Introduction
If you’re deciding between the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G and the Google Pixel 9a, you’ve picked two very capable mid-range 5G phones — but they shine in different ways. I’ve spent time testing both (in my daily life, gaming, and photography), and here’s a hands-on comparison based on real-world use in Malaysia. By the end of this article, you’ll know which one suits you better depending on your priorities.
Key Features Compariso
| Feature | Samsung Galaxy A36 5G | Google Pixel 9a |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.7″ Super AMOLED, 1080×2340, 120 Hz (Samsung sec) | 6.3″ pOLED, 1080×2424, 120 Hz (TechNave) |
| Processor | Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (Android Central) | Google Tensor G4 (TechNave) |
| RAM / Storage | 6 GB + 128 GB (non-expandable) (Samsung sec) | 8 GB + 128 GB or 256 GB (TechNave) |
| Rear Camera | Triple: 50 MP + 8 MP + 5 MP (Samsung sec) | Dual: 48 MP + 13 MP (TechNave) |
| Front / Selfie | 12 MP (Samsung sec) | 13 MP (TechNave) |
| Battery | 5,000 mAh, 45W wired charging (PhoneArena) | 5,100 mAh, 23W wired + 7.5W wireless (SoyaCincau) |
| Durability | Gorilla Glass Victus+, IP67 (Android Central) | Gorilla Glass 3, IP68 (Lowyat.NET) |
| Software / Updates | One UI 7 (Android 15), 6 years OS / security pledge (Android Central) | Android 15, 7 years OS + security updates (TechNave) |
| Price in Malaysia | (Less commonly listed, depends on retailer) | RM 2,699 for 128GB (Lowyat.NET) |
Detailed Review
Display & Design
- The A36 5G offers a big, immersive 6.7-inch Super AMOLED panel with a 120 Hz refresh rate. The screen is bright and vivid, making it great for media, gaming, or scrolling. According to Samsung Malaysia, the resolution is Full HD+ (1080 × 2340). (Samsung sec)
- The Pixel 9a has a more compact 6.3-inch pOLED display, also 120Hz, and is capable of reaching an extremely high peak brightness (reports say up to 2,700 nits) for strong outdoor visibility. (SoyaCincau)
- In terms of protection, the A36 uses Gorilla Glass Victus+, which is very durable. (Android Central) The Pixel 9a settles for Gorilla Glass 3, which is less premium in scratch resistance. (PhoneArena)
- For build, the A36’s back and frame feel sturdy, while Pixel 9a has a lighter and more pocketable frame — and a flat rear camera module, which some users prefer. (Android Central)
Performance
- The A36 5G runs on Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, which is efficient and decent for daily tasks, browsing, and moderate gaming. (PhoneArena)
- The Pixel 9a uses Google’s Tensor G4, which is powerful and optimised for AI tasks and computational photography. (TechNave)
- In benchmarks, according to PhoneArena: Pixel 9a outperforms A36 in CPU/GPU tasks (Geekbench, 3DMark), showing the Tensor G4’s advantage in multi-core and graphics. (PhoneArena)
- For software experience: A36 comes with One UI 7, and Samsung promises 6 years of updates, which is really strong for a mid-range device. (Android Central)
- Pixel 9a offers 7 years of updates, which is exceptional and makes it a future-proof choice. (TechNave)
Camera
- On the A36, the triple-camera setup comprises a 50 MP main sensor, an 8 MP ultrawide, and a 5 MP macro lens. (Samsung sec) The main shooter has OIS, which helps in stabilising shots. (Samsung sec)
- The Pixel 9a has a simpler dual-camera system: 48 MP main + 13 MP ultrawide. (TechNave)
- Thanks to Google’s computational photography, the Pixel 9a excels in low-light, portraits, and AI-powered features (like Magic Editor, Macro Focus, etc.). (TechNave)
- Selfie-wise, the Pixel’s 13 MP front camera is slightly better than the A36’s 12 MP. (Android Central)
Battery & Charging
- The A36 5G packs a 5,000 mAh battery and supports 45W wired super-fast charging, which is great for top-ups. (PhoneArena)
- The Pixel 9a has a 5,100 mAh battery, and according to local sources, it can last “over 30 hours” with typical usage. (eCentral.my)
- Charging for the Pixel: 23W wired, plus 7.5W wireless charging — quite rare for this segment. (SoyaCincau)
- In real-world usage, the A36’s faster wired charging means less waiting, while Pixel’s wireless charging gives more flexibility.
Software & UI
- Samsung One UI 7 on the A36 brings many features: newer UI, AI “Awesome Intelligence” features but likely not all the flagship Galaxy AI features. (Android Central)
- Pixel 9a runs pure Android 15, with Google’s full suite of AI and photography tools. (TechNave)
- Update policy gives the Pixel 9a an edge (7 years vs 6 years on A36) for long-term value. (TechNave)
- Security: Pixel tends to get Google-first security features, which is a plus for trust and ongoing protection.
Pros & Cons
Samsung Galaxy A36 5G – Pros
- Big, vibrant 6.7″ Super AMOLED screen (120 Hz)
- Strong charging speed (45W wired)
- Durable glass (Gorilla Glass Victus+)
- Good rear camera versatility (main + ultrawide + macro)
- Solid 5G performance with Snapdragon 6 Gen 3
- Long software + security support (6 years)
Samsung Galaxy A36 5G – Cons
- Heavier than some compact phones
- No wireless charging
- Macro lens is only 5 MP — not super useful for everyone
- Big size may not suit one-handed users
Google Pixel 9a – Pros
- Very bright and colour-rich 6.3″ pOLED display
- Tensor G4 chip gives strong AI & photography performance
- Excellent camera quality thanks to Google’s computational photography
- Longest software support (7 years)
- IP68 water and dust resistance
- Wireless charging capability
Google Pixel 9a – Cons
- Slower wired charging (23W)
- Gorilla Glass 3 is not very premium in protection
- Slightly smaller battery (though efficient use)
- Uses plastic back — might feel less “premium”
Comparison (At a Glance)
| Use Case | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Gaming & multitasking | Pixel 9a (better performance) |
| Watching videos / media | A36 5G (larger screen) |
| Photography (low light / portraits) | Pixel 9a |
| Frequent charging / fast top-up | A36 5G (45W) |
| Long-term software support | Pixel 9a (7 years) |
| Durability & build | A36 5G (Gorilla Glass Victus+) |
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
- Which phone has better 5G performance?
- Both support 5G, but the A36 uses Snapdragon-based modem which is strong for performance. The Pixel 9a’s Tensor G4 is also 5G capable. For Malaysian networks, both should handle sub-6GHz bands comfortably.
- Will both phones receive Android updates for a long time?
- Yes: the A36 5G has 6 years of OS and security updates (according to Samsung) (Android Central), while the Pixel 9a promises 7 years.
- Can I play high-graphic games on either phone?
- Yes, but performance may vary: the Pixel 9a (with Tensor G4) handles graphics better, while A36 is competent for regular gaming but may not match flagship-level GPU performance.
- Which phone has a better camera system?
- For quality and versatility, Pixel 9a wins, especially in low light. A36 offers more variety (ultrawide, macro), but its macro lens is basic.
- Does Pixel 9a support wireless charging?
- Yes — it supports 7.5W wireless charging. (SoyaCincau)
- How’s the build quality / water resistance?
- A36 5G: Gorilla Glass Victus+ and likely good resistance; Pixel 9a: IP68 rating for dust/water. (Lowyat.NET)
Value & Verdict
Which to buy?
- Choose the Samsung Galaxy A36 5G if you prioritise a larger screen, fast wired charging, and a solid all-around mid-range phone.
- Go for the Google Pixel 9a if you care more about software longevity, camera quality, and the flexibility of wireless charging.
Best for:
- Students or media consumers: A36 5G’s large display is ideal.
- Photography lovers / long-term users: Pixel 9a, thanks to its camera and 7-year update promise.
Summary:
Both phones deliver excellent value for their price. The A36 5G focuses on screen size and power, while the Pixel 9a leans into computational photography, long-term support, and a polished software experience. For Malaysian buyers, your choice depends on whether you want raw performance or future-proof software + camera.
