Samsung Galaxy A36 & A26 Official: Snapdragon Chip, IP67 Rating & Faster Charging
Samsung is stepping up its mid-range game with the launch of the Galaxy A36 and A26, bringing Snapdragon power, IP67 durability, and extended software support. These new A-series models come with 6 years of OS and security updates, improved performance, faster charging, and upgraded cameras.
🔥 But how does Samsung compare to the competition? 📱 Check out our Best Midrange Phones 2025 list to see how the Galaxy A36 & A26 stack up against Xiaomi, OnePlus, and other top contenders.
If you missed it, we’ve covered the Galaxy A56 separately—here, let’s dive into what the Galaxy A36 and A26 have to offer.
Samsung Galaxy A36: Snapdragon Power & 45W Charging
Breaking away from previous Exynos and Dimensity chips, the Samsung Galaxy A36 is powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, marking a significant shift in processing power. Paired with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB storage, the A36 ensures smooth multitasking and reliable performance.
🔥 Need a phone with top-tier battery life? 🔋 Check out the best battery phones of 2025 to see how the Galaxy A36’s 5,000mAh battery and 45W fast charging compare against other long-lasting smartphones.
Key Highlights:
- ✅ Processor: Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 with enhanced cooling (15% larger vapor chamber, same as Galaxy S24+).
- ✅ Display: 6.7” Super AMOLED, FHD+ resolution, peak brightness of 1,900 nits.
- ✅ Build & Durability: Gorilla Glass Victus+ front and back, polycarbonate frame, IP67 water and dust resistance.
- ✅ Camera: 50MP main sensor (OIS, f/1.8), 8MP ultra-wide (f/2.2), 5MP macro (f/2.4). The selfie camera gets upgraded to 12MP with HDR video recording (10-bit 4K @ 30fps).
- ✅ Battery & Charging: 5,000mAh battery with a charging speed boost from 25W to 45W—66% charge in 30 minutes.
- ✅ Software & AI Features: Android 15 with One UI 7, 6 OS updates, and 6 years of security patches. Includes AI-powered features like Circle to Search, Object Eraser, and Custom Image Filters.
- ✅ Pricing: $400/€380 for 128GB, €450/£400 for 256GB.
💡 Not sure if the A36 is the right pick for you? 🤔 Read our Smartphone Buying Guide 2025 for expert tips on choosing the best phone based on performance, battery life, camera, and budget.
The Galaxy A36 maintains its predecessor’s pricing but now packs better performance, faster charging, and improved durability, making it a strong contender in the mid-range segment.
Samsung Galaxy A26: Budget-Friendly with IP67 & Exynos Power
Positioned as a cost-effective alternative to the A36, the Samsung Galaxy A26 keeps things familiar while refining some key areas. It runs on the Exynos 1380, the same chip used in last year’s Galaxy A35, ensuring solid performance at a lower price point.
🔥 Looking for even more budget-friendly options? 📱 Affordable Smartphones 2025 to compare the A26 with other top picks from Xiaomi, Realme, and Infinix.
Key Highlights:
- ✅ Processor: Exynos 1380, offering 8% lower CPU performance than the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 in the A36.
- ✅ Display: 6.7” OLED, FHD+ resolution (upgraded from 6.5” on A25), notch instead of punch-hole selfie camera.
- ✅ Build & Durability: Slimmer 7.7mm design (down from 8.3mm), IP67 water & dust resistance.
- ✅ Camera: 50MP main sensor (OIS), 8MP ultra-wide, 2MP macro. 13MP front camera (no HDR video support).
- ✅ Battery & Charging: 5,000mAh battery with 25W charging (no upgrade like the A36).
- ✅ Software & Support: Android 15 with One UI 7, 6 OS updates, and 6 years of security patches.
- ✅ Pricing: €300 for 128GB, €370/£300/$300 for 256GB.
The Galaxy A26 is essentially an A35 with minor refinements—better durability, a slightly bigger screen, and the same extended software support. However, it sticks to 25W charging and a notch display, setting it apart from the A36.
Final Thoughts: A-Series is More Competitive Than Ever
With IP67 protection, extended software support, and faster charging, Samsung’s Galaxy A36 and A26 push the boundaries of what budget and mid-range phones offer. The A36 delivers a flagship-like experience at a reasonable price, while the A26 provides excellent value for those seeking a durable, long-lasting smartphone on a budget.
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