Introduction
The Samsung Galaxy A36, released on March 10, 2025, is a mid-range smartphone that emphasizes practicality, durability, and reliable performance. Priced at ₹32,999 for the 128GB model and ₹35,999 for the 256GB variant, it offers a balanced blend of features suitable for a wide range of users.
Design and Build Quality
The Galaxy A36 features a glass front and back protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+, framed by glossy plastic. This design provides a solid feel, though the glossy finish can be slightly slippery. The device measures 162.9 x 78.2 x 7.4 mm and weighs 195 grams, offering a comfortable in-hand experience. Its IP67 rating ensures resistance to dust and water, enhancing its durability. However, the pronounced camera bump may cause the phone to wobble when placed on flat surfaces.
Display
The A36 boasts a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant colors and smooth visuals. With a resolution of 1080 x 2340 pixels and a peak brightness of 1900 nits, the screen ensures clarity even under direct sunlight. The display also supports HDR content, enhancing the viewing experience for multimedia consumption.
Performance
Powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset, the Galaxy A36 handles daily tasks efficiently. However, multitasking and high-end gaming may experience occasional slowdowns. The device comes with options of 6GB, 8GB, or 12GB of RAM, and storage variants of 128GB or 256GB, utilizing UFS 2.2 technology. While sufficient for general use, the storage speed may not satisfy users seeking faster data transfer rates.
Camera
The A36 is equipped with a triple-camera setup: a 50MP main sensor with f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization, an 8MP ultra-wide lens with a 123° field of view, and a 5MP macro lens. The main camera captures detailed and vibrant photos, though images may exhibit a cooler tone. The ultra-wide lens produces oversaturated colors, which might not appeal to users seeking color accuracy. The 12MP front-facing camera supports 4K video recording and delivers clear selfies.
Battery and Charging
Featuring a 5000mAh battery, the Galaxy A36 ensures a full day of usage with moderate to heavy tasks. It supports 45W wired charging, achieving approximately 66% charge in 30 minutes and a full charge in about 68 minutes. Notably, the device does not include a charging adapter in the box, requiring users to purchase one separately.
Software and Features
Running on Android 15 with Samsung's One UI 7, the A36 offers a user-friendly interface with extensive customization options. Samsung commits to six years of OS and security updates, ensuring long-term support. The device includes basic AI enhancements, such as 'Circle to Search' and 'Object Eraser,' derived from Samsung's flagship series, enhancing user convenience.
Connectivity
The Galaxy A36 supports 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, and NFC, catering to modern connectivity needs. However, it lacks a 3.5mm headphone jack and does not support expandable storage via microSD cards, which may be a limitation for some users.
Pros
Durable Build: The combination of Gorilla Glass Victus+ and IP67 rating ensures resilience against daily wear and tear.
Vibrant Display: The Super AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate offers an immersive viewing experience.
Long-Term Software Support: Six years of OS and security updates provide extended device longevity.
Cons
Average Performance: The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 chipset may not satisfy users seeking high-end performance, especially for intensive gaming.
No Expandable Storage: The absence of a microSD slot limits storage expansion options.
No Included Charger: The exclusion of a charging adapter necessitates an additional purchase.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy A36 is a reliable mid-range smartphone that prioritizes durability, display quality, and long-term software support. While it may not cater to users seeking top-tier performance or expandable storage, it offers a balanced feature set suitable for everyday use. Its competitive pricing and commitment to software updates make it a compelling choice for those valuing longevity and practicality.