Motorola has just announced its newest Razr flip phones, but before you rush to buy the latest model, consider this: the upgrades are minimal, and some changes are even downgrades. Meanwhile, last year's Razr Ultra is available at nearly half price and offers virtually the same experience. In this Q&A, we break down why the older model is the smarter purchase.
What changes does the new Razr Ultra bring compared to the previous generation?
The 2026 Razr Ultra introduces only minor tweaks over its predecessor. The most notable upgrades include a slightly faster processor and a marginally improved camera sensor, but in daily use, most people won't notice the difference. Motorola also tweaked the external display's software for better widgets, but the hardware remains identical. The hinge design and overall build quality are largely unchanged. In short, the new model feels more like a refresh than a true next-generation device. If you already own last year's Razr Ultra, there’s absolutely no reason to upgrade.
Why do experts recommend buying last year's model instead?
The biggest reason is price. Last year's Razr Ultra is now available for nearly half off its original retail price, making it far more affordable than the new version. Since the two phones are virtually identical in performance and features, you’re essentially paying a premium for incremental, often unnoticeable upgrades. Early deals have brought the previous model below the price of the new base Razr, offering flagship-level hardware at a mid-range cost. For anyone looking to get the best bang for their buck, going with last year’s Ultra is a no-brainer.
Are there any downgrades in the new Razr lineup?
Surprisingly, yes. Some changes in the new lineup are actually steps backward. For example, the new base Razr model reportedly has a lower-resolution main camera than its predecessor, and the outer display on the Razr+ has a slightly less vibrant color profile. Additionally, Motorola removed the charger from the box for the new models, adding to the cost. These downgrades make the previous generation even more appealing, as you get a better overall package at a lower price.
How much cheaper is last year's Razr Ultra right now?
If you act quickly, you can snag last year’s Razr Ultra for nearly half its original launch price. That puts it below even the cost of the new base Razr model. To put it in perspective, you’re getting the premium Ultra experience—larger outer display, better build, and top-tier specifications—for less money than the entry-level version of the new lineup. This is a rare opportunity to own a high-end flip phone without breaking the bank.
Which Razr model should you buy if you want the best value?
For the best value, last year’s Razr Ultra is the clear winner. It offers virtually the same features as the new Ultra at a fraction of the price. If you’re on a tighter budget, the previous generation Razr (non-Ultra) is also heavily discounted and still a solid performer. Avoid the new models altogether unless you absolutely need the latest processor for gaming or intensive apps—and even then, the performance difference is negligible. The smart money is on the older hardware.
Does the new Razr+ or base model offer any compelling reasons to upgrade?
Not really. The new Razr+ adds a slightly larger external display, but software support for the older models remains strong. The base model’s changes are marginal at best and include the camera downgrade mentioned earlier. If you’re coming from an even older model (like the Razr 2023), the previous Ultra or Razr+ will feel like a massive upgrade at a much lower cost. The new lineup simply doesn’t justify its higher price tag, especially when last year’s phones are still excellent.