Switching from Pixel to Galaxy: what changes and what to weigh up

Why the move is tempting

Engadget has published a comparison for people considering a Pixel to Galaxy switch, based on a recent move from a Pixel 10 Pro XL to a Galaxy S26 Ultra. The reviewer found the extra speed, battery life, S Pen and faster charging welcome, and praised Samsung's AI tools such as Photo Assist for removing objects and Note Assist for summarising notes.

The biggest argument for Galaxy is choice. Engadget counts seven main Pixel listings on Google's US storefront, against 15 Galaxy models across Samsung's A, S and Z series, including the budget A37 and A57 and the folding Z Flip8 and Z Fold8.

Customisation and hardware perks

Samsung's Good Lock app allows deeper changes to the Quick Settings and lock screen than Google's own options, and the Modes and Routines feature can apply these settings automatically. Galaxy phones also support DeX, a desktop-style mode for external screens, though recent Pixels offer a similar desktop windowing feature.

Some features remain exclusive to the top model. The S26 Ultra includes an integrated S Pen and a Privacy Display that makes the screen harder to read from the side. Engadget also notes that the budget A37 lacks DeX and wireless charging despite supporting 45W wired charging, faster than the regular S26's 25W.

Reasons to stay with Pixel

According to Engadget's reviews, the Pixel 11 scored 92 out of 100 against 80 for the Galaxy S26, and it has a 5x optical telephoto camera where the S26 offers 3x, plus built-in magnets for Pixelsnap accessories. The Pixel 11 Pro and S26 Ultra both scored 90, making that pairing a closer call.

The Pixel 10a costs $599 and includes wireless charging and seven years of updates, while the Galaxy A37 costs $490 with a 6.7-inch screen, 45W charging and six years of updates. Samsung also raised the S26's US price from $899 to $999 in October, $100 above the Pixel 11.

What to check before switching

Some Pixel conveniences do not carry over. Google's Call Screen is not available on a Galaxy, though Samsung offers its own call screening on compatible phones, and the reviewer missed Pixel's cleaner interface and early access to new Google features. Samsung also promotes its own apps over Google's.

Engadget warns that Samsung's Smart Switch moves photos, messages and some apps, but private data inside apps and saved game progress may not come across, so some apps may need fresh logins or separate backups. Timing matters too: Galaxy flagships launch months before Pixels and pick up discounts sooner, with the 256GB S25 falling from $860 to $660 in an October 2025 sale.