I won't purchase the Galaxy A37 for $450, but I highly suggest these four excellent alternatives.
Samsung introduced the Galaxy A37 5G at a price of $449.99 for the entry model with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. This marks a $50 increase from its predecessor, and it appears to me that this added cost is primarily addressing the rising component prices linked to the ongoing memory crisis, rather than offering significant enhancements.
On paper, there are several aspects that could justify this price increase. For example, the transition from the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 to the Exynos 1480 chipset brings only a minor double-digit percentage boost in performance, which is hardly perceptible for average users. The new model features slightly improved HDR brightness (1900 nits compared to 1700 nits) and a better IP rating (IP68 instead of IP67).
At best, the Galaxy A37 5G represents a modest upgrade.
Samsung
Aside from these updates, both models are quite alike, sharing features such as the 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with 120Hz refresh rate, a 50MP main camera (along with an 8MP ultrawide and a 5MP macro camera), a 12MP front camera, connection options (Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth v5.4), and a 5,000 mAh battery that supports 45W wired charging.
I genuinely believe that the Galaxy A37 5G would have been a better deal if Samsung had maintained the launch price of the Galaxy A36 5G, which was $399.99. However, it is what it is. In my opinion, the phone doesn’t offer the best value for your money, but there are certainly a few other smartphones that do. If you’re looking for a capable Android mid-range device, I have four alternatives to the Galaxy A37 5G for you.
I suggest these four smartphones instead.
Samsung Galaxy A36 5G
Andy Boxall / Digital Trends
Why do I recommend this smartphone? No, it’s not a mistake. I genuinely advocate for the Galaxy A36 5G over the Galaxy A37 5G for a simple reason. It is currently available at Walmart for $219.99 for the base 6GB + 128GB model—less than half the price of the A37 5G. As you can see, this phone shares most of its specifications with the newer model while being substantially more affordable. What more could you want?
If you’re seeking an affordable yet capable Android smartphone, whether as a secondary device for yourself or as a new phone for parents or others, the A36 5G is an obvious choice.
ProsCons
6.7-inch Super AMOLED 120Hz 1900 nits display Not ideal for heavy tasks such as gaming
Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 (4nm) chipset Macro camera is useful for most users
6 years of operating system updates Selfie camera produces average photos
50MP main camera
5,000 mAh battery with 45W wired charging
IP67 water and dust resistance
Samsung Galaxy A56 5G
Andy Boxall / Digital Trends
Why do I recommend this smartphone? I’m referring to the company’s 2025 mid-range model, positioned above the Galaxy A36 5G in its lineup. The Galaxy A56 5G presents several benefits compared to the A37 5G, such as a more premium feel (thanks to its aluminum frame), a slightly more powerful Exynos 1580 (4nm) chip (more advantageous for future-proofing), and a higher resolution 12MP ultrawide camera.
Despite all these improvements, the A56 5G is priced lower than the A37. Currently, you can find it at Best Buy for $384.99 for the base model with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Furthermore, if you’re willing to connect to a Verizon or AT&T plan at the time of purchase, you can get it for $284.99 after a $100 discount.
ProsCons
Aluminum body Not ideal for demanding or high-refresh rate gaming
More powerful chipset Macro and selfie cameras could be improved
6 years of operating system updates Video recording limited to 4K@30fps
50MP main camera + 12MP ultrawide camera
UFS 3.1 storage
5,000 mAh battery with 45W wired charging
IP67 water and dust resistance
Google Pixel 9a
Andy Boxall / Digital Trends
Why do I recommend this smartphone? For four key reasons. First, the Pixel 9a boasts one of the most consistent and reliable camera systems I've experienced on a smartphone under $500. It also offers the cleanest Android experience, especially in comparison to other non-Google Android devices.
Even though it's a year old, the Pixel 9a
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I won't purchase the Galaxy A37 for $450, but I highly suggest these four excellent alternatives.
Prior to investing $450 in the Galaxy A37 5G, consider that four competing smartphones, including one from Samsung, provide greater value and superior performance.
