Recently, Apple introduced the iPhone 16e, marketed as a more economical variant of its flagship models, shortly followed by Samsung unveiling its refreshed Galaxy A series for 2025. Unlike Apple’s offering starting at $599, the Galaxy A26 is designed to be a more affordable alternative, beginning at just $300. Notably, the Galaxy A56, a closer rival to the iPhone 16e, is priced at $500 and offers double the storage capacity.

If you’re considering these options, it’s important to analyze their specifications. While thorough reviews will only become available once tech professionals can test these devices, examining their features and prices side by side can be incredibly beneficial.

iPhone 16e Overview

Credit: Apple

The device formerly known as iPhone SE has been rebranded as the iPhone 16e, starting at $599 for the 128GB version. While this price may seem elevated for a midrange smartphone, it does come with solid features.

Though it sports a notch rather than the new Dynamic Island, it offers a 6.1-inch display, Apple’s cutting-edge A18 processor—missing only a single GPU core compared to the standard iPhone 16 model—alongside 8GB of RAM, advanced software capabilities, a 48MP primary camera, and extended battery life.

However, this more budget-friendly device does sacrifice certain premium features: the display remains at a standard 60Hz, lacks an always-on feature, and omits an ultra-wide camera, as well as advanced photography modes like Cinematic mode and the new Photographic Styles. Additionally, MagSafe charging is not supported.

At its essence, the iPhone 16e remains a robust choice. Apple’s reputation for long-term software support ensures that with 8GB of RAM and the A18 chip, this device will continue to perform efficiently for an extended period.

Samsung Galaxy A Series: A26, A36, and A56

Credit: Samsung

Three notable models are making waves: the Galaxy A26, priced at $300; the A36 at $400; and the A56 at $500. While the focus here will largely be on the A56—its specifications closely aligning with those of the iPhone 16e—considering the A36 is worthwhile as well.

All three models operate on One UI 7.0, which introduces features such as the Now Bar and a visual overhaul reminiscent of iOS. Although the full Galaxy AI suite is exclusive to high-end Samsung devices, the A series still enjoys access to Google’s Circle-to-Search, Filters, Best Face, Auto Trim, and Samsung’s AI Object Eraser tools—collectively termed “Awesome Intelligence.” Samsung promises a remarkable six years of OS upgrades and security patches, placing it on par with Google’s commitment to Pixel devices with seven years of updates.

In terms of hardware, all three models are equipped with a 5,000 mAh battery; however, only the A36 and A56 support 45-watt fast charging. This capability extends to the display as well: the A36 and A56 both feature a 6.7-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate, boasting a resolution of 1080 x 2340, protected by Corning Gorilla Victus+ Glass, absent in the iPhone 16e. The A26, meanwhile, comes with a smaller 6.5-inch screen, maintaining a 120Hz refresh rate and FHD+ quality. Outdoor visibility is impressive, with brightness peaking at 1,200 nits and reaching up to 1,900 nits via the Vision Booster, while the iPhone 16e is limited to 800 nits.

In terms of processing units, the Galaxy A series features diverse chipsets and RAM layouts, with the A56 housing the best performance chip. The A26 utilizes Samsung’s Exynos 1380, 6GB of RAM, and 128GB storage, while the A36 incorporates Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Gen 3, also with 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. The A56 elevates performance further with the Exynos 1580, available with either 8GB or 12GB of RAM, along with storage options of 128GB or 256GB.

When looking at raw performance metrics, the iPhone 16e significantly outshines the A56. According to initial benchmarking leaks gathered by ZoneofTech, the Exynos 1580 achieves a score of 1353 in single-core tests and 3832 in multi-core. In contrast, the A18 chip registers scores of 3317 and a substantial 8165, respectively—demonstrating more than double the processing power of the iPhone 16e.

Credit: ZoneofTech

The design across these devices varies slightly; for instance, the A26 has a plastic build while the others feature a more premium metal construction. Each model maintains sleek bezels, though the lower bezel is relatively thicker.

All three Galaxy A models boast a triple-camera system, in contrast to the iPhone’s single 48MP lens. Each unit is equipped with a 50MP wide-angle camera, where the A56 includes a 12MP ultra-wide and a 5MP macro lens, while the A36 has an 8MP ultra-wide and a 5MP macro lens. The A26 opts for an 8MP ultra-wide and a 2MP macro lens. AI photography enhancements, such as Best Take, allow for creating the best possible image by merging facial shots from different photos. The A series also features Samsung’s superior Object Eraser tool, which outperforms Apple’s equivalent feature. Additionally, the A56 and A36 can record HDR content using their main sensors.

The A series devices’ 5,000 mAh batteries are rated to provide up to 29 hours of video playback, while the iPhone 16e offers 26 hours with a single charge. However, these specifications may not accurately reflect real-world performance, so it remains crucial to await comprehensive reviews for authentic comparisons.

Much of this evaluation applies broadly across these smartphones; assessing their actual performance in everyday usage will provide a better understanding of how the camera systems and chipboards perform compared to the iPhone 16e. For now, analyzing the available specifications and data allows for an initial insight.

The Galaxy A36 5G is set to launch on March 26 in Black, Lavender, and an exclusive Lime color at Best Buy. The A26 will be available starting March 27 in Black only. The A56 is expected to arrive in the U.S. later this year, though specific color options are yet undisclosed.