The Pixel 10a is appearing quite appealing at $500 following the debut of Samsung’s $550 Galaxy A57. The newest mid-range devices from Samsung and Google are now available, with each phone adopting a different strategy for delivering an affordable Android option. Google chose to maintain the Pixel 10a’s budget-friendly $500 price tag, resulting in minimal upgrades for this year — even the Tensor G4 chip remains from the Pixel 10a. On the other hand, Samsung has implemented more significant upgrades in the Galaxy A57, but it comes at a higher price this year.
The previous generation of mid-range phones from Samsung and Google both reached the $500 threshold, yet the Galaxy A57 now costs $50 more. While this might not seem substantial, it positions the Galaxy A57 in closer rivalry with devices like the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE. In essence, Samsung is now competing against itself. Meanwhile, the Google Pixel 10a retains a slightly lower price.
But should you opt for the standard Google Pixel 10a or the higher-priced Samsung Galaxy A57? Let’s examine all the distinctions to assist you in making a decision.
**Samsung Galaxy A57 vs. Google Pixel 10a: Design and display**
The Samsung Galaxy A57 and Google Pixel 10a are fundamentally different in design, and your preference for in-hand feel will likely dictate which mid-range Android phone is ideal for you. One is not fundamentally superior or inferior to the other; they’re simply distinct. The primary differentiator is screen size, and the Galaxy A57 is particularly enticing for those seeking a phone with a large display at a reasonable price.
Samsung provides a 6.7-inch screen on the Galaxy A57, which is wonderful news for individuals who appreciate a large phone with ample space for consuming content and multitasking. The display bezels are still not symmetrical, which can be a frustrating downside of choosing a budget Samsung phone, but they are slimmer than those on the Galaxy A56. The Samsung Galaxy A57 features 1.5mm top and side bezels, while the bottom bezel is wider at 2.5mm.
The display boasts a resolution of 1080×2340, 120Hz refresh rates, and a peak brightness of 1,900 nits. Overall, it’s a commendable mid-range display, but the Google Pixel 10a provides a sharper and brighter panel in a more compact form.
Google has equipped the Pixel 10a with a 6.3-inch display, which is refreshing for fans of smaller phones. It offers a 1080×2424 resolution on a smaller screen compared to the Galaxy A57, meaning the Pixel 10a will present a sharper image due to its higher pixel density. The maximum 120Hz refresh rates align with those of the Galaxy A57, but the Pixel 10a shines brighter, with a peak brightness rating of 3,000 nits. Additionally, the Pixel 10a features uniform display bezels, although they are on the thicker side.
Samsung edges ahead in build quality. To Google’s credit, the IP68 durability rating, aluminum side rails, and flush back are significant benefits of choosing the Pixel 10a. Nevertheless, the Galaxy A57 also provides IP68 certification and metal side rails, along with Gorilla Glass Victus Plus on both front and back. In comparison, the Pixel 10a only offers Gorilla Glass 7i on the front while utilizing a plastic back.
I find the Pixel 10a’s plastic back appealing — it feels excellent in hand — but most would consider the Galaxy A57’s glass to be more premium.
Samsung also excels in the Galaxy A57’s in-hand sensation, as long as you’re comfortable with the larger screen size. Despite its bigger overall dimensions, Samsung succeeded in keeping the Galaxy A57 just 6.9mm thick and weighs only 179 grams. This makes it smaller than the Galaxy A56 and notably thinner and lighter than the Pixel 10a. Google’s mid-range device measures 9mm in thickness and weighs 183 grams.
It is important to note that part of the reason for the Pixel 10a’s thicker profile is its lack of a camera bump. While the Galaxy A57 features a triple-camera system that protrudes from the back, the Pixel 10a’s dual-camera setup is actually recessed beneath the plastic backing. This design results in the Pixel 10a feeling completely flat in hand and prevents it from rocking on a table.
This is a nice advantage and significantly highlights the Pixel 10a, especially when compared to phones like the Galaxy A57, which has a pronounced camera bump.
**Samsung Galaxy A57 vs. Google Pixel 10a: Hardware and specs**
Regarding performance, neither the Galaxy A57 nor the Pixel 10a delivers top-tier specifications. However,