Samsung Galaxy A36 Review

Samsung Galaxy A36 Review
1 week ago

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G is one of Samsung’s newest mid-range smartphones, designed to balance modern design, reliable performance, and practical features. It comes with a stunning Super AMOLED display, a large battery with fast charging support, and noticeable improvements in both camera quality and system performance. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore its key specs, strengths, weaknesses, and real-world usage to determine whether the Galaxy A36 5G should be your next smartphone.

Samsung Galaxy A36 specifications

Design

Build Quality

The Samsung Galaxy A36 features a glass front panel, a reinforced plastic back, and a sturdy plastic frame that enhances durability.

Dimensions and Weight

With balanced dimensions, the phone is comfortable for one-handed use, weighing around 190 grams, making it relatively lightweight for its size.

Aesthetics

The device carries Samsung’s signature modern design with slightly protruding rear cameras and rounded edges that improve grip and comfort.

Display

Type and Resolution

Equipped with a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, the screen delivers vivid colors and deep contrast.

Refresh Rate

It supports a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smoother scrolling, animations, and gaming experiences.

Brightness

With peak brightness of up to 1000 nits, the display remains clear and visible even under direct sunlight.

Battery

Capacity

The phone packs a 5000mAh battery, sufficient to last a full day of intensive use.

Charging

It supports 25W fast charging, capable of reaching over 50% charge in about 30 minutes.

Camera

Rear Cameras

The Galaxy A36 comes with a triple rear camera setup:

Main Camera

A 50MP wide lens with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for sharper shots in all lighting conditions.

Ultra-Wide Camera

An 8MP sensor with a 120-degree field of view for capturing wide landscapes.

Depth Camera

A 2MP sensor dedicated to enhancing portrait shots with better subject isolation.

Front Camera

The 13MP front-facing camera delivers clear selfies and supports high-quality video recording.

Audio

Speakers

Dual stereo speakers deliver an immersive audio experience, especially for gaming and video playback.

Audio Jack

The traditional 3.5mm headphone jack is absent, requiring USB-C or wireless headphones.

Processor

Chipset and Performance

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 built on 4nm architecture, the phone ensures solid daily performance and smooth multitasking.

GPU

The Adreno GPU enhances gaming visuals and graphics rendering.

Operating System

Software

Runs on Android 14 with One UI 6, offering enhanced security, AI-powered features, and an improved night mode.

Memory

Storage and RAM Options

The device is available in two variants:

  • 128GB storage + 6GB RAM

  • 256GB storage + 8GB RAM

Expandability

Supports microSD cards up to 1TB, providing ample storage for apps, media, and files.

Connectivity

Ports

Features a USB-C port for charging and data transfer.

Bluetooth

Supports Bluetooth 5.3 for faster, more stable connections.

Wi-Fi

Compatible with Wi-Fi 6 for higher speeds and better reliability.

Networks

SIM Support

Dual Nano SIM support with flexible network management.

5G Support

Full support for 5G, 4G, and 3G networks, delivering high-speed internet connectivity.

Sensors

Equipped with essential sensors including an in-display fingerprint scanner, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, and proximity sensor.

Colors

Available in elegant colors: Graphite Black, Sky Blue, Mint Green, and Silver.

The Samsung Galaxy A36 delivers a well-rounded mid-range package, combining a premium Super AMOLED 120Hz display, versatile camera setup, reliable Snapdragon processor with 5G connectivity, and a long-lasting 5000mAh battery with fast charging. Paired with Samsung’s refined One UI 6 interface, the device guarantees a smooth, user-friendly experience. For users seeking a balance of style, performance, and durability in the mid-range market, the Galaxy A36 is an excellent option.

Pros of Samsung Galaxy A36

  • 6.6-inch Super AMOLED FHD+ display with 120Hz refresh rate
  • 5G connectivity for faster internet speeds
  • Large 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging
  • Snapdragon 7 Gen 1 chipset for reliable performance
  • 50MP main camera with OIS for crisp photography
  • Dual stereo speakers for enhanced sound quality
  • Expandable storage up to 1TB via microSD

Cons of Samsung Galaxy A36

  • No 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Charging speed not as fast as some competitors
  • Plastic back prone to scratches
  • Ultra-wide and depth cameras are less impressive than the main sensor

What’s New in Samsung Galaxy A36

Bigger and Brighter Display

The Galaxy A36 now features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with FHD+ resolution, a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of up to 1200 nits. This ensures sharper clarity and a more comfortable viewing experience, even under direct sunlight.

Slimmer and Lighter Design

With a thickness of just 7.4mm and a weight of 195 grams, the phone feels more refined and lightweight. It also comes with Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection and an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, enhancing durability.

More Powerful Processor

The device is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset built on a 4nm process, offering faster performance and improved energy efficiency compared to its predecessor.

Upgraded Front Camera

The front camera has been upgraded to 12MP with support for 4K video recording and 10-bit HDR, making it a significant improvement for selfies and video calls.

Faster Charging

With support for 45W fast charging, the Galaxy A36 can reach more than 65% charge in just 30 minutes, a noticeable step up from the previous generation.

Long-Term Software Support

Samsung promises up to 6 years of software and security updates, giving the phone greater long-term value and reliability.

Advanced AI Features

The A36 introduces smart AI tools like Circle to Search for quick on-screen lookups, Song Search to identify music instantly, and Object Eraser for easy photo editing by removing unwanted elements.

Enhanced Cooling System

A larger vapor chamber cooling system improves heat dissipation during heavy gaming or multitasking, ensuring stable and consistent performance.

Stereo Sound and Modern Design

The phone includes dual stereo speakers for immersive audio, along with a refreshed rear camera design and new glossy color options to suit different styles.

Quick Summary: What’s New?

Feature Details
Bigger & Brighter Display 6.7" Super AMOLED, 120Hz, up to 1200 nits
Slimmer & Lighter Design 7.4mm, 195g, Gorilla Glass Victus+, IP67
Upgraded Processor Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, faster & more efficient
Improved Front Camera 12MP, 4K HDR 10-bit
Faster Charging 45W, 66% in 30 minutes
Long-Term Updates 6 years OS & security support
Advanced AI Tools Circle to Search, Song Search, Object Eraser
Better Cooling Larger vapor chamber for improved heat management
Modern Audio & Design Dual stereo speakers, refreshed camera look

Samsung Galaxy A36 Box Contents

  • The smartphone itself

  • USB-C cable for charging and data transfer

  • SIM ejector tool

  • Quick start guide

  • Warranty card
    (Note: The charger is often not included in the box)

Samsung Galaxy A36 Prices

Country Currency Approx. Price
Egypt Egyptian Pound (EGP) 17,600
Saudi Arabia Saudi Riyal (SAR) 1,200
UAE UAE Dirham (AED) 1,300
Kuwait Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) 100
Qatar Qatari Riyal (QAR) 1,250
Bahrain Bahraini Dinar (BHD) 125
Oman Omani Rial (OMR) 125
Jordan Jordanian Dinar (JOD) 265
Iraq Iraqi Dinar (IQD) 470,000
Syria Syrian Pound (SYP) 5,500,000
Lebanon Lebanese Pound (LBP) 33,000,000
Sudan Sudanese Pound (SDG) 400,000
Algeria Algerian Dinar (DZD) 73,000
Morocco Moroccan Dirham (MAD) 3,600
Tunisia Tunisian Dinar (TND) 1,250
Libya Libyan Dinar (LYD) 1,750
Turkey Turkish Lira (TRY) 12,500
United States US Dollar (USD) 380
Canada Canadian Dollar (CAD) 510
Brazil Brazilian Real (BRL) 1,950
Argentina Argentine Peso (ARS) 355,000
Mexico Mexican Peso (MXN) 6,800
UK British Pound (GBP) 300
France Euro (EUR) 350
Germany Euro (EUR) 350
Italy Euro (EUR) 355
Spain Euro (EUR) 355
Australia Australian Dollar (AUD) 590
China Chinese Yuan (CNY) 2,700
Japan Japanese Yen (JPY) 42,000

Samsung Galaxy A36 Warranty, Terms, and After-Sales Service

Warranty Coverage

The Samsung Galaxy A36 usually comes with a 1-year local or international warranty (depending on region). This warranty covers manufacturing defects such as issues with the screen, processor, or battery (if proven to be a factory defect).

Warranty Terms

  • Warranty does not cover accidental damage such as cracks, scratches, or water exposure beyond the phone’s rated protection.

  • Damages caused by non-original accessories (chargers or cables) are not covered.

  • Tampering with or removing the IMEI number voids the warranty immediately.

  • The battery and accessories are often covered by a limited warranty period (usually 6 months).

  • Any unauthorized repair attempts outside Samsung service centers will void the warranty.

After-Sales Service

  • Samsung provides a wide network of authorized service centers worldwide for technical support and repairs.

  • Users can access support through the Samsung Members app or via hotline for troubleshooting and software guidance.

  • Paid repair services are available after the warranty expires, using genuine Samsung parts at official prices.

  • In some regions, Samsung offers express repair services or pick-up and delivery options for convenience.

  • Long-term software and security updates are part of Samsung’s after-sales commitment, ensuring phone performance and safety for years.

Samsung Galaxy A36 Performance Review

Processor and Overall Performance

The Samsung Galaxy A36 is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset built on a 4nm process. This modern processor strikes a strong balance between performance and power efficiency. It is paired with the Adreno 710 GPU, delivering reliable graphics performance for mid-range to heavy games while keeping the phone stable, thanks to its improved cooling system.

Multitasking and Speed

With up to 8GB of RAM, the Galaxy A36 handles multiple apps at once without noticeable lag. Samsung’s One UI 6.1, based on Android 14, enhances the overall experience with smooth navigation, smart features, and faster task execution.

Gaming and Graphics Performance

The Galaxy A36 can comfortably run popular games like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Free Fire at medium to high graphics settings with relatively stable frame rates. The 120Hz refresh rate display further enhances the gaming experience, making gameplay smoother and more immersive.

Thermal Management and Long Sessions

Thanks to a larger vapor cooling chamber, the Galaxy A36 maintains stable temperatures during extended gaming or heavy multitasking sessions. This prevents sudden drops in performance and reduces thermal throttling.

Day-to-Day Performance

For everyday tasks such as web browsing, social media, streaming videos, and switching between apps, the Galaxy A36 delivers fast and reliable performance without hiccups.

Samsung Galaxy A36 Gaming Performance

Light Gaming Experience

Casual games like Candy Crush and Subway Surfers run effortlessly, consuming minimal resources while fully benefiting from the 120Hz refresh rate for smoother animations.

Mid-Tier Gaming Experience

Games like FIFA Mobile and Asphalt 9 run consistently well, offering good visuals and stable frame rates, with moderate power consumption thanks to the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3.

Heavy Gaming Performance

  • PUBG Mobile – Runs at HDR + Extreme settings, averaging 50–60 FPS without major issues.

  • Call of Duty: Mobile – Smooth gameplay on high graphics settings with stable frame rates.

  • Genshin Impact – Runs at medium to high settings with frame rates between 40–55 FPS, maintaining stability even in intense battles.

Heat Management During Gaming

The upgraded vapor chamber keeps the device cool for extended sessions, with minimal thermal throttling only appearing after very long playtimes.

Battery Performance While Gaming

The 5000mAh battery supports around 5–6 hours of continuous heavy gaming before needing a recharge. With 45W fast charging, the phone quickly gets back to gaming mode.

Samsung Galaxy A36 System Performance

User Interface

The Galaxy A36 runs One UI 6.1 based on Android 14, offering a clean design, intuitive navigation, and rich customization options including themes, dark mode, and quick settings controls.

Speed and Smoothness

Thanks to the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 and up to 8GB RAM, the system feels fluid when switching apps, browsing, and multitasking. The 120Hz refresh rate makes scrolling and animations noticeably smoother.

Updates and Software Support

Samsung’s Galaxy A-series typically receives 3–4 years of Android OS and security updates, ensuring the Galaxy A36 stays protected and up-to-date with new features over time.

Software Features

  • Samsung Knox for advanced security and privacy.

  • Multi-Window mode for running two apps side by side.

  • Seamless ecosystem integration with Galaxy Buds, Galaxy Watch, and other Galaxy devices.

  • (Note: Samsung DeX is not available on this mid-range device.)

System Stability

The Galaxy A36 delivers excellent long-term stability, with efficient resource management and minimal crashes or freezes compared to many rivals in its price range.

Samsung Galaxy A36 Battery Performance

Capacity and Daily Usage

The Samsung Galaxy A36 comes with a 5000mAh battery, large enough to last a full day of heavy usage or up to two days with moderate use. Whether it’s calls, web browsing, social media, or video streaming, the battery holds up well without frequent recharging.

Power Consumption

  • Video Streaming: Around 15–16 hours of continuous playback.

  • Web & Social Media Browsing: Roughly 12–13 hours of screen time.

  • Heavy Gaming (PUBG, Call of Duty): About 5–6 hours of nonstop gaming.

Fast Charging

With 45W fast charging support, the Galaxy A36 can charge from 0% to 50% in about 30 minutes, and a full charge takes approximately 70–75 minutes.

Power Efficiency

The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4nm) processor ensures optimized power efficiency, reducing energy drain during multitasking and keeping the phone cooler under stress.

Longevity and Battery Health

Samsung includes smart power management features to extend the battery’s lifespan. With proper optimization, the A36 maintains long-term performance while minimizing battery degradation.

Samsung Galaxy A36 Global Expert Reviews

  • Wired – Rated the phone 6/10, noting decent cameras for the price but weak low-light performance and slower overall speed compared to competitors. Good for basic tasks but not “impressive.”

  • Android Authority – Said the A36 “gets the job done, but just barely.” They noticed stutters when switching between menus and apps. While the AMOLED screen and battery were praised, overall performance was described as underwhelming.

  • Notebookcheck – Gave it a positive 80% score, highlighting the improved display, sleek design, and long-term software support. A solid mid-range option under $400.

  • Tom’s Guide – Scored it 60%, calling it “a reasonable mid-range choice” but far from the best. Main drawbacks were weak low-light photography and slower-than-expected performance, despite excellent battery life.

  • The Mobile Indian – Rated it 83%, praising its balance of features and reliability. They emphasized its strong battery and smooth display, even if performance isn’t exceptional.

Samsung Galaxy A36 User Reviews

From Best Buy:

  • “Great phone. Battery life is decent. Screen is excellent. The only issue … may seem buggy at times. … It takes great pictures … for the price.”

  • “Very good phone for the value… Camera quality is good… Battery also lasts all day.”

  • “Solid mid-range phone … very solid phone for the price as long as you understand that it will be a little slower than the top end.”

  • “Excellent product and budget-friendly … standout in the mid-range … solid performance.”

From Reddit:

  • “The A36 is just as stuttery as the A35 and A54.”

  • “I’m mildly impressed… thinner body and 45W charging … small improvements that really add up.”

  • “6 Gen 3 is as powerful as 7s Gen 2 … but this phone can barely handle two apps … 6 years of updates is a gimmick.”

  • “Performance difference between the A36 and A56 on Antutu benchmark is 51%.”

  • “Get the Pixel 3a … faster processor, smoother software, and a much better triple camera system.”

Quick Summary

Category Highlights & Takeaways
Tech Experts Mixed reviews (60%–83%); praised display, software support, and battery; criticized weak low-light camera and average speed.
Best Buy Customers Mostly positive; loved the screen, battery, and value; noted occasional lag or stutter.
Reddit Users Mixed opinions; some frustrated with stuttering and performance, others appreciated the small improvements and ecosystem.

Top Competitors to the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G

Samsung Galaxy A56 5G

The closest alternative within the same series, offering a noticeable 30% performance boost and improved cameras compared to the A36. It shares most core features (screen, battery, charging), but comes at a price that’s roughly 30% higher.

Motorola Edge 60 Fusion / Pro

Features a brighter P-OLED display, higher resolution, and stronger processors (Dimensity 7400 or 7300). It also packs a bigger battery with faster charging (up to 68W) and a larger screen with a better screen-to-body ratio.

Oppo A5 (2025)

A budget-friendly choice with a 6000mAh battery—larger than the A36—but compromises on display brightness, resolution, RAM, and a much lower-resolution selfie camera.

Infinix GT 30 Pro

Highly rated for its rear camera system, which includes multiple sensors and advanced features. It’s a solid pick for users who value photography over raw performance.

OnePlus Nord 5

Comes with the powerful Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, super-fast charging, and a 50MP selfie camera. With a large battery and competitive pricing, this is one of the best options for performance seekers.

Realme 13 Pro Plus 5G

Powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, it features a large main sensor and a periscope telephoto lens for optical zoom. Ideal for users who want advanced photography and strong overall performance.

Vivo V25 Pro 5G

Equipped with the Dimensity 1300, a 32MP front camera, and a smooth 120Hz display. A good balance for those who want decent performance with excellent selfies.

Realme Narzo 70 Pro / iQOO Z9 Pro

Both phones feature high-performance processors (Dimensity 7050 and Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 with Adreno 720), AI-powered enhancements, and upgraded night photography, making them excellent alternatives for gaming and low-light shooting.

Competitor Comparison at a Glance

Phone Model Key Strengths Best For
Galaxy A56 5G 30% faster, better camera performance Users who want upgrades within Samsung’s lineup
Motorola Edge 60 Brighter P-OLED, faster charging, stronger CPU Heavy users and professionals
Oppo A5 (2025) 6000mAh battery Budget users and light charging needs
Infinix GT 30 Pro Advanced rear camera setup Photography enthusiasts
OnePlus Nord 5 Flagship-level CPU, huge battery, 50MP selfie Best value for performance
Realme 13 Pro Plus 5G Periscope zoom + strong chip Camera zoom lovers and balanced performance
Vivo V25 Pro 5G 32MP selfie cam + 120Hz smooth display Selfie lovers with good overall performance
Realme Narzo 70 Pro / iQOO Z9 Pro Powerful processors, AI features, strong low-light photos

Buying Tips for the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G

1. Compare Pricing With Rivals

The Galaxy A36 5G is a solid mid-range phone, but at launch, it was priced higher than some competitors like Motorola or Xiaomi, which often provide better performance or cameras at the same price. If you find the A36 discounted, it becomes a much more attractive option.

2. Pick the Right Variant

The phone comes in multiple RAM and storage options (6–12GB RAM, 128–256GB storage). The 8GB RAM + 256GB storage version is the sweet spot, especially since there’s no microSD slot for expandable storage.

3. Understand the Processor Limits

The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 is fine for daily tasks and moderate gaming but may show stutter during heavy multitasking or advanced games. If raw performance is your top priority, consider a stronger alternative.

4. Take Advantage of the Screen & Speakers

The 6.7” Super AMOLED display (120Hz, up to 1200 nits) is bright and smooth, and the stereo speakers add immersive audio—great for streaming and entertainment.

5. Note Missing Accessories

The A36 doesn’t include a charger in the box, and it supports 45W fast charging. To maximize charging speeds, you’ll need to buy Samsung’s fast charger separately.

6. Long-Term Software Support

Samsung promises 6 years of OS and security updates, which is rare in this price range. While performance may naturally slow over time, you’ll still get the latest features and security patches.

7. Strong Durability

Protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+ and rated IP67 for dust and water resistance, the A36 is built to handle daily wear and tear.

8. Make Use of AI Features

With tools like Circle to Search, Object Eraser, and One UI AI enhancements, the phone delivers handy smart features, though they aren’t dealbreakers for most buyers.

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Galaxy A36 5G?

  • Perfect for users seeking a reliable mid-range phone with a bright AMOLED display, long-lasting battery, and extended software support.

  • Great for those who value durability and Samsung’s ecosystem.

  • Not the best pick if you need flagship-level performance or pro-grade cameras, especially in low light.

  • Best bought during sales or carrier deals, which make it a very competitive choice in the mid-range category.

Charging Tips for the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G

1. Use the Original or Certified Charger

For the best fast charging experience, always rely on Samsung’s official 25W or 45W charger. Avoid third-party or counterfeit chargers, as they can damage the battery over time.

2. Don’t Let the Battery Drain Completely

It’s best to recharge your phone when the battery drops to around 20–25%. Frequently letting the battery drain to 0% can shorten its overall lifespan.

3. Avoid Overnight Charging

While the Galaxy A36 5G includes built-in safety features, keeping it plugged in all night can increase heat and affect long-term battery health. Ideally, unplug the phone once it reaches 100%, or enable the overcharge protection feature if available.

4. Don’t Use the Phone During Heavy Charging

Playing games or running demanding apps while charging can cause the device to heat up, reducing charging efficiency and impacting overall battery health.

5. Charge in a Cool, Ventilated Space

Keep your phone in a well-ventilated area while charging, away from direct sunlight or hot surfaces. Excessive heat is one of the main factors that degrade lithium batteries.

6. Use Adaptive Charging Features

The Galaxy A36 supports Samsung’s adaptive charging and battery care tools. Enable these in the Device Care & Battery settings under One UI to optimize charging speed and preserve battery health.

7. Avoid Excessive Mini-Charging Sessions

While modern batteries handle partial charges well, constantly plugging and unplugging your phone multiple times a day without need may reduce long-term efficiency. Instead, stick to regular, moderate charging cycles.

Conclusion

In summary, the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G delivers a well-rounded mix of elegant design, high-quality display, long-lasting battery, and extended software support, making it a strong contender in the mid-range category. While some competitors offer stronger processors or more advanced cameras, the A36 stands out for its balanced performance, durability, and reliable Samsung ecosystem support. If you’re looking for a practical everyday phone with smooth performance and solid battery life, the Galaxy A36 5G is definitely worth considering.