GoKawiilKerry Wan/ZDNET
Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.
Apple, Google, and Samsung are once again butting heads in the midrange phone market, with the former two having recently released new models. Samsung beat the others to the punch when it launched the Galaxy A56 back on July 18, 2025.
Eight months later, on March 5, 2026, Google released the Pixel 10a, its latest budget handset designed to deliver the core Pixel 10 experience at a lower price. Not long after that, on March 11, Apple introduced the iPhone 17e, a more affordable alternative to the rest of the iPhone 17 series.
Also: iPhone 17e vs. iPhone 17: I compared both models to uncover the $200 difference
These three phones target the same buyer: people who want a dependable mobile device without flagship prices. They focus on practicality and strong everyday performance rather than flashy features.
However, there are distinct differences between them. The best phone for you depends on your needs as a user. Below, I break down where the iPhone 17e, Pixel 10a, and Galaxy A56 stand out, so you can decide which is best for you.
Specifications
Specification iPhone 17e Google Pixel 10a Galaxy A56 5G Display 6.1" Super Retina XDR OLED, 1,200 nits 6.3" Actua display, 3,000 nits 6.7" Super AMOLED Weight 5.96 ounces 6.5 ounces 6.98 ounces Processor Apple A19 Google Tensor G4 Exynos 1580 Storage 256GB, 512GB 128GB, 256GB 128GB, 256GB Battery 4,005mAh, MagSafe wireless charging 5,100mAh 5,000mAh Camera 48MP Fusion Main / 12MP TrueDepth front 48MP main / 13MP ultrawide / 13MP front 50MP main / 12MP ultrawide / 5MP macro / 12MP front Price Starting at $599 Starting at $499 Starting at $499
You should buy the Google Pixel 10a if...
... continue reading