Google Pixel 10a vs Samsung Galaxy A37 vs Galaxy A57: Expected differences

We’re slowly heading into 2026, and the next wave of smartphones is just around the corner. According to the latest rumors, Google’s budget Pixel 10a could launch as early as February, while Samsung’s Galaxy A37 and Galaxy A57 are expected to follow around the same time, likely in February or March.All three phones will most likely target the same potential buyers—those who don’t want to pay flagship prices but still expect a smooth, enjoyable day-to-day experience.

Pricing is less predictable this year, though. Market conditions could push both Google and Samsung toward slight increases. Even so, the Pixel 10a and Galaxy A57 are expected to land at similar prices, with the Galaxy A37 likely coming in about $100 cheaper.

Google Pixel 10a vs Samsung Galaxy A57/37 expected differences:

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*rumored/expected

The Pixel 10a is expected to be identical to the Pixel 9a, so the flat front and back that many users like will be making a comeback. That also means that the rear panel will still be plastic, while the frame will stay aluminum. Judging by the predecessors, the 10a should also be the lightest, albeit the thickest.The Galaxy A57 should feel the most premium out of this bunch, with leaks pointing to the same Samsung aluminum-and-glass combination. It will likely be thinner too, but longer and wider than the Pixel 10a. The Galaxy A37 should be almost the same as the A57 in terms of dimensions.

One major advantage of Samsung’s mid-range phones is the use of Gorilla Glass Victus Plus on both the front and back. That’s a rare feature at this price and gives these devices a clear advantage when it comes to durability.

Victus Plus offers far better drop protection and improved scratch resistance. It’s designed to handle impacts on hard surfaces and everyday wear more effectively, unlike Gorilla Glass 3, which focused mainly on reducing visible scratches.

The only notable change expected this year is thinner bezels on the Galaxy A57. That would be the result of Samsung sourcing OLED panels from CSOT instead of relying solely on Samsung Display.

This switch would also help Samsung keep production costs under control, reducing the need to raise the Galaxy A57’s price despite increasing component costs.

The Pixel 10a will almost certainly use a Tensor chip, though it’s still unclear whether Google will go with a boosted Tensor G4 or the newer G5 from the flagship Pixel 10 series.Historically, Tensor chips outperform Samsung’s mid-range Exynos silicon in CPU benchmarks, but they tend to fall behind when it comes to GPU performance, meaning the A57 might be better for gaming and image editing apps. Tensor chips are specialized in other things, such as AI features and image processing.

The Galaxy A57 is expected to run the Exynos 1680, Samsung’s next-generation mid-range chip. Early information suggests it will come with better GPU performance and higher energy efficiency than its predecessor.

The Galaxy A37 will likely use the Exynos 1480, the same chip found in the Galaxy A55 back in 2024. Compared to newer options, it sits well behind in both CPU and GPU performance. It should still handle everyday tasks without major issues, but UI navigation may feel less smooth. Also, heavier apps and multitasking could introduce more lag or longer load times.

The Pixel 10a is expected to ship with Android 1, alongside Google’s long software support promise. Users should receive seven years of Android updates, security patches, and Pixel Feature Drops.

Those Feature Drops are a key advantage when it comes to Pixel phones. They regularly add new features, including an increasing arsenal of AI tools, as well as refinements outside of the standard Android updates. This helps keep older Pixels feeling fresh longer than competing midrange phones.

The Galaxy A57 and Galaxy A37 should also launch with Android 16, paired with Samsung’s One UI 8.5. Samsung has stepped up its update commitments, and both phones are expected to receive up to six years of Android updates and security patches.

While Samsung continues to include a largely gimmicky macro camera alongside the main and ultrawide, Google sticks to a simpler dual-camera setup on the Pixel “a” series. Specs-wise, Samsung often uses slightly better sensors, especially on the A5x models.

Despite that, Pixel “a” phones consistently deliver better photo and video quality in our tests. Images are clearer, low-light performance is stronger, and video stabilization is smoother thanks to OIS, whereas Galaxy mid-rangers still rely on EIS only.

The Pixel 10a is expected to keep the large 5,100 mAh battery from its predecessor. If its battery life matches that of the Pixel 9a, it should outlast the Galaxy A57 and A37 by one to two hours.

Charging, however, will likely remain slower on the Pixel 10a, which is expected to top out at around 23 W, compared to the 45 W on both Galaxy mid-rangers.

Unlike the A57 and A37, the Pixel 10a should support wireless charging, likely at up to 7.5 W. There’s also hope that Google will add PixelSnap support, enabling compatibility with magnetic accessories.

*rumored/expected

Neither Google nor Samsung appears to be planning major changes for their mid-range phones this year. So far, the Pixel 10a has no rumored upgrades beyond new color options, while Samsung’s Galaxy A57 and A37 are mainly expected to introduce new chipsets.

If the changes really are this minor, it’s reasonable to expect a similar dynamic to last year. The Pixel 10a should stand out with stronger camera performance, a focus on AI features, and excellent battery life.

The Galaxy A57 is likely to differentiate itself with more premium materials, faster charging, and a larger display. The Galaxy A37, meanwhile, should be a scaled-down version of the A57, with weaker performance, slightly lower battery life, and similar camera and display quality.