Samsung Galaxy A56 vs A57: what are the differences?

Galaxy A56 and Galaxy A57: key differences

The Samsung Galaxy A57 is the successor to the Samsung Galaxy A56. That usually means small but noticeable upgrades to the processor, camera, and update policy.

The big question is: do you actually notice those differences in everyday use? Or is the Galaxy A56 still a great option if it's available for a much lower price?

Design and display

Both Samsung Galaxy phones are in the mid-range and have a modern look. When it comes to design, they look very similar. The A57 is slightly thinner, though. It measures 6.9 mm compared to the A56's 7.4 mm. The camera island also looks a little different. The lenses stick out slightly more, just like on the new Galaxy S26 series released earlier this year.

• Display size:
  A56: 6.7 inches
  A57: 6.7 inches
• Display type:
  A56: Super AMOLED
  A57: Super AMOLED Plus
• Resolution:
  A56: 1080 x 2340 pixels
  A57: 1080 x 2340 pixels
• Refresh rate:
  A56: 120 Hz
  A57: 120 Hz

Performance and speed

This is where the real difference is:

• Processor:
  A56: Exynos 1580
  A57: Exynos 1680
• RAM:
  A56: 8 GB
  A57: 8 GB

The Samsung Galaxy A57 comes with a newer processor than the Galaxy A56. It feels noticeably faster when you're multitasking, using demanding apps, or playing games.

For everyday tasks like WhatsApp, social media, and browsing, performance is often very similar. You'll mainly notice the difference during heavier use.

Camera and photography

• Main cameras:
  A56: main camera: 50 megapixels, ultra wide camera: 12 megapixels, macro camera: 5 megapixels
  A57: main camera: 50 megapixels, ultra wide camera: 12 megapixels, macro camera: 5 megapixels
• Selfie camera:
  A56: 12 megapixels
  A57: 12 megapixels

On paper, the Galaxy A57 has almost the same camera setup as the A56. Samsung mainly promises improvements through smarter image processing software.

In everyday use, that means:

• Sharper photos in low light
• Better HDR in backlit situations
• Slightly more detail when zooming in

Do you mainly use your phone for quick snapshots? Then the difference may be too small to notice. If you're into photography, the Galaxy A57 could be the more interesting option.

Battery and charging

• Battery:
  Galaxy A56: 5000 mAh
  Galaxy A57: 5000 mAh
• Fast charging:
  Galaxy A56: up to 45 watts
  Galaxy A57: up to 45 watts

Battery life depends on more than just capacity. The processor and software optimisation also play a role. A more efficient chipset helps the Samsung Galaxy A57 to last longer, even with the same battery size.

Do you use your phone a lot throughout the day? In that case battery life is an important factor in this Samsung Galaxy A56 vs. A57 comparison.

Software and updates

Both devices run Android with Samsung's One UI platform on top.

What really matters is the update policy:

• How many Android updates are supported?
• How long will you receive security updates?

Software support has become much better in recent years, especially from major smartphone brands. Normally, you'd expect a newer phone to be supported longer. Strangely enough, Samsung has scaled back its support this year. Both last year's Galaxy A56 and the new Galaxy A57 will receive software and security updates until March 2032. You can expect those updates to arrive slightly earlier on the newer A57, though.

Price

The Samsung Galaxy A57 is the direct successor to the A56. Its price is higher than the Galaxy A56, which has since dropped in price. If you're buying the phone outright, you can get the Galaxy A56 for around € 310 with 128 GB of storage. The brand new Galaxy A57 has a recommended retail price of € 529.

Looking for a phone with a plan? Then you'll pay a lot less. Right now, the Galaxy A56 5G costs € 240 when combined with a Simyo plan. While stocks last! The A56 is currently only available from us with 128 GB of storage and in a limited number of colours.

The Galaxy A57 5G , on the other hand, is currently available from € 384, when combined with a Simyo plan.

When should you choose the Galaxy A56?

The Samsung Galaxy A56 is a great choice if:

• You want to spend significantly less on a new phone
• You mainly use your phone for calls, messages, and everyday tasks
• You don't necessarily need the latest upgrades

For many people, the Galaxy A56 is still more than enough.

When should you choose the Galaxy A57?

The Samsung Galaxy A57 is the better fit if:

• You want the best performance in the mid-range segment

In that case, the higher price makes sense.

Which Galaxy A is right for you?

Still deciding between the Samsung Galaxy A56 and A57? Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I mainly use my smartphone for apps, social media, and browsing? Choose the Galaxy A56 5G
• Do I want maximum performance and better future readiness? Choose the Galaxy A57 5G
• Is price more important to me than small improvements? Choose the Galaxy A56 5G
• Do I simply want the newest model? Choose the Galaxy A57 5G

Both Samsung Galaxy devices are solid choices for a mid-range phone. The biggest differences come down to performance, updates, and a few subtle upgrades.

The best choice? That depends on how you use your phone. Curious about all the specific differences? Check out the overview below!

Questions? Answers