Samsung Galaxy A36 review
The Samsung Samsung Galaxy A36 ranks as the #436 phones globally, achieving a LibraScore of 62. Across all metrics, this product stands out most for its #256-ranked battery among 800 phones. Consider the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 FE or realme 14, which offer higher scores while staying in the same price range.
Build Quality and Design
The Samsung Galaxy A36 blends durability with modern aesthetics, featuring a sleek plastic frame and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back for enhanced drop resistance. Its 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display curves seamlessly into a compact body measuring 7.4mm in thickness and 195g in weight, ensuring a comfortable grip. Available in four vibrant color options—Black, Gray, Green, and Violet—the design emphasizes a minimalist, frameless look with a high 86% screen-to-body ratio. The 120Hz refresh rate and HDR10+ support elevate visual immersion, while the device’s lightweight, balanced form factor prioritizes portability without compromising on premium materials or refined ergonomics. You might prefer Samsung Galaxy F16 5G, designed with an upgraded design for a better experience.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy A36 features a 5000mAh battery that delivers up to 11 hours and 38 minutes of active use, slightly shorter than its predecessor but still robust for daily tasks. 45W fast charging ensures rapid recovery, reaching 60% in just 30 minutes with an external adapter, though the bundled 3A cable limits full-speed charging. While the battery lacks official water/dust resistance, its non-removable design and efficient power management—bolstered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3’s energy efficiency—make it a reliable companion for extended use. Reverse charging and optimized software further enhance its practicality for on-the-go users. For a superior battery, realme P3 Pro 5G could be the right choice.
Display
The Samsung Galaxy A36 features a vibrant 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring fluid scrolling and responsive performance. The FHD+ resolution (1080 x 2340) and 385 PPI deliver sharp, detailed visuals, while the DCI-P3 color gamut and HDR10+ support enhance contrast and vibrancy for immersive media. Adaptive brightness and wide viewing angles optimize visibility in various lighting conditions. A minimalist hole-punch notch and 86% screen-to-body ratio maximize screen real estate, blending sleek design with practicality. Whether streaming, gaming, or multitasking, the A36’s display offers a dynamic, visually rich experience that balances modern aesthetics with functional performance. A better alternative might be Samsung Galaxy M36, featuring a next-level display.
Camera
The Samsung Galaxy A36 features a versatile 50MP main camera with optical image stabilization, capturing sharp, vibrant photos even in low light. Paired with an 8MP ultra-wide and 8MP macro lens, it offers creative flexibility for landscapes and close-ups. The 4K video recording and 960fps slow-motion mode add cinematic flair, while Night Mode enhances darker scenes. However, the 5MP front camera, though adequate for selfies, lacks the resolution of modern competitors. While the system performs well in daylight, low-light results can vary due to manual Night Mode activation. Overall, the A36 balances practical imaging capabilities with features tailored for casual photography, making it a reliable choice for everyday use without compromising on versatility or quality. You may find realme 15 Pro 5G a better fit, thanks to its superior camera.
Price and Value
Priced at €379, the Samsung Galaxy A36 offers a compelling mid-range package with a 120Hz AMOLED display, Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 performance, and 5000mAh battery with 45W fast charging. While its 5MP front camera and lack of expandable storage may deter some, the device’s future-proof Android 15 OS, 6 years of updates, and durable build justify its value. It balances modern features with practicality, making it a strong choice for budget-conscious users seeking reliable, long-term performance.
Performance
The Samsung Galaxy A36 delivers robust performance with its Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset and Adreno 710 GPU, handling multitasking, gaming, and media smoothly. Paired with 6GB or 8GB RAM, it ensures lag-free operation, while 550,000 Antutu score underscores its competitive edge. The efficient 4nm process balances power and battery life, and Android 15 with 6 years of updates future-proofs the device. Though not flagship-tier, its optimized hardware and software integration make it a reliable, snappy mid-range option for everyday use and moderate gaming. Samsung Galaxy M36 might be a smarter choice, offering an upgraded performance.
Pros
1. 120Hz AMOLED display with HDR10+ for vibrant, immersive visuals
2. 45W fast charging and 5000mAh battery for all-day use and rapid recharging
3. Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 with Adreno 710 GPU ensures smooth multitasking and gaming
4. 6 years of Android 15 OS and security updates for long-term reliability
5. Durable build with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ and a compact, ergonomic design
Cons
1. No expandable storage (SD slot omitted), limiting flexibility for media-heavy users
2. 5MP front camera lacks resolution and features compared to competitors
3. Missing IP rating for water/dust resistance, reducing durability in harsh conditions
4. Higher price point (€379) for a mid-range device, making it less budget-friendly
5. Bundled 3A cable restricts full 45W fast charging speed without an external adapter
6. Lacks 3.5mm audio jack, FM radio, and barometer sensor for niche functionalities
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