Pixel 9a vs Galaxy A56: Which Should You Buy in 2026?

The Google Pixel 9a and Samsung Galaxy A56 were the two most recommended mid-range Android phones of 2025, and in 2026 they are even more interesting. Both now have successors (the Pixel 10a and Galaxy A57), which means the older models have dropped well below their £499 launch prices while still getting years of updates.

So which one should you actually buy? The short answer: get the Pixel 9a if photos and the longest software support matter most, and get the Galaxy A56 if you want a bigger, brighter screen, faster charging and a more premium feel in the hand.

Below we break down where each phone wins, so you can match the choice to how you really use your phone.

Pixel 9a vs Galaxy A56 at a glance

Design and build

The Galaxy A56 feels like the more expensive phone. It has a metal frame, glass on both sides and Samsung’s tidy vertical camera strip. It is also bigger and a little heavier, so it suits people who like a large phone.

The Pixel 9a is smaller and lighter, with a matte back and an almost flat camera that barely sticks out. The bezels around the screen are thicker than on the Samsung, which makes it look a bit dated next to it, but it is easier to use with one hand. It also has the better water rating (IP68 against IP67), though both will survive rain and an accidental drop in the sink.

Display

Both screens run at 120Hz, so scrolling feels smooth on either. The A56 has the larger 6.7-inch panel, which is nicer for videos, reading and gaming. The Pixel 9a’s screen is very bright outdoors and easy to read in sunshine, but if you watch a lot of content, the extra size of the Samsung makes a real difference.

Performance

For everyday use like messaging, browsing, maps and social media, both phones feel quick. The Pixel’s Tensor G4 is built around Google’s AI features rather than raw speed, and it can get warm during long gaming sessions. The Exynos 1580 in the A56 handles games a little more consistently and stays cooler.

Neither phone is a gaming phone, though. If gaming is your main use, look at something with a stronger Snapdragon chip.

Cameras

This is where the Pixel 9a pulls ahead. Google’s photo processing produces natural colours, good skin tones and reliable results in low light, even when you just point and shoot. Night Sight, Magic Eraser and Best Take are genuinely useful extras.

The Galaxy A56 takes bright, punchy photos that look great on social media, and its main camera is very capable in daylight. In dim rooms and at night, the Pixel is usually more consistent. The A56’s 5MP macro camera is fun but not something most people will use often.

For video, both record 4K, and both are good enough for family clips and holidays.

Battery and charging

Battery life is strong on both phones, and most people will finish a full day with charge to spare. The Pixel 9a’s 5,100mAh battery tends to last slightly longer in normal use.

Charging is the big difference. The A56 supports 45W wired charging (with a compatible charger, which is not in the box), so it refills much faster. The Pixel tops out at 23W, which feels slow, but it does have wireless charging, which the A56 does not.

Software and updates

Both phones have excellent update promises for the price. The Pixel 9a gets seven years of Android and security updates from its 2025 launch, and it usually gets new Android versions on day one. The Galaxy A56 gets six major Android upgrades and six years of security patches.

On style, the Pixel runs clean, simple Android with Google’s smart extras like Call Screen. Samsung’s One UI is packed with features and customisation options, which some people love and others find busy. If you already own a Samsung watch or earbuds, the A56 fits into that setup more easily.

Price in 2026

Both launched at £499, but you should not pay that now. Since the Pixel 10a arrived, the Pixel 9a has been regularly discounted, often by around £100 or more at major UK retailers. The Galaxy A56 has also dropped noticeably since the Galaxy A57 launched in March 2026. Prices change often, so it is worth comparing a few retailers and checking SIM-free deals before choosing a contract.

Which one should you buy?

Prices and availability were checked in October 2026 and can change at any time.