Home Mobile ReviewsSamsung Galaxy A36 5G Review 2026: 7 Key Reasons This Midrange Powerhouse Delivers

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Review 2026: 7 Key Reasons This Midrange Powerhouse Delivers

7.6 /10 Good Choice

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Review reveals a midrange smartphone that brings premium features to an accessible price point. Launched on March 2, 2025, at ₹33,999. The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G specifications reveal a well-rounded midrange smartphone that prioritizes display quality, camera performance, and longevity. The 120Hz Super AMOLED screen with 1900 nits peak brightness handles outdoor visibility excellently. The Sony IMX882 sensor delivers reliable photography, while 45W charging solves the speed concern. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor handles daily tasks and moderate gaming adequately, though intensive users might notice limitations. The six-year software support commitment makes this device a smart long-term investment.

Processor

Qualcomm SM6475-AB Snapdragon 6 Gen 3

Display

6.7 " Full HD+ (FHD+) Super AMOLED 120 Hz

Rear Camera

50 MP + 8 MP + 5 MP

Front Camera

12 MP

Battery

5000 mAh (45 W)

OS

Android 15 with One UI 7

RAM

6 GB / 8 GB / 12 GB LPDDR5X

Storage

128 GB / 256 GB

Category Ratings

Design & Build 8.0/10
Display Quality 8.5/10
Performance 7.0/10
Camera System 7.5/10
Battery Life 7.5/10
Value for Money 7.5/10

Pros

  • Premium 120Hz AMOLED display with 1900 nits peak brightness and excellent outdoor visibility
  • 45W fast charging and 6-year software support (6 OS upgrades + 6 years security updates)
  • Stereo speakers, Sony IMX882 main camera, and IP67 water/dust resistance in midrange segment

Cons

  • No microSD card expansion or wireless charging limits storage and convenience options
  • Optical fingerprint sensor is slower than ultrasonic alternatives found in competitors
  • Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 limits intensive gaming and multitasking vs Snapdragon 7+ alternatives

Who Should Buy This?

Best For

  • Multimedia Enthusiasts
  • Long-Term Users
  • Photography Hobbyists

Not Ideal For

  • Intensive Mobile Gamers
  • Storage Power Users
  • Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 Performance Limitations
  • Wireless Charging Advocates

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Prices

Amazon
₹35,499 In Stock
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Flipkart
₹35,499 In Stock
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Samsung
₹35,499 In Stock
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Price Disclaimer: Prices are subject to change and may vary from the actual price at the store. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the prices shown. Please check with the retailer before purchasing.

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Quick Overview

Launch Date: March 2, 2025
Starting Price: ₹33,999 (Amazon, Flipkart, Samsung)
Best For: Multimedia enthusiasts and users seeking long-term software support
Key Highlight: 6 years of software updates (6 OS upgrades + 6 years security patches)
Overall Score: 7.6/10 – Great Value

Quick Verdict: The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G specifications reveal a well-rounded midrange smartphone that prioritizes display quality, camera performance, and longevity. The 120Hz Super AMOLED screen with 1900 nits peak brightness handles outdoor visibility excellently. The Sony IMX882 sensor delivers reliable photography, while 45W charging solves the speed concern. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor handles daily tasks and moderate gaming adequately, though intensive users might notice limitations. The six-year software support commitment makes this device a smart long-term investment.

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Design & Build Quality Analysis

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G measures 162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4mm and weighs 195 grams, creating a balanced form factor for extended use. According to the dimensions, this device maintains a slim 7.4mm profile while housing a 5000mAh battery. The weight distribution feels appropriate for a 6.7-inch device, though prolonged one-handed operation may prove challenging for smaller hands.

Samsung has implemented Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back panels, providing substantial scratch and drop protection. The frame specifications show plastic construction instead of metal, representing a cost-saving measure that doesn’t significantly compromise durability. The glass back elevates the premium feel beyond typical plastic-backed competitors in this price segment.

The IP67 certification indicates protection against dust ingress and water immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes. This rating provides peace of mind for daily use scenarios including rain exposure and accidental spills. The IP67 protection standard ensures reliable durability without requiring the more expensive IP68 rating found in flagship devices.

Color options include Awesome Lavender, Awesome Black, Awesome White, and Awesome Lime. The variety accommodates different aesthetic preferences, with the Lavender variant offering distinctive visual appeal. Button placement follows Samsung’s conventional layout with volume rockers and power button on the right edge. The USB Type-C 2.0 port sits at the bottom alongside the SIM tray, though the absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack may disappoint wired audio enthusiasts.

The Infinity-O punch-hole design keeps the display interruption minimal. The centralized front camera cutout measures approximately 3.5mm in diameter based on typical Samsung implementations. This design choice maintains symmetry while maximizing screen real estate. Overall, the build quality specifications suggest a device that balances premium materials with manufacturing costs effectively.

Display Specifications and Experience

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with 1080 x 2340 pixel resolution (FHD+), delivering 393 pixels per inch. According to the display specifications, this pixel density ensures sharp text rendering and detailed image reproduction for everyday content consumption. The Super AMOLED technology provides the deep blacks and vibrant colors characteristic of Samsung’s display expertise.

The 120Hz refresh rate transforms the user experience compared to standard 60Hz panels. Scrolling through social media feeds, browsing websites, and navigating the user interface exhibits noticeably smoother motion. The specifications indicate adaptive refresh rate technology that automatically adjusts between 60Hz and 120Hz based on content, optimizing battery consumption. Gaming benefits from the higher refresh rate in supported titles, though the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3’s GPU limits frame rate potential in demanding games.

Peak brightness reaches 1900 nits according to Samsung’s High Brightness Mode (HBM) specifications, with typical brightness at 1200 nits. Third-party measurements confirm approximately 1233 nits maximum brightness under direct sunlight triggering. This brightness capability ensures excellent outdoor visibility even in harsh lighting conditions. Indoor usage at 400-600 nits provides comfortable viewing without excessive battery drain.

Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection represents a significant upgrade over standard Gorilla Glass 5 or earlier generations. The Corning Victus+ specifications indicate improved drop protection and scratch resistance. This premium protection typically appears in devices costing ₹10,000-15,000 more, demonstrating Samsung’s commitment to durability in the midrange segment.

The display supports 16 million colors and HDR content playback. Streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video display HDR10+ certified content with enhanced dynamic range. The specifications show no mention of DCI-P3 color gamut coverage, suggesting standard sRGB color space targeting. For typical users consuming social media, videos, and photos, this limitation remains imperceptible.

Screen-to-body ratio reaches approximately 87% based on the dimensions and display size calculations. The bezels maintain reasonable symmetry with a slightly larger chin at the bottom. The Infinity-O punch-hole doesn’t obstruct content significantly, though full-screen video playback shows minor cropping in 16:9 content.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 Performance Analysis

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Review examines the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4nm) chipset, featuring an octa-core configuration with four Cortex-A78 cores at 2.4GHz and four Cortex-A55 efficiency cores at 1.8GHz. According to Qualcomm’s specifications, this mid-tier processor targets devices between ₹20,000-40,000, prioritizing power efficiency over raw performance. The 4nm manufacturing process delivers improved thermal efficiency compared to older 6nm or 8nm architectures.

The Adreno 710 GPU handles graphics processing duties. Expected performance positions this GPU between the Adreno 640 and Adreno 730, capable of running popular mobile games like BGMI, Free Fire, and COD Mobile at medium to high settings. Based on typical Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 benchmark results, AnTuTu scores range between 420,000-450,000 points, while Geekbench 6 delivers approximately 900-950 single-core and 2400-2600 multi-core scores.

The 8GB LPDDR5X RAM configuration provides adequate multitasking capability. LPDDR5X offers bandwidth improvements over standard LPDDR5, reaching data transfer rates up to 8533 MT/s according to JEDEC specifications. Real-world implications include smoother app switching, better background process handling, and improved overall system responsiveness. Users running 8-10 apps simultaneously should experience minimal slowdown.

Internal storage utilizes UFS 2.2 technology with 128GB capacity. While not the fastest UFS 3.1 or UFS 4.0 found in flagship devices, UFS 2.2 provides sequential read speeds around 800-900 MB/s and write speeds near 200-250 MB/s. App loading times remain snappy, though large file transfers and intensive gaming show the speed gap compared to premium storage solutions. The absence of microSD expansion means users must manage storage carefully, especially when capturing 4K video.

Gaming performance on the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 reveals clear capabilities and limitations. Light to moderate games like Clash Royale, Subway Surfers, and Candy Crush run flawlessly at maximum settings. Mid-tier titles such as BGMI and COD Mobile achieve 60fps at medium settings with occasional drops during intensive scenes. Heavy games like Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail run at low to medium settings with 30-40fps average, limiting the experience for competitive players.

The Android 15 operating system with One UI 7 includes Samsung’s optimizations for smoother performance. The specifications confirm Samsung’s commitment to 6 major OS upgrades (through Android 21) plus 6 years of security updates. This extended support period surpasses most competitors in this price segment, ensuring the device remains secure and receives feature updates until 2031.

Camera System Analysis

Rear Camera Setup Deep-Dive

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G camera specifications reveal a triple-lens configuration headlined by a 50MP Sony IMX882 sensor. According to Sony’s sensor specifications, this 1/1.96-inch sensor uses 0.8µm pixels with f/1.8 aperture, enabling strong light-gathering capability. The IMX882 represents a significant upgrade over generic sensors typically found in this price range, providing superior dynamic range and low-light performance.

Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) on the main camera addresses blur from hand movement during photo and video capture. The specifications indicate gyroscope-based stabilization working in conjunction with Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) for video recording. This dual stabilization approach produces smoother footage compared to EIS-only implementations. Night photography benefits substantially from OIS, allowing longer exposure times without blur.

The 8MP ultra-wide camera uses a GalaxyCore GC08A3 sensor with 1/4.0-inch size and 1.12µm pixels. The f/2.2 aperture and 123-degree field of view capture expansive landscapes and group photos. While resolution drops to 8MP compared to the main sensor, the specifications show adequate detail for social media sharing and casual photography. Distortion correction algorithms address the barrel distortion inherent in ultra-wide lenses.

A 5MP macro camera with f/2.4 aperture rounds out the rear setup using a GalaxyCore GC05A3 sensor. Macro photography allows focusing as close as 4cm to subjects, ideal for capturing flowers, insects, and small objects. The 5MP resolution provides sufficient detail for close-up shots, though the sensor’s small size limits low-light macro photography effectiveness.

Camera features include Phase Detection Autofocus (PDAF), AI Scene Detection, Portrait Mode, Night Mode, Pro Mode, and Pro Video. The PDAF system ensures quick and accurate focusing on moving subjects. AI Scene Detection automatically optimizes settings across multiple categories like food, landscapes, and pets. Pro Mode grants manual control over ISO, shutter speed, white balance, and focus for photography enthusiasts.

Video Recording Capabilities

Video specifications show 4K recording at 30fps on both rear and front cameras. According to the technical details, 1080p recording supports both 30fps and 60fps frame rates. The Gyro-EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) combined with OIS on the main sensor produces stable footage during walking or panning movements. HDR video recording enhances dynamic range in high-contrast scenes.

The front-facing 12MP GalaxyCore GC12A2 sensor with f/2.2 aperture handles selfies and video calls. The 1/3.2-inch sensor size with fixed focus ensures sharp images at typical selfie distances. Portrait mode applies bokeh effects to blur backgrounds, while AI Beauty mode smooths skin tones. Video recording reaches 4K at 30fps with 10-bit HDR support, delivering exceptional quality for video calls and content creation.

Photography Analysis Based on Specifications

Low-light photography benefits from the Sony IMX882’s larger sensor size and OIS. The f/1.8 aperture gathers more light than f/2.0 or f/2.2 alternatives, reducing noise in dim conditions. Night mode stacks multiple exposures to further brighten scenes while maintaining detail. Expected performance positions night shots between budget sensors (excessive noise) and flagship-level computational photography.

The zoom capabilities extend to 10x digital zoom on the main sensor. Without a dedicated telephoto lens, image quality degrades progressively beyond 2-3x magnification. The specifications suggest adequate results up to 3x for social media sharing, with noticeable quality loss at 5x and beyond. Users requiring strong telephoto performance should consider devices with dedicated zoom lenses.

Portrait mode uses depth information from the 5MP macro camera and software algorithms to create bokeh effects. Edge detection around subjects shows typical midrange accuracy—excellent on simple backgrounds but struggling with complex elements like hair strands. The f/1.8 main aperture creates natural background blur for close-up shots even without computational assistance.

Battery Capacity and Charging Technology

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G battery specifications confirm a 5000mAh cell, representing the current standard for midrange and flagship Android smartphones. According to the capacity, this power reserve supports extended usage across various scenarios. Light usage involving calls, messages, and occasional browsing should deliver 2+ days of runtime. Moderate usage with 4-6 hours of screen time including social media, streaming, and photography typically provides 1.5 days before requiring recharge.

Heavy usage scenarios reveal the battery’s limitations. Continuous gaming at high brightness, 4K video recording, or intensive app usage drains the 5000mAh capacity in 8-10 hours. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3’s 4nm efficiency helps, though the 120Hz display and 1900 nits peak brightness capability demand substantial power. The adaptive refresh rate technology automatically drops to 60Hz during static content, conserving battery meaningfully.

The 45W Super Fast Charging represents a significant upgrade over the 25W charging common in previous Galaxy A-series models. According to Samsung’s charging specifications, the device reaches 66% capacity in 30 minutes and 100% in approximately 68 minutes. This charging speed competes directly with Chinese brands offering 60W-80W charging but surpasses Apple’s iPhone charging speeds significantly.

The package contents show no travel adapter included—only a USB Type-C cable ships with the device. Users must purchase a compatible 45W charger separately or use existing Samsung Super Fast Chargers. Third-party USB Power Delivery (PD) chargers with 45W output also work, providing flexibility for users with multiple devices. The USB Type-C 2.0 port supports both charging and data transfer at 480 Mbps.

Wireless charging remains absent from the specifications, a cost-cutting measure distinguishing midrange from flagship devices. The convenience of wireless charging appeals to users with charging stands at desks or bedside tables, though the absence doesn’t fundamentally impact functionality. Reverse wireless charging also isn’t supported, preventing battery sharing with accessories like wireless earbuds.

Power-saving features in One UI 7 extend battery life during low-charge situations. The specifications suggest adaptive battery learning that identifies rarely-used apps and restricts background activity. Light and Medium power-saving modes reduce performance and limit background processes, while Maximum power-saving mode restricts functionality to essential apps only.

Software, Features & User Experience

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G ships with Android 15 and One UI 7 pre-installed, representing Samsung’s latest software iteration. According to the operating system specifications, One UI 7 introduces refined animations, improved privacy controls, and enhanced customization options. The interface maintains Samsung’s characteristic feature-rich approach while incorporating Google’s Material You design language elements.

Samsung’s commitment to 6 major OS upgrades ensures the device receives updates through Android 21 (expected in 2030-2031). Additionally, 6 years of security patches protect against vulnerabilities through March 2031. This support duration matches Google Pixel devices and exceeds most competitors in the under-₹40,000 segment. The long-term software commitment makes this device a smart investment for users planning multi-year ownership.

One UI 7 includes Samsung’s Awesome Intelligence features powered by on-device and cloud AI. Circle to Search allows users to draw circles, scribbles, or highlights around screen content to trigger Google Search without switching apps. Object Eraser removes unwanted elements from photos using AI content-aware fill. These features, typically exclusive to flagship Galaxy S series devices, democratize access to advanced AI capabilities.

Security features include Samsung Knox Vault, an EAL5+ certified security platform. Knox Vault protects sensitive data like passwords, biometric information, and payment details in a hardware-isolated environment. The specifications show an optical in-display fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, though optical sensors typically respond slower than ultrasonic alternatives. 2D face recognition provides alternative unlocking, though it offers less security than 3D facial mapping systems.

Pre-installed applications on One UI include Samsung’s suite (Samsung Internet, Samsung Notes, Samsung Health, Samsung Members, Samsung Shop) alongside Google’s standard apps. According to typical Samsung implementations, some carrier-specific or regional apps may constitute bloatware depending on the purchase source. Most pre-installed apps can be uninstalled or disabled through settings, freeing storage space.

The sensor array includes an accelerometer, gyroscope, magnetometer (compass), ambient light sensor, and virtual proximity sensing. Virtual proximity sensing uses the front camera and software to detect objects near the screen during calls, a cost-saving measure compared to dedicated proximity hardware. Gaming benefits from the gyroscope sensor enabling motion controls in racing and shooting games.

Special features include Samsung DeX compatibility, enabling desktop-mode connectivity when connected to external monitors. SmartThings integration controls smart home devices directly from the phone. Quick Share facilitates fast file transfers to other Samsung devices and Windows PCs. These ecosystem features provide substantial value for users invested in Samsung’s product family.

Split-screen multitasking and floating window modes leverage the large 6.7-inch display. According to the specifications, users can run two apps side-by-side or overlay floating windows for picture-in-picture functionality. The 8GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking performance across multiple applications simultaneously.

Connectivity Options and Special Features

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G network specifications confirm comprehensive 5G support across Sub-6GHz bands including N1, N3, N5, N7, N8, N20, N28, N38, N40, N41, N66, N77, and N78. Both Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G architectures are supported. Indian carriers Jio, Airtel, and VI operate primarily on N77 and N78 bands, ensuring full compatibility with domestic 5G networks. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3’s integrated X51 5G modem provides reliable connectivity with power-efficient operation.

4G LTE support spans numerous bands (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 17, 20, 25, 26, 28, 32, 38, 40, 41, 66) ensuring global roaming compatibility. VoLTE (Voice over LTE) and VoNR (Voice over New Radio for 5G) support enables high-definition voice calls over data networks. All major Indian carriers support these technologies, eliminating the need to fall back to 3G for voice calls.

The SIM configuration allows dual nano-SIM plus dual eSIM slots, supporting up to two active connections simultaneously. Users can maintain separate personal and work numbers or use local and international SIMs while traveling. The eSIM functionality provides flexibility for digital-only carrier plans, though adoption remains limited in India compared to physical SIM cards.

Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) support delivers faster speeds and better efficiency compared to older Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) standards. According to Wi-Fi Alliance specifications, Wi-Fi 6 provides up to 40% higher speeds in congested environments like apartments or offices. Dual-band operation (2.4GHz and 5GHz) ensures compatibility with all routers while enabling optimal performance on 5GHz networks.

Bluetooth 5.4 represents the latest iteration of wireless technology, offering improved range, speed, and power efficiency over Bluetooth 5.3 or earlier. The Bluetooth SIG specifications show enhanced LE (Low Energy) capabilities beneficial for connected accessories like smartwatches, fitness trackers, and wireless earbuds. A2DP profile support enables high-quality audio streaming to Bluetooth headphones and speakers.

NFC (Near Field Communication) functionality enables contactless payments through Samsung Pay, Google Pay, and other digital wallets. The specifications confirm NFC reader mode support, allowing the device to read NFC tags for automation or information access. This feature increasingly important as India accelerates digital payment adoption.

GPS positioning utilizes five satellite systems: GPS (USA), GLONASS (Russia), Galileo (Europe), BeiDou (China), and QZSS (Japan). This quad-constellation support ensures accurate location tracking even in urban canyons or dense foliage. Navigation apps like Google Maps benefit from faster GPS locks and maintained accuracy.

USB Type-C 2.0 provides 480 Mbps data transfer speeds matching USB 2.0 standards. While slower than USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1’s 5Gbps or USB 3.2’s 10Gbps, the Type-C 2.0 specification handles typical file transfers adequately. OTG (On-The-Go) support enables connecting USB drives, keyboards, mice, and other peripherals directly to the phone.

Audio capabilities include dual stereo speakers providing immersive sound for media consumption and gaming. The specifications show no Dolby Atmos or Hi-Res Audio certification, suggesting standard audio quality without premium spatial audio processing. The absence of a 3.5mm headphone jack requires USB-C or Bluetooth audio accessories.

The lack of an infrared (IR) blaster prevents using the phone as a universal remote for TVs and air conditioners. This omission, increasingly common in modern smartphones, may disappoint users who prefer consolidated device control. FM radio support is also absent, requiring internet streaming for radio content.

Who Should Buy Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Review?

Category Ratings

Design & Build: 8.0/10
Display Quality: 8.5/10
Performance: 7.0/10
Camera System: 7.5/10
Battery Life: 7.5/10
Value for Money: 7.5/10

Best For

Primary Purpose: Multimedia Enthusiasts
The 6.7-inch 120Hz Super AMOLED display with 1900 nits peak brightness excels for content consumption. According to the display specifications, streaming Netflix, YouTube, and Prime Video delivers vibrant colors and excellent outdoor visibility. Dual stereo speakers enhance the audio-visual experience significantly.

Secondary Purpose: Long-Term Users
The 6-year software support commitment (6 OS upgrades + 6 years security updates) makes this device ideal for users planning 3-4 year ownership cycles. The specifications ensure security patches through 2031, protecting against vulnerabilities long after competing devices stop receiving updates.

Tertiary Purpose: Photography Hobbyists
The 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor with OIS delivers reliable photography for social media, travel, and everyday moments. The camera specifications show capabilities exceeding typical midrange sensors, producing detailed photos with good dynamic range in favorable lighting conditions.

Not Ideal For

Intensive Mobile Gamers: The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor and Adreno 710 GPU handle light to moderate gaming well, but struggle with demanding titles like Genshin Impact or demanding AAA games at high settings. Users prioritizing gaming performance should consider devices with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 or Dimensity 8200 chipsets in this price range.

Storage Power Users: The 128GB UFS 2.2 internal storage without microSD expansion limits users who store extensive offline media, large game files, or 4K video recordings. The specifications show no expansion options, making the device unsuitable for users requiring 256GB+ storage.

Wireless Charging Advocates: The absence of wireless charging may disappoint users accustomed to cable-free charging convenience. The specifications confirm wired-only charging, requiring users to connect cables for every charge cycle.

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G vs Competition

The under-₹35,000 segment offers fierce competition across brands. Generic alternatives provide different trade-offs compared to the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G specifications.

Display Comparison: Few competitors match the A36’s 120Hz Super AMOLED with 1900 nits peak brightness at this price. Most alternatives use LCD panels with 500-600 nits brightness or AMOLED screens with 60Hz-90Hz refresh rates. The Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection exceeds the standard Gorilla Glass 5 common in this segment.

Processing Power: The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 falls behind some competitors offering Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 or MediaTek Dimensity 8200 chipsets. These alternatives provide 20-30% better CPU performance and 40-50% superior GPU capabilities. However, the A36’s efficient 4nm architecture delivers better battery life compared to performance-focused alternatives.

Software Support: Samsung’s 6-year update commitment outclasses most competitors offering 2-3 OS upgrades and 3-4 years of security patches. This extended support significantly improves long-term value and device security. Only Google Pixel devices match this support duration in the Android ecosystem.

Camera Capabilities: The Sony IMX882 sensor with OIS provides advantages over generic 64MP or 108MP sensors without stabilization. However, some competitors include dedicated telephoto lenses (2x-3x optical zoom) that the A36 lacks. Ultra-wide camera quality remains competitive at 8MP, though some alternatives offer 13MP or 16MP ultra-wide sensors.

Charging Speed: The 45W fast charging surpasses many alternatives offering 25W-33W charging but falls short of Chinese brands providing 60W-80W charging solutions. The specification reaches practical charging speeds without extreme fast-charging that may degrade battery health faster.

Unique Advantages: The combination of IP67 water resistance, stereo speakers, OIS on the main camera, and premium Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection distinguishes the A36 from similarly-priced alternatives. Most competitors sacrifice one or more of these features to achieve lower pricing.

Price-to-Performance: At ₹33,999, the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G offers balanced value. Alternatives with better processors cost ₹3,000-5,000 more, while cheaper devices sacrifice display quality, camera sensors, or build materials. The software support duration adds substantial long-term value often overlooked in specifications-only comparisons.

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Price Analysis

The launch price of ₹33,999 positions the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G competitively in the premium midrange segment. Based on typical Samsung pricing patterns, expect gradual price reductions of ₹2,000-3,000 within 4-6 months post-launch. Festival sales like Amazon Prime Day, Flipkart Big Billion Days, or Samsung Fest events often bring temporary discounts of ₹3,000-5,000.

The price-to-value proposition favors long-term buyers. When factoring the 6-year software support, the effective annual cost drops to approximately ₹5,665 for users maintaining the device through 2031. Competing devices requiring replacement after 3 years due to outdated software cost significantly more over equivalent periods.

Compared to category averages, the ₹33,999 price point balances premium features (120Hz AMOLED, IP67, OIS camera, 45W charging) with midrange compromises (Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, no expandable storage, optical fingerprint).

Color availability includes Awesome Lavender, Awesome Black, Awesome White, and Awesome Lime across all retailers. Regional variants or carrier-exclusive colors may appear in specific markets over time.

Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Pros and Cons

Pros

Premium 120Hz Super AMOLED Display: The 6.7-inch screen delivers 1900 nits peak brightness with Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection, ensuring excellent outdoor visibility and durability. The 120Hz refresh rate transforms scrolling and gaming smoothness compared to standard 60Hz panels.

Industry-Leading 6-Year Software Support: According to Samsung’s commitment, the device receives 6 major OS upgrades through Android 21 plus 6 years of security patches until 2031. This extended support significantly outlasts competing devices and improves long-term value.

Sony IMX882 Main Camera with OIS: The 50MP Sony sensor represents flagship-level camera hardware in a midrange device. Optical Image Stabilization reduces blur in photos and videos, delivering superior results compared to non-stabilized alternatives.

45W Fast Charging Speed: The specifications show 66% charge in 30 minutes and full charge in 68 minutes. This charging speed solves the midrange segment’s typical slow-charging problem without requiring premium pricing.

Comprehensive Build Quality: IP67 water and dust resistance, dual stereo speakers, and premium Gorilla Glass Victus+ front and back distinguish the A36 from cheaper plastic alternatives. The build quality matches devices costing ₹5,000-7,000 more.

Dual Stereo Speakers: Immersive audio enhances media consumption, gaming, and video calls. Most competitors in this price range offer single bottom-firing speakers with inferior sound quality.

Cons

No microSD Card Expansion: The 128GB internal storage cannot be expanded, limiting users who store extensive media or game files. The UFS 2.2 storage fills quickly with 4K videos and large applications, requiring careful storage management.

Optical Fingerprint Sensor: The under-display optical sensor responds slower than ultrasonic fingerprint sensors found in premium competitors. The specifications suggest typical 0.3-0.5 second unlock times compared to ultrasonic sensors’ 0.1-0.2 second response.

Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 Performance Limitations: The processor handles daily tasks smoothly but struggles with intensive gaming and heavy multitasking. Users requiring maximum performance should consider devices with Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 or Dimensity 8200 chipsets.

No Wireless Charging: The absence of wireless charging eliminates the convenience of cable-free charging pads. Users accustomed to wireless charging must adapt to wired connections for every charge cycle.

Limited Storage Speed: UFS 2.2 storage delivers adequate but not exceptional read/write speeds compared to UFS 3.1 or UFS 4.0 in flagship devices. Large file transfers and game loading times show noticeable differences versus faster storage technologies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Review worth buying in 2026?

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G specifications reveal a worthy midrange purchase for users prioritizing display quality, software support, and balanced features. The 120Hz Super AMOLED screen, 6-year update commitment, and Sony IMX882 camera justify the ₹33,999 price. However, intensive gamers or storage power users should consider alternatives with stronger processors or expandable storage options.

What is the battery life of Samsung Galaxy A36 5G?

According to the 5000mAh battery specifications, light usage (calls, messages, occasional browsing) delivers 2+ days runtime. Moderate usage with 4-6 hours screen time provides approximately 1.5 days battery life. Heavy usage involving gaming, 4K recording, or continuous streaming drains the battery in 8-10 hours. The 45W fast charging reaches 66% in 30 minutes, minimizing downtime.

Does Samsung Galaxy A36 5G support 5G in India?

Yes, the network specifications confirm comprehensive 5G support on bands N77 and N78, which Indian carriers Jio, Airtel, and VI primarily use. Both Standalone (SA) and Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G architectures are supported. VoNR (Voice over New Radio) enables voice calls directly over 5G networks where carrier support exists.

What are the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G camera specifications?

The rear camera system includes a 50MP Sony IMX882 main sensor (f/1.8, OIS), 8MP ultra-wide (f/2.2, 123° FOV), and 5MP macro (f/2.4). The front camera uses a 12MP sensor (f/2.2) with 10-bit HDR video. Recording capabilities reach 4K@30fps on both front and rear cameras, with 1080p@60fps available for smoother video.

Is Samsung Galaxy A36 5G good for gaming?

The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor handles light to moderate gaming adequately. Popular titles like BGMI, Free Fire, and COD Mobile run at medium to high settings with 60fps. However, demanding games like Genshin Impact require low to medium settings with 30-40fps average. The 120Hz display benefits gaming when frame rates permit, though the GPU limits maximum performance potential.

Does Samsung Galaxy A36 5G have expandable storage?

No, the specifications show no microSD card slot for storage expansion. The 128GB UFS 2.2 internal storage represents the fixed capacity. Users requiring additional storage must manage space carefully or consider cloud storage solutions. The absence of expansion may prove limiting for users who download extensive offline content or record substantial 4K video.

What is the warranty period for Samsung Galaxy A36 5G?

Samsung typically provides a 1-year manufacturer warranty covering manufacturing defects and hardware failures. Extended warranty options may be available for purchase through Samsung Care+ or third-party providers. Warranty terms vary by retailer—check specific warranty coverage when purchasing from Amazon, Flipkart, or Samsung's official store.

Where can I buy Samsung Galaxy A36 5G at the best price?

The device is available at ₹33,999 across Amazon India, Flipkart, and Samsung official store. Watch for bank discounts, exchange bonuses, or festival sales that can reduce the effective price by ₹2,000-5,000. Check our specifications page for real-time pricing updates across all platforms.

Does Samsung Galaxy A36 5G come with a charger in the box?

No, according to the in-the-box specifications, only a USB Type-C data cable and SIM ejection pin are included. No travel adapter (charger) ships with the device. Users must purchase a compatible 45W charger separately or use existing Samsung Super Fast Chargers to achieve maximum charging speed.

How does the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G display compare to competitors?

The 6.7-inch 120Hz Super AMOLED display with 1900 nits peak brightness and Gorilla Glass Victus+ protection exceeds most competitors under ₹35,000. Most alternatives offer LCD panels with lower brightness, 60Hz-90Hz refresh rates, or standard Gorilla Glass 5 protection. The specifications position the A36's display quality closer to flagship territory than typical midrange panels.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy?

7.6 /10
Good Choice

The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G specifications reveal a well-balanced midrange smartphone that prioritizes longevity and user experience over raw performance specifications. The device excels in display quality, camera hardware, build materials, and software support duration. These strengths appeal to mainstream users seeking reliable daily drivers with premium features.

The 120Hz Super AMOLED display with 1900 nits peak brightness stands as the device’s headline feature. According to the specifications, few competitors at ₹33,999 match this combination of smoothness, brightness, and protection. The Gorilla Glass Victus+ on front and back panels ensures long-term durability that justifies the initial investment.

Samsung’s 6-year software support commitment transforms the value proposition. When competitors stop receiving updates after 2-3 years, this device continues receiving new features and security patches through 2031. The specifications confirm an effective ownership cost advantage for users who maintain devices for 3+ years.

The Sony IMX882 camera sensor with OIS delivers photography capabilities exceeding typical midrange standards. While not matching flagship-level computational photography, the specifications show sufficient quality for social media, travel, and daily photography. The IP67 water resistance and dual stereo speakers complete a feature set typically reserved for higher price points.

Compromises exist. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor limits gaming performance and intensive multitasking compared to Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 alternatives. The lack of microSD expansion and wireless charging may frustrate some users. The optical fingerprint sensor responds slower than ultrasonic alternatives. However, these limitations affect specific use cases rather than general usability.

Final Score: 7.6/10 – Great Value

Bottom Line: The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G Review concludes this device suits users who prioritize display quality, long-term software support, and balanced features over maximum performance. The ₹33,999 price point delivers excellent value when considering the extended update commitment and premium build quality. Consider alternatives only if intensive gaming or expandable storage rank as non-negotiable requirements.

Disclaimer: Prices and specifications shown may vary from actual products. Please check with the retailer before purchasing.