Samsung is one of the most well-known manufacturers in the mobile phone sector. However, the manufacturer now offers a variety of devices and models. But what do all these abbreviations and model series like Z, S, A, M, and Note stand for?
Samsung presents a whole range of new phones and models every year. It feels like new numbers and letters are added each year. But what do all these abbreviations mean, and what should I keep in mind when buying a device? MeinMMO introduces you to the most important series from Samsung and explains what the abbreviations mean.
Here, we will present the currently most significant and semi-current series. Very old models will be deliberately excluded.
All important Galaxy series at a glance:
Galaxy S
With the S series, you get the current and modern hardware of the Korean manufacturer at Samsung. Here you will find the so-called flagship models of the manufacturer. There is the best camera, the largest battery, and the most performance. The downside, however, is that the devices often come with a high price tag.
The S series is further divided into S without addition, Plus, and Ultra. Some models also have an FE edition. The Galaxy S24 Ultra costs around 1,500 Euros. However, this is also the current state of technology.
Who is it worth for? You want the best technology, the best camera, and price is not a concern for you? Then you will get exactly that with the S series.
What alternatives are there? Xiaomi 14T, Google Pixel 9, and iPhone 16.
Galaxy Z
The Z series currently includes all of Samsung’s foldable phones. Even the first Fold is counted in the Z series, although only the second generation carries the “Z” in its name (Galaxy Z Fold2). At Samsung, they differentiate between “Flip” and “Fold” depending on how the phone is folded.
Similar to the S series, you get high-end technology and unique features here. However, this is also reflected in the price. The current Z Flip 6 has a retail price of 1,199 Euros.
Who is it worth for? You want a top-current phone, but all the current devices seem too large? Foldable smartphones fill exactly this gap. Other manufacturers also offer foldable and flip phones by now.
What alternatives are there? Xiaomi Mix Flip, Nubia Flip 5G, Honor Magic v2, Google Pixel Fold.
Galaxy J and A
In the A series, you will find primarily budget models and phones that already belong to the mid-range. This means that the technology is not top current, but starting from a certain price, you already get a good camera and decent battery life.
Until 2018, the models were sold as the J series, and starting in 2019, the J series became the A series.
However, you have to do without the latest features in the A series, but the prices usually remain below 300 Euros.
Who is it worth for? The A series from Samsung is particularly interesting if you do not want to spend more than 300 Euros on a phone, but still do not want to miss out on a good camera and acceptable performance. You might not get the latest features, but you will receive all important updates for Android. Whether you should still use a phone with outdated Android can be read on MeinMMO.
What alternatives are there? Nothing Phone 2, Redmi Note 14, Motorola Moto G73 5G.
Galaxy M
The M series, like the A series, primarily focuses on affordable mid-range devices but is priced slightly lower than the A series. The M series was promoted for a long time as a cheaper alternative to Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi, mainly in Asia, but it is now also coming to Europe.
The M series also boasts modern technology and provides you with fast displays featuring AMOLED technology. The special feature of the M series is that Samsung has provided these models with a particularly strong battery.
Who is it worth for? Technically, A and M models are very similar, with M models having a somewhat stronger battery. If you’re often on the go and don’t want to constantly recharge your battery, then the M series is worth a look.
What alternatives are there? Xiaomi 11T, Nothing Phone 2, Redmi Note 14.
Galaxy Note
The Note series was long considered a flagship alongside Samsung’s S series. Due to their size, they were also called “phablets,” a hybrid form between a phone and a tablet. A main feature of the series was for a long time a digital pen that could be hidden in the case. Additionally, the Note series relies on very large, borderless displays.
The last model in the series was released in 2020 in the form of the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 (Ultra). Samsung has since discontinued production of the Note series. Some features, such as the smart pen, have been adopted by the S series.
Who is it worth for? The Note series is no longer produced and is therefore only available as used.
Galaxy XCover
The XCover series from Samsung represents a niche, as it consists of so-called outdoor phones or “rugged phones.” Therefore, the series focuses on long battery life, a waterproof and robust casing. Additionally, you can also replace and swap the battery.
Other features, such as wireless charging or a good camera, are often sacrificed. Pricing is around 300 Euros.
Who is it worth for? Are you looking for a phone for on the go that should be robust and stable and be a “construction worker’s phone”? Then the XCover series is well suited for that.
What alternatives are there? Blackview N6000, Oukitel WP21 Ultra, Ulefone Armor 13, Cat S62 Pro.
Affordable alternatives compared: Can you get through everyday life with a phone under 100 Euros in 2024? Our MeinMMO editor bought a device and explains what works well and what you’ll have to do without in this price range: I tested a phone under 100 Euros with Android 14 – Is it really as bad as it sounds?
