Samsung Galaxy Z vs Samsung Galaxy S
Updated: February 26, 2026If you are weighing the Samsung Galaxy Z against the Samsung Galaxy S, you are comparing two very different value propositions. Both come from the same manufacturer, so the real question is which tier of the Samsung lineup fits your budget and priorities — not which brand to trust.
Early in release cycle
Imminent new model release
Early in cycle - good trade-in value expected
Great time to buy - new model coming soon!
- Next-Gen Design: Flip 7's sleekness and Fold 7's expansive display redefine smartphone form.
- Style & Productivity: Flip 7 for elegance, Fold 7 for multitasking prowess.
- Dynamic Flexibility: Embrace versatile mobile experiences with innovative folding tech.
- Next-Level Performance: Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, with ultra-smooth AMOLED 2x displays and AI-driven enhancements.
- Tailored for You: S25 for versatility, S25+ for enhanced features, S25 Ultra for ultimate power and pro-grade cameras.
- Pro-Grade Photography: 50MP (S25/S25+), 200MP (S25 Ultra), advanced AI-powered imaging, and cutting-edge zoom capabilities.
Timing: When to Buy
From a timing standpoint, the Samsung Galaxy Z is earlier in its release cycle, meaning you get more runway before the next generation arrives. The Samsung Galaxy S is further into its cycle — a new model may arrive sooner than expected.
Deals & Pricing
Current deals favor the Samsung Galaxy S, which is in an active discount window. If price is a major factor, now is a particularly good time to consider it.
Who Should Choose Each
Choose Samsung Galaxy Z if...
The Samsung Galaxy Z series is for users who want to genuinely reimagine what a smartphone can be. The Z Flip7 appeals to style-conscious users who want a compact, pocket-friendly phone that turns heads, while the Z Fold7 is built for productivity powerhouses who want a tablet in their pocket with S Pen support and Samsung DeX. Both are for early adopters who are comfortable with premium pricing and want to be at the leading edge of mobile technology.
Choose Samsung Galaxy S if...
The Samsung Galaxy S series is for the Android user who wants a truly premium, no-compromise experience backed by the world's largest smartphone brand. It's ideal for professionals, photographers, and power users who want the best display, camera versatility, and the longest software support available on Android — 7 years of updates. If you're deeply invested in the Samsung ecosystem or want the S Pen productivity tool, the Galaxy S series is the definitive choice.
Our Take
Both series are evenly matched on timing right now. Your decision should come down to ecosystem preference, software update commitments, and which feature set matches your daily habits.
Not sure how we calculate these ratings? Read our methodology →