Samsung Galaxy A57

The new benchmark for the mid-range, offering flagship feel with a 6.6-inch Super AMOLED display and robust IP68 certification at a fraction of the price. While battery life sets new records in this price range thanks to the 5,000 mAh battery and efficient Exynos 1580, the design with its wide display bezels visually lags behind the S26 series. Those looking for a reliable everyday device with an extremely long update guarantee will find the best all-rounder under €500 here.

Classification and Target Audience

The Galaxy A57 is the direct successor to the best-selling A56 and targets budget-conscious users who do not want to compromise on durability. Compared to the Google Pixel 9a, the Samsung stands out with its significantly brighter 120 Hz display and better material feel. Weighing around 202 g, it is not lightweight, but fits securely in the hand thanks to its rounded edges.

Display and Build

The 6.6-inch panel achieves a peak brightness of 1,800 nits, which is an excellent value for the mid-range in 2026. The casing combines a sturdy plastic frame with a glass back and is fully dust and water-resistant according to IP68 – a feature often missing in this price range.

Performance and Hardware

The Exynos 1580 chip provides enough power for smooth multitasking and moderate gaming. With 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of base storage, the A57 is generously equipped. Charging occurs at a maximum of 25 watts, which seems very slow compared to the Xiaomi Redmi Note 15 Pro (67W+) and takes over 85 minutes for a full charge.

Video and Camera System

The 50 MP main camera with optical image stabilization (OIS) delivers sharp and true-to-life shots in daylight. Videos can be recorded in 4K at 30 fps, with the new "Adaptive VDIS" technology effectively compensating for shakes while walking. However, compared to the Pixel 9a, the images lack a bit of dynamic depth in challenging lighting conditions.

Software and Galaxy AI

The A57 comes with Android 16 and, like the flagship series, will receive updates for 6 years. Streamlined Galaxy AI features such as "Circle to Search" and basic photo editors are included, but resource-intensive live translations are not available.

Conclusion and Value for Money

With a starting price of around €449, the Galaxy A57 offers unbeatable value for long-term users. It is the quintessential "rational phone," as it packages the essential core features of the high-end into an affordable package.