By Peter Nalika and Tim Muinga
The Samsung A36 cuts the complexity in picking a practical, long-lasting, high tolerance to both dry and wet weather conditions and still affordable phone that will be with you for years of use. The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G delivers exceptional value to Kenyan consumers through its thoughtful design which goes beyond standard mid-range phone offerings.
More Than Just a Pretty Phone
The product makes a powerful first impression because of its modern design and energetic colour palette yet its real worth stems from its long-lasting construction. The IP67 rating is also a game-changer. Your phone will withstand both Nairobi rainstorms and matatu incidents without showing any signs of distress. The hardened screen provides everyday protection which most screens at this price point do not have.
Straight out of the box, the phone looks sleek and will guarantee you the looks. So, make sure if you throw a cover on it, get one that shows of the back colour. The phone while being mid-tier device, carries flagship software features such as Circle to Search, which provides users with an efficient way to search for prices and translate text. Little trick if you spot a house advert on Instagram that you have to DM for location, you can use this feature to search for the photo across the internet and even get you the actual address.
You also get voice focus on calls that uses AI to isolate your voice during a call and reduce background noise. Other AI features out of the box include generative image fill and AI reply recommendations that are present in the bleeding tier phones. These features make the A36 stand out as they make it closer to its flagship siblings without the selling a kidney.
The Display: Sunlight Readability is Key
The 6.7-inch Super AMOLED screen has a smooth flowing high refresh rate with high brightness levels that are fantastic for videos and outdoor use. The screen provides excellent reading clarity for Mombasa directions under midday sun and outdoor conditions which cheaper dimmer phones cannot replicate.
Performance and Battery: The Trusty Workhorse
The processor and 5G function together to provide smooth operation of applications and internet browsing. The device operates well for regular activities, productivity, and causal gaming. The phone contains a 5000mAh battery which keeps you running for a complete day and a half which brings relief to users who need to stay mobile without needing to find a power outlet or power bank.
But if you do manage to drain it, It also supports the 45W fast charging (adapter is not included though) meaning a quick top-up at a café or your car on your way to the next meeting can get you through the rest of the day.
To add to this, Samsung throws in excellent long-term software support. This guarantees that the performance of your phone will be maintained for the next six years and with seamless integration with Samsung’s entire product range – like earbuds, watches, tablets- it makes it easy to live in the brand. This protects your investment for longer than most phones in its category. With Samsung’s service centres across the country, you also get a significant advantage over brands with spotty local support.
The Cameras: Solid for the ‘Gram
The 50MP main camera with OIS takes excellent daytime shots for social media. Low-light performance is average, as expected, but daytime photography is sharp and colourful. The ultra-wide and macro cameras are there for versatility, but the main sensor is the star.
Verdict: The Smart, Sensible Choice
The Samsung Galaxy A36 5G belongs to the mid-range category and offers excellent value for money despite its unpretentious design. The device provides essential requirements through its long battery life and strong build quality, its extended software support and superior display performance. The device eliminates the stress of using a high-end smartphone in harsh conditions.
Buy it if:
You need a phone that will last for a long time and can withstand Kenyan conditions, and you want premium software without the high price of a flagship phone. This is the perfect phone for the pragmatic Kenyan. This device serves students, young professionals, business owners, and your parent who wants basic phone functionality while capturing daily memories of their grandchildren. If you need a reliable, premium-feeling daily driver that will not let you down and will not need replacing for a long time. It is a smart investment.
Consider other options if:
You are a mobile photography enthusiast seeking the best low-light camera performance or the business & pen ecosystem or gaming is especially important to you. Software cannot fix these.
Buy it here.
