Galaxy A53 5G Vs Galaxy A56

Galaxy A53 5G
Galaxy A53 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:£109.00

Versus £459.00 new

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Galaxy A56
Galaxy A56
Starting at

Refurbished price:£274.00

Versus £422.50 new

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Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy A53 5G, released in April 2022, and the Samsung Galaxy A56 5G, launched in March 2025, are both mid-range Android smartphones from Samsung's popular A series. While the A53 5G offered a strong balance of features for its time, the A56 5G introduces several advancements in performance, display technology, and long-term software support, reflecting the evolution of smartphone technology over three generations.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is significantly influenced by its release timeline and the manufacturer's commitment to software updates.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy A53 5G was released in April 2022, while the Galaxy A56 5G followed in March 2025, making the A56 5G a considerably newer device.
  • OS Support Duration: The Galaxy A53 5G was promised four major Android OS upgrades and five years of security updates from its launch, meaning it is expected to receive updates up to Android 16 and security patches until 2027. In contrast, the Galaxy A56 5G launched with Android 15 and is set to receive six major Android OS upgrades and an impressive six years of security updates, with some reports indicating security update support extended to seven years. This extended support means the A56 5G will remain current with software features and security patches for a longer period, potentially until Android 21.
  • Practical Lifespan: Users prioritizing the longest possible software support and access to the latest Android features will find the Galaxy A56 5G offers a more extended practical lifespan due to its newer release and Samsung's enhanced update policy. Both devices feature an IP67 rating for dust and water resistance, contributing to their physical durability.

Year of Release

2022

2025

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance in daily use is a key consideration, encompassing how smoothly applications run, multitasking capabilities, and overall system responsiveness.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy A53 5G is powered by an Exynos 1280 processor, which handles everyday tasks and moderate gaming effectively. The Galaxy A56 5G features the newer Exynos 1580 processor, built on a more efficient 4nm process. This newer processor provides a noticeable improvement in overall system responsiveness and the ability to manage more demanding applications and multitasking with greater ease.
  • RAM and Storage: The A53 5G typically comes with 6GB or 8GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, with the option to expand storage via a microSD card. The A56 5G offers 8GB or 12GB of RAM and 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, utilizing faster UFS 3.1 technology. However, the A56 5G is the first in its series to no longer support expandable storage via microSD.
  • Battery Behavior: Both devices are equipped with a 5000 mAh battery, designed to provide ample power for a full day of typical use. User reports for the A53 5G indicate it can comfortably last over a day with moderate usage. The A56 5G supports faster 45W wired charging, compared to the A53 5G's 25W charging, allowing for quicker power replenishment.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience is central to smartphone interaction, with display technology, resolution, and brightness playing significant roles.

  • Display Technology and Size: Both the Galaxy A53 5G and A56 5G feature Super AMOLED displays, known for their vibrant colors and deep blacks. The A53 5G has a 6.5-inch display, while the A56 5G offers a slightly larger 6.7-inch screen, providing a more expansive viewing area.
  • Resolution and Refresh Rate: Both phones offer a Full HD+ resolution (1080x2400 for A53 5G, 1080x2340 for A56 5G) and a 120Hz refresh rate, contributing to smooth scrolling and a fluid visual experience.
  • Brightness and Durability: The A56 5G boasts a higher peak brightness of 1900 nits, which enhances visibility in bright outdoor conditions compared to the A53 5G. For screen protection, the A53 5G uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5, while the A56 5G upgrades to the more robust Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back.

Resolution

1080 x 2400

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Super AMOLED

Audiovisual

Camera capabilities are a primary factor for many users, with both devices offering versatile setups for various photography and videography needs.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy A53 5G features a quad-camera setup with a 64MP main sensor with optical image stabilization (OIS), a 12MP ultrawide, a 5MP macro, and a 5MP depth sensor. The Galaxy A56 5G has a triple-camera system, including a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 5MP macro lens. While the A53 5G has a higher megapixel count for its main sensor, the A56 5G's 50MP main sensor (Sony IMX906) is noted for improved quality and includes AI capabilities like enhanced subject detection and Object Eraser for photo editing.
  • Low-Light and Video Performance: Both devices are capable of capturing detailed images in good lighting conditions. The A56 5G's camera system, with its newer sensor and AI enhancements, generally offers improved low-light performance and better image processing. Both phones support video recording up to 4K at 30 frames per second, with the A56 5G also offering 1080p at 60 frames per second for both front and rear cameras.
  • Front Camera and Audio: The A53 5G is equipped with a 32MP front camera, while the A56 5G features a 12MP front camera. Despite the lower megapixel count, the A56 5G's front camera is described as an upgrade in quality. Both devices offer stereo speakers for an enhanced audio experience during media consumption.

Main camera

64 megapixels

4K@30fps

Front camera

32 megapixels

13 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both smartphones support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy A53 5G includes Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.1, while the newer Galaxy A56 5G upgrades to Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3, offering faster and more stable wireless connections. Both devices utilize a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, but neither includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Sensors and Biometrics: Both models incorporate essential sensors such as an accelerometer, gyroscope, and ambient light sensor. For security, both feature an in-display fingerprint sensor and support face recognition.
  • Design and Build Materials: The Galaxy A53 5G has a plastic back and frame, with Gorilla Glass 5 protecting the display. The Galaxy A56 5G presents a more premium build with an aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus+ on both the front and back. The A53 5G measures 159.6 x 74.8 x 8.1 mm and weighs 189g, while the A56 5G is slightly larger and heavier at 162.2 x 77.5 x 7.4 mm and 198g.

Weight

189 g

197 g

Screen size (in)

6.5

6.5

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

User feedback for the Galaxy A53 5G often praises its vibrant display, reliable battery life, and versatile camera system for its segment. However, some users noted that its performance could feel less snappy compared to competitors, and charging speeds were not the fastest. The camera quality, while good, was sometimes described as not quite matching higher-end devices, particularly in challenging lighting.

For the newer Galaxy A56 5G, initial reviews highlight its significantly improved processor, the enhanced durability offered by the Gorilla Glass Victus+ and aluminum frame, and the extended software support policy as major advantages. The display's higher peak brightness is also a frequently appreciated upgrade. Potential criticisms might revolve around the removal of the microSD card slot, which was a staple in previous A-series models, and the front camera's megapixel count being lower than its predecessor, though quality is reportedly improved.

Users prioritizing long-term software support, a more robust build, and a snappier overall performance for demanding applications will find the Galaxy A56 5G well-suited to their needs. Its faster charging and brighter display also cater to those who value convenience and outdoor visibility. Conversely, users who prioritize expandable storage and a slightly more compact form factor might still find the Galaxy A53 5G a suitable option, especially if their usage patterns are less intensive. Both devices offer a quality-assured refurbished option, providing an eco-friendly alternative for consumers seeking reliable technology.

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