GoKawiilRyan Haines / Android Authority
The Moto G series has been around for over a decade now, and Motorola launched the Moto G (2026) late last year. My colleague Ryan Haines praised the device for its big battery, solid main camera, 3.5mm port, and microSD card slot. Unfortunately, he thought the short update policy, disappointing performance, and poor durability dragged the entire package down.
So, what should you buy instead of Motorola’s budget phone? Well, there’s no shortage of cheap Android phones on the market. But if you’re overwhelmed by your numerous options, we picked out the five best alternatives to the Moto G (2026).
What phone would you buy instead of the Moto G (2026)? 32 votes Samsung Galaxy A17 5G 28 % CMF Phone 2 Pro 9 % TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G 6 % Motorola Moto G Power (2026) 38 % Google Pixel 10a 19 %
Samsung Galaxy A17 5G
Ryan Haines / Android Authority
The Samsung Galaxy A17 5G isn’t exactly the best Moto G (2026) alternative on the list, as it has its own share of issues. These problems include slow charging speeds, disappointing performance, and poor secondary cameras. If that’s all true, why are we recommending it?
The Galaxy A17 5G is worth buying over the Motorola handset if you value long-term updates, a durable design, and superior screen tech. Expect six years of OS updates, Gorilla Glass Victus in lieu of Motorola’s Gorilla Glass 3, and an OLED screen. The update policy, in particular, is a big upgrade over the Moto G’s two years of OS updates. Another important factor is price, as the Moto G (2026) has seen its price rise from $200 to $300. By contrast, Samsung’s phone still costs $200.
It’s not a complete win for the Galaxy A17, though. Both phones have a microSD card slot, but only the Moto handset includes a headphone port. Nevertheless, I’d argue that the Galaxy A17 5G delivers the better overall package for most people.
Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Samsung Galaxy A17 5G Six years of software updates • Three rear cameras • Updated IP54 rating MSRP: $199.99 Samsung's Galaxy A17 5G brings new refinement to the affordable Android segment. Samsung's Galaxy A17 5G is a sign of the times, blending cheap Galaxy features with flagship design traits to make your affordable Android phone feel like more. It has three rear cameras for a little extra flexibility, while six years of software updates means you can hang onto it and get your money's worth. See price at Amazon Save $25.00
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