Samsung Galaxy A36 vs. A56: what’s the difference?

Key differences between the Samsung Galaxy A36 and A56

The Galaxy A56 5G offers a stronger processor, a higher-quality camera, and an aluminum frame, while the Galaxy A36 5G delivers excellent value for money.

There are several differences between the Galaxy A36 and Galaxy A56. The A36 is available from € 336, the A56 from € 384. The main differences can be found in:

• Build quality: The Galaxy A56 features an aluminum frame, while the Galaxy A36 uses plastic.
• Processor: The A36 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, while the A56 has Samsung’s faster Exynos 1480 chip.
• RAM: The A36 comes with either 6 GB or 8 GB, whereas the A56 has 8 GB as standard.
• Camera system: The A56 offers larger sensors and higher megapixel counts.

Let’s look at each of these in more detail.

Design: Galaxy A36 vs A56

Both phones look almost identical, but the Galaxy A56 feels more premium thanks to its aluminum build.

The Samsung Galaxy A36 and A56 share a very similar design:

• A 6.7-inch display, slightly larger than their predecessors
• A sleek housing design with smooth edges
• A triple-camera setup on the back

The subtle differences include:

• The A36 is made of plastic and glass, while the A56 combines aluminum with glass.
• The dimensions vary slightly: the Galaxy A36 measures 162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4 mm, and the Galaxy A56 162.2 x 77.5 x 7.4 mm.
• Each model comes in its own set of colors:
  • Galaxy A36: white, mint green, and black
  • Galaxy A56: dark gray, light gray, green, and pink

Display: a clear view of both models

Both phones share the same screen specs, so image quality is identical.

The displays of the Galaxy A36 and A56 have a lot in common. Both come with:

• A 6.7-inch OLED screen
• A resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels
• A 120 Hz refresh rate

That means smooth scrolling, vibrant colors and a great viewing experience for streaming, gaming or social media. Heavy gamers will find that the Galaxy A56 performs better thanks to its stronger processor.

Processor and performance

Quick answer: The A56 is faster and more efficient with its Exynos 1480 chip.

The Galaxy A36 5G runs on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor. It’s a solid mid-range chip that can easily handle multitasking and moderate gaming.

The Galaxy A56 5G steps it up with Samsung’s Exynos 1480 processor, offering higher speeds, better power efficiency, and smoother performance in demanding apps.

If you’re choosing between them, the A36 is great for everyday use, while the A56 is ideal for users who want that extra bit of performance for gaming, productivity or photography.

Camera: a closer look

The Galaxy A56 has slightly better cameras thanks to larger sensors and higher megapixel count. Both devices have similar camera setups, but the A56 captures more light and detail thanks to its larger sensor sizes. Here’s the full comparison:

Galaxy A36 cameras

• Main camera: 50 megapixel, 1/1.96″ sensor
• Ultra-wide camera: 8 megapixel, 1/4.0″ sensor
• Macro camera: 5 megapixel
• Selfie camera: 12 megapixel, 1/3.06″ sensor

Galaxy A56 cameras

• Main camera: 50 megapixel, 1/1.56″ sensor
• Ultra-wide camera: 12 megapixel, 1/3.06″ sensor
• Macro camera: 5 megapixel
• Selfie camera: 12 megapixel, 1/2.74″ sensor

You can expect brighter and sharper results on the A56, especially in low-light conditions. The A36 still offers great photo quality for its price range, but the A56 edges ahead for content creators and photography lovers.

Battery life and charging

Both phones share the same 5000 mAh battery, identical to their predecessors. This capacity easily lasts a full day for most users.

A major upgrade is the new 45-watt fast charging, replacing the older 25-watt version. That means your phone can fully recharge in about an hour. Whether you’re scrolling through apps, watching videos or gaming, both devices keep up with your daily routine effortlessly.

Main differences summed up

They share the same screen and battery, but the A56 has the edge in power and camera quality. Both devices share a lot of similarities:

• Nearly identical design
• Matching display specifications
• Identical 5000 mAh battery
• Six Android version updates and six years of security updates

Where the A56 stands out:

• Faster Exynos 1480 processor
• Larger camera sensors for better image quality
• More premium aluminum frame

Here's the complete overview:

Should you buy the Samsung A36 or A56?

The A36 is the smarter choice if you want value for money, while the A56 is better for performance and photography.

If you’re looking for a smartphone that does everything you need without overpaying, the Galaxy A36 5G is an excellent pick. It’s powerful, stylish, and very affordable. If you prefer more processing power, faster performance, and a slightly better camera setup, then the Galaxy A56 5G is worth the upgrade.

Buy your Samsung Galaxy A36 or A56 from Simyo

Found your favorite? Whether you choose the Samsung Galaxy A36 or A56 , you can order it easily with a flexible Mijn Simyo subscription. At Simyo, you can build your own subscription to match your needs and enjoy reliable coverage on KPN’s trusted network.

Already have a Simyo subscription and ready for an upgrade? Log in to Mijn Simyo to extend your plan with your new Samsung phone today.