Samsung Galaxy M16 5G Vs Samsung Galaxy M15 5G: Which Budget Powerhouse Should You Buy?

Samsung has expanded its M-series lineup with the launch of the Galaxy M16 5G, a direct successor to the Galaxy M15 5G. Both smartphones sit comfortably in the budget 5G segment, but the key question remains: Which one offers better value for money?

*Design & Display: Slight Tweaks, Same Experience*

Both devices feature a Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, but the M16 5G has a slightly larger 6.7-inch screen compared to the M15 5G’s 6.45-inch panel. The M16 is the sleeker choice with a 7.9mm profile, whereas the M15 is bulkier at 9.3mm. The M15 5G’s screen-to-body ratio is slightly better at 84.3% compared to the M16 5G’s 81.5%.

*Performance: A Minor Boost in Speed*

The M16 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 chipset, offering a 2.4GHz octa-core processor, giving it a slight edge over the M15 5G, which runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ with a 2.2GHz clock speed. While the difference in day-to-day performance may not be drastic, the M16 5G should handle multitasking and light gaming more efficiently.

*Software & Updates: Future-Proofing Matters*

Samsung promises six years of security updates and six generations of OS upgrades for the M16 5G, making it a long-term contender in the budget space. Meanwhile, the M15 5G gets four OS updates and five years of security patches—still respectable but slightly behind its newer sibling.

*Camera: More of the Same*

Both phones feature a 50MP primary sensor, a 5MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP depth/macro sensor. For selfies, both sport a 13MP front shooter, capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps. The camera setups are nearly identical, so photography performance should be on par.

*Battery & Charging: Bigger is Better?*

The M15 5G takes the lead with a massive 6,000mAh battery compared to the M16 5G’s 5,000mAh unit. Both support 25W fast charging, but the larger battery on the M15 should last longer, especially for heavy users. The M16 5G also includes NFC support, which is absent in the M15 5G. Additionally, the M16 5G runs on Android 15 out of the box, while the M15 5G ships with Android 14.

*Pricing: Justified Upgrades?*

The Samsung Galaxy M16 5G is priced at Rs 12,499, while the Galaxy M15 5G comes in slightly cheaper at Rs 11,590. The Rs 900 difference brings a slightly faster processor, an extra OS update, and NFC support.

*Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?*

If battery life is your top priority, the M15 5G’s larger 6,000mAh unit makes it an attractive option. However, for those looking for a more future-proof device with a slightly faster chipset, better software support, and NFC, the M16 5G justifies its higher price tag. Either way, Samsung’s budget 5G contenders continue to offer solid value in their segment.