Google’s app ecosystem is incredibly powerful, but after switching to a Galaxy phone, I’ve realized that many of Samsung’s alternatives provide a superior and more integrated experience. As a result, I’ve replaced several Google apps with Samsung’s.
1
Samsung Keyboard Over Gboard
Gboard may be a popular keyboard app, but after switching to Samsung Keyboard, I haven’t looked back. One of the main reasons for this is Galaxy AI’s writing features, which are seamlessly integrated into Samsung’s keyboard app.
With Galaxy AI, I can quickly correct grammar, rephrase text, and even generate entire messages from scratch. This makes typing on my Galaxy phone smoother and more efficient than ever.
Customization is another area in which the Samsung Keyboard excels. With the Keys Cafe module from Samsung’s Good Lock suite, I can fine-tune the layout, add custom key effects, and even create my own unique themes.
If there’s one Samsung app I wish were available on all Android phones, it’s Samsung Keyboard.
2
Samsung Notes Over Google Keep
Google Keep is great for anyone who wants a simple, no-frills note-taking experience. However, it lacks several useful features found in Samsung Notes. For example, Samsung Notes offers an Auto Format feature that quickly organizes my notes with bullets and headers.
I also like how I can use Galaxy AI in Samsung Notes to get a quick summary of a lengthy note. Additionally, Samsung Notes makes it easy to open and annotate PDFs—something Google Keep lacks.
Another advantage of Samsung Notes is that it lets me create notes directly from the lock screen and the Edge panel on my Galaxy phone. This is quite handy for anyone who needs to use notes frequently.
3
Samsung Phone Over Phone by Google
I know most people use the phone app solely to make calls and check call logs. However, the Samsung Phone app offers several useful features beyond these basics.
My favorite one is the Bixby Text Call feature, which lets me use a voice assistant to answer calls. It works similarly to how Google’s Call Screening feature works on Pixel phones. Another useful feature is Live Translate, which provides real-time translation during phone calls.
But the biggest reason I prefer Samsung’s Phone app over Google’s is its automatic call recording. This feature is invaluable for keeping track of important conversations—whether for work, personal reference, or simply recalling details later.
The call recording feature isn’t available in the U.S. and some other regions due to government regulations.
4
Samsung Calendar Over Google Calendar
Honestly, there isn’t a huge difference between Google Calendar and Samsung Calendar, but the latter wins me over with its customization options. I love how Samsung Calendar lets me personalize event appearances—I can adjust font sizes, colors, and even how events are highlighted.
Another small but handy feature is the ability to display weather details directly in the calendar view. When it comes to alerts, Samsung Calendar offers more flexibility—I can choose between a standard notification or a full-screen alert to ensure I never miss an important meeting or reminder.
5
Samsung SmartThings Find Over Google Find My Device
Losing a smartphone can be stressful. Thankfully, with Google’s Find My Device, I can play a sound on my phone, secure it, or erase it remotely in case something unfortunate happens. But with Samsung’s SmartThings Find, I can do all that and more.
For instance, I can use the Extend battery life option to disable unnecessary features on my Galaxy phone and ensure it lasts longer. This can be a lifesaver, as it gives extra time to locate a lost phone.
Another benefit of using SmartThings Find is that it isn’t limited to just phones—it also lets me track and ring other Samsung devices, including Galaxy Buds and Galaxy Watch.
6
Samsung Files Over Files By Google
Both Samsung Files and Files by Google offer similar file management features. However, I prefer Samsung Files as my go-to for a couple of key reasons.
Besides managing local storage, Samsung’s My Files app lets me view and organize files stored on cloud services like OneDrive and Google Drive. This means I can move files around or check my cloud storage without switching between apps.
Samsung Files also includes network storage support—something Files by Google lacks. With this feature, I can connect to FTP servers and shared network drives, which gives me even more control over my files across multiple devices.
7
Samsung Calculator Over Google Calculator
I don’t know about you, but I use the calculator app more often than most people. I’ve tried both Samsung’s and Google’s calculator apps, and once again, Samsung wins for me with more features.
The feature I use the most is the built-in unit converter. It covers all the basics, including length, temperature, data, speed, and more. There’s even a tip calculator where I can enter the total, tip percentage, and number of people splitting the bill—it instantly provides the exact calculation.
In scientific mode, the Samsung Calculator provides more options than Google’s version, including additional trigonometric, logarithmic, and factorial functions. Further, Samsung Calculator includes all the features Google Calculator offers, so there’s no reason to switch.
8
Samsung Gallery Over Google Photos
If there’s one app that everyone uses on their phone, it’s the Gallery app. And if you ask me, Samsung Gallery is miles ahead of Google Photos.
When it comes to editing, Samsung Gallery shines with options like shadow and reflection removal. And while both the apps include the option to mute a video, Samsung Gallery also lets me replace the audio, which is a definite plus.
Another great example is the search function. Unlike Google Photos, which only allows searching for cloud-backed photos, Samsung Gallery lets me search all images, whether they’re backed up or not.
It’s small details like these that make Samsung Gallery the better choice for managing and editing media. Plus, using Samsung Gallery is a no-brainer for anyone who prefers Microsoft OneDrive over Google Drive.
In my opinion, most of Samsung’s apps are underrated, mainly because they’re exclusive to Galaxy phones and tablets. Now that I’ve gotten used to them, it’s difficult to see myself moving to a different Android phone, let alone an iPhone.
If you’ve recently switched to a Galaxy phone, I highly recommend giving these Samsung apps a shot.
