Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy A36
Starting at
£168.24£369.00 new
iPhone 16 Plus
Starting at
£588.00£799.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy A36 and iPhone 16 Plus?
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Refurbished, the Galaxy A36 starts at £168.24, £419.76 less than the iPhone 16 Plus. The Galaxy A36 is the newer model, released in 2025.
Refurbished from
Chipset
RAM
Battery
Screen type
Refresh rate
- Chipset: Qualcomm SM6475-AB Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4 nm) on the Galaxy A36, Apple A18 on the iPhone 16 Plus.
- The iPhone 16 Plus has more RAM: 8 GB vs 6 GB.
- The Galaxy A36 has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4674 mAh.
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus specs
The Galaxy A36 and iPhone 16 Plus offer different strengths to suit different users. The Galaxy A36 has a larger battery capacity and runs Android, making it a practical choice for those who prioritise longer battery life and prefer Android's flexibility. The iPhone 16 Plus features a higher resolution screen and more RAM, which benefits users who want sharper visuals and smoother multitasking within the iOS environment. Storage options also differ, with the iPhone offering a larger 512GB variant. Both phones support 5G and come unlocked, but the Galaxy A36 supports dual physical SIM cards, which may suit frequent travellers or those needing two numbers. Overall, the Galaxy A36 is suitable for everyday use with ample battery and solid performance, while the iPhone 16 Plus is geared towards users who want more screen detail and memory for demanding apps.
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus price
Colour
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system, and physical features that affect daily reliability and use. The Galaxy A36 and iPhone 16 Plus have differences that matter depending on how you use your phone throughout the day.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy A36 has a 5000 mAh battery which suits users who want longer battery life for extended use without charging. The iPhone 16 Plus has a 4674 mAh battery, still substantial but slightly smaller, which fits users comfortable with daily charging routines or optimising power through iOS.
Operating System
The Galaxy A36 runs Android, which offers flexibility in customisation and app choices. The iPhone 16 Plus runs iOS 18, known for its smooth integration with Apple services and regular updates. Your preference between Android and iOS will guide which device fits your ecosystem better.
Battery
Fast charging
Foldable
Ip rating
OS at launch
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus performance
Performance depends on the chipset, RAM, and storage options, which affect speed, multitasking, and how much data you can keep on your device.
Chipset and Efficiency
The Galaxy A36 uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4 nm), suitable for everyday apps and smooth operation. The iPhone 16 Plus features the Apple A18 chipset (3 nm), which is designed for efficient processing and handling demanding tasks. Users looking for a faster processor for gaming or heavy apps may lean towards the iPhone.
Memory
The iPhone 16 Plus includes 8 GB of RAM, which helps keep more apps open and running smoothly in the background. The Galaxy A36 has 6 GB of RAM, which is sufficient for most everyday uses but may affect multitasking with many apps.
Storage Options
Both phones offer 128 GB and 256 GB storage, but the iPhone 16 Plus also comes in a 512 GB version. This makes the iPhone a better fit for users who need to store large amounts of photos, videos, or apps.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus screen
Screen quality involves resolution, size, and display technology, influencing how good your videos, photos, and apps look.
Resolution and Clarity
The iPhone 16 Plus has a higher resolution at 1290 x 2796 pixels, resulting in sharper and more detailed images. The Galaxy A36 offers 1080 x 2340 pixels, which is clear and bright but better suited to users who do not prioritise maximum screen detail.
Screen Technology
The Galaxy A36 features a Super AMOLED display, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone 16 Plus uses a Super Retina XDR OLED screen, which provides a high contrast ratio and excellent colour accuracy. Both screens are 6.7 inches, offering plenty of space for watching videos or browsing.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus camera
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus size and design
Other practical differences affect connectivity, size, and how you use your phone daily.
SIM Card Support
The Galaxy A36 supports dual physical SIM cards plus eSIM, making it ideal for users who want to manage two physical numbers, such as travellers or those balancing work and personal lines. The iPhone 16 Plus supports one physical SIM plus eSIM, which suits users who do not require two physical SIMs.
Connector Type
The Galaxy A36's USB-C does not specify a version, so users should consider their needs for charging and file transfers.
Physical Dimensions
The Galaxy A36 is slightly taller and wider at 162.9 mm by 78.2 mm and thinner at 7.4 mm compared to the iPhone 16 Plus at 160.9 mm by 77.8 mm and 7.8 mm thick. It also weighs a bit less at 195 g versus 199 g for the iPhone. These differences may affect how the phones feel in your hand or pocket.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy A36 or iPhone 16 Plus: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy A36 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £168.24, £419.76 less than the iPhone 16 Plus
- you want a bigger battery (5000 mAh vs 4674 mAh)
- you want a smoother screen (120 Hz vs 60 Hz)
Buy the iPhone 16 Plus if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 6 GB)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy A36 appreciate its smooth performance and good battery life, noting it feels like a new phone without the new phone price. Many mention that the phone looks almost new with no scratches, and the 128 GB or 256 GB storage options are enough for photos and apps. Some customers highlight the improved connectivity and subtle screen tint, with overall satisfaction in speed and daily use.
Reviews for the iPhone 16 Plus highlight the phone's excellent condition and lasting battery life. Customers say it feels like new, with sharp and bright screens. Some mention the need to update via the Apple Store due to region-specific software, but most find the phone performs well and looks immaculate. A few report issues like glitches, but many enjoy the phone's features and iOS experience.
The Galaxy A36 suits users who want a reliable Android phone with solid battery and dual SIM support. The iPhone 16 Plus is ideal for those who prefer iOS with more RAM, higher screen resolution, and larger storage options.
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus FAQs
Galaxy A36 vs iPhone 16 Plus comes down to the chipset, RAM and battery. Chipset: Qualcomm SM6475-AB Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4 nm) on the Galaxy A36, Apple A18 on the iPhone 16 Plus. The iPhone 16 Plus has more RAM: 8 GB vs 6 GB.
The Galaxy A36 is cheaper refurbished, from £168.24 compared with £588 for the iPhone 16 Plus.
The Galaxy A36 has a bigger battery: 5000 mAh vs 4674 mAh.
The Galaxy A36 has a higher-resolution main camera: 50 megapixels vs 48 megapixels.
The Galaxy A36 gets updates until Mar 2031. The iPhone 16 Plus is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy A36 comes in 128GB and 256GB, and the iPhone 16 Plus in 128GB, 256GB and 512GB.
