Detailed Comparison of Two New Midrange 5G Smartphones

The midrange smartphone market in 2025 is seeing intense competition, and two models making headlines are the Samsung Galaxy M17 5G and the Motorola Edge 50 Neo. Both promise strong 5G performance, solid displays, and premium design features without the high price tag. Yet they target slightly different types of users. Here’s a closer look at how these two devices compare in display quality, performance, camera setup, and overall value for U.S. buyers.

The Samsung Galaxy M17 5G features a large 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing bright, vivid colors and smooth scrolling. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, giving it good durability against scratches and accidental drops. Its IP54 rating makes it resistant to light splashes and dust. The design follows Samsung’s clean, minimalist style with a matte back finish that resists fingerprints. On the other hand, the Motorola Edge 50 Neo offers a slightly smaller but more advanced LTPO OLED display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. The screen delivers deeper contrast and smoother animations while consuming less power. With an IP68 water and dust resistance rating and a sleek frame, the Edge 50 Neo looks and feels more premium in the hand.

Performance is another area where both phones perform well but take different paths. The Galaxy M17 5G runs on Samsung’s Exynos 1330 chipset, which handles multitasking, streaming, and social apps efficiently. It’s not a gaming powerhouse but performs consistently without overheating. Samsung’s software advantage comes from One UI 7 on Android 15, which is clean, fast, and updated with new AI tools like “Circle to Search” and image enhancement features. Samsung also guarantees six years of OS and security updates, giving the phone an edge in long-term reliability. In contrast, the Motorola Edge 50 Neo is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor. It’s faster and more energy-efficient, offering smoother performance during gaming and app switching. Motorola’s Android interface is close to stock, with minimal bloatware and intuitive gestures. The company promises multiple software updates, though not as long-term as Samsung’s commitment.

When it comes to cameras, both devices emphasize a 50-megapixel main sensor with optical image stabilization, but their approaches differ. The Galaxy M17 5G pairs its main lens with a 5MP ultra-wide and a 2MP macro sensor. Photos from the main camera are sharp, with accurate colors and solid detail under good lighting. Low-light photography benefits from OIS, though the secondary lenses are less impressive. Selfies from the 13MP front camera are bright and balanced. The Motorola Edge 50 Neo goes further with a 50MP main sensor, a 13MP ultra-wide, and a telephoto zoom option. This combination gives more flexibility for portrait and distant shots. Images from the Neo show strong color reproduction and better depth, making it a clear winner for users who love photography.

Battery life is one of the biggest distinctions between the two. The Galaxy M17 5G packs a 5,000mAh battery, delivering full-day or even two-day endurance under regular use. The Exynos processor’s efficiency helps maintain good power balance, though its 25W charging speed feels slower compared to competitors. In contrast, the Edge 50 Neo includes a smaller 4,300mAh battery but compensates with blazing-fast 68W wired charging and 15W wireless charging support. While its endurance is shorter, users can quickly top up the phone in just a few minutes, making it ideal for people who value fast charging convenience.

Design and ergonomics also play a role in the buying decision. The M17 5G’s larger form factor may appeal to users who prefer big screens for streaming and gaming, while the Edge 50 Neo’s lighter and slimmer body suits one-handed use. The Neo’s curved display and matte back give it a high-end finish, while the M17’s design focuses more on practicality and grip comfort.

In the end, the choice between the two comes down to what matters most. The Samsung Galaxy M17 5G is the better pick for users who value long battery life, a big AMOLED display, and extended software support. It’s dependable, efficient, and built for longevity. Meanwhile, the Motorola Edge 50 Neo is ideal for those who want premium features like a high-refresh display, fast and wireless charging, and a more versatile camera system. It’s sleek, powerful, and designed for users who want modern performance in a stylish body.

Both phones deliver solid value for their price range, but their strengths differ sharply. Samsung offers endurance and stability, while Motorola delivers speed and style. For everyday U.S. users, either device could serve as a reliable 5G companion, depending on whether long-lasting power or all-around premium experience takes priority.