Galaxy S20 Plus vs S20 Ultra: Which Samsung Reigns?
Choosing between Samsung’s premium smartphones can be a tough call. The Galaxy S20 series offered top-tier specs and features, but with two standouts, the decision can be overwhelming. This comparison dives deep into the Galaxy S20 Plus vs S20 Ultra, helping you determine which phone best suits your needs.
Both phones boast impressive displays, powerful processors, and versatile camera systems. However, there are significant differences that could sway your decision. We’ll explore these key distinctions, from camera capabilities to battery life and overall performance.
Is the Galaxy S20 Ultra worth the premium price, or does the Galaxy S20 Plus offer the best balance of features and value? Let’s find out! We’ll break down the specs, compare the features, and analyze the user experience to help you make an informed choice.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | S20+ | S20 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.7 inches | 6.9 inches |
| Resolution | 3200 x 1440 pixels | 3200 x 1440 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 12GB / 16GB |
| Storage | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP | 108MP + 12MP + 48MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 40MP |
| Battery | 4500 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| 5G | Yes | Yes |
| Charging Speed | 25W wired, 15W wireless | 45W wired, 15W wireless |
| Weight | 188g | 220g |
| Dimensions | 161.9 x 73.7 x 7.8 mm | 166.9 x 76.0 x 8.8 mm |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Galaxy S20 Plus: Features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and animations. It offers a vibrant and immersive viewing experience. However, it’s slightly smaller than the Ultra.
- S20 Ultra: Boasts a larger 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, also with 120Hz. The Ultra provides a more expansive and immersive viewing experience, ideal for media consumption. The larger size can be less pocketable.
- Winner: s20 ultra
Cameras
- Galaxy S20 Plus: Equipped with a versatile triple-lens camera system, including a 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 64MP telephoto lens. Delivers excellent image quality and zoom capabilities. The zoom range is more limited than the Ultra.
- S20 Ultra: Features a quad-camera setup with a groundbreaking 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide, and a 48MP telephoto lens with impressive 100x Space Zoom. Offers superior detail and zoom capabilities. The larger camera bump is noticeable.
- Winner: s20 ultra
Zoom Capabilities
- Galaxy S20 Plus: Offers a 3x hybrid optical zoom and up to 30x digital zoom. Provides good zoom performance but falls short of the Ultra.
- S20 Ultra: Stands out with its 10x optical zoom and up to 100x Space Zoom, allowing for incredibly detailed shots from a distance. A significant advantage for photography enthusiasts.
- Winner: s20 ultra
Battery Life
- Galaxy S20 Plus: Houses a 4,500mAh battery, providing all-day battery life for most users. Performance can vary based on usage and screen refresh rate.
- S20 Ultra: Comes with a larger 5,000mAh battery, generally offering slightly better battery life, especially with heavy usage. The larger battery also contributes to the device’s weight.
- Winner: s20 ultra
Performance
- Galaxy S20 Plus: Powered by either a Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 processor (depending on the region), delivering fast and smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- S20 Ultra: Also utilizes the Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990, resulting in comparable performance to the Plus. Both phones handle demanding applications with ease.
- Winner: Tie
Design and Build
- Galaxy S20 Plus: Features a sleek design with a metal frame and glass back, offering a premium feel. It’s slightly more compact and easier to handle than the Ultra.
- S20 Ultra: Has a similar design but is significantly larger and heavier due to its larger display and battery. The camera bump is quite prominent.
- Winner: galaxy s20 plus
Price
- Galaxy S20 Plus: Typically offered at a lower price point, making it a more accessible option for many consumers. Offers a great value proposition for the features it provides.
- S20 Ultra: Commands a higher price due to its premium features and larger size. Represents a significant investment.
- Winner: galaxy s20 plus
Storage & RAM
- Galaxy S20 Plus: Offers up to 128GB or 256GB of internal storage with 8GB or 12GB of RAM. Provides ample storage for most users.
- S20 Ultra: Comes with up to 128GB, 256GB or 512GB of storage with 12GB or 16GB of RAM. The Ultra offers more storage and RAM options for power users.
- Winner: s20 ultra
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | S20 Ultra |
| Camera Zoom | S20 Ultra |
| Battery Life | S20 Ultra |
| Overall Performance | Tie |
| Portability | S20+ |
| Value | S20+ |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Technology: Both phones boast Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering vibrant colors and smooth scrolling experiences.
- 5g Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S20+ and S20 Ultra support 5G networks, ensuring fast download and streaming speeds where available.
- Processor: Both devices are powered by either the Snapdragon 865 or the Exynos 990 processor, depending on the region, offering similar levels of performance.
- Water Resistance: Both phones are IP68 rated for water and dust resistance, providing protection against spills and submersion.
- Wireless Charging: Both models support wireless charging, allowing users to conveniently charge their phones without cables.
- Software: Both phones run on Android with Samsung’s One UI, providing a consistent user experience with a range of customization options.
Galaxy S20 Plus Vs S20 Ultra Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
The Galaxy S20 Plus and S20 Ultra share a similar design language, both featuring a premium glass and metal build. However, the S20 Ultra is noticeably larger and heavier, housing a significantly bigger camera module. The S20 Plus offers a more comfortable grip for one-handed use, while the Ultra’s size might be a drawback for some. Both phones boast IP68 water and dust resistance, ensuring durability against the elements. The choice depends on your preference for size and build material feel.
Display and Visuals
Both phones showcase stunning Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays with a 120Hz refresh rate for incredibly smooth scrolling and animations. The S20 Ultra has a slightly larger 6.9-inch display compared to the S20 Plus’s 6.7-inch screen. This difference provides a more immersive viewing experience, especially when watching videos or playing games. Both screens offer vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent brightness, making them ideal for media consumption. The display quality remains top-tier for both.
Camera Performance
The S20 Ultra takes the lead with its more advanced camera system. It includes a 108MP primary sensor, a periscope telephoto lens with impressive zoom capabilities, and a wider range of shooting options. The S20 Plus offers a capable triple-camera setup, still producing excellent photos. While the S20 Plus provides great image quality, the Ultra’s superior zoom and overall versatility make it a winner for photography enthusiasts. Both phones excel in low-light conditions.
Performance and Software
Both devices are powered by the same processor (Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990, depending on the region), ensuring exceptional performance for everyday tasks and demanding games. The S20 Ultra typically offers more RAM, which can benefit multitasking. Both phones run Samsung’s One UI, providing a user-friendly interface with a wealth of features and customization options. Software updates are regularly provided for both devices, maintaining optimal performance and security.
Battery Life and Charging
The S20 Ultra’s larger battery capacity provides significantly improved battery life compared to the S20 Plus. The Ultra can easily last a full day of heavy use, while the Plus might require charging before the end of the day. Both phones support fast wired and wireless charging, but the Ultra often supports faster charging. If battery life is a priority, the S20 Ultra is the better choice.
Price and Value
The Galaxy S20 Ultra was initially priced higher than the S20 Plus. While the price difference may have narrowed over time, it’s crucial to consider the features you need. If you prioritize camera capabilities, battery life, and a larger display, the Ultra justifies its cost. If you prefer a more compact design and are satisfied with excellent but not the absolute best camera, the S20 Plus offers excellent value for its price point. Assess your needs to determine which offers the best value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Galaxy S20+ If…
- You prefer a more compact and manageable phone size.
- You want a phone with excellent performance without the highest price tag.
- You value a great camera system but don’t need the absolute top-of-the-line zoom capabilities.
- You want a slightly lighter device that’s easier to handle with one hand.
Buy S20 Ultra If…
- You want the absolute best camera system, especially for zoom capabilities.
- You prioritize having the largest display for media consumption and gaming.
- You need the longest battery life possible.
- You are willing to pay a premium for top-tier specs and features.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the S20 Plus and S20 Ultra?
The S20 Ultra has a larger display, a more advanced camera system with superior zoom capabilities and a 108MP sensor, and a bigger battery. The S20 Plus is smaller, more compact, and offers a more comfortable grip. Both phones share similar performance characteristics but differ in key specs.
Which phone has a better camera?
The S20 Ultra has a significantly better camera system. It boasts a 108MP primary sensor, a periscope telephoto lens with 10x optical zoom, and a wider range of shooting options. While the S20 Plus has a great camera, the Ultra provides more versatility and better image quality, especially at a distance.
Which phone offers better battery life?
The S20 Ultra has a considerably larger battery, leading to superior battery life. It can easily last a full day of heavy use, while the S20 Plus might require a charge before the end of the day. If extended battery life is crucial, the S20 Ultra is the better option for you.
Is the S20 Ultra significantly bigger than the S20 Plus?
Yes, the S20 Ultra is noticeably larger and heavier than the S20 Plus. This is due to its larger display and bigger camera module. The S20 Plus provides a more comfortable grip for one-handed use. The size difference is a significant factor to consider when choosing between the two devices, depending on your preferences.
Do both phones support 5G?
Yes, both the Galaxy S20 Plus and the S20 Ultra support 5G connectivity, although the specific bands supported may vary depending on the region and carrier. This allows for faster data speeds and lower latency compared to 4G networks, enhancing the overall mobile experience for compatible networks.
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones offer excellent performance for gaming, thanks to their powerful processors and high refresh rate displays. However, the S20 Ultra, with its larger screen, might offer a more immersive gaming experience. The overall gaming experience will be excellent on both devices.
Is the price difference between the S20 Plus and S20 Ultra worth it?
The value depends on your priorities. If you need the best camera, battery life, and a larger display, the S20 Ultra justifies its higher price. If you prefer a more compact design and don’t need the absolute best camera, the S20 Plus offers excellent value. Consider your needs and budget when making your decision.
Final Verdict
The Galaxy S20 Ultra excels with its superior camera system, larger display, and extended battery life. While the S20 Plus remains a strong contender with its more compact design and still-capable camera, the Ultra’s enhancements are significant. The S20 Ultra is the better choice for those who prioritize the ultimate mobile experience.
Winner: Galaxy S20 Ultra