth stretching your budget. They provide 5G connectivity, a bigger 6000mAh battery, and Samsung’s Knox security suite. You’d be paying more, but these models highlight what Samsung offers just one tier up.
Each of these alternatives has its own strengths, whether it’s a better camera, faster charging, or 5G support. When choosing, consider which features you value most and read up on recent reviews (user feedback can be very telling about any issues). The Galaxy M05, as we’ve seen, is an excellent all-rounder, but the Indian smartphone market is competitive – the good news is that consumers have plenty of great choices in the budget segment. Do your homework, compare specs and real-world usage, and you’re likely to find a device that fits your needs perfectly.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy M05 proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get a capable smartphone that ticks most boxes. It successfully brings together the core features that matter to everyday users – a big battery, ample display, decent cameras, and reliable performance – all at an extremely competitive price. Samsung’s focus on providing the latest software (Android 14) and committing to updates adds icing to the cake, ensuring the M05 remains relevant for a couple of years. Sure, it has its compromises (no 5G, no fingerprint scanner, and an average low-light camera), but those are trade-offs many can live with in exchange for the excellent value on offer. It’s no surprise that this model has become a bestseller on Amazon India, resonating with budget-conscious shoppers and tech enthusiasts alike.
At the time of writing, the Galaxy M05 is retailing around ₹6,299 on Amazon.in – a stellar deal for what you get. Considering the package as a whole, the Galaxy M05 stands out as one of the best budget smartphones of 2025 for Indian consumers, especially those in metropolitan areas like New Delhi who need a dependable device for daily hustle.
If you’ve weighed the pros and cons and feel the Samsung Galaxy M05 is the right choice for you, it might be time to take the plunge. You can grab this smartphone directly from Amazon India at the link below. Not only will you be joining countless satisfied users, but you’ll also be making a purchase that offers tremendous bang for your buck.
Buy Samsung Galaxy M05 on Amazon India
(Affiliate Disclosure: The link above is an Amazon affiliate link. If you use it to buy the product, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)
Happy shopping, and here’s to enjoying your new tech companion!