Samsung Note 20 vs Note 20 Ultra: Which Should You Buy?
Struggling to decide between the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and its more powerful sibling, the Note 20 Ultra? You’re not alone! These two flagship phones share a name, but offer significantly different experiences, leaving many potential buyers scratching their heads.
This in-depth comparison dives into every key aspect, from the display and camera to the performance and battery life. We’ll explore the nuances that separate the Samsung Note 20 from the Note 20 Ultra, helping you determine which device best aligns with your needs and budget.
Get ready to uncover the strengths and weaknesses of each phone. Whether you’re a power user or simply seeking a premium smartphone experience, our analysis will guide you to the perfect choice between the Samsung Note 20 and the Note 20 Ultra.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | samsung note 20 | note 20 ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.7 inches | 6.9 inches |
| Display Technology | Super AMOLED Plus | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 2400 x 1080 pixels | 3200 x 1440 pixels |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz |
| Processor | Snapdragon 865+ / Exynos 990 | Snapdragon 865+ / Exynos 990 |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 256GB | 128GB, 256GB, 512GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP | 108MP + 12MP + 12MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP |
| Battery Capacity | 4300 mAh | 4500 mAh |
| S Pen | Yes | Yes |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Samsung Note 20: 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus display with a 60Hz refresh rate. Offers vibrant colors and good brightness, but the lower refresh rate compared to the Ultra results in a less smooth experience.
- Note 20 Ultra: 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a variable 120Hz refresh rate. Provides incredibly smooth scrolling and animations, along with excellent color accuracy and brightness.
- Winner: Note 20 Ultra
Processor
- Samsung Note 20: Powered by either a Snapdragon 865+ (US) or Exynos 990 (International) processor. Performance is still very good for everyday tasks and gaming, but it may show slight slowdowns compared to the Ultra.
- Note 20 Ultra: Uses the same Snapdragon 865+ (US) or Exynos 990 (International) processor as the Note 20, but may benefit from better thermal management.
- Winner: Tie
RAM and Storage
- Samsung Note 20: 8GB RAM with 128GB or 256GB storage options. Offers sufficient RAM for multitasking, but the storage options might be limiting for some users.
- Note 20 Ultra: 12GB RAM with 128GB, 256GB or 512GB storage options, plus microSD card support. Provides smoother multitasking and more storage space, making it a better choice for power users.
- Winner: Note 20 Ultra
Cameras
- Samsung Note 20: Features a triple-camera system: 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 64MP telephoto. Offers good image quality in most conditions, but lacks the advanced features of the Ultra.
- Note 20 Ultra: Boasts a more advanced triple-camera system: 108MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 12MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom. Delivers superior image quality, zoom capabilities, and features like Single Take.
- Winner: Note 20 Ultra
S Pen
- Samsung Note 20: Includes the S Pen with a latency of 26ms. Offers similar functionality to the Ultra, but the slightly higher latency might be noticeable for some users.
- Note 20 Ultra: Features the S Pen with a reduced latency of 9ms, providing a more responsive and natural writing experience.
- Winner: Note 20 Ultra
Battery
- Samsung Note 20: Equipped with a 4300mAh battery. Provides all-day battery life for moderate users, but heavy users might need to recharge before the end of the day.
- Note 20 Ultra: Includes a 4500mAh battery. Offers slightly better battery life than the Note 20, but it still depends on usage due to the higher refresh rate display.
- Winner: Tie
Design & Build
- Samsung Note 20: Features a plastic back with a metal frame. Feels more affordable, but it’s more prone to scratches compared to glass.
- Note 20 Ultra: Features a glass back with a stainless steel frame. Offers a more premium feel and is more durable.
- Winner: Note 20 Ultra
Price
- Samsung Note 20: Launched at a lower price point than the Ultra, making it a more accessible option for some.
- Note 20 Ultra: Had a higher launch price, reflecting its premium features and build quality.
- Winner: Note 20
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Quality | note 20 ultra |
| Camera | note 20 ultra |
| Performance | Tie |
| Battery Life | note 20 ultra |
| Design | Tie |
| Value | samsung note 20 |
What They Have in Common:
- S Pen: Both phones include the S Pen, offering the same low-latency writing and drawing experience. This is a core feature of the Note series, providing productivity and creative capabilities.
- 5g Connectivity: Both devices support 5G connectivity, ensuring fast download and streaming speeds where 5G networks are available. This enhances the overall user experience for data-intensive tasks.
- Processor: Both phones utilize the same powerful processor options, depending on the region (Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990), providing similar performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- Wireless Charging: Both models support wireless charging, allowing users to conveniently charge their phones without the need for cables. They also support reverse wireless charging to charge other devices.
- Samsung Dex: Both phones are compatible with Samsung DeX, enabling users to connect to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse for a desktop-like experience. This enhances productivity for users who need to work on the go.
Samsung Note 20 Vs Note 20 Ultra Buying Guide
Performance and Processor
Both the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra deliver exceptional performance, but there are key differences. The Note 20 Ultra typically boasts a slightly more powerful processor, often the Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990 (depending on region), offering marginal gains in demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. The Note 20, while still very capable, may experience minor performance differences under extreme loads. Both phones handle everyday tasks with remarkable speed and responsiveness.
Display and Design
The display is a significant differentiator. The Note 20 features a flat 6.7-inch display, while the Note 20 Ultra sports a larger 6.9-inch curved display with a variable refresh rate of up to 120Hz, providing a smoother and more immersive experience. The Note 20 Ultra’s design also incorporates premium materials like Gorilla Glass Victus, making it more scratch-resistant. The Note 20 has a slightly less advanced glass, but still offers a sleek and modern design.
Camera Capabilities
Camera performance is another key area of distinction. The Note 20 Ultra boasts a more advanced camera system, including a 108MP main sensor, a periscope telephoto lens with impressive zoom capabilities, and a wider array of shooting modes. The Note 20’s camera setup is still excellent, but it offers a less versatile zoom range and a lower resolution main sensor. The Ultra excels in low-light photography and overall image quality.
S Pen Functionality
Both phones come with the S Pen, offering similar functionality for note-taking, drawing, and navigating the interface. However, the Note 20 Ultra’s S Pen has a lower latency, resulting in a more responsive and natural writing experience. This difference is subtle but noticeable for users who frequently use the S Pen for creative tasks or precise input. Both S Pens provide seamless integration with Samsung’s software features.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life varies depending on usage, but the Note 20 Ultra typically has a larger battery capacity, allowing for longer usage times. Both phones support fast charging, but the Note 20 Ultra often includes a faster charger in the box. The efficiency of the processor and display also impacts battery performance. The Ultra’s adaptive refresh rate helps to optimize battery consumption.
Price and Value
The Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra were launched at different price points, with the Ultra being the more premium option. The price difference reflects the enhanced features, including the display, camera system, and battery. Consider your budget and prioritize features to determine which phone offers the best value. The Note 20 offers a compelling package at a lower price, while the Ultra provides a more premium experience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy samsung note 20 If…
- You want a more compact phone.
- You prefer a slightly lower price point.
- You prioritize a balance between features and value.
Buy note 20 ultra If…
- You want the best possible display quality.
- You need the most advanced camera system.
- You want the most storage options.
- You prioritize the best performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra?
The primary differences lie in the display (size, refresh rate, and curved design), camera system (resolution, zoom capabilities, and features), and battery capacity. The Note 20 Ultra boasts a superior display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a more advanced camera system with a 108MP main sensor and periscope zoom, and a larger battery. The S Pen latency is also improved on the Ultra.
Which phone has a better display?
The Note 20 Ultra has the superior display. It features a larger 6.9-inch curved display with a dynamic refresh rate of up to 120Hz, providing a smoother and more immersive visual experience. The Note 20 has a flat 6.7-inch display, which is still excellent, but lacks the Ultra’s advanced features and smoothness.
Is the Note 20 Ultra’s camera significantly better?
Yes, the Note 20 Ultra’s camera system is significantly better. It features a 108MP main sensor, a periscope telephoto lens offering greater zoom capabilities, and improved low-light performance. The Note 20’s camera is still capable, but it doesn’t match the Ultra’s versatility and image quality, especially when zooming.
Does the S Pen function differently on each phone?
The S Pen functionality is largely the same on both phones, but the Note 20 Ultra’s S Pen has a lower latency, resulting in a more responsive and natural writing experience. This is particularly noticeable for users who frequently use the S Pen for note-taking, drawing, or precise input.
How does battery life compare between the two phones?
The Note 20 Ultra generally offers better battery life due to its larger battery capacity and optimized power management features. Both phones support fast charging, but the Ultra’s larger battery provides longer usage times. The actual battery life depends on usage patterns and the settings used on each device.
Which phone is better for gaming?
While both phones handle gaming well, the Note 20 Ultra has a slight edge due to its more powerful processor (often the Snapdragon 865+ or equivalent) and smoother display with a 120Hz refresh rate. These features contribute to a more immersive and responsive gaming experience.
Which phone should I buy?
The best choice depends on your needs and budget. If you prioritize a premium display, the best camera, and longer battery life, the Note 20 Ultra is the better choice. If you’re on a tighter budget and don’t need the absolute best features, the Note 20 still offers great performance and value.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and Note 20 Ultra are both excellent smartphones, but the Note 20 Ultra emerges as the superior device due to its enhanced display, superior camera system, and longer battery life. While the Note 20 offers a compelling package, the Ultra delivers a more premium and feature-rich experience.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra