Samsung Galaxy A56 5G review

Samsung Galaxy A56 5G review
1 week ago

The Samsung Galaxy A56 is one of the standout devices in Samsung’s A-series lineup, combining a modern design with powerful performance and well-balanced specifications to meet the needs of a wide range of users. The phone offers an impressive mix of features focusing on a stunning display, advanced cameras, a large battery, and a capable processor that ensures smooth daily use and gaming. In this review, we will cover every detail of the device including its design, display, cameras, battery, performance, operating system, and more.

Samsung Galaxy A56 Specifications

Design

Build Quality

The Samsung Galaxy A56 is crafted with a premium design that combines glass on the front and back with a durable metal frame for strength and elegance.

Dimensions and Weight

The device comes with a slim profile and moderate weight, making it comfortable for one-handed use while retaining a premium feel in hand.

Colors

It is available in multiple stylish colors to suit different tastes, including Graphite Black, Pearl White, Sky Blue, and Emerald Green.

Display

Type and Size

The Galaxy A56 features a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display that delivers vibrant colors and deep contrast.

Resolution and Refresh Rate

The screen offers FHD+ resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate, ensuring smooth scrolling and an enhanced gaming experience.

Brightness

With high brightness levels, the display remains clearly visible even under direct sunlight.

Battery

Capacity and Performance

The phone is equipped with a 5000mAh battery that easily lasts a full day of heavy use without frequent charging.

Fast Charging

Supports 25W fast charging, allowing users to quickly recharge the device when needed.

Camera

Rear Camera

The Galaxy A56 comes with a versatile triple rear camera setup:

  • 50MP wide main camera

  • 12MP ultra-wide camera

  • 5MP macro camera

Front Camera

A 32MP front-facing camera delivers high-quality selfies and clear video calls.

Video Recording

The phone supports 4K video recording with optical image stabilization for smooth and steady footage.

Audio

Speakers

Equipped with stereo speakers powered by Dolby Atmos, the phone offers rich and immersive sound quality.

Headphone Jack

No 3.5mm headphone jack is included; audio is supported through USB-C or Bluetooth.

Processor

Chipset

Powered by the Exynos 1480 octa-core processor, built on modern architecture for strong performance and efficient power management.

Daily and Gaming Performance

Handles multitasking and heavy games like PUBG and Call of Duty Mobile smoothly, ensuring a responsive experience.

Operating System

Version

The Galaxy A56 runs on Android 15 with Samsung’s One UI 7 custom interface.

Updates

It supports regular software and security updates for several years, providing a secure and reliable user experience.

Memory

Internal Storage

Available in 128GB and 256GB storage options.

RAM

Comes with 8GB of RAM for faster app switching and responsiveness.

Expandable Storage

Expandable via microSD card up to 1TB.

Connectivity

Ports

Features a USB-C 2.0 port for charging and fast data transfer.

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Supports Bluetooth 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6, ensuring faster and more stable connectivity.

Networks

Network Support

Compatible with 5G, 4G, and 3G networks, offering high-speed internet access.

Dual SIM

Supports dual Nano SIM cards.

Sensors

Sensor Types

Includes an in-display fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, compass, proximity sensor, and ambient light sensor.

Available Colors

The Galaxy A56 is available in elegant shades: Graphite Black, Pearl White, Sky Blue, and Emerald Green.

The Samsung Galaxy A56 is a balanced mid-range smartphone that combines strong performance, elegant design, a vibrant AMOLED display, and a long-lasting battery. It also delivers an excellent photography and audio experience, making it a great choice for users who want near-flagship features without the high price tag. With its 5G support and updated software, this phone remains a strong competitor in the mid-range smartphone market.

Pros of Samsung Galaxy A56

  • Premium design with durable build quality
  • High-resolution Super AMOLED 120Hz display
  • Large 5000mAh battery with 25W fast charging
  • Powerful Exynos 1480 processor suitable for gaming and multitasking
  • 5G network support
  • 50MP rear camera and 32MP selfie camera with great quality
  • Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos
  • Android 15 + One UI 7 with long-term updates
  • Expandable storage up to 1TB

Cons of Samsung Galaxy A56

  • No 3.5mm headphone jack
  • Charging speed is not the fastest compared to competitors
  • Glass back is prone to fingerprints and scratches
  • Lacks full high-level water resistance like flagship devices

What’s New in Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Compared to Previous Models

The Samsung Galaxy A56 5G introduces major upgrades over its predecessor, the Galaxy A55. From a brighter display and faster processor to longer software support and AI-powered features, this mid-range phone pushes closer to flagship standards.

Improved Design and Display

  • Larger 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display, up from 6.6 inches on the A55, with slimmer bezels for a sleeker look.

  • Significantly improved brightness: 1200 nits typical brightness and up to 1900 nits peak brightness, compared to just 1000 nits on the A55.

  • Thinner and lighter build: 7.4mm thickness and 198g weight, versus 8.2mm and 213g on the previous model.

Faster Performance with a Next-Gen Processor

  • First Samsung phone to feature the Exynos 1580 chipset (4nm, up to 2.9GHz).

  • Upgraded GPU and NPU for better graphics and AI efficiency.

  • Performance gains of up to 37% faster compared to the Exynos 1480 in the Galaxy A55.

Super-Fast Charging (First in the Galaxy A Series)

  • Supports 45W Super Fast Charging 2.0.

  • Charges up to 65% in 30 minutes and fully charges in about 68 minutes.

Extended Software and Security Updates

  • Samsung promises 6 years of Android OS and security updates, a record for a mid-range smartphone.

Advanced AI Features

  • Enhanced AI tools such as Circle to Search for instant content lookup.

  • Smarter AI camera features including:

    • Improved night photography

    • Faster camera switching (under 430ms)

    • AI tools like Object Eraser, Best Face, and personalized filters

Water and Dust Resistance

  • Official IP67 rating, making it more durable against water and dust compared to previous A-series models.

Quick Comparison: Samsung Galaxy A56 vs Samsung Galaxy A55

Feature Galaxy A56 (New) Galaxy A55 (Previous)
Display 6.7" AMOLED, 1900 nits, slimmer bezels 6.6" AMOLED, 1000 nits
Design Thinner (7.4mm), lighter (198g) Thicker (8.2mm), heavier (213g)
Performance Exynos 1580, ~37% faster Exynos 1480
Charging 45W fast charging 25W fast charging
Updates 6 years OS + security 4 years OS + 5 years security
AI Features Circle to Search, AI photo tools Basic AI features
Durability IP67 water + dust resistance No official water resistance

Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Box Contents

  • Samsung Galaxy A56 5G smartphone

  • SIM ejector pin

  • USB-C charging and data cable

  • Quick start guides and manuals

  • Warranty card

Note: The box does not include a charging brick or wired earphones.

Samsung Galaxy A56 5G Price

Country Currency Approx. Price
USA USD 500
Canada CAD 670
UK GBP 410
Germany EUR 470
France EUR 470
Italy EUR 465
Spain EUR 460
Australia AUD 770
New Zealand NZD 820
Japan JPY 74,000
China CNY 3,450
India INR 41,000
Pakistan PKR 141,000
UAE AED 1,850
Saudi Arabia SAR 1,850
Egypt EGP 23,500
Kuwait KWD 150
Qatar QAR 1,810
Bahrain BHD 185
Oman OMR 190
Turkey TRY 16,500
Russia RUB 46,500
Brazil BRL 2,600
Argentina ARS 450,000
South Africa ZAR 9,500
Nigeria NGN 745,000
Kenya KES 65,000
Vietnam VND 11,900,000
Malaysia MYR 2,350
Singapore SGD 670

Samsung Galaxy A56 Warranty, Terms & After-Sales Service

Warranty Coverage

The Samsung Galaxy A56 comes with an official Samsung warranty, typically valid for one year from the purchase date, covering manufacturing defects and hardware malfunctions not caused by misuse.

Warranty Terms

  • Covers defects due to manufacturing or internal hardware issues.

  • Does not cover damage from drops, cracks, liquid exposure, or misuse.

  • Tampering with or losing the serial number will void the warranty.

  • Battery and accessories (such as the charging cable and SIM ejector pin) are covered by limited warranty, which may vary by country.

  • Proof of purchase (invoice or receipt) is required to claim warranty services.

After-Sales Support

  • Samsung provides authorized service centers in most countries, offering repairs with genuine spare parts.

  • Customers can contact support via phone, the official Samsung website, or the Samsung Members app for technical assistance.

  • Samsung offers regular security and software updates as part of its after-sales service.

  • In some regions, Samsung offers extended warranty plans or accidental damage protection for an additional fee.

Samsung Galaxy A56 Performance Review

Processor & Daily Performance

The Samsung Galaxy A56 is powered by the Exynos 1580 processor built on a 4nm architecture. This octa-core chipset delivers significantly better performance compared to the previous generation, ensuring smooth multitasking, fast app launches, and seamless browsing.

Gaming Performance

The Galaxy A56 performs well in popular games like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty Mobile, and Genshin Impact, delivering stable frame rates and strong graphics performance. Its 120Hz refresh rate display enhances gameplay smoothness, especially when paired with the upgraded GPU.

Multitasking

With 8GB of RAM, the device handles multiple apps in the background efficiently, reducing reloads and ensuring a smooth app-switching experience.

AI Performance

Equipped with an NPU (Neural Processing Unit), the Galaxy A56 enhances AI-driven tasks such as real-time image optimization, Circle to Search, and other Samsung smart features, improving the phone’s responsiveness and intelligent functionality.

Heat & Power Efficiency

The 4nm processor architecture is optimized for power efficiency, minimizing battery drain and controlling heat levels even during extended gaming or heavy workloads.

Overall Performance

The Galaxy A56 delivers a balanced performance that sits between mid-range and near-flagship smartphones, making it an excellent choice for users seeking strong everyday usability, efficient multitasking, and capable gaming without excessive battery consumption.

Samsung Galaxy A56 Gaming Performance

The Samsung Galaxy A56 5G features the Exynos 1580 CPU and Xclipse 540 GPU. Let’s look at how it handles real-world gaming performance.

Real-World Gaming Benchmarks

GameBench (via NotebookCheck) Results:

  • Dead Trigger 2 → ~118 fps (range: 109–121 fps)

  • Genshin Impact:

    • Low settings → ~59 fps (48–61 fps)

    • High settings → ~47 fps (32–60 fps)

  • PUBG Mobile:

    • Smooth settings → ~59 fps (46–61 fps)

    • HD settings → ~39.8 fps (35–41 fps)

Note: The phone can heat up quickly, reaching surface temperatures of up to 49°C during intensive gaming.

Other Reviews:

  • Technave: PUBG Mobile runs smoothly at high settings (>60 fps with reduced graphics). Genshin Impact struggles at max settings, often dropping below 30 fps.

  • Zen The Geek: Lighter titles like Mobile Legends and Riptide Renegade run flawlessly at 60–120 fps, with temperatures staying around 40–44°C. Heavier games like Zenless Zone Zero hit only 60 fps at low settings and show frame drops over time.

  • LiveMint: Heavy games such as BGMI and Fortnite show stutters and frame drops, even at optimized settings.

User Feedback (via Reddit):
Some gamers reported frame drops during intense scenes:

“I was running at 120 fps, but when approaching buildings, the frame rate suddenly dropped to 1 fps.”

Gaming Summary

Game Type Expected Performance
Casual / Lightweight Games Excellent (~120 fps), no major heating issues
Mid-Tier Games (PUBG Mobile) Smooth at low settings, ~40 fps at high settings
Heavy Games (Genshin Impact) Playable at low settings (47–59 fps), struggles at higher settings
AAA / Graphics-Intensive Limited performance, heat buildup, noticeable frame drops

Final Verdict on Gaming

The Galaxy A56 5G delivers solid gaming performance for its class. Lightweight and mid-tier games run smoothly with the 120Hz AMOLED display, but demanding titles require reduced graphics settings to avoid overheating and frame drops. For long gaming sessions, lowering settings is highly recommended.

Samsung Galaxy A56 System Performance

Processing Speed & Smooth User Experience

The Samsung Galaxy A56 is powered by the Exynos 1580 processor, built on advanced 4nm EUV technology. It features one high-performance Cortex-A720 core clocked at 2.9 GHz, three Cortex-A720 cores at 2.6 GHz, and four energy-efficient Cortex-A520 cores running at 1.95 GHz.

In Geekbench benchmarks, the Galaxy A56 shows a 17% improvement in single-core performance and a 9% boost in multi-core performance compared to the previous Exynos 1480. Benchmark scores reach around 1,353 (single-core) and 3,847 (multi-core), placing it ahead of many mid-range competitors.

Everyday Usage & Multitasking

Running on Android 15 with One UI 7, the Galaxy A56 ensures a smooth daily experience. Reports confirm no lags, freezes, or stutters during web browsing, app usage, or UI navigation.

Thermal Performance & Sustained Power

The phone includes a 15% larger cooling chamber compared to the Galaxy A55, helping it maintain stable performance under stress and preventing excessive overheating during prolonged tasks or gaming.

Performance Summary

Aspect Overall Experience
Speed & Processing Noticeable upgrade over Exynos 1480, fast & efficient
Daily Tasks Smooth browsing, apps, and navigation with no issues
Multitasking Strong background app handling without reloads
Thermal Stability Runs cooler thanks to improved cooling system
Benchmarks ~1,350 (single-core) / ~3,800 (multi-core) in Geekbench

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy A56 offers excellent system performance within the upper mid-range segment. Its Exynos 1580 chipset delivers faster speeds, efficient multitasking, and reliable performance, while the upgraded cooling ensures sustained usage without thermal throttling.

Samsung Galaxy A56 Battery Performance

Battery Capacity

The phone packs a 5000mAh battery, a standard for Samsung’s mid-range lineup, providing reliable all-day endurance.

Daily Usage

With moderate use (browsing, social media, video playback, and apps), the Galaxy A56 easily lasts a full day or more on a single charge.

Gaming & Heavy Use

For gaming sessions or extended video playback, the battery provides 6–8 hours of screen-on time, depending on workload.

Charging Speed

The Galaxy A56 supports 25W fast charging, reaching:

  • 0% to 50% in ~30 minutes

  • 0% to 100% in ~75 minutes

While not the fastest compared to some Chinese competitors offering 67W or higher, this charging speed is still efficient and reliable for daily use.

Power Efficiency

Thanks to the 4nm processor and optimized One UI 7 on Android 15, the phone efficiently manages power, reducing drain during standby and light tasks.

Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy A56 battery delivers long-lasting performance, easily handling heavy use in a full day. Although its charging speed isn’t class-leading, its large capacity and efficient power management make it a dependable choice for users seeking strong battery life.

Samsung Galaxy A56 Expert & User Reviews

Expert Reviews

  • SmartphoneHive: Gave the Galaxy A56 a 71/100 overall score, praising its bright AMOLED display, long-lasting battery with 45W charging support, water-resistant design, and Samsung’s 6 years of updates. Criticisms included average gaming performance and a slightly high price.

  • alaTest: Based on 11 reviews, the phone averaged 3.7/5 with an alaScore of 94/100, highlighting durability, performance, and battery life as positives, while the camera quality was noted as a weakness.

  • DXOMARK: Rated the Galaxy A56 display 150 points, ranking it among the best displays in the $400–$600 range, with excellent readability indoors and outdoors, low blue light, and flicker-free performance.

User Reviews

On Reddit communities, opinions were mixed:

  • r/Android:

    • Positive: “Premium build with Gorilla Glass Victus+, bright HDR10+ screen, stable thermal management, excellent video & selfie quality, good stereo speakers, polished One UI 7, and 6 years of updates.”

    • Negative: “No charger in the box, slow fingerprint sensor, cameras underperform except video & selfie, slower charging than rivals, no microSD support.”

  • r/GalaxyA55:

    • One user: “Night mode improved a bit, but losing microSD support is a downgrade. Charging is faster, but requires a more expensive charger.”

    • Another: “Performance difference between Exynos 1580 and 1480 isn’t significant.”

  • r/samsunggalaxy:

    • Complaint: “Phone overheats during charging and froze during a WhatsApp call.”

    • Praise: “If you don’t care about gaming, this is an excellent daily driver and will last at least 3 years.”

Final Verdict

  • Pros: Brilliant AMOLED display, long-lasting 5000mAh battery, premium design with water resistance, strong software support (6 years of updates), good video & selfie quality, polished One UI 7 experience.

  • Cons: Limited gaming performance, underwhelming cameras (except video/selfie), no microSD slot, only 25W charging, occasional heating reports.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G is an excellent choice for users who want a premium mid-range phone with a strong display, battery, and long-term updates. However, mobile gamers and camera enthusiasts may prefer alternatives with stronger performance or advanced imaging systems.

Key Competitors

Xiaomi Poco X7 Pro

  • Strong performance advantage: scored about 78% higher on AnTuTu benchmarks compared to the Galaxy A56, thanks to its MediaTek Dimensity 8400 Ultra processor and a larger 6,550 mAh battery (versus 5,000 mAh). It also supports 90W fast charging versus only 45W wired charging on the A56.

  • For durability and charging, the Poco X7 Pro comes with IP69 water resistance compared to IP67 on the A56. However, the Galaxy A56 delivers 25% longer battery life (≈28 hours vs. 23 hours).

  • The A56 stands out with eSIM support and a 4K-capable selfie camera, while Poco offers better raw performance and gaming experience.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 14 Pro Plus

  • Comes with 120W fast charging and 33% more RAM compared to the A56.

  • The Galaxy A56 offers:

    • 25% longer battery life

    • Faster storage (UFS 3.1 vs. UFS 2.2)

    • Faster RAM (LPDDR5)

    • Stronger GeekBench scores (17% faster in single-core)

    • Latest Android 15 OS

    • 4K front camera video recording

Honor 400 (Standard Edition)

  • Features a modern design, 6 years of software updates, Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chipset, 6.5-inch AMOLED display, a massive 200 MP main camera, and a lower price than the Galaxy A56.

iPhone 16e

  • Powered by the Apple A18 processor for superior performance, but has a smaller 3,500 mAh battery and slower charging. It fits seamlessly into Apple’s ecosystem but comes at a higher price (~€709 vs. ~€479 for the A56).

Realme 14 Pro Plus

  • Focused on photography, with a 50 MP main camera and 3× optical zoom, a large 6,000 mAh battery, and 80W fast charging. It also features an AI-enhanced OLED display and was rated among the best mid-range smartphones of 2025 by El País Escaparate.

Oppo Reno 14FS 5G (Upcoming)

  • Expected to launch with a 6.57-inch AMOLED 120Hz display, Snapdragon 6 Gen 1, a massive 6,000 mAh battery with 45W charging, and large memory options (12 GB RAM + 512 GB storage). Predicted to be priced around €450, making it a strong upcoming rival.

User Feedback from Reddit

  • Compared with Poco X7 Pro: Some users prefer Poco for raw power, while others value the Galaxy A56 for durability and long-term software support.

    “The A56 feels like it will last longer, and Samsung’s update policies make it more reliable.”

  • Compared with Nothing Phone (3A) and (3A) Pro:

    “In terms of build quality, the A56 is much better. Samsung’s software support is far superior.”

Competition Summary

Competitor Key Strength Comparison with Galaxy A56
Poco X7 Pro Higher performance, bigger battery, faster charging A56 wins with longer battery life and 4K selfie camera
Redmi Note 14 Pro+ Ultra-fast charging, more RAM A56 offers faster storage, OS updates, and better efficiency
Honor 400 Strong design, lower price, 200MP camera A56 offers brand reliability and smarter software features
iPhone 16e Premium performance, Apple ecosystem A56 offers bigger battery and better value pricing
Realme 14 Pro+ Photography and battery focus A56 provides better display and long-term updates
Oppo Reno 14FS 5G Balanced specs, big display Yet to be tested against A56 in real-world use

Buying Tips for the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G

1. Long-Term Software Support

Take advantage of 6 years of Android and security updates, a rare feature in mid-range smartphones, making the A56 a future-proof investment.

2. Premium Design & Durability

The device comes with Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both sides, a metal frame, and IP67 water and dust resistance, ensuring both style and toughness.

3. Stunning Display

Enjoy a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate and 1900 nits peak brightness, perfect for gaming, streaming, and outdoor visibility.

4. Performance & Efficiency

The Exynos 1580 processor offers smooth performance for daily tasks and multitasking. However, note that gaming performance is limited compared to some rivals.

5. Battery Life & Charging

The 5000 mAh battery easily lasts a full day, while 45W fast charging charges up to 60% in 30 minutes. However, no charger is included in the box.

6. AI Features (Awesome Intelligence)

Enjoy features like Circle to Search, Object Eraser, Best Face, and Auto Trim, which enhance photography and usability.

7. Missing Features

  • No microSD card slot, so choose storage wisely.

  • No telephoto lens for zoom photography.

  • No wireless charging support, unlike some rivals.

8. Price-to-Value Balance

The A56 delivers strong value with its display, updates, and durability, though you may need to budget for an additional charger or higher storage option.

Who Should Buy the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G?

  • Everyday users wanting a sleek, reliable phone with strong battery life and display.

  • Security-conscious buyers looking for long-term Android updates.

  • Content lovers who need a bright display for videos and outdoor use.

  • Not recommended for hardcore gamers or pro photographers who need advanced zoom and raw performance.

Charging Tips for the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G

  1. Use an official 45W Samsung charger or certified equivalent for the best charging speed and battery protection.

  2. Keep the charge level between 20%–80% to extend long-term battery health.

  3. Avoid heavy usage (gaming/video calls) while charging to prevent overheating.

  4. Do not leave the phone plugged in for long after reaching 100%.

  5. Charge in a cool environment, away from direct heat or sunlight.

  6. Enable Battery Protection mode to cap charging at 85% if you don’t need a full charge daily.

  7. For overnight charging, use optimized charging so the phone charges slowly until morning.

  8. The phone does not support wireless charging — avoid third-party accessories that may harm the battery.

Conclusion

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G delivers a strong package in the mid-range category, balancing performance, durability, cameras, and battery life. While some competitors lead in raw performance and ultra-fast charging, the A56 excels in software support, premium design, and display quality. For everyday users who prioritize long-term updates and reliability, this phone is a solid investment that will perform well for years to come.