A comparison between a matrix distributed amplifier and a dual-stage distributed amplifier in the 2-18 GHz frequency range is presented. Both circuits were realised using the same MMIC technology and the same design criteria. A relevant result for the two different topologies shows equivalent small signal performance. In this example no advantages of the matrix amplifier are noticed over the conventional distributed amplifier. This interesting result encourages a more accurate investigation of the comparison between matrix and distributed amplifiers, using different technologies and a different number of active devices.