Is The Samsung A50 Still A Better Buy Than A Moto Z2 Play In Current Year

In today’s smartphone market, where even budget devices offer impressive features, older models often linger on secondary markets or resale platforms. Two such phones—the Samsung Galaxy A50 and the Motorola Moto Z2 Play—represent different philosophies in mid-range design from their era. Released just two years apart (A50 in 2019, Z2 Play in 2017), both were once praised for value and functionality. But in 2024, with app demands growing and Android updates advancing, is the Samsung A50 still a smarter purchase than the aging Moto Z2 Play? The answer isn’t just about specs—it's about longevity, usability, and real-world performance.

Performance and Hardware: A Generational Gap

The core of any smartphone decision lies in its hardware. The Samsung A50 launched with an Exynos 9610 processor, paired with 4GB or 6GB of RAM, depending on the variant. While not flagship-tier, this chipset was designed for smooth multitasking and decent gaming performance at the time. In contrast, the Moto Z2 Play used the Qualcomm Snapdragon 626—an older, energy-efficient chip built on a 14nm process but lacking in raw power by modern standards.

Benchmarks tell a clear story. The Exynos 9610 scores around 1,400 on Geekbench single-core and over 5,000 in multi-core tests, while the Snapdragon 626 lags significantly behind with single-core scores near 650 and multi-core around 3,000. This means that everyday tasks like switching between apps, loading web pages, or using social media are noticeably faster on the A50.

Tip: When buying used phones, always check benchmark scores relevant to the model—real-world speed matters more than listed specs.

Software and Security: The Lifespan Factor

Software support is where the gap widens dramatically. The Samsung A50 shipped with Android 9 (Pie) and received updates up to Android 11, along with security patches until late 2022. While no longer officially supported, its last OS version offers compatibility with most current apps, including banking services, streaming platforms, and productivity tools.

The Moto Z2 Play originally ran Android 7.1 Nougat and was updated to Android 8.0 Oreo—a dead end by today’s standards. Most modern apps now require at least Android 9 or higher. Google has deprecated API support for older versions, meaning many apps either won't install or will crash frequently on the Z2 Play.

“Devices stuck on Android 8 or below face increasing incompatibility issues. Even basic functions like secure logins can fail due to outdated SSL protocols.” — David Lin, Mobile Security Analyst

Additionally, the lack of security patches since 2018 makes the Z2 Play vulnerable to known exploits. For anyone using the phone for email, messaging, or online shopping, this poses a genuine risk.

Battery Life and Charging: Real-World Endurance

Battery degradation is inevitable after several years, but original capacity and charging capabilities still matter. The A50 came with a 4,000mAh battery and supported fast charging at 15W—meaning it could go from 0 to 50% in under 40 minutes. After replacement, it can still deliver a full day of moderate use in 2024.

The Moto Z2 Play featured a smaller 3,000mAh battery, though Motorola optimized it well with Doze mode and efficient hardware. However, its maximum charging speed caps at 15W only under ideal conditions with Moto Turbo Power, which few third-party chargers support. More commonly, it charges at 5–10W, leading to slower top-ups.

Feature	Samsung A50	Moto Z2 Play
Processor	Exynos 9610	Snapdragon 626
RAM Options	4GB / 6GB	3GB / 4GB
Original OS	Android 9 (Pie)	Android 7.1 (Nougat)
Last Supported OS	Android 11	Android 8.0 (Oreo)
Battery Capacity	4,000 mAh	3,000 mAh
Fast Charging	Yes (15W)	Limited (TurboPower)
Rear Camera	25MP + 8MP + 5MP	12MP (f/1.7)
Fingerprint Sensor	Optical (in-display)	Rear-mounted
Expandable Storage	Yes (up to 512GB)	Yes (up to 2TB)
Current App Compatibility	Good	Poor to Fair

User Experience and Daily Usability in 2024

Real-world usage separates functional devices from frustrating ones. On the A50, users can expect fluid navigation through Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and even light gaming like *Among Us* or *Subway Surfers*. The AMOLED display remains vibrant, and the in-display fingerprint sensor, while slower than newer models, still works reliably.

The Moto Z2 Play struggles in comparison. Its 5.5-inch Full HD OLED screen was excellent in 2017, but the 3GB RAM base model chokes when multiple apps are open. Chrome tabs reload constantly, and switching between messaging apps often triggers lag. Voice recognition and Google Assistant responses are delayed due to CPU limitations.

A mini case study illustrates this: Sarah, a college student in Chicago, bought a used Z2 Play for $40 in early 2023 hoping to use it as a backup device. Within weeks, she found herself unable to access her university’s learning portal—its login system required TLS 1.2+, unsupported on her outdated Android version. She switched to her old A50, which handled the site effortlessly despite being three years newer in release date.

Upgrade Paths and Accessories

One argument once made for the Moto Z2 Play was its modular Moto Mods system—snap-on accessories like speakers, projectors, and extra batteries. While innovative, these mods are now nearly impossible to find new, and most have been discontinued. Secondhand prices are high, and compatibility with current Bluetooth standards is spotty.

The A50, meanwhile, benefits from Samsung’s broad ecosystem. It supports Samsung Pay (via MST and NFC), Smart Switch for easy transfers, and DeX Lite for desktop-like experiences. Even without official updates, custom ROMs like LineageOS offer unofficial Android 12/13 ports, extending its usable life for tech-savvy users.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Evaluate an Older Phone Purchase in 2024

1. Determine your primary use: Will it be for calls/texts only, social media, or multimedia?
2. Check minimum OS requirements: Visit Google Play Store listings for your essential apps and verify Android version needs.
3. Test real-world performance: If buying in person, open five apps and switch between them to check for reloading or lag.
4. Inspect battery health: Use dial codes (*#*#4636#*#*) to access battery info if possible.
5. Verify security patch date: Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Info to see when the last update was issued.
6. Consider future-proofing: Avoid phones that haven’t received updates in over two years.

Tip: Always factory reset a used phone before testing—it reveals true performance without leftover bloatware slowing things down.

FAQ

Can the Moto Z2 Play run WhatsApp in 2024?

Technically yes, but with caveats. WhatsApp dropped support for Android 7.1 in late 2023. While existing installations may still function temporarily, new logins or re-installs will likely fail. Continued use is unreliable.

Is the Samsung A50 safe to use in 2024 despite no updates?

With precautions, yes. Avoid sideloading unknown apps, use a reputable antivirus, and stick to trusted networks. As long as you don’t store sensitive data or do mobile banking, it remains reasonably secure for casual use.

Which phone has better camera quality today?

The A50 wins decisively. Its triple-lens setup includes ultra-wide and depth sensors, allowing for more versatile photography. The Z2 Play’s single 12MP shooter performs well in daylight but lacks night mode, HDR, or portrait options that are standard now.

Final Verdict and Recommendation

Despite both being out of production, the Samsung A50 is unequivocally the better buy in 2024 compared to the Moto Z2 Play. It offers superior processing power, a more recent operating system, broader app compatibility, and better overall user experience. The Z2 Play’s legacy appeal—modularity and compact size—is outweighed by its technical obsolescence.

If you're considering either phone for a child, elderly relative, or as a temporary backup, prioritize the A50. Even refurbished units typically cost only $80–$100, a small premium over the Z2 Play’s $40–$60 range, but one that delivers years of additional usability.

🚀 Ready to make a smart upgrade? Check certified refurbished sellers for the Samsung A50, and avoid devices stuck on Android 8 or earlier. Your daily digital experience depends on it.