These days, texting is more than just words. It’s emojis, videos, GIFs, reactions, and even payments. And if you have an Android phone, especially a Samsung, you’ve probably seen two messaging apps: Google Messages and Samsung Messages.
Which one should you use? That’s what we’re about to find out!
TL;DR
Google Messages is perfect if you want advanced features, smart replies, and seamless integration with other Google services. Samsung Messages is simple, works well on Galaxy phones, and has a familiar feel. If you value RCS (rich communication services), Google Messages has the edge. But if you like things clean and fuss-free, Samsung Messages might be your thing.
What Are These Apps Anyway?
Google Messages is the official SMS and RCS app made by Google. Most Android phones have it now, and it’s the default on Pixel devices.
Samsung Messages is Samsung’s own messaging app. You’ll find it only on Galaxy devices, and it used to be the default there for years.
Main Things To Look At
Let’s break things down to see where each app shines.
1. User Interface (UI)
- Google Messages: Clean, minimal, and modern Google design. It meshes perfectly with other Google apps. You get a neat little bubble design for messages.
- Samsung Messages: Simpler and more traditional. Some people prefer this because it feels straight to the point.
In short, if you’re used to Google’s design – you’ll love Google Messages. If you like a classic look – Samsung’s app wins.
2. Features
This is where things get interesting. Let’s dive into the features each app offers.
- RCS support: Google Messages fully supports RCS. That means typing indicators, high-quality media, and Wi-Fi messaging. Samsung Messages has some RCS support, but only in certain regions and carriers. Google wins here.
- Smart Replies: Google Messages offers AI-suggested smart replies and autocorrect suggestions. Handy and futuristic!
- Voice Message Playback: Google Messages can transcribe voice messages into text. Samsung Messages doesn’t do that (yet).
- Search: Google Messages has a strong search function. You can find messages by contact, media type, or keyword. Samsung’s search is basic in comparison.
Winner for features: Google Messages.
3. Customization
Want your app to look just right? Here’s how they compare.
- Samsung Messages: Offers more custom options—like theme colors, background styles, and font sizes.
- Google Messages: More limited. It follows system-wide theming. You can’t play with it as much.
Winner for customization: Samsung Messages.
4. Integration with Other Apps
Google Messages: Works smoothly with other Google services, like Google Assistant, Google Photos, and even Google Pay. You can reply to texts from your Chromebook, or even see messages in your Gmail sidebar.
Samsung Messages: Works well with Samsung’s ecosystem—like Samsung Contacts or Samsung Gallery—but not much beyond that.
Winner for broader integration: Google Messages.
5. Message Reactions
Love responding with a quick emoji tap?
- Google Messages: Supports emoji reactions like on iMessage. Plus, they show properly to other users, not as annoying text like “Loved an image.”
- Samsung Messages: Limited or no support for rich reactions, especially when using SMS/MMS.
Winner: Google Messages again.
6. Backup and Sync
Google Messages: Chats are synced to your Google Account. Changing phones? Easy to move everything over.
Samsung Messages: Backs up to your Samsung Cloud. Works well for Galaxy users, but not as universal as Google’s solution.
Winner for simple backup: Google Messages.
7. Web and Desktop Access
Working on a laptop? Here’s how your messages keep up.
- Google Messages: Has a full-featured web version at messages.google.com/web. Works great on any browser.
- Samsung Messages: No official web support. You’re mostly limited to your phone.
Winner: Google Messages.
8. Performance and Battery Use
Both apps are lightweight and won’t drain your battery. But Google Messages has slightly better optimization, especially on newer Android versions.
Winner (barely): Google Messages.
When To Use Samsung Messages
Despite all the wins by Google Messages, Samsung’s app still has a place.
- If you mostly send SMS/MMS and don’t care about RCS.
- If you like changing fonts, colors, and backgrounds.
- If you want a simple, no-clutter texting app.
Some users also say Samsung’s app loads faster and has less bloat.
When To Use Google Messages
Go with Google Messages if:
- You want modern features like AI-suggestions and message reactions.
- You want your messages on your computer too.
- You care about security—Google Messages encrypts chats (end-to-end with RCS).
- You switch phones often or aren’t always using a Samsung.
Bonus Tips
- You can remove one of the apps if you only want to see one.
- Google Messages can now be set as default even on Samsung phones.
- Check your carrier’s RCS support; it can affect which app works better for you!
Final Verdict
Okay, let’s wrap this up.
Pick Google Messages if you want features, RCS, web messaging, and smart AI tools. It’s the future of texting on Android.
Pick Samsung Messages if you’re all about simplicity, customization, and keeping things basic but solid. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done well.
At the end of the day, both apps are great. It all comes down to what YOU like.
No pressure—try both and see which one makes texting more fun for you!