Both phones have color screens (inside screens only), both have tri-mode, and both flip phones. The LG VX3200 is a basic flip phone. It only allows you to make calls and text message, and check voicemail. The Samsung a650 allows that and more. You can use the internet on that phone, & use the get-it-now feature to download ringtones and games. I like a retractable antenna on the a650, which you won't find on the VX3200. I don't know how battery life or reception is on the VX 3200, but I've had no problems with battery life or reception with the a650. Some people have said good things about the LG VX3200. It really comes down to what you want to use your phone for. I chose the Samsung a650 for the retractable antenna, tri-mode, and get-it-now for when I'm ready to download games. 2 of 3 features I looked for are not on the VX3200. I've had 2 a650 flip phones in 9 months. I broke my first one in January after it fell off my waist and hit the pavement unusually hard that the screen cracked.