Samsung Galaxy A56 Specs
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.5-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED, 120Hz |
| Processor | Exynos 1280, Octa-core |
| RAM | 6GB / 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB, expandable via microSD |
| Rear Camera | 48MP (Wide) + 8MP (Ultra Wide) + 2MP (Macro) + 2MP (Depth) |
| Front Camera | 13MP |
| Battery | 5000mAh, 25W Fast Charging |
| Operating System | Android 13, One UI 5.1 |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C |
| Dimensions | 164.2 x 76.7 x 8.4 mm |
| Weight | 189g |
| Colors | Black, White, Blue, Peach |
| Price | Starting from $249 |
Samsung Galaxy A56 Review
Samsung continues to impress in the mid-range smartphone market with the Galaxy A56, a device that offers a premium design, solid performance, and an excellent display without breaking the bank. For those looking for a reliable Android phone at a lower price than Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S series, the A56 stands out as a top contender.
Design and Build Quality: 8/10
The Samsung Galaxy A56 feels every bit as premium as the flagship Galaxy S models. With its sleek design, it boasts a sturdy glass front and back (protected by Gorilla Glass Victus+), with an aluminum frame that adds to the durability. It’s IP67-rated for water and dust resistance, meaning it can withstand being submerged up to 1 meter for 30 minutes—a feature usually found on more expensive devices.
Weighing in at 198g and measuring 7.4mm thick, the Galaxy A56 feels substantial in hand but not overly heavy. Samsung has designed the phone with a “key island” on the right edge to make the power and volume buttons easier to find without looking. This small detail makes the phone feel more ergonomic and user-friendly.
Display: 8/10
Samsung has always been known for its display technology, and the Galaxy A56 is no exception. Featuring a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, this display offers vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast, making it a treat for watching videos or scrolling through social media. The peak brightness of 1200 nits ensures visibility even in direct sunlight, which is a notable improvement from previous models.
However, unlike some of its competitors, you can’t keep the 120Hz refresh rate on all the time—it’s dynamic, which means the phone adjusts the refresh rate based on what you’re doing. While it’s great for battery life, it can feel a bit limiting for those who prefer a consistently smooth experience.
Performance and Battery Life: 7/10
Under the hood, the Galaxy A56 is powered by Samsung’s own Exynos 1580 chipset, paired with up to 12GB of RAM. While it’s certainly capable of handling day-to-day tasks like social media, web browsing, and light gaming, it doesn’t quite match the performance of more premium rivals like the Google Pixel 8a or the Poco X7 Pro.
That said, the Galaxy A56 is fast enough for most users, with smooth navigation and app launches. However, if you’re into heavy gaming or performance-intensive tasks, you might find it lacking compared to other options in this price range.
When it comes to battery life, the 5,000mAh battery is one of the standout features of the Galaxy A56. It comfortably lasts through a full day of usage, including video streaming, web browsing, and social media. And with 45W fast charging, you can get from 0% to 100% in around 68 minutes—a great option for users on the go. However, the lack of wireless charging might be a deal-breaker for some.
Software and AI: 7/10
The Galaxy A56 runs Samsung’s One UI 7, based on Android 15. While the software is smooth and intuitive, with a six-year software update guarantee, it’s a bit behind flagship devices in terms of AI features. For example, it lacks the AI enhancements found on the Galaxy S25, such as the Now Bar, which delivers context-sensitive information on the lock screen.
Samsung has also stuck with its own Bixby assistant, which might be a disappointment for users who prefer the more capable Google Assistant. One UI 7 includes some nice features like a split notification menu and Samsung’s own NFC payment platform, but overall, it doesn’t quite match the AI sophistication of higher-end devices.
Cameras: 7/10
The camera setup on the Samsung Galaxy A56 is relatively unchanged from previous models, featuring a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 5MP macro lens. The main camera delivers solid results, especially in well-lit conditions. HDR processing is effective, ensuring balanced shots with both bright and dark areas.
However, the camera system isn’t without its flaws. Low-light performance is average, and while the camera is good for casual shots, it doesn’t excel in more challenging conditions. The 12MP selfie camera, while decent, could be sharper and more detailed. If you’re looking for the best camera experience in the mid-range segment, you might want to consider the Google Pixel 8a, which offers superior image quality.
Final Thoughts:
The Samsung Galaxy A56 offers an excellent balance of features at an attractive price point. While it may not boast the flagship-level performance and AI features of higher-end models, it shines in areas like design, display quality, and battery life. It’s a reliable, well-rounded option for those looking for a mid-range smartphone that doesn’t compromise on build quality or user experience.
Pros:
- Premium design and build quality
- Vibrant Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate
- Solid battery life with 45W fast charging
- Long-term software support with six years of updates
Cons:
- No wireless charging
- Lacks advanced AI features
- Performance lags behind some competitors
For anyone looking for a durable, well-designed phone with solid performance and a fantastic display, the Samsung Galaxy A56 is certainly worth considering. However, if you’re looking for the best camera or the fastest performance, you might want to explore other options in this price range.