Samsung Pay vs Google Pay: Which One Is Right for You?
Here’s the thing:
The age of smart payment systems is here. And Samsung Pay vs Google Pay debate has only heightened over time.
We use our smartphones in every little thing that we do every day. These devices help us in our daily tasks, schoolwork, job assignments, and more. And now, we can even use our Android phones to transfer money and pay for the products and services we purchase.
How?
Well, there are digital wallet applications you can download on your Android phones that give these perks to users. But, there are a lot of these apps available in the App Store. So in this article, we will discuss two virtual wallet apps, Samsung Pay and Google Pay, to know which is perfect for you.
So how are we going to discuss these services?
The Google Pay vs Samsung Pay comparison is going to be very straightforward. Because let us be honest, both services serve the ultimate purpose of allowing you to pay quickly using your smartphones. We have already discussed Android Pay vs. Apple Pay in a previous article, so in this article, we focused on the main differences between these Android payment systems.
Now, if you want to know which between Samsung Pay and Google Pay is the most suitable for you, without further ado, let us get to it.
Watch our Samsung Pay vs Google Pay comparison video on YouTube
Related:
The Evolution of Google Pay: Android Pay and Google Wallet
Android Pay vs Google Wallet: A Difference in Handling your Money
Android Pay Vs Apple Pay: Which Is Best For You
What are these “Pays”?
In layman’s terms, these are apps that you can download and install on your smartphone, which requires you to enter your credit card or bank information and then use it to make over-the-counter payments. However, not all stores have the option of utilizing these.
But, what makes these smart payments smart?
Google Payand Samsung Pay allow you togo completely cashlessor carry very little cash. The methods may vary between the two, but the basic concept of taking your smartphone to make payments remains the same across both services.
What is Google Pay?
Google Pay, owned and developed by Google, is a digital wallet platform and online payment system. It empowers in-app and tap-to-pay purchases on mobile devices, enabling users to make payments with Android phones, tablets, or watches that are supported and uses NFC.
Amazing, right?
Google Pay, formerly known as Android Pay, was first launched in 2015. There was alreadya version of payments implemented by Google called Google Wallet, and Android Pay was its natural evolution. However, it also remained in service until Google decided to merge them.
What is Samsung Pay?
Similar to Google Pay, Samsung Pay is also a mobile payment and digital wallet service developed by Samsung Electronics and is exclusive to Samsung devices. This service lets users make payments using compatible phones and other Samsung-produced devices.
Samsung Pay was initially launched in South Korea in August 2015 and eventually came to the USA a few weeks later and then saw a release in Australia in June 2016. There are a lot of different regions that don’t support Samsung Pay at all, so it is a minimal service as of now.
Behind the Scenes
Interestingly, smartphones have become one of the media of transactions. Although technically, it still uses your credit card or bank account to make purchases.
So how does each of these “pay” work?
How does Google Pay Work?
Google Pay uses NFC technologyto interact with point-of-sale devices that support NFC technology. You’ll have to download the app, register your credit card, and to use it, tap your smartphone on the machine, to make the payment.
Easy, right?
Google Pay works by facilitating a tokenization process in which atokenacts as a stand-in for a customer’s actual credit and debit card numbers and information to protect your account information.
How does Samsung Pay work?
This part is where Samsung differs a bit. Sure, it can also use NFC technology built on your smartphone to make payments.
But, even if the point-of-sale machine does not support NFC technology, you’ll be able to do payments thanks to MST technology that the latest Samsung smartphones have. MST or “Magnetic Secure Transmission” interacts directly with the machine and allows you to make payments, which is very similar to credit card transactions.
Also, Samsung Pay uses tokenization, and you authorize transactions with a PIN, fingerprint, and eye scans. After numerous failed attempts to authenticate, Samsung Pay erases all the data in your card to prevent unauthorized use.
Point to Point Comparison: Samsung Pay vs Google Pay
You might find yourself asking, “Which is better? Google Pay or Samsung Pay?”
Comparing Google Pay and Samsung Pay is inevitable, mainly because they offer similar services. The chart below will give you an overview of each method’s performance based on specific criteria. This is our detailed point by point comparison of Samsung Pay vs Google Pay
| POINT OF COMPARISON | GOOGLE PAY | SAMSUNG PAY |
| Convenience | Very convenient | Very convenient |
| Ease of Use | Contactless Payments Over NFC | Credit Card Accepted Terminals |
| Availability | Supported in140 Countries | Supported in24 Countries |
| Payment Technology | NFC Technology | Magnetic field (Credit Cards) |
| Compatibility | Android NFC Compatible | Exclusive to Samsung Phones |
| Longevity | NFC Technology – World Wide Standard | Samsung Phone Only Restriction |
| Security | Uses tokenization to keep your information safe. Each of your payment information is encrypted and stored on a secure server. | Uses tokenization and transactions require authorization from the user through PINs, fingerprint, or other scans. |
Samsung Pay vs Google Pay
Take a look at the below infographic and get a glimpse of Samsung Pay vs Google Pay.
Let’s discuss the last three points on the table:
- Payment Technology
- Compatibility
- Longevity
1. Payment Technology
Here’s the thing:
Samsung Pay creates a magnetic field similar to your credit card but can outdo the swiping motion we usually do with our credit cards. All you need to do is take your smartphone near to the point-of-sale machine, and that’s about it.
There is an MST antenna built into the latest Samsung smartphones that can trick the magnetic strip card readers into believing that you are swiping a card. It can do that by creating a magnetic field for a short amount of duration.
Still…
This feature is only available in Australia and the US, which means that Samsung Pay has a very distinct advantage over Google Pay in the US and Australia. However, if you are in the UK, there is no advantage of using Samsung Pay because there are already contactless terminals installed there.
2. Compatibility
When it comes to compatibility, Samsung is at a big drawback because Google Pay works with almost any Android smartphone that has NFC built-in. Meanwhile, Samsung Pay is available to Samsung devices only.
You see:
This payment method depends on the popularity of their smartphones, which is significant, of course, but it is nowhere near the reach of Android itself.
Many Android smartphones come with NFC technology. Many other manufacturers are coping up with Samsung in terms of sales.
Chinese companies like Huawei, Oppo, and Xiaomi are selling millions of smartphones each year. And almost all the smartphones they release come with NFC technology, meaning that Google Pay wins when it comes to compatibility.
So in the battle of Samsung Pay vs Google Pay for longevity, Google Pay is the clear winner considering the rate at which NFC technology is growing around the world.
3. Longevity
While the MST technology on Samsung smartphones is remarkable, NFC is becoming the universal norm rapidly. It is already trendy in the UK and other European countries, so the relevance of MST will dwindle over time as the world adapts NFC technology more and more.
In a few years, almost every point-of-sale machine could come with NFC technology to make payments more manageable. Yes, Samsung can also make payments via NFC technology, but so can Google Pay, and it is available on more devices overall.
FAQs
How is Google Wallet related to Google Pay?
Google Pay is a service by Google that resulted in combining two different functions, and those are the Android Pay and Google Wallet. This unified payment system is Google’s newest payment system integrated into Android.
How is Google Pay Send related to the current Google Android payment system, Google Pay?
Google Pay Send is an integrated system within the Google Pay system. It has replaced the functionality of Google Wallet that allows you to send money to another user.
What is GPay?
GPay is the short for Google Pay. It is a mobile payments app where you can store your credit card and debit card information, send money to and from bank accounts without any additional fees, and pay online or in store.
Is Tez and Google Pay the same?
Google Pay was initially launched as Tez payment services in India. It was later renamed to Google Pay on 28 August 2018.
Which is better, Apple Pay or Google Pay?
Both the apps are better in some ways than the other. With Apple Pay, you can make peer-to-peer payments from the Messages app through Apple Cash. Also, you ask Siri to make the payment with the cards stored in the Apple Pay app. Google Pay, however, allows you to make payments to phone numbers and UPI IDs from the Google Pay app. Moreover, Google Pay rewards the users with scratch cards when you send money.
Can I use both Samsung Pay and Google Pay?
You can use Samsung Pay and Google Pay. While Google Pay can be used to purchase online globally, Samsung Pay can be used only by samsung or android users.
Which is more secure? Gpay or Samsung Pay?
Google Pay is more secure as it is accepted and used around 40 countries around the world.
Samsung Pay – Samsung Galaxy S10+
If you wish to use Samsung Pay, you need to have the supported devices. If you’re new to Samsung Pay and are willing to purchase Samsung devices for you to be able to use it, then we highly recommend getting a Samsung Galaxy S10+.
The Samsung S10+ is one of the brands’ flagship smartphone models for the year 2019. So if you plan to use Samsung Pay, then the best way to do it is by having the best device from Samsung. If you are interested in purchasing this device, you can click the Amazon button we placed below.
Google Pay – Google Pixel 4
On the other hand, if you want something that is supported by more countries and is backed up by the biggest tech company, Google, then Google Pay is the service for you. With Google Pay, you can use it on any Android smartphone devices that have a built-in NFC.
Although, if you genuinely want to enjoy the full potential of Android and Google Pay, then getting a Google Pixel 4 Android smartphone is the way to go.
With Google Pixel 4 smartphone, you can enjoy the authentic experience of Android without that unwanted bloatware that comes from other brands. Furthermore, smartphones that run on pure Android are the ones that get the Android update first before anyone else.
Suggested reads:
How to Use Android Pay with PayPal
How to Fix Android Pay That’s Not Working: A Simple Guide
How to use Android Pay with and without NFC
To Sum It All Up
The comparison of Samsung Pay vs Google Pay becomes a lot easier when we lay down all the cards on the table. All though at the end of the day, it will all go down to individual preferences and certain factors such as the phone you are using right now, country of residence, and more.
Verdict: Samsung Pay vs Google Pay
- If you have a Samsung device and your country hasn’t caught up on NFC technology yet, Samsung Pay is the obvious choice.
- If you have any Android device that has NFC enabled and your country has a lot of point-of-sale machines that support NFC, then Google Pay is the best choice.
Hopefully, this simple Google Pay vs. Samsung Pay comparison will help you choose the best payment method for yourself. Both are entirely free to use, and you can keep both services on your Samsung smartphones. Of course, Google Pay is your only option for non-Samsung smartphones.
Before choosing which method to use, make sure to check if your bank or card is compatible with the service. You wouldn’t want to find your bank incompatible with your payment service, right?
What are your thoughts on these payment methods? Which one of the services appeals to you the most? And who do you think is the winner in Samsung Pay vs Google Pay? Do tell us in the comment section.
Suggested Reads:
What to do when Google Pay payment fails? (Full Guide)
Who Accepts Google Pay? (A General List)
How to Use Google Pay [Android Pay] in Store
FAQs
Which one is better Google Pay or Samsung Pay? ›
Even if you own a Samsung phone, you might find that Google Pay is a better option. With Android 12, Google Pay has become even easier to use thanks to the addition of payment cards to the lock screen shortcuts. This makes it quicker and more convenient to make payments on the go.
What makes Samsung Pay unique? ›Samsung Pay availability
It uses both NFC and magnetic secure transmission (MST) technology. MST technology emits a magnetic signal that acts like the magnetic stripe you find on most credit cards.
Google Pay protects your payment info with multiple layers of security, using one of the world's most advanced security infrastructures to help keep your account safe. When you pay in stores, Google Pay doesn't share your actual card number, so your information stays secure.
What is the most you can pay Samsung Pay? ›There's no limit to how much you can pay in one transaction.
Can I use both Google Pay and Samsung Pay? ›Can I use both Google Pay and Samsung Pay? If you own a Samsung device, you can use both apps since Google Pay works on Android, so it is available on your Samsung phone as well.
Is Samsung Pay accepted everywhere? ›Samsung Pay is accepted in-stores, in-app and online. In stores, it works almost anywhere you can swipe or tap your card. Look for the Samsung Pay logo, Contactless Symbol or card swipe at checkout.
What are the pros of Samsung Pay? ›Best-in-class security
Each transaction uses a unique digital identifier instead of your card number, so your card details are never shared. Fingerprint or PIN authorization means you control when each payment is made.
There are many reasons why your Samsung Pay won't work. It might be an issue with device compatibility, problems with the payment terminal (especially older ones), connection and transaction errors, or card incompatibility.
What are two disadvantages of Google Pay? ›- The app was designed primarily for Android and Google phone users. ...
- You can only add a credit or debit card to Google Wallet if the credit card company or your bank supports contactless payments. ...
- Not all in-person stores accept contactless payment. ...
- Google Pay in stores is only available via mobile app.
Google Pay is only supported by a limited number of banks, so if your bank doesn't use Google Pay, then you can't accept it as a payment method. Similarly, if your customers' banks don't support Google Pay, they can't use it to make payments at your store. This is a downside for both consumers and businesses.
Does Google Pay charge a fee? ›
Is Google Pay free to use? Google Pay does not impose fees, but you may pay a fee to the bank or network that issued your payment card when you use Google Pay.
Does Walmart accept Samsung Pay? ›No. Walmart stores do not accept other mobile or digital payment services like Google Pay, Apple Pay, or Samsung. The only mobile wallet Walmart takes is Walmart Pay.
How many cards can Samsung Pay hold? ›Note: You can add and manage up to 10 payment cards, including credit cards and debit cards. You can also add unlimited gift cards to your account.
Does Samsung Pay have fees? ›No, there are no fees for subscribing to or paying with Samsung Pay. To subscribe and to pay with Mobile Wallet, your device needs to have an active data plan, and you could have additional data and/or text message fees.
How secure is Samsung Pay? ›When you add your payment card to Samsung Pay, the information is encrypted and sent to Samsung servers and, ultimately, to the card issuer's payment network (Visa, MasterCard, or American Express) for approval. A one-time password (OTP) may be requested by the card issuer to verify you are the cardholder.
Is Google Pay or Samsung Pay safer? ›Both of these apps offer solid security features and a simple user interface while also supporting a wide variety of payment methods. However, if you're not using a Samsung phone or smartwatch, Google Wallet may be a more suitable option for you, as it can be used across a range of different devices.
What bank does Samsung Pay use? ›What is Samsung Pay? Samsung Pay provides owners of select Samsung Galaxy devices the ability to use their Galaxy phone to make payments almost anywhere you can swipe or tap your JD Bank debit card. How does Samsung Pay Work?
Why my card is not accepted in Samsung Pay? ›If your Samsung Pay transaction is declined, check if the message 'Verification Needed' appears on the card in the Samsung Pay app. If that message is displayed, you'll need to complete verification by requesting a one-time passcode. You will not be able to use Samsung Pay until you have completed verification.
What are the disadvantages of Samsung Pay? ›- Busy interface design.
- Uses legacy magnetic stripe technology.
- No paying friends.
- Account privacy policy not the best.
Mobile Payments such as Apple Pay®, Google Pay™, Samsung Pay, or any contactless digital wallet. Alipay is approved in authorized stores only.
Does Amazon take Samsung Pay? ›
The Samsung Pay feature on Amazon allows customers to pay for purchases using their Samsung devices. To use this feature, customers must meet specific eligibility requirements.
Why did Walmart stop taking Samsung Pay? ›Walmart does not accept Google Pay or Samsung Pay because it has its own mobile payment wallet in the form of Walmart Pay. You can link Walmart Pay with your credit or debit cards and use it at checkout.
Did Samsung discontinue Samsung Pay? ›Samsung Pay is now part. of Samsung Wallet.
Has Samsung Pay been replaced? ›All in all, Samsung Wallet is the more versatile payment solution for Galaxy smartphones, hence its immediate takeover of both Samsung Pay and Samsung Pass. Most modern Galaxy devices already have the app installed in locations like the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Italy, and Spain.
Does Chick Fil A use Samsung Pay? ›Chick-fil-A does not accept Samsung Pay at their retail stores or their app.
Can I Pay my bill with Samsung Pay? ›With Samsung Pay, you can also pay your bills, check your credit score and collect gift cards.
Does grocery outlet accept Samsung Pay? ›Did you know that we accept apple pay, android pay and samsung pay? These options are an excellent way to have a secure contactless transaction upon check-out!
Why not to use Google Pay? ›Google Pay does not offer buyer protection. If you use Google Pay to buy something and you don't receive it, Google won't investigate or refund your money. Provided a Google Pay transaction involves a bank card, you may still be covered by your bank's fraud protection.
Why Google Pay is not popular in US? ›It's not a lack of talented personnel and leaders, and it's not a lack of solid, leading-edge technology. Google Payments' problem boils down to two things: 1) No strategy, and 2) No organizational alignment. Ready's comment that Google has no intention of becoming a bank shouldn't come as a surprise.
Why does Google Pay fail so much? ›Check your payment account information to make sure it is not outdated. If it is, update it. 7. Make sure the person sending the money has enough money in their account to cover the transaction.
What are 3 cons of Google? ›
- Google Chrome browser is hungry for battery and data. ...
- Your privacy is not important to the Google Chrome web browser. ...
- Google Chrome's Incognito Mode is widely used because any search or activity there won't be monitored. ...
- One might argue that Google has the Internet in a certain sense.
The token is unique in that it will only work for that purchase, from that merchant, using that credit card. Even so, Google goes out of its way to keep the token safe too. Everything within the process is encrypted from both ends, and any information Google has is stored on its secured, encrypted servers.
Is PayPal better than Google Pay? ›Google Pay is free for businesses and can be set up in only a few days with a developer-friendly API. PayPal, on the other hand, charges a range of fees for accepting different forms of payment. It's also important to consider each platform's global support.
Why did Google charge me $2? ›When you add your STACK card as a payment method in digital services such as Google Play Store, Netflix, Staples, etc., it's common for them to request a small amount $1.00 or $2.00 to ensure the card is valid card number.
What are the new rules for Google Pay in 2023? ›UPI Transaction Charges from April 2023
The UPI inter charges will be increased when the amount of transaction above the 2000 rupees was deducted 1.1% charge by the merchant. For transactions up to Rs. 1,000, the UPI Transaction Charges are nil.
With Google Checkout, there are no monthly, setup, or gateway service fees. An additional 1% fee will be assessed on transactions where the merchant's country is different from the buyer's billing country.
What is Samsung Pay good for? ›Keep your favorite cards in one place. Samsung Pay lets you carry your credit, debit, gift and membership cards on your devices.
Is Google Pay accepted everywhere? ›Not sure which stores let you use Google Pay on your phone to check out? Google Pay is accepted at more places than you think. Millions, in fact. It works in select supermarkets, pharmacies, restaurants, clothing stores, gas stations, beauty shops, and other retailers that accept mobile payments.
What are the pros and cons of Google Pay? ›- Pro: Wide compatibility. ...
- Con: NFC technology limitation. ...
- Pro: Layers of security. ...
- Con: Limited availability in certain countries. ...
- Pro: Additional uses. ...
- Con: Limited list of participating banks.
GPay Per Day Limit
Moreover, the maximum times you can make transactions in a day cannot exceed 10. If you want to spend more money or conduct a greater number of transactions, you will have to wait for the 24-hour time period to get over.
Why did Samsung charge me 15 cents? ›
these are validation charges. some shady person got your Credit card, and makes microcharges to validate it. Report possible credit card theft to your credit card company.
Does Samsung Pay give you a card? ›To get started with Samsung Pay Card, you will first need to set up Samsung Pay on your phone. Once you have completed the setup process, there are two ways to get your very own Samsung Pay Card. 1 Click on the Samsung Pay Card starter card you'll see in you Samsung Pay app.
Can I use Google Pay at ATM? ›Google Wallet lets you withdraw money at any ATM that has the contactless symbol. It's easy to use, and you get access to some quick funds. Naturally, as with any ATM, daily limits will apply based on your own bank and accounts cash withdrawal limit. Start by opening your Google Pay Wallet.
What bank does Google Pay use? ›Banks that accept Google Pay
You can use your Bank of America, Citi, PNC, TD Bank, and Wells Fargo accounts with Google Pay, and a number of others.