Samsung Pay vs. Google Pay vs. Apple Pay: Which Is Best?

Samsung Pay vs. Google Pay vs. Apple Pay

Samsung Pay, Google Pay and Apple Pay are differently branded services that work similarly for consumers and merchants alike. Michael Seaman, CEO of Swipesum, explained that these payment methods and their corresponding digital wallets (Samsung Wallet, Google Wallet and Apple Wallet) store payment information securely and use tokenization to process transactions.

“Customers like the security and convenience,” Seaman told us. “They already integrate seamlessly with most credit card processors and modern payment terminals, so why not be all for it?”

Samsung Pay

Samsung Pay launched in 2015 as Samsung’s mobile payment service, initially distinguishing itself from competitors through its unique dual-technology approach. Until 2021, Samsung Pay used both near-field communication (NFC) and magnetic secure transmission (MST) technology, which mimicked the magnetic stripe of a traditional credit card and allowed the service to work at older card readers that didn’t support contactless payments. However, starting with the Galaxy S21 device, Samsung discontinued MST support on new devices, and Samsung Pay now relies solely on NFC technology like its competitors.

In 2022, Samsung integrated Samsung Pay’s functionality into Samsung Wallet as part of a broader consolidation with Samsung Pass, but Samsung Pay continues to operate as both a standalone app and as the payment engine within Samsung Wallet.

Google Pay

Android Pay launched in 2015 as Google’s mobile payment service for Android devices, allowing users to make contactless payments by storing credit and debit card information on their smartphones. The service used NFC technology to enable tap-to-pay transactions at compatible point-of-sale terminals. In 2018, Google rebranded Android Pay as Google Pay and expanded its functionality beyond simple payments to include peer-to-peer money transfers, loyalty card storage and transit passes. 

This rebrand reflected Google’s strategy to create a more comprehensive digital wallet experience that could compete with Apple Pay and Samsung Pay. In 2024, Google further consolidated its payment services by discontinuing the standalone Google Pay app in the U.S. and integrating all payment functionality into Google Wallet, making it the unified platform for both digital wallet storage and payment processing.

Apple Pay

Apple Pay launched in 2014 as Apple’s mobile payment service, becoming one of the first major contactless payment solutions to gain widespread consumer adoption. The service uses NFC technology combined with Apple’s proprietary secure element chip to store encrypted payment information directly on the device, rather than on Apple’s servers. Apple Pay is deeply integrated into the iOS ecosystem, working seamlessly across iPhones, Apple Watches, iPads and Mac computers for both in-store and online purchases. The service operates within Apple Wallet (formerly Passbook), which also stores boarding passes, event tickets, loyalty cards and other digital items. Apple Pay’s early market entry and integration with Apple’s hardware ecosystem helped establish many of the security and user experience standards that other mobile payment services would later adopt.

While a business may want to offer customers all three payment methods, consumers may prefer one over another based on factors like compatibility with their smartphone device, transaction features and security protocols. Before diving deep into these aspects, here’s an at-a-glance comparison of Samsung Pay, Google Pay and Apple Pay:

Samsung Pay vs. Google Pay vs. Apple Pay: Feature breakdown

Samsung Pay, Google Pay and Apple Pay all enable contactless payments, but they differ significantly in their supported features. The following comparison highlights the key differences between these three mobile payment services to help you determine which best meets your needs.

Security comparison: Samsung, Google and Apple Pay

Security is a critical consideration when choosing a mobile payment service, as these platforms handle sensitive financial information and personal data. Here’s how Samsung Pay, Google Pay and Apple Pay compare in their security protocols and protective measures:

>> Learn how credit card fraud affects businesses and how to prevent it.

Instead of using your actual credit card number, all three services use tokenization — virtual account numbers that ensure your personal information remains secure. When you make a purchase with Apple Pay, every transaction requires authentication with Face ID, Touch ID or your passcode. Similarly, Google Pay requires authentication via fingerprint, face recognition or PIN for transactions. Samsung Pay also requires verification through fingerprint, face recognition or PIN for every purchase. In all cases, your actual credit card number is never transmitted; instead, a unique token or random set of numbers is used for each transaction.

Merchant acceptance and device compatibility

Merchant Acceptance Comparison

Merchant acceptance varies across mobile payment services, with some retailers supporting all three platforms while others may only accept specific services. The following table shows which mobile payment methods are accepted at popular merchants and retailers:

Samsung Pay doesn’t work at gas station pumps with card insertion slots. However, it should work with the cashier’s card reader, where you can tap to pay.

You can also use Google Pay with apps and websites like Airbnb, DoorDash, Etsy, Fandango, Groupon and Uber. Transit partners include MTA Omny (New York City) and Hop Fastpass (Portland, Oregon).

Apple touted in a 2022 press release that over 90 percent of U.S. merchants accept Apple Pay, so consumers should have very few issues utilizing this payment form online and offline. You can even use Apple Pay to donate to various charities — such as the American Red Cross, Feeding America, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and UNICEF — or to pay for mass transit where available.

Device Compatibility

Device compatibility is a key factor when choosing a mobile payment service, as each platform is designed to work optimally within its respective ecosystem. The following comparison shows which devices and operating systems support each mobile payment service:

Usability: Setup, transactions and extra features

The processes for using Samsung Pay, Google Pay or Apple Pay have basic similarities, but the specific steps to complete a transaction vary based on the service. Each also has a few extra features that may make one option more appealing to you than the others.

Samsung Pay

To get started with Samsung Pay, add any qualifying Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover credit card to your Samsung Wallet. More than 1,000 banks and credit unions — including Chase, Navy Federal Credit Union, TD Bank and U.S. Bank — support Samsung Wallet. Additionally, you can add gift cards and loyalty cards for seamless transactions.

Here’s how to pay using Samsung Pay:

1. Open Samsung Wallet by swiping up from the bottom of the device screen.
2. You’ll see your default card. Swipe to choose another card, if necessary.
3. Tap “Fingerprint” to use the fingerprint sensor, “Face” for face recognition or “PIN” to enter your PIN.
4. Hold the back of the phone near the payment terminal. (In some cases, these must touch.)
5. You can move your phone after the reader detects your card.
6. Enter a PIN if prompted.

You can also make online purchases with Samsung Wallet. Samsung ties its electronic wallet to its customer loyalty program, a rewards offering that sets it apart from rivals Google and Apple. With every purchase, you earn points that can be redeemed for rewards, many of which are Samsung products.

Google Pay

Before using Google Wallet for the first time, you must add payment cards to the Google Wallet app. To do this, open Google Wallet, tap “Add to Wallet” and follow the prompts to add credit, debit or other payment cards. For in-store payments, Google Wallet uses NFC mobile payment technology to transmit payment card information from a consumer’s mobile phone to the card reader. Your Android device must be NFC-compatible and have the feature enabled.

Here’s how to pay using Google Pay:

1. Wake up your phone — unlocking isn’t required initially, but you’ll be prompted to unlock for verification.
2. Hold the back of your phone to the card reader.
3. Verify the transaction using your phone’s screen lock method (PIN, fingerprint, face unlock, etc.).
4. A blue check mark will appear, signifying a successful payment.

To switch to a credit or debit card that isn’t your default option, open Google Wallet, swipe right to left and choose another payment method. When using Google Wallet online, you just select it as your payment option. 

Unlike some payment platforms, Google doesn’t charge consumers transaction fees for Google Wallet purchases. The service also distinguishes itself with expense splitting, autofill for payment details and direct bank payments.

Apple Pay

You can use Apple Pay once you’ve added payment cards to your Apple Wallet. Like its peers, Apple Pay works with NFC technology for in-store purchases. 

Here’s how to pay using Apple Pay:

1. Double-click the side button on your iPhone.
2. Unlock your phone with Face ID or your passcode.
3. Hold your iPhone over the card reader.
4. You’ll see “Done” and a check mark signify a successful purchase.

Your default card is charged automatically. To choose a different card, open your Apple Wallet and select the card you want to use for payment. You can also use Apple Pay when shopping online or via mobile apps and websites by selecting the Apple Pay option where available. When you use Apple Pay, you’ll continue accruing loyalty points, rewards and benefits associated with your cards.

Apple has integrated SMS mobile payment functionality into many of its devices. You can send and request money via Apple Cash — a “card” in your Apple Wallet. To do this, open the Messages app and prepare a message. Tap the plus sign and choose “Apple Cash.” Then enter an amount and tap “Send” or “Request.” Send your message as usual.

Which should you use? – Use case scenarios

Consumers and business owners use payment methods like Samsung Pay, Google Pay or Apple Pay in different ways. Shoppers use these services to pay for purchases, while merchants accept these forms of payment to process sales transactions. Your role in the process — consumer or business owner/merchant — will influence whether you use Samsung Pay, Google Pay, Apple Pay or a combination.

Consumer use cases

As a consumer, whether you use Samsung Pay, Google Pay or Apple Pay largely depends on your smartphone:

Apple users: If you have an iPhone, you’ll likely use Apple Pay, though Google Pay is available for iOS users primarily for online purchases and peer-to-peer payments, not in-store contactless payments. Apple Pay is ideal for users who prioritize privacy and security, want maximum merchant acceptance and prefer seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem.

Android users: If you have a Samsung device, you can choose between Samsung Pay and Google Pay. For all other Android smartphones, Google Wallet with Google Pay is the default option. Samsung Pay is best for Samsung device owners who have older devices with MST compatibility for legacy card readers, or newer device owners who prefer earning Samsung rewards points. Google Pay works best for Android users who want comprehensive Google service integration, robust loyalty program support and peer-to-peer payment capabilities.

Business owner/merchant use cases

As a business owner, you’ll likely want to accept all three forms of payment. This maximizes your customer reach and provides payment flexibility, since consumers tend to use the mobile payment service that matches their device ecosystem. Most modern contactless payment terminals and point-of-sale systems support all three services through NFC technology, so implementation is typically straightforward.

Mobile payment acceptance is particularly valuable because it offers faster checkout times, reduces cash handling and appeals to younger demographics who increasingly prefer contactless payments. Additionally, many customers now prefer contactless payments for hygiene reasons, making mobile payment acceptance increasingly important.

Industries and business environments where accepting Samsung Pay, Google Pay and Apple Pay make sense include:

• Coffee shops/quick service restaurants: Speed is crucial during the morning rush.
• Retail stores: You’ll appeal to tech-savvy shoppers.
• Farmers market vendors: Square and similar card readers make mobile payments accessible even for very small businesses.
• Transit systems: Many public transportation systems now accept mobile payments.

Most payment processors, such as Square, Stripe and traditional POS providers, offer mobile payment acceptance as a standard feature, often with no additional setup required.

Skye Schooley and Jennifer Dublino contributed to this article. Source interviews were conducted for a previous version of this article.