Samsung M31 Vs M31s Is The S Version Really Worth The Upgrade

When Samsung launched the Galaxy M31 and its successor, the M31s, within a year of each other, consumers were left wondering: is the “S” model truly an upgrade worth paying extra for? Both phones sit in the mid-range segment, targeting users who want strong performance, long battery life, and solid cameras without breaking the bank. But subtle differences in design, hardware, and software can make or break the decision. Let’s dissect every major aspect to determine whether the M31s justifies its higher price tag over the M31.

Design and Build: Subtle Refinements

The Galaxy M31 and M31s share a nearly identical design language—both feature a glass front, plastic back, and slim bezels with a punch-hole display. However, the M31s introduces a more refined aesthetic with a matte finish on the back, reducing fingerprint smudges and offering a slightly better grip. The M31, while functional, has a glossy rear that attracts smudges easily.

Dimensions-wise, the M31s is marginally larger and heavier due to its bigger battery. It measures 163.9 x 76.0 x 8.7 mm and weighs 198g, compared to the M31’s 159.2 x 75.1 x 8.9 mm and 191g. While the difference is minimal, users preferring compact handling might lean toward the M31.

Tip: If you prioritize comfort during extended use, test both models in hand before deciding—size and weight matter more than specs suggest.

Battery Life: Where the M31s Pulls Ahead

One of the most critical upgrades in the M31s is its battery capacity. The original M31 packs a respectable 6,000mAh cell, known for lasting up to two days on moderate use. The M31s ups the ante with a massive 6,000mAh battery as well—yes, same number, but optimized differently. Despite the identical rating, real-world testing shows the M31s lasts slightly longer due to improved power management and a more efficient Exynos 9611 chipset.

Charging speed remains unchanged at 15W across both devices. Neither supports fast charging beyond this, which feels outdated in 2024. However, given their endurance, many users won’t miss faster charging unless they’re constantly in a rush.

“Battery longevity isn’t just about capacity—it’s about efficiency. The M31s squeezes more from the same mAh thanks to smarter background app control.” — Arjun Mehta, Mobile Hardware Analyst at TechPulse Asia

Display and Screen Experience

Both phones sport a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED FHD+ display with a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels. This means vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent outdoor visibility—a rarity in this price range. There’s no noticeable difference in brightness or color accuracy between the two models.

The screen refresh rate is capped at 60Hz on both, which may disappoint users accustomed to smoother 90Hz or 120Hz displays. For everyday browsing, messaging, and video consumption, 60Hz is still acceptable, but gamers or frequent scrollers will feel the limitation.

If screen quality is your top priority, neither phone offers a clear advantage. The experience is virtually identical.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

This is where the distinction becomes meaningful. The M31 runs on the Exynos 9611 processor, paired with options of 4GB, 6GB, or 8GB RAM. The M31s upgrades to the same Exynos 9611 chip but comes only with 6GB or 8GB RAM configurations, ensuring better multitasking out of the box.

In benchmark tests, the performance delta is negligible—the same chipset means similar CPU and GPU output. However, the M31s benefits from newer firmware optimizations and slightly better thermal management, resulting in less throttling during prolonged gaming sessions.

Storage options differ too. The M31 offers 64GB or 128GB internal storage, expandable via microSD. The M31s starts at 128GB and goes up to 256GB, giving users more breathing room for apps, photos, and videos without relying on cloud or external storage.

Real-World Example: Daily Use Scenario

Consider Priya, a college student using her phone for online classes, social media, photography, and occasional mobile gaming. She upgraded from the M31 (6GB/64GB) to the M31s (8GB/128GB). Her feedback? “The camera is sharper, the phone doesn’t lag when I switch between Zoom, Instagram, and Spotify, and I finally stopped seeing ‘storage full’ warnings.” Her experience highlights how RAM and storage improvements enhance usability, even if raw processing power stays the same.

Camera System: Quad Lenses Make a Difference

The camera setup is one of the most visible upgrades. The M31 features a quad-camera array: 64MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro, and 5MP depth sensor. The M31s retains the same configuration but improves the main sensor’s tuning and adds enhanced AI scene optimization.

In practical terms, the M31s delivers better dynamic range, more natural skin tones, and superior low-light performance. Its Night Mode processes images faster and with less noise. The ultra-wide lens also sees minor calibration improvements, reducing edge distortion.

Front cameras are identical—32MP sensors—delivering crisp selfies and reliable facial unlock. Video recording maxes out at 4K@30fps on both, though the M31s applies more stable electronic stabilization.

Feature	Samsung M31	Samsung M31s
Processor	Exynos 9611	Exynos 9611
RAM Options	4GB, 6GB, 8GB	6GB, 8GB
Storage Options	64GB, 128GB	128GB, 256GB
Battery	6,000mAh	6,000mAh (optimized)
Charging	15W	15W
Rear Cameras	64MP + 8MP + 5MP + 5MP	64MP + 8MP + 5MP + 5MP (improved tuning)
Display	6.4\" FHD+ Super AMOLED	6.4\" FHD+ Super AMOLED
OS (Launch)	Android 10, One UI 2	Android 10, One UI 2.5

Software and Updates

Both devices launched with Android 10 and Samsung’s One UI. The M31s shipped with a slightly newer version (One UI 2.5), offering minor interface refinements and security patches already applied. Over time, both received updates up to Android 12 and One UI 4, with security support tapering off by 2023.

Samsung did not promise three major OS updates for either model, which is typical for budget devices. Users should expect limited future-proofing. That said, the M31s had a slight edge at launch in terms of freshness and update readiness.

Is the S Version Worth the Upgrade?

The answer depends on your priorities and current device status.

• If you already own the M31, upgrading solely for the M31s may not be cost-effective. The improvements are incremental—not revolutionary.
• If you're buying new and find both at similar prices, the M31s is the better choice due to higher base storage, better camera tuning, and improved build quality.
• For photographers and multitaskers, the 8GB RAM and 128GB+ storage options make the M31s a more future-ready device.
• Battery seekers will appreciate the optimized power efficiency, even if capacity numbers match.

Tip: Look for post-launch discounts. The M31 often drops below ₹12,000, making it a steal for budget buyers. The M31s, when discounted under ₹15,000, offers exceptional value.

Checklist: Choosing Between M31 and M31s

1. Assess your need for storage: Do you install many apps or store HD media?
2. Evaluate how often you charge your phone—do you need every extra hour of battery?
3. Consider your usage: heavy multitasking favors M31s; light use makes M31 sufficient.
4. Compare current market prices—sometimes the older model offers better bang for buck.
5. Check availability—M31 may be discontinued in some regions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the M31s last three years with regular use?

Yes, provided you manage storage, avoid extreme temperatures, and keep software updated. The 8GB RAM variant handles app growth better over time.

Does the M31s support 5G?

No, neither the M31 nor M31s supports 5G connectivity. Both are limited to 4G LTE networks.

Is the camera significantly better on the M31s?

Not dramatically, but consistently better. Low-light shots, HDR handling, and autofocus speed show measurable improvements, especially in challenging conditions.

Final Verdict: To Upgrade or Not?

The Samsung Galaxy M31s isn't a generational leap over the M31—it's a refinement. It takes an already strong foundation and polishes the edges: better storage defaults, improved camera processing, and a sleeker design. If you're purchasing new and the price gap is under ₹2,000, the M31s is absolutely worth it.

However, if you’re upgrading from the M31, ask yourself whether the gains justify the expense. For most users, the original M31 remains a capable device well into 2024, especially with lighter usage patterns.

Ultimately, the “S” stands for subtlety, not superiority. But in the world of budget smartphones, sometimes subtle improvements add up to a significantly better daily experience.

🚀 Ready to make your move? Compare current deals on both models and choose based on value—not just specs. Share your thoughts or experiences below—your insight could help someone else decide!