Samsung Galaxy A56 vs Galaxy A36: The Ultimate Mid-Range Showdown

While Samsung’s Galaxy S series may get all the attention, the Galaxy A series offers a more affordable alternative for most users. With options spanning budget and mid-range price points, the Galaxy A phones provide similar features to the flagship S series, albeit with slightly less refinement.

Among the leading contenders in the Galaxy A series are the Samsung Galaxy A56 and the Samsung Galaxy A36. Both phones have received the same 3.5-star rating in reviews, indicating a close competition. Let’s dive deeper into what each model brings to the table.

Are you looking for a premium design?

At first glance, the Samsung Galaxy A56 and Galaxy A36 may appear identical in photos. However, there is a noticeable difference in build quality when you hold them in your hands. The Galaxy A56 features an aluminum frame, giving it a more premium feel compared to the plastic frame of the Galaxy A36.

Both phones boast toughened Gorilla Glass Victus+ on the front and rear, as well as IP67 dust and water resistance. The Galaxy A56’s choice of materials makes it feel more like a flagship Galaxy S device, offering a more tactile experience for users who value premium design.

Overall, the Galaxy A56 edges out as the winner in terms of design quality.

Do you prioritize reliable performance?

When it comes to performance, the Samsung Galaxy A56 outshines the Galaxy A36. The Galaxy A56 is powered by an Exynos 1560 processor, providing a 30% boost in CPU performance and a 40% improvement in GPU performance compared to the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor found in the Galaxy A36.

Additionally, the Galaxy A56 utilizes faster UFS 3.1 storage, enhancing overall speed and responsiveness. This results in a smoother user experience on the Galaxy A56, with the Galaxy A36 showing slightly less consistency in performance in certain scenarios.

In terms of reliable performance, the Samsung Galaxy A56 takes the lead.

Are you concerned about camera quality?

Both the Samsung Galaxy A56 and Galaxy A36 feature 50MP f/1.8 main cameras. However, the Galaxy A56 boasts a larger 1/1.56″ sensor compared to the 1/1.96″ sensor on the Galaxy A36, resulting in better image quality and low-light performance.

There is also a notable difference in the ultra-wide cameras, with the Galaxy A56 sporting a 13MP sensor while the Galaxy A36 opts for an 8MP sensor. Selfies also look sharper on the Galaxy A56 thanks to its 12MP front camera.

Overall, the Galaxy A56 offers a superior camera experience, especially in low-light conditions where its larger sensors and Nightography feature excel.

Do you prioritize above-average battery life?

Both the Samsung Galaxy A56 and Galaxy A36 come equipped with 5,000mAh batteries and similar display specifications. Despite this, the Galaxy A56 demonstrates better battery efficiency, lasting longer in battery benchmark tests compared to the Galaxy A36.

The Galaxy A56’s superior processor and memory management contribute to its extended battery life, providing users with a more reliable and long-lasting device.

While both phones offer a full day of use on a single charge, the Samsung Galaxy A56 edges out as the winner in terms of battery performance.

Are you looking to save money?

For budget-conscious consumers, the Samsung Galaxy A36 presents a more affordable option compared to the Galaxy A56. While the Galaxy A56 starts at £499/$499, the Galaxy A36 is priced at £399/$399.99, offering a 20% cost saving.

It’s worth noting that deals can often be found on both models, given their age in the market. Price-conscious buyers may find the Samsung Galaxy A36 to be a more cost-effective choice without compromising on essential features.

Do you prioritize having the latest technology?

If having the latest technology is a priority for you, it’s important to note that both the Samsung Galaxy A56 and Galaxy A36 were released in March 2025. Rumors suggest that successors to these models may be announced soon, indicating that newer versions could be on the horizon.

While the Galaxy A56 offers superior features in various aspects, the price difference between the two models may influence your decision. The Galaxy A36, despite falling slightly behind in some areas, remains a solid choice for those seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

Ultimately, the Samsung Galaxy A56 emerges as the better device overall, excelling in design, performance, camera quality, and battery life. However, the Galaxy A36’s competitive pricing and similar feature set make it a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers.