Samsung Galaxy A36 (2025) Review: Mid-Range Powerhouse or Just Hype?

The Samsung Galaxy A36, launched in March 2025, positions itself as a compelling mid-range smartphone, offering a blend of premium features and affordability. With its sleek design, robust performance, and long-term software support, the A36 aims to cater to a wide range of users seeking value without compromising on quality.

Design & Build Quality

• Dimensions & Weight: 162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4 mm; 195g​
• Materials: Glass front and back (Gorilla Glass Victus+), plastic frame​
• Durability: IP67 dust and water resistance (up to 1m for 30 minutes)​
• Color Options: Lavender, Black, White, Lime​

The Galaxy A36 boasts a modern design with a large display and slim profile. The use of Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both front and back enhances durability, while the IP67 rating ensures protection against dust and water. However, the plastic frame may feel less premium compared to metal counterparts.​TechRadar

Display

• Type: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED​
• Resolution: 1080 x 2340 pixels (~385 ppi)​
• Refresh Rate: 120Hz​
• Brightness: Up to 1,233 nits (peak)
• Protection: Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+
• Features: Always-on display​

The A36’s display offers vibrant colors and smooth scrolling, thanks to the 120Hz refresh rate. The high peak brightness ensures readability even under direct sunlight, making it suitable for media consumption and gaming.​

Performance

• Operating System: Android 15 with One UI 7​
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4nm)
• CPU: Octa-core (4×2.4 GHz Cortex-A78 & 4×1.8 GHz Cortex-A55)​
• GPU: Adreno 710
• Memory Options:
  • 6GB / 8GB / 12GB RAM​
• Storage Options:
  • 128GB / 256GB UFS 2.2 (no microSD card slot)​

The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset delivers reliable performance for daily tasks and moderate gaming. While it may not match flagship processors, it provides a balanced experience for its price segment.​

Camera System

Rear Cameras:

• 50 MP main (f/1.8, PDAF, OIS)​
• 8 MP ultrawide (f/2.2, 123˚)​
• 5 MP macro (f/2.4)​

Front Camera:

• 12 MP (f/2.2)​

Video Recording:

• Rear: 4K@30fps, 1080p@30/60fps (gyro-EIS)​
• Front: 4K@30fps, 1080p@30fps, 10-bit HDR​

The A36’s camera setup offers versatility for various photography needs. The main sensor captures detailed images, while the ultrawide and macro lenses provide additional creative options. Video recording capabilities are robust, supporting 4K resolution with stabilization features.​

Battery & Charging

• Capacity: 5,000 mAh
• Charging: 45W wired (66% in 30 minutes, 100% in 68 minutes)​
• Battery Life: Approximately 11.5 hours of active use​

The substantial battery capacity ensures all-day usage, and the fast charging support minimizes downtime. However, wireless charging is not supported, which may be a consideration for some users.​

Connectivity & Features

• Network Support: 5G, LTE, HSPA, GSM​
• SIM: Dual SIM (Nano + eSIM support)​
• Wi-Fi: 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6​
• Bluetooth: v5.4​
• NFC: Yes (market/region dependent)​
• USB: Type-C 2.0 with OTG​
• Audio: Stereo speakers (no 3.5mm headphone jack)​
• Sensors: Under-display fingerprint, accelerometer, gyro, compass, virtual proximity sensing​

The A36 offers comprehensive connectivity options, including 5G support and the latest Wi-Fi standards. The inclusion of stereo speakers enhances media consumption, although the absence of a headphone jack may require users to rely on wireless audio solutions.​

Software & Updates

• Operating System: Android 15 with One UI 7​
• Update Policy: Up to 6 major Android upgrades​

Samsung’s commitment to long-term software support ensures that the A36 remains up-to-date with the latest features and security patches, providing peace of mind for users planning to keep their device for several years.

Pricing & Availability

• Launch Date: March 10, 2025
• Base Price: $349 (6GB + 128GB)
• Other Variants:
  • 8GB + 128GB: $379
  • 12GB + 256GB: $429

The Samsung Galaxy A36 is competitively priced, falling in the upper budget to mid-range category. Given its solid feature set, it offers excellent value for users looking to stretch their dollar without missing out on modern capabilities.

Pros and Cons

✅ Pros:

• Sleek and durable design with IP67 rating
• Smooth 120Hz AMOLED display
• Reliable performance with Snapdragon 6 Gen 3
• Strong main camera with OIS
• Long-lasting battery and fast charging
• One UI 7 with up to 6 years of major updates

❌ Cons:

• Plastic frame may feel less premium
• No wireless charging
• No headphone jack
• No microSD slot for storage expansion

Who Should Buy the Galaxy A36?

The Samsung Galaxy A36 is ideal for:

• Students or professionals looking for a dependable daily driver
• Users upgrading from older budget or mid-range devices
• Anyone needing a phone with long-term software support
• Media lovers who want great display and stereo audio
• Casual photographers and mobile content creators

It’s not ideal for:

• Heavy gamers or power users who need flagship-level performance
• Audiophiles who still prefer wired headphones
• Users who heavily rely on expandable storage

How It Stacks Up Against Competitors

Samsung’s Galaxy A36 holds its ground well, especially in display quality, battery life, and long-term software support. While it doesn’t outshine its rivals in every area, it delivers a consistently well-rounded experience.

Final Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy A36 continues the brand’s legacy of offering feature-rich mid-range phones that punch above their price. With its premium AMOLED display, versatile camera setup, and extended software support, it’s a strong contender in the 2025 market. While it lacks certain premium features like wireless charging and expandable storage, the compromises are acceptable for its price segment.

Verdict:

If you’re shopping under $400 and want a modern Android phone with longevity and everyday reliability, the Galaxy A36 is one of your best bets in 2025.