Samsung Galaxy A26, A36, A56: The winning mid-range trio 📱

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Samsung is back with a new generation of mid-range smartphones: the Galaxy A26, A36, and A56. These models stand out as the best in terms of price-to-performance ratio, featuring notable improvements over their predecessors. Here’s what you need to know before making your choice.

A Common DNA 🏆

The three Galaxy A models share a solid technical foundation. They all feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with Full HD+ resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and Gorilla Glass Victus Plus protection. However, the maximum brightness varies: 1000 nits for the Galaxy A26 and 1200 nits for the Galaxy A36 and A56.

In terms of photography, Samsung equips each model with a 50 MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS). However, the Galaxy A56 benefits from larger pixels (1 µm versus 0.8 µm on the A36), enhancing light capture and low-light image quality.

Other key features include IP67 certification for water and dust resistance. They also come with six years of software and security updates, ensuring long-term support. Running on One UI 7 based on Android 15, these smartphones include AI features like Google Gemini, Circle to Search, and Object Eraser. However, only the Galaxy A56 has advanced photo editing options such as Best Pose and Auto Trim.

Design and Finishes: Subtle Differences 🎨

Visually, Samsung has made slight adjustments. Moving away from the Galaxy S-inspired design, these three models feature a more distinct camera module, elongated and unified in the top-left corner. Upon closer inspection, differences emerge: the Galaxy A56’s camera module has slightly recessed sensors, while the A36 features a uniform pill shape with rings around the lenses. The Galaxy A26 opts for a more discreet, simplified design.

Galaxy A56 – © Samsung

Galaxy A36 – © Samsung

Galaxy A26 – © Samsung

On the front, the A56 and A36 have a punch-hole selfie camera, while the A26 retains a waterdrop notch, which appears less refined. In terms of materials, all three have a glass back, but only the Galaxy A56 features a metal frame, whereas the other two use plastic. This gives the most expensive model a more premium feel in hand.

Camera: Progressive Enhancements 📸

The 50 MP main sensor is a key element in all three models, but differences exist in ultra-wide and macro cameras. The Galaxy A56 includes a 12 MP ultra-wide sensor, while the A36 has 8 MP and the A26 only 5 MP. For macro shots, the A56 and A36 perform better with a 5 MP sensor, whereas the A26 has just 2 MP.

Galaxy A56 – © Samsung

Selfies are also handled differently. The Galaxy A36 and A56 feature a 12 MP front camera, while the A26 offers 13 MP but lacks HDR, which may affect dynamic range in backlit situations.

Performance and Battery Life ⚡

Performance varies across models. The Galaxy A56 is powered by the Exynos 1580, providing a notable boost in graphics and AI capabilities. The A36 runs on the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, slightly less powerful, while the A26 uses the Exynos 1380, the same chip found in the Galaxy A54. In terms of RAM, the A56 starts with 8 GB, while the A36 and A26 are available in 6 GB or 8 GB variants.

Battery life is supported by a 5000 mAh battery across all three models. However, fast charging differs: up to 45W for the A36 and A56, reaching 70% in 30 minutes, versus 25W for the A26.

Pricing and Availability 💰

The three models will be available in March 2025 with the following prices: the Galaxy A26 starting at €319, the Galaxy A36 at €399, and the Galaxy A56 at €499. Only the A26 allows storage expansion via microSD up to 2TB, a plus for those needing extra space without breaking the bank.

Samsung has refined its Galaxy A lineup with welcome upgrades. The Galaxy A56 positions itself as the premium option, offering better performance and a more advanced camera setup. The A36 strikes a balance between price and features, while the A26 remains an affordable alternative with a few compromises. It’s up to you to choose based on your priorities!