Note 10 Plus vs S10 Plus: Which Samsung Reigns?
Choosing between flagship phones can be a tough decision, especially when you’re looking at powerhouses like the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus and the Galaxy S10 Plus. Both phones offer premium features, stunning displays, and exceptional performance, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences.
This comparison dives deep into the key differences and similarities between these two top-tier Samsung devices. We’ll explore everything from design and display quality to camera capabilities, performance, and battery life. This will help you decide which phone best suits your lifestyle and tech needs.
The Note 10 Plus, with its S Pen and productivity-focused features, appeals to users who prioritize efficiency and multitasking. On the other hand, the S10 Plus offers a more traditional smartphone experience with a focus on sleek design and overall versatility. Read on to discover which phone comes out on top for you.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | note 10 plus | s10 plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.8 inches | 6.4 inches |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED |
| Processor | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9825 | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820 |
| RAM | 12GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 256GB / 512GB | 128GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 16MP + ToF | 12MP + 12MP + 16MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP + 8MP |
| Battery Capacity | 4300 mAh | 4100 mAh |
| Stylus | S Pen | No |
| Fast Charging | 45W | 15W |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Operating System | Android 9 (Pie), upgradable | Android 9 (Pie), upgradable |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Note 10 Plus: Boasts a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a centered punch-hole camera, offering vibrant colors and excellent brightness. Pros include a larger screen and a more modern design, while a potential con could be the centered camera placement preference.
- S10 Plus: Features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a dual punch-hole camera on the right. It provides excellent image quality and brightness. Pros are the bright display and good color accuracy, while cons might be the slightly smaller screen size compared to the Note 10 Plus.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
S Pen Functionality
- Note 10 Plus: Comes with an upgraded S Pen with air gestures and improved latency. This allows for more precise control and new ways to interact with the device. A pro is the enhanced usability, a con is the potential for the gestures to not always be intuitive.
- S10 Plus: Lacks the advanced S Pen features of the Note series. Its stylus functionality is more basic. A pro is the inclusion of a stylus, a con is its limited capabilities.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Performance
- Note 10 Plus: Powered by either a Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9825 processor (depending on the region), with ample RAM for multitasking and demanding games. Pros include smooth performance and fast app loading, while a con is the potential for processor differences based on location.
- S10 Plus: Equipped with either a Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9820 processor (depending on the region), offering robust performance for everyday tasks and gaming. A pro is the strong performance, a con is the potential for processor differences based on location.
- Winner: Tie
Camera System
- Note 10 Plus: Features a versatile triple-lens rear camera system with a wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lens, plus a DepthVision sensor. Pros include excellent image quality and diverse shooting options, while a potential con is the slightly bulkier camera module.
- S10 Plus: Boasts a triple-lens rear camera system with a wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto lens. Delivers excellent photos in various conditions. A pro is the fantastic photo quality, while a con might be it lacking the DepthVision sensor.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Note 10 Plus: Includes a 4,300mAh battery with fast charging and wireless charging capabilities. Provides all-day battery life for most users. A pro is the large battery capacity, a con could be the charging speed compared to newer phones.
- S10 Plus: Comes with a 4,100mAh battery, also supporting fast charging and wireless charging. Offers solid battery life but slightly less than the Note 10 Plus. A pro is the decent battery life, a con is the smaller capacity.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Design
- Note 10 Plus: Features a more refined and modern design with a centered punch-hole camera and thinner bezels. Offers a premium feel. A pro is the sleek design, a con is the potential for the centered camera to be less preferred.
- S10 Plus: Presents a sleek design with a dual punch-hole camera and curved edges. Still looks modern. A pro is the stylish design, a con might be the dated camera placement.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Storage Options
- Note 10 Plus: Offers up to 512GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card. Provides ample space for files and apps. A pro is the large storage capacity, a con is the potential for the microSD card slot to be less reliable.
- S10 Plus: Available with up to 1TB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card. Also offers plenty of storage options. A pro is the large storage capacity, a con is the potential for the microSD card slot to be less reliable.
- Winner: Tie
Software & Features
- Note 10 Plus: Runs on Samsung’s One UI based on Android, offering a feature-rich experience, including DeX mode for desktop-like productivity. Pros are the features, cons are the bloatware.
- S10 Plus: Also runs on Samsung’s One UI based on Android, offering a similar feature set, including the DeX mode. Pros are the features, cons are the bloatware.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | note 10 plus |
| Stylus Functionality | note 10 plus |
| Fast Charging | note 10 plus |
| Front Camera | s10 plus |
| Portability | s10 plus |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Technology: Both phones boast stunning Dynamic AMOLED displays, offering vibrant colors and excellent clarity.
- Water Resistance: Both the Note 10 Plus and S10 Plus are IP68 rated, providing protection against dust and water submersion.
- Wireless Charging: Both devices support wireless charging, providing convenience for charging on the go.
- Expandable Storage: Both phones offer microSD card slots for expandable storage, allowing users to increase storage capacity.
- Operating System: Both phones launched with Android 9 (Pie) and are upgradable to later versions.
Note 10 Plus Vs S10 Plus Buying Guide
Performance Showdown
The Note 10 Plus boasts a more powerful processor, often the Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9825, depending on the region. This translates to slightly faster app loading times and smoother multitasking compared to the S10 Plus, which uses the Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9820. The Note 10 Plus also generally offers more RAM options, further enhancing its performance capabilities. Both phones provide excellent performance for everyday tasks, but the Note 10 Plus takes a slight lead in demanding scenarios like gaming or video editing.
Display and Design Comparison
Both phones feature stunning AMOLED displays with vibrant colors and excellent contrast. However, the Note 10 Plus has a slightly larger 6.8-inch display compared to the S10 Plus’s 6.4-inch screen, providing a more immersive viewing experience. The Note 10 Plus also features a centered punch-hole camera, while the S10 Plus has a pill-shaped cutout, which some users find less distracting. Design-wise, both phones are premium, but the Note 10 Plus often has a more modern and sleek aesthetic.
Camera Capabilities Overview
The Note 10 Plus and S10 Plus both offer impressive camera systems with multiple lenses. The Note 10 Plus often includes a Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor, which enhances depth sensing for portrait mode and AR applications. While both phones capture excellent photos and videos, the Note 10 Plus might offer slightly improved image processing and features. Both excel in various lighting conditions, but the Note 10 Plus’s additional features and software optimization provide an edge.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
The Note 10 Plus typically has a slightly larger battery capacity than the S10 Plus, leading to potentially better battery life. Moreover, the Note 10 Plus supports faster charging speeds, allowing you to top up your battery quicker. Both phones offer wireless charging and reverse wireless charging. While both phones provide all-day battery life for most users, the Note 10 Plus generally offers a longer battery life and faster charging.
Software and User Experience
Both phones run Samsung’s One UI, which offers a clean and user-friendly interface. The Note 10 Plus introduced some software features that weren’t available on the S10 Plus, such as improved S Pen functionality. The S Pen adds unique features like remote control for presentations, handwriting-to-text conversion, and precise note-taking capabilities. Both phones receive regular software updates, but the Note 10 Plus may have a slightly longer support window.
Price and Value Analysis
The S10 Plus is generally available at a lower price point than the Note 10 Plus, as it’s an older model. Considering the features and performance, the S10 Plus still offers excellent value for the price. The Note 10 Plus provides a premium experience with its enhanced features and performance. However, the best choice depends on your budget and desired features. Evaluate current prices and your needs to determine the best value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy note 10 plus If…
- You prioritize a large screen for media consumption and productivity.
- You want the integrated S Pen stylus for note-taking, drawing, and precise navigation.
- You desire the fastest charging speeds available.
- You want a slightly larger battery capacity.
Buy s10 plus If…
- You prefer a more compact and pocketable design.
- You want a slightly more affordable option.
- You prefer a dual front-facing camera.
- You are satisfied with good performance and don’t need the S Pen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences in performance?
The Note 10 Plus typically features a slightly more powerful processor and more RAM options than the S10 Plus. This translates to slightly faster app loading times and smoother multitasking in demanding scenarios like gaming or video editing. The Note 10 Plus generally offers a more responsive experience, though both phones perform admirably for everyday tasks. The differences are often subtle but noticeable during intensive use.
Which phone has a better display?
Both phones boast stunning AMOLED displays with vibrant colors and excellent contrast. The Note 10 Plus has a slightly larger 6.8-inch display compared to the S10 Plus’s 6.4-inch screen, which provides a more immersive viewing experience. Both displays are excellent, but the Note 10 Plus’s larger size can be more appealing for media consumption. Both offer great viewing angles and brightness.
How do the cameras compare?
Both phones feature impressive camera systems, but the Note 10 Plus often includes a Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor, enhancing depth sensing for portrait mode and AR applications. The Note 10 Plus may offer slightly improved image processing and features, resulting in better photos and videos. Both capture excellent images in various lighting conditions. Users will likely find both cameras very satisfactory.
Which phone offers better battery life?
The Note 10 Plus typically has a slightly larger battery capacity than the S10 Plus. This can lead to potentially better battery life, allowing for longer usage between charges. The Note 10 Plus also supports faster charging speeds, allowing users to top up the battery quicker. Both phones offer all-day battery life for most users, but the Note 10 Plus often has an edge.
What about the S Pen functionality?
The Note 10 Plus includes the S Pen, offering unique features like remote control for presentations, handwriting-to-text conversion, and precise note-taking capabilities. The S Pen significantly enhances productivity and creativity. The S10 Plus does not have the S Pen. The S Pen features are a key differentiator, and users that want this functionality should choose the Note 10 Plus.
Is the S10 Plus still a good buy?
Yes, the S10 Plus remains a very good buy, especially considering its lower price point compared to the Note 10 Plus. It offers excellent performance, a great display, and capable cameras. The S10 Plus provides excellent value for the money, making it a compelling option for those who prioritize affordability without sacrificing performance or features. It’s still a top-tier phone.
Which phone is best for gaming?
While both phones can handle gaming well, the Note 10 Plus, with its potentially more powerful processor and more RAM, might provide a slightly smoother gaming experience. The larger display of the Note 10 Plus can also enhance the gaming experience. Ultimately, both phones are suitable for gaming, but the Note 10 Plus may offer a small advantage in performance and screen real estate.
Final Verdict
The Note 10 Plus edges out the S10 Plus with a slightly more powerful processor, a larger display, and enhanced features, including the S Pen. While the S10 Plus remains a strong contender with excellent value, the Note 10 Plus offers a more premium and feature-rich experience. The Note 10 Plus is the better choice for those seeking top-tier performance and features.
Winner: Note 10 Plus