Samsung Galaxy A36 vs Samsung Galaxy A55
Side-by-side specifications, scores and verdict.
Quick Verdict
Samsung's A36 and A55 compete directly in the mid-range segment with notably different value propositions. Both feature 6.6-inch Super AMOLED displays, 120Hz refresh rates, and 5000mAh batteries, though the A36 achieves superior brightness at 1800 nits versus 1000 nits on the A55. Processing power favors the A55's Exynos 1480 with its Xclipse 530 GPU over the A36's Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, delivering measurably better gaming and multitasking performance. Camera specifications reveal the A55's stronger front-facing experience (32MP vs 13MP) and broader ultrawide coverage (12MP vs 8MP), while main sensors remain identical at 50MP with OIS. The A36 includes Android 15 with One UI 7 against the A55's Android 14 setup. Build quality slightly favors the A55 with its aluminum frame versus plastic construction on the A36. At $299, the A36 offers exceptional value for budget-conscious users prioritizing display quality and software freshness. However, the A55's superior processor, enhanced cameras, and refined build justify its $449.99 premium for those wanting sustained performance longevity. Choose the A36 for immediate savings; select the A55 for long-term capability and better content creation.
Full Specifications
| Specification | Samsung Galaxy A36 | Samsung Galaxy A55 |
|---|---|---|
| Software | Android 15 (One UI 7) | Android 14, One UI 6.1 |
| Body | ||
| Weight | 195 g | 213 g |
| Material | Plastic frame, Gorilla Glass Victus+ | Aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus+ |
| IP rating | IP67 | IP67 |
| Dimensions | 162.1 x 77.0 x 8.1 mm | 161.1 x 77.4 x 8.2 mm |
| Camera | ||
| Main camera | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS | 50 MP, f/1.8, OIS |
| Front camera | 13 MP, f/2.2 | 32 MP, f/2.2 |
| Video | 4K@30fps | 4K@30fps |
| Telephoto | 5 MP, f/2.4, macro | 5 MP macro |
| Ultrawide | 8 MP, f/2.2, 123-degree | 12 MP, f/2.2 |
| Memory | ||
| RAM | 6 GB | 8 GB |
| Storage options | 128 GB, 256 GB | 128 GB, 256 GB |
| Battery | ||
| Capacity | 5000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Charging | 25W wired | 25W wired |
| Display | ||
| Size | 6.6 inches | 6.6 inches |
| Type | Super AMOLED | Super AMOLED |
| Resolution | 2340 x 1080 | 2340 x 1080 |
| Refresh rate | 120Hz | 120Hz |
| Brightness (nits) | 1800 | 1000 |
| Processor | ||
| CPU | Octa-core | Octa-core (4x2.75 GHz + 4x2.0 GHz) |
| GPU | Adreno 710 | Xclipse 530 |
| Chipset | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 | Exynos 1480 |
| Connectivity | ||
| 5G | ||
| NFC | ||
| USB | USB-C 2.0 | USB-C 2.0 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Bluetooth | 5.3 | 5.3 |
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
Samsung Galaxy A36
Pros
- Six generations of OS updates for under $300
- IP67 water resistance is outstanding at this price point
- 120Hz Super AMOLED display looks premium
- 5G connectivity and NFC at budget pricing
- Reliable 50MP main camera with OIS for steady shots
Cons
- Slow 25W charging feels dated in 2025
- Only 6 GB RAM on the base model
- Ultrawide camera is mediocre at 8MP
- Plastic build doesn't feel as solid as glass-backed rivals
Samsung Galaxy A55
Pros
- Premium aluminum and Gorilla Glass build
- Vibrant 120Hz Super AMOLED display
- Large 5000 mAh battery with great endurance
- Four years of OS upgrades and five years of security
- IP67 water and dust resistance
Cons
- Exynos 1480 lags behind Snapdragon rivals
- Heavy at 213 g
- No dedicated telephoto camera
- Only 25W charging with no charger included
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