Samsung vs. Motorola: I've tested dozens of phones from both brands - here's my choice

Kerry Wan / ZDNET Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. Samsung offers stronger software support and ecosystem perks. Motorola stands out for value, design, and battery life.

The best Android brand depends on your budget and priorities. Samsung and Motorola are two of the oldest and most innovative brands in the mobile phone space. In recent years, one has pushed boundaries with the first-ever book-style foldable phone, while the other has reinvented the flip phone. Both brands offer phones at a variety of price points. You can get a Samsung Galaxy or a Motorola phone for less than $250 to more than $1,800. Also: Why I recommend this $450 Samsung phone over competing models by Google and OnePlus I have reviewed most of these phones from both Samsung and Motorola and liked them for different reasons. But their wide portfolios and competitive nature can be confusing if you're in the market for a new device. Here's how they compare in 2026, and which brand better suits your needs. Kyle Kucharski/ZDNET You want a better ecosystem of devices If you already have a Samsung product or want to purchase another device from Samsung, a Galaxy phone would pair better with those products. Samsung has a broader product ecosystem than Motorola. From appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners to laptops, TVs, and tablets, there's more to Samsung than just phones. For any cross-device functionality, having a Samsung TV, laptop, and phone can make your life easier with deeply integrated ecosystem features.

Key points

• The best Android brand depends on your budget and priorities.
• Samsung and Motorola are two of the oldest and most innovative brands in the mobile phone space.
• In recent years, one has pushed boundaries with the first-ever book-style foldable phone, while the other has reinvented the flip phone.
• Both brands offer phones at a variety of price points.
• You can get a Samsung Galaxy or a Motorola phone for less than $250 to more than $1,800.