Pixel 10A vs. Galaxy A57: Midrange battle heats up

The affordable smartphone segment is currently facing significant supply chain challenges, altering expectations for phones priced around $500.

Despite these hurdles, the Google Pixel 10A and Samsung Galaxy A57 stand out as the most compelling options in the mid-range category as of May 2026.

The Pixel 10A maintains its $499 price point from the Pixel 9A, featuring a compact 6.3-inch screen. In contrast, the Galaxy A57 boasts a larger 6.7-inch display but remains impressively lightweight at 179 grams and 9mm thick, offering a more modern aesthetic with slimmer bezels.

Both devices are IP68 rated for dust and water resistance. The Pixel 10A features a plastic back and aluminum frame, while the Galaxy A57 has a more premium glass back and front, protected by Gorilla Glass Victus Plus. Performance-wise, both are powered by capable in-house chips, with the Pixel 10A using the Tensor G4 and the Galaxy A57 employing an Exynos 1680. Daily tasks and moderate app usage are handled smoothly on both.

Battery life is comparable, with the Pixel 10A having a slightly larger 5,100-mAh battery that charges at 30 watts, and the Galaxy A57 offering faster 45-watt charging for its 5,000-mAh capacity. Both run Android 16, with Google promising seven years of OS updates for the Pixel 10A and Samsung providing six years for the Galaxy A57. Advanced AI features for photography and virtual assistance are present on both devices.

In terms of cameras, the Pixel 10A has a dual-camera setup (48MP main, 12MP ultrawide), while the Galaxy A57 features a triple-camera system (50MP main, 13MP ultrawide, 5MP macro). While the macro sensor on the Samsung is less impressive, its main camera delivers sharp images. Both phones offer satisfactory 13MP and 12MP front-facing cameras, respectively.