Google Pixel 10a vs Samsung Galaxy A57 vs Pixel 10 – Which Smartphone Should You Buy?
If you’re deciding on a mid-range smartphone in 2026, two very strong contenders are the Google Pixel 10a and Samsung Galaxy A57. Both offer impressive features for the price — but they target slightly different priorities. We also compare the Pixel 10a with the more expensive Pixel 10 to help you decide if upgrading is worth it.
1. Price and Positioning
- Pixel 10a: Positioned as a mid-range phone, offering core Pixel features (especially camera and software) at a more affordable price.
- Samsung Galaxy A57: Part of Samsung’s popular A-series, known for balanced specs, large displays and strong battery life.
- Pixel 10: The premium sibling to the 10a, with more powerful hardware and extra features, but at a higher cost.
2. Design and Build
Google Pixel 10a
- Sleek design with a familiar Pixel look
- Usually lighter and more compact
- Plastic back but high build quality
- IP rating for water and dust resistance
Samsung Galaxy A57
- Slightly larger overall footprint
- Glossy plastic finish with premium feel
- Big display with slim bezels
- Also water-resistant (IP rating)
Winner (Design): Subjective — if you prefer compact and minimal, Pixel 10a; for larger screen and modern look, Galaxy A57.
3. Display
Pixel 10a
- Mid-range OLED screen (good colors and contrast)
- Smooth refresh rate (~90–120Hz depending on variant)
- Smaller than A57
Galaxy A57
- Larger Super AMOLED screen
- Excellent for media, gaming and scrolling
- High refresh rate (~120Hz)
Display Winner: Samsung Galaxy A57 — bigger and more immersive for video and games.
4. Performance
Pixel 10a
- Google Tensor-based chip tuned for AI and camera processing
- Great everyday performance, fluid Android experience
- Efficiencies in AI features and voice commands
Galaxy A57
- Mid-tier Samsung processor
- Reliable for daily tasks and moderate gaming
- Not as strong in AI or computational photography
Performance Verdict:
- Everyday use: Both are good
- AI/Smart features: Pixel 10a leads
- Raw power: Slight edge to Pixel 10a for optimization, but Galaxy A57 holds its own in games
5. Camera Capabilities
This is where the Pixel lineup traditionally shines:
Pixel 10a
- Excellent photo quality in daylight and low light
- Google’s image processing produces sharp, accurate colors
- AI-driven features like Magic Eraser, Best Take, Night Sight
- Great video stabilization
Galaxy A57
- Strong camera system for the price
- Great selfies and daylight photos
- Night mode and scene optimizer present
- Slightly less consistent than Pixel in challenging lighting
Camera Winner: Google Pixel 10a — especially for photos and computational photography.
6. Battery and Charging
Pixel 10a
- Decent battery life
- Typically lasts a full day with moderate use
- Fast charging supported
Galaxy A57
- Larger battery capacity overall
- Often longer endurance in mixed usage
- Super-fast charging in some regions
Battery Winner: Samsung Galaxy A57 — longer battery life.
7. Software and Updates
Pixel 10a
- Pure Android experience with clean UI
- Early access to major Android updates
- Longer update promise from Google
Galaxy A57
- Samsung’s One UI skin
- Lifespan of updates is good but often slightly behind Pixels
- Lots of custom features and extra apps
Software Winner: Google Pixel 10a for timely Android updates and clean UX.
8. Pixel 10a vs Pixel 10: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
Pixel 10 (Premium)
- More powerful Tensor chip
- Better overall performance
- Larger, brighter display and higher refresh rate
- Additional camera perks
- More RAM and storage options
Pixel 10a (More Affordable)
- Most of the core Pixel experience
- Slightly slower chip but still capable
- Very similar camera experience in many real-world cases
Upgrading Verdict:
- If you want flagship performance and future-proofing, the Pixel 10 justifies the extra spend.
- If you want great value and similar camera quality, the Pixel 10a is often the smarter buy.
Which Should You Buy? Quick Guidance
| Priority | Best Choice |
| Best Camera | Pixel 10a |
| Clean Android & Long Updates | Pixel 10a |
| Biggest Screen | Galaxy A57 |
| Longer Battery | Galaxy A57 |
| Flagship Performance | Pixel 10 |
| Value-for-Money | Pixel 10a / Galaxy A57 |
Summary: Pros and Cons
Google Pixel 10a
Pros
- Outstanding camera performance
- Clean Android and fast updates
- Great AI features
Cons - Smaller display
- Battery life slightly below Galaxy A57
Samsung Galaxy A57
Pros
- Larger and vibrant display
- Excellent battery life
- Price-friendly with good performance
Cons - Camera slightly behind Pixel
- Software updates slower than Pixel
Conclusion
- Best for photography and software experience: Google Pixel 10a
- Best for screen, battery and entertainment: Samsung Galaxy A57
- Best overall performance (if budget allows): Google Pixel 10
Your choice depends on what matters most — camera quality and clean software, or bigger display and longer battery life.