Galaxy Note 10 vs Note 10 Plus: Which Should You Buy?
Struggling to decide between the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 and the Note 10 Plus? You’re not alone! These two flagship phones share a family resemblance, but significant differences might sway your decision. We’ll break down the key features to help you choose the perfect Note for your needs.
The Galaxy Note 10 and Note 10 Plus both represent the pinnacle of Samsung’s smartphone technology. Each device boasts impressive displays, powerful processors, and the iconic S Pen. However, the Note 10 Plus offers some notable upgrades over its smaller sibling.
This comparison will delve into the specifics, examining the design, display, performance, cameras, and battery life of both devices. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which phone offers the best value and aligns with your priorities. Get ready to discover which Note reigns supreme!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Galaxy Note 10 | Note 10 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.3 inches | 6.8 inches |
| Resolution | 2280 x 1080 pixels | 3040 x 1440 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9825 | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9825 |
| RAM | 8GB | 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 256GB | 256GB/512GB |
| Rear Camera | Triple 12MP + 12MP + 16MP | Triple 12MP + 12MP + 16MP + DepthVision |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP |
| Battery | 3500 mAh | 4300 mAh |
| S Pen | Included | Included |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Expandable Storage | No | Yes |
| Dimensions | 151 x 71.8 x 7.9 mm | 162.6 x 77.9 x 7.9 mm |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display Size
- Galaxy Note 10: 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED display. Offers a vibrant and sharp viewing experience, but may feel slightly cramped for some users. The smaller size makes it more pocketable.
- Note 10 Plus: 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display. Provides a larger, more immersive viewing experience, ideal for media consumption and productivity. Can be less comfortable to hold for some.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Screen Resolution
- Galaxy Note 10: 1080 x 2280 pixels. Provides a sharp display, but is a lower resolution than the Plus model.
- Note 10 Plus: 1440 x 3040 pixels. Offers a sharper and more detailed display, enhancing the viewing experience.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Battery Capacity
- Galaxy Note 10: 3500 mAh battery. Provides all-day battery life for moderate usage, but may require charging for heavy users.
- Note 10 Plus: 4300 mAh battery. Offers significantly longer battery life, easily lasting a full day even with heavy usage.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
RAM
- Galaxy Note 10: 8GB RAM. Sufficient for most tasks, including multitasking and gaming.
- Note 10 Plus: 12GB RAM. Provides a smoother multitasking experience and is better suited for demanding applications and heavy users.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Storage
- Galaxy Note 10: 256GB internal storage. Offers ample space for files and media. No microSD card slot.
- Note 10 Plus: 256GB or 512GB internal storage, plus microSD card slot. Provides even more storage capacity and flexibility.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Cameras (Rear)
- Galaxy Note 10: Triple camera system: 12MP main, 12MP telephoto, 16MP ultrawide. Delivers excellent image quality with versatile shooting options.
- Note 10 Plus: Same triple camera system as Note 10, plus a DepthVision sensor. Offers slightly improved portrait mode and AR capabilities.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
S Pen Features
- Galaxy Note 10: Bluetooth S Pen with gesture support. Offers basic Air Actions and remote control capabilities.
- Note 10 Plus: Bluetooth S Pen with enhanced Air Actions. Includes advanced gesture control and improved accuracy.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Fast Charging
- Galaxy Note 10: 25W fast charging. Charges the device quickly.
- Note 10 Plus: 45W fast charging (requires separate charger). Offers even faster charging speeds.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | Note 10 Plus |
| Battery Life | Note 10 Plus |
| Expandable Storage | Note 10 Plus |
| Overall Value | Galaxy Note 10 |
| Portability | Galaxy Note 10 |
| Camera System (Additional Features) | Note 10 Plus |
What They Have in Common
- Design: Both phones feature a sleek, modern design with a glass back and a metal frame. They both incorporate the iconic S Pen stylus for enhanced productivity and creativity.
- Performance: Both devices are powered by the same high-performance processor, ensuring smooth multitasking and lag-free gaming experiences. The software experience is also identical.
- S Pen Functionality: Both come with an S Pen that offers the same features, including Air Actions for remote control and note-taking capabilities, enhancing the user experience.
- Camera System: They share the same core camera system, offering impressive photo and video quality, with features like Live Focus and Super Steady video.
- Water Resistance: Both the Galaxy Note 10 and Note 10 Plus are IP68 rated, providing protection against water and dust.
Galaxy Note 10 Vs Note 10 Plus Buying Guide
Display and Design
The Galaxy Note 10 boasts a sleek design with a 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, offering vibrant colors and sharp details. The smaller size makes it easier to handle with one hand. In contrast, the Note 10 Plus features a larger 6.8-inch display, providing an immersive viewing experience, especially for media consumption and multitasking. The Note 10 Plus also offers a higher screen resolution and a slightly more premium feel due to its larger footprint and enhanced screen real estate. Both phones sport a similar design language with a centered punch-hole camera and minimal bezels.
Performance and Specs
Both phones pack powerful processors, ensuring smooth performance for demanding tasks and gaming. The Note 10 and Note 10 Plus utilize either a Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9825 chipset, depending on the region. However, the Note 10 Plus generally offers more RAM (12GB) compared to the Note 10 (8GB), which can lead to better multitasking capabilities. This difference in RAM can provide a smoother experience when switching between applications and handling intensive processes. Both devices are 5G ready.
Camera Capabilities
The camera systems on both devices are impressive, with the Note 10 and Note 10 Plus sharing similar main camera specifications. They both feature a triple-lens setup, including a wide-angle, ultra-wide-angle, and telephoto lens, delivering versatile photography options. The Note 10 Plus adds a DepthVision camera, enhancing portrait mode shots and AR applications. This extra sensor allows for more accurate depth mapping and improved effects. Both phones offer excellent image quality in various lighting conditions.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor, and the Note 10 Plus excels in this area. It has a larger 4,300mAh battery compared to the Note 10’s 3,500mAh battery. This substantial difference allows the Note 10 Plus to easily last a full day of heavy usage, while the Note 10 may require a top-up for power users. Both phones support fast charging and wireless charging, but the Note 10 Plus often supports faster charging rates. Consider your usage habits when choosing between the two.
S Pen Features
The S Pen is a signature feature of the Note series, and both phones include it. The S Pen offers various functionalities, including note-taking, drawing, and remote control capabilities. Both devices share the same S Pen features, such as Air Actions, which allow users to control the phone with gestures. The S Pen is a valuable tool for productivity and creativity, and the experience is identical on both devices. The responsiveness and features remain consistent across both models.
Price and Value
The Note 10 Plus typically comes with a higher price tag due to its larger display, more RAM, and larger battery. The Note 10, being the more affordable option, still offers excellent value for its features and performance. Consider your budget and needs. If you prioritize a larger screen, longer battery life, and enhanced RAM, the Note 10 Plus is the better choice. If you prefer a more compact design and are willing to compromise on battery and screen size, the Note 10 offers compelling value.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy galaxy note 10 If…
- You prefer a more compact phone that’s easier to handle with one hand.
- You want a flagship experience without the highest price tag.
- You don’t need the absolute largest screen or the highest battery capacity.
Buy note 10 plus If…
- You want the largest and most immersive display experience.
- You need the longest battery life for all-day use.
- You value the extra features, such as expandable storage and the depth sensor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference in screen size?
The Note 10 has a 6.3-inch display, while the Note 10 Plus features a larger 6.8-inch screen. The Note 10 Plus’s larger display provides a more immersive viewing experience, ideal for media consumption and multitasking. The Note 10, however, offers a more compact and manageable size for one-handed use. This difference is a major factor in the overall user experience.
Does the Note 10 Plus have a better camera?
While both phones share similar main camera specifications and deliver excellent image quality, the Note 10 Plus includes a DepthVision camera. This additional sensor enhances portrait mode shots and enables more advanced AR applications. The overall camera performance is similar, but the Note 10 Plus offers a slight edge in certain features and depth effects.
Which phone has better battery life?
The Note 10 Plus boasts a larger 4,300mAh battery, significantly outperforming the Note 10’s 3,500mAh battery. The Note 10 Plus can easily last a full day of heavy usage, while the Note 10 may require charging. If battery life is a priority, the Note 10 Plus is the clear winner. The battery difference is a key differentiator.
Are the processors the same?
Both phones utilize either a Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9825 chipset, depending on the region. The processing power is very similar, so performance is generally comparable. The Note 10 Plus often comes with more RAM (12GB) compared to the Note 10 (8GB), potentially leading to slightly smoother multitasking. Processing power itself is very similar.
What S Pen features do they have?
Both phones share the same S Pen features, including note-taking, drawing, and Air Actions, which let you control the phone with gestures. The S Pen experience is identical on both devices. The responsiveness and features remain consistent. There is no difference in the S Pen’s performance or functionality between the two models.
Which phone is more expensive?
The Note 10 Plus typically comes with a higher price tag due to its larger display, more RAM, and larger battery. The Note 10, being the more affordable option, still offers excellent value. It’s a key consideration. The price difference reflects the additional features and enhancements found in the Plus model.
What are the storage options?
Both phones offer various storage options. The Note 10 and Note 10 Plus offer similar storage configurations. These phones offer options of 256GB and 512GB of internal storage. The Note 10 Plus usually offers a 128GB version. The Note 10 Plus also has a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
Final Verdict
The Galaxy Note 10 and Note 10 Plus are both exceptional smartphones. The Note 10 offers a compact design and still delivers premium features, suitable for those who prefer a smaller device. However, the Note 10 Plus stands out with its larger display, enhanced RAM, and extended battery life, making it the better choice for power users and those seeking a more immersive experience.
Winner: Note 10 Plus