Samsung Galaxy A26 vs. Galaxy A36: A Comprehensive Comparison

Arthur Hill

Samsung’s Galaxy A series has long been celebrated for delivering quality smartphones at accessible prices. In March 2025, Samsung expanded this lineup with the introduction of the Galaxy A26 5G and Galaxy A36 5G, aiming to cater to budget-conscious consumers without compromising on features. This article delves into the pros and cons of both models, assisting potential buyers in making an informed decision.​

Galaxy A36 & Galaxy A26 Design and Build

Both the Galaxy A26 and Galaxy A36 showcase a sleek design with a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, offering vibrant colours and deep contrasts. They maintain a high screen-to-body ratio of approximately 86.5%, ensuring an immersive viewing experience. The inclusion of Gorilla Glass Victus+ enhances durability, providing resistance against scratches and minor drops. Both models also boast an IP67 rating, indicating dust and water resistance. ​

Pros:

  • Display Quality: The Super AMOLED panels deliver crisp visuals with a 120 Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and responsiveness. ​
  • Durability: Gorilla Glass Victus+ and IP67 certification offer robust protection against environmental factors.​

Cons:

  • Weight: The Galaxy A26 weighs 200 grams, slightly heavier than the A36 at 195 grams, which might be noticeable during extended use.

Performance

Under the hood, the two models diverge in their processing capabilities:

Galaxy A26
  • Galaxy A36: Equipped with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, it boasts an octa-core CPU with a 2.4 GHz clock speed.
Galaxy A36

Benchmark tests reveal that the A36 holds a slight edge in multi-core performance, scoring 2,917 compared to the A26’s 2,792. ​

Pros:

  • Efficient Multitasking: Both devices offer configurations up to 8GB of RAM, facilitating smooth multitasking.
  • Adequate Storage: With storage options up to 256GB and support for microSD expansion up to 1TB, users have ample space for apps and media. ​

Cons:

  • Performance Variability: While both processors are competent, the A36’s Snapdragon chipset may offer better optimization for certain applications.​

Camera Capabilities

Both smartphones feature a triple-camera setup with a 50-megapixel main sensor. However, differences emerge in the auxiliary lenses:​

  • Galaxy A26: Includes an 8 MP ultra-wide lens and a 2 MP macro lens. ​
  • Galaxy A36: Offers an 8 MP ultra-wide lens and a more advanced 5 MP macro lens. ​

Both models support 4K video recording at 30 frames per second and feature optical image stabilization for enhanced photo clarity. ​

Pros:

  • High-Resolution Imaging: The 50 MP main sensor captures detailed and vibrant photos.​
  • Enhanced Macro Photography: The A36’s superior macro lens allows for more detailed close-up shots.​

Cons:

  • Front Camera Differences: The A26 features a 13 MP front camera, while the A36 has a 12 MP front camera, potentially leading to slight variations in selfie quality. ​

Battery Life and Charging

Both devices house a robust 5,000 mAh battery, ensuring prolonged usage. Charging capabilities differ significantly:​

Battery
  • Galaxy A26: Supports 20W fast charging.
  • Galaxy A36: Offers enhanced 45W fast charging, allowing for quicker battery replenishment. ​

Pros:

  • Long-Lasting Battery: The substantial battery capacity supports extended use without frequent recharging.​
  • Rapid Charging: The A36’s 45W charging capability significantly reduces downtime.​

Cons:

Software and Updates

Both models run on Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7.0, providing a user-friendly interface. Notably, Samsung commits to six years of software updates for these devices, ensuring longevity and security. ​

6 years of updates

Pros:

  • Extended Support: Long-term software updates enhance device lifespan and security.​
  • Consistent User Experience: One UI 7.0 offers a cohesive and intuitive interface across both models.​

Cons:

  • Potential Bloatware: Samsung’s UI may include pre-installed applications that some users find unnecessary.​

Pricing and Availability

The Galaxy A26 is priced at $300, while the A36 comes in at $400. Both models are set for release in the U.S. on March 26 and March 28, respectively.

Arthur Hill
Mobile Writer

Arthur is a senior member of the communications team who has worked at several well-known companies over the past 10 years.  As a writer with many years of experience in the technology sector, focusing on reviewing mobile phones and accessories, he has written about many products or has been hands-on with them at some point