The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G is making headlines as it enters the budget smartphone market, positioned as the successor to the popular Galaxy A35. This new device comes packed with notable improvements, making it an enticing option for consumers looking for affordability without sacrificing quality. One of the most significant enhancements is the promise of six generations of Android operating system updates, a move that positions the A36 as a standout choice in the budget category, particularly for those who wish to keep their phones updated for years to come.

The design of the Galaxy A36 has also received a notable facelift, exuding a more premium vibe thanks to its glass back and slimmer bezels. Additionally, the phone supports 45W fast charging, which is a feature that many users will appreciate, especially in today’s fast-paced world. However, it’s essential to note that while the A36 offers solid mid-range performance, it may not cater to everyone due to its larger size.

The A36 boasts an impressive array of features, including:

  • Six generations of OS and security updates
  • IP67 rating for dust and water resistance
  • 4K HDR video recording capability via the front camera
  • 45W fast wired charging
  • Ships with Android 15 and One UI 7
  • A large, bright AMOLED display protected by Gorilla Glass Victus Plus

However, it does have a few drawbacks, such as being available in only a single variant in the U.S. and a limited selection of Galaxy AI features.

On the other hand, the Google Pixel 9a starts at $100 more than the Galaxy A36 but compensates with a suite of premium features that may warrant the higher price tag. Priced at $499, the Pixel 9a is packed with benefits that include:

  • Seven years of OS and security updates
  • A flagship-grade processor
  • More RAM and storage options than the A36
  • IP68 rating for superior durability
  • A larger battery with wireless charging capability
  • A compact design that is easier to handle

Despite its advantages, the Pixel 9a has its downsides as well, including a higher price, weaker scratch resistance for its display, and slower wired charging compared to its competitor.

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G is designed to be a reliable option for budget-conscious consumers, particularly those in the U.S. looking for a phone right now. While the Galaxy A56 5G, set to launch later this year, may compete more directly with the Pixel 9a, the focus here remains on the A36 and its ability to deliver competitive features for a lower price point.

When comparing the design and display of the two devices, the aesthetic upgrades in the Galaxy A36 5G are noticeable. It showcases flat sides with subtle curves around the buttons and narrower bezels, presenting a modern look. The new camera bump design has transitioned from individual cutouts to a sleek, pill-shaped layout. Color choices include Awesome Black and Awesome Lavender, with the latter being particularly eye-catching.

The Galaxy A36 is slightly slimmer at 7.4mm but weighs more at 195 grams, thanks to its premium glass back, made from Gorilla Glass Victus Plus. This robust material is also utilized for its expansive 6.7-inch display, which features a Super AMOLED panel with a refresh rate of 120Hz and an impressive peak brightness of 1,900 nits. Meanwhile, its IP67 rating enhances its appeal by offering dust and water resistance.

Conversely, the Pixel 9a weighs in at a lighter 186 grams but has a thicker profile at 8.9mm. Its back panel is made of plastic, contributing to the reduced weight, while its design features pastel color options like Obsidian, Porcelain, Iris, and Peony. The phone's rear is nearly flat, which some users may prefer over traditional protruding camera bumps. However, the Pixel 9a does suffer from a less premium display aesthetic due to thicker bezels and older Gorilla Glass 3 protection.

In terms of hardware and specifications, the Galaxy A36 5G is available in one configuration for the U.S. market, featuring 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage for $399.99. Other regions may offer different configurations, including up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. This model is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, which is geared towards mid-range performance, suitable for everyday multitasking and casual gaming.

In contrast, the Pixel 9a utilizes the more powerful Tensor G4 SoC found in Google's flagship models, providing better performance for gaming and demanding applications. The Pixel 9a is priced at $499 and will be available starting April 10, 2025, offering 8GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB and 256GB.

Battery life on the Galaxy A36 5G should be impressive with its 5,000mAh capacity, and Samsung recommends expecting at least a day and a half of usage. Quick charging is enabled through 45W wired charging, although the charger must be purchased separately. However, the Galaxy A36 does not offer wireless charging, which may be a drawback for some consumers.

The camera capabilities of the A36 include a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide sensor, and a 5MP macro lens, along with a 12MP front camera. A significant upgrade is the ability to record 4K HDR video with the front camera, enhancing the quality of video calls and content creation.

On the other hand, the Pixel 9a features a slightly larger 5,100mAh battery and supports multi-day battery life. It offers faster charging speeds at 23W and includes wireless charging options. The camera prowess of the Pixel 9a is where it truly shines, equipped with a 48MP main camera, a 13MP ultrawide camera, and a 13MP front camera that can also record 4K video.

In terms of software, both devices provide substantial support for future updates. The Galaxy A36 5G runs on One UI 7, based on Android 15, and promises six generations of OS updates along with security patches, marking a significant commitment from Samsung for their A series. Meanwhile, the Pixel 9a benefits from Google’s software ecosystem, which guarantees seven years of updates and access to features rolled out for the higher-end models.

Ultimately, choosing between the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G and the Google Pixel 9a boils down to individual preferences and budget considerations. At $400, the Galaxy A36 5G provides incredible value and boasts features like rapid charging and a sleek design. However, for those willing to invest an additional $100, the Pixel 9a offers enhanced durability, performance, and additional features that may cater to a wider range of users.

Whether you opt for the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G or the Google Pixel 9a, both phones represent excellent choices in the budget smartphone market, each with their unique strengths.