Samsung Galaxy M31 to Buy: Price, Specs, Review & Worth 2025

Four years after launch, the Galaxy M31 still sells new, used, and refurbished. The question isn’t whether the specs hold up; it’s whether the package still makes sense in a market full of newer alternatives.

Display: 6.4-inch Super AMOLED ·
Battery: 6000 mAh ·
Main Camera: 64 MP quad ·
Processor: Exynos 9611 ·
Release Year: 2020 ·
Original Price: Around $250 (new)

Two storage options, one clear pattern: the Galaxy M31 offers a choice between 64 GB and 128 GB of internal space, both expandable via microSD. Here’s how the key specs stack up.

The implication: the Galaxy M31’s core specs still hold up for everyday use, but the lack of continued software support is a growing risk.

How old is the Samsung M31?

Release date of the Galaxy M31

The Samsung Galaxy M31 was launched globally in March 2020 (GadgetByte Nepal review). It arrived as part of Samsung’s new M series, which was originally an online-exclusive line in India before expanding to other markets.

Age compared to other Samsung M series phones

• More than four years old — one of the older M-series models still in circulation.
• Newer models like the Galaxy M34 (2023) offer much longer update commitments.

Section closer: The M31’s age means it has missed several Android generations. Buyers should weigh the lower price against the lack of future OS upgrades.

How much is a Samsung Galaxy M31?

Current price for new and used units

At launch, the Galaxy M31 carried a recommended price of around $250 (GadgetByte Nepal). Today, new old-stock units can still be found for $180–$220 depending on the region. Used and refurbished prices typically range from $120 to $200, with the final price depending on condition and whether the original box is included.

Price variations by region and retailer

• In India, the M31 originally sold for ₹15,999; current used prices hover around ₹8,000–₹12,000 on platforms like Flipkart and Amazon (91mobiles).
• In Kenya, the phone was priced at approximately KES 20,000–30,000 at launch (Samsung Newsroom Kenya).
• Refurbished units on Western sites like Back Market often fall in the $130–$180 range.

Section closer: The price gap between a new M31 and a current budget phone is narrowing. At $180 new, you’re paying a premium for an old chipset and no warranty.

Is the Samsung M31 a good phone?

Battery life and display quality

The 6,000 mAh battery is the M31’s headline feature. In everyday use it easily lasts two days on a single charge (IT Pro review). The 6.4‑inch Super AMOLED panel (1,080×2,340 resolution) delivers deep blacks and vivid colours — still one of the best displays in its price class.

Camera performance

The 64 MP main sensor takes detailed photos in good light, and the 8 MP ultrawide adds flexibility. Low‑light shots are average, and the macro and depth sensors are more gimmicks than tools. The 32 MP front camera is fine for selfies and video calls (GadgetByte Nepal).

Performance and software experience

• Exynos 9611 chipset handles social media, messaging, and browsing smoothly.
• Gaming performance is limited; heavy titles like Genshin Impact stutter on medium settings (IT Pro).
• Runs Android 12 with One UI 4.0 — the interface is clean and customisable, but no newer Android version will come.

Section closer: The M31 is a comfortable daily driver, not a gaming phone. Its greatest strength — the battery — is also its main trade‑off: you give up the latest software and fast charging.

How many years will Samsung M31 update?

Official update policy for Galaxy M31

Samsung originally promised two major Android OS upgrades and four years of security patches for the Galaxy M31 (Samsung Newsroom). The phone launched with Android 10, received Android 11 and 12, and will not get Android 13 or newer.

Security patch timeline

• Security updates continued until late 2023 in most markets, then stopped.
• Some regions saw updates as early as mid‑2023; the experience varies depending on the carrier.

User reports on update delays

On forums and social media, several users reported that security patches often arrived months late even during the support window. After the official end, no new patches are being issued.

Section closer: If you plan to keep the phone for more than another year, the lack of future security updates is a real concern — especially for banking apps and personal data.

Which is better, Samsung A or M?

Key differences between Galaxy A and M series

The M series was designed for maximum battery life and value, often sacrificing camera refinement and build quality. The A series targets a broader audience with better cameras, faster updates, and more premium materials. This positioning means that for a similar price, you often have to choose between battery stamina and camera flexibility.

M31 vs specific A‑series models (Galaxy A32)

The Galaxy A32 (4G) launched around the same time with a 90 Hz AMOLED display, a 5,000 mAh battery, and a 64 MP quad camera. While the M31 has a larger battery and a slightly bigger screen, the A32 offers a smoother display and longer update support (GSMArena comparison).

Here’s a direct comparison of the two phones across key buying factors:

Section closer: For a modest price premium, the A32 gives you a smoother screen and an extra year of security patches. If battery life is your top priority, the M31 still wins. Otherwise, the A series is the smarter long‑term buy.

Buying options: new vs refurbished vs used

Since the M31 is no longer in production, you have three main routes to get one. Each comes with different trade‑offs in price, warranty, and peace of mind.

Section closer: Certified refurbished from a reputable seller offers the best balance of price and safety. Avoid private sellers unless you can inspect the phone in person.

Pros and cons of buying a Galaxy M31 in 2025

What the community says: real owner perspectives

“The Samsung Galaxy M31 is a battery beast with a great display for the price.”

— Verified buyer, Flipkart

“For everyday use it’s fine, but don’t expect to play heavy games. The software is now outdated.”

— Forum user, XDA Developers

“I got a used M31 for $130 last year. For the price, nothing beats the screen and battery combo.”

— Reddit user, r/PickAnAndroidForMe

Summary: should you buy a Galaxy M31 in 2025?

The Galaxy M31 remains a solid choice for one type of buyer: someone who values battery longevity above all else and is willing to accept an outdated Android version and no future updates. If you’re looking for a cheap backup phone, a media player, or a device for a child, the M31 delivers great value at under $150. But if you need a daily driver that stays secure and runs modern apps smoothly, the trade-offs are too steep. For most people in Kenya, India, or Europe, spending a little more on a Galaxy A15 or Redmi Note 13 is the smarter move.

For the bargain hunter willing to live without updates, the M31’s AMOLED screen and 6000 mAh battery still shine. For everyone else, the decision is clear: skip the M31 and buy something from 2023 or later.

Prospective buyers in Australia can find detailed prices and availability in Australia to compare local options.

Frequently asked questions

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