Galaxy S9 vs S9+: Which Samsung Phone Should You Buy?
Choosing between the Samsung Galaxy S9 and the S9+ can be a tough decision. Both phones offer premium features, stunning displays, and powerful performance, but subtle differences could make one a better fit for your needs. This comparison will break down the key aspects to help you decide which device reigns supreme.
The Galaxy S9 and S9+ were flagship devices released by Samsung, showcasing cutting-edge technology at the time. They both share the same core DNA, but the S9+ boasts some significant upgrades. These upgrades may sway you one way or the other.
We will delve into the design, display, camera capabilities, battery life, and overall performance of each phone. By the end of this comparison, you’ll have a clear understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the Galaxy S9 vs S9+, and be ready to make an informed purchase decision.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | S9 | S9+ |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 5.8 inches | 6.2 inches |
| Resolution | 1440 x 2960 pixels | 1440 x 2960 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 845 / Exynos 9810 | Snapdragon 845 / Exynos 9810 |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB |
| Internal Storage | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB | 64GB, 128GB, 256GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP | 12MP + 12MP |
| Front Camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Battery | 3000 mAh | 3500 mAh |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Operating System | Android 8.0 (Oreo) | Android 8.0 (Oreo) |
| Weight | 163g | 189g |
| Dimensions | 147.7 x 68.7 x 8.5 mm | 158.1 x 73.8 x 8.5 mm |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Galaxy S9: Features a 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2960 x 1440 pixels. It offers vibrant colors and excellent contrast. However, the smaller screen size might feel cramped for some users.
- S9+: Boasts a larger 6.2-inch Super AMOLED display with the same resolution. The larger screen provides a more immersive viewing experience, ideal for media consumption. It also offers the same excellent display quality.
- Winner: s9+
Size and Design
- Galaxy S9: A more compact design, making it easier to handle and use with one hand. Features a glass back and metal frame, offering a premium feel. Some users may prefer a smaller footprint.
- S9+: Larger and heavier due to its bigger display and battery. Offers the same premium design elements as the S9. The larger size might be less comfortable for some users.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Galaxy S9: Equipped with a 3000mAh battery. Provides decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use. Heavy users may need to recharge before the end of the day.
- S9+: Features a larger 3500mAh battery. Offers significantly improved battery life compared to the S9, easily lasting a full day and often longer. A major advantage for power users.
- Winner: s9+
Camera
- Galaxy S9: Single 12MP rear camera with variable aperture (f/1.5 and f/2.4). Delivers excellent image quality in various lighting conditions. Lacks the telephoto lens found in the S9+.
- S9+: Dual 12MP rear cameras, including a telephoto lens for 2x optical zoom. Offers enhanced versatility, including portrait mode and better zoom capabilities. Provides more creative options.
- Winner: s9+
Performance
- Galaxy S9: Powered by either a Snapdragon 845 (US) or Exynos 9810 (International) processor and 4GB of RAM. Provides smooth performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- S9+: Also uses either a Snapdragon 845 (US) or Exynos 9810 (International) processor, but with 6GB of RAM. The extra RAM can improve multitasking and performance in demanding applications.
- Winner: s9+
Storage
- Galaxy S9: Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options, expandable via microSD card. Offers ample storage for most users.
- S9+: Available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB storage options, expandable via microSD card. Same storage options as the S9.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Galaxy S9: Typically has a lower price point compared to the S9+. Represents a more budget-friendly option for those seeking a flagship experience.
- S9+: More expensive due to its larger size, battery, and additional features. A premium price tag for a premium phone.
- Winner: s9
Audio
- Galaxy S9: Stereo speakers tuned by AKG. Offers decent audio quality, but may not be as loud or immersive as the s9+.
- S9+: Stereo speakers tuned by AKG. Offers similar audio quality to the S9, but with a slightly larger sound.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | S9+ |
| Battery Life | S9+ |
| Main Camera (Overall) | S9+ |
| Performance | Tie |
| Portability | S9 |
| Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both phones boast stunning Super AMOLED displays with vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles, providing an immersive visual experience.
- Processor: They share the same powerful processor options, either a Snapdragon 845 or an Exynos 9810, ensuring smooth performance for demanding tasks and gaming.
- Water Resistance: Both Galaxy S9 and S9+ are rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, offering peace of mind against accidental spills and splashes.
- Fast Wireless Charging: Both phones support fast wireless charging, allowing you to easily top up your battery without the hassle of cables.
- Operating System: Both devices launched with Android 8.0 (Oreo), providing a consistent user interface and access to the latest Android features.
Galaxy S9 Vs S9+ Buying Guide
Design and Build Quality
The Galaxy S9 and S9+ share a similar design language, featuring curved glass on the front and back with a metal frame. The S9 is more compact, making it easier to handle with one hand, while the S9+ offers a larger display and overall footprint. Both phones offer IP68 water and dust resistance, providing peace of mind against accidental spills and exposure to the elements. Color options are generally consistent across both models, with variations appearing over time.
Consider your preference for size and how you typically use your phone. If you value portability, the S9 is a great choice. If you prefer a larger screen for media consumption and multitasking, the S9+ is the better option. Durability is similar between the two, with both using premium materials.
Display and Screen Size
Both phones boast stunning Super AMOLED displays with vibrant colors and deep blacks. The S9 features a 5.8-inch display, while the S9+ has a larger 6.2-inch screen. This difference in size significantly impacts the viewing experience, particularly when watching videos or playing games. Both screens have a 1440 x 2960 pixel resolution, ensuring sharp and detailed visuals.
The larger display on the S9+ offers a more immersive experience, while the S9 provides a more pocketable form factor. Consider how much you value screen real estate versus overall device size. The display quality is excellent across both models, so it primarily comes down to personal preference.
Camera Performance
Both the S9 and S9+ have impressive camera systems, but the S9+ has an advantage. Both phones feature a 12MP primary camera with dual-aperture technology, which automatically adjusts to different lighting conditions. The S9+ adds a secondary 12MP telephoto lens, enabling 2x optical zoom and improved portrait mode capabilities.
The S9 offers excellent photo quality, especially in good lighting. The S9+ provides more versatility with its telephoto lens, allowing you to capture a wider range of shots. If you’re a photography enthusiast, the S9+ is the better choice. However, the S9’s camera is still excellent.
Performance and Processing Power
Both phones are powered by the same processor, either the Snapdragon 845 (in the US) or the Exynos 9810 (in other regions). The S9 comes with 4GB of RAM, while the S9+ has 6GB of RAM. The additional RAM in the S9+ provides a slight edge in multitasking and handling demanding applications.
Both phones offer smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and app usage. The S9+ might offer a slightly smoother experience due to the extra RAM. Both devices are powerful enough for most users, but the S9+ has a slight advantage for heavy users.
Battery Life and Charging
The S9 has a 3000mAh battery, while the S9+ has a larger 3500mAh battery. The larger battery in the S9+ translates to noticeably better battery life. Both phones support fast charging and wireless charging, providing convenient ways to replenish the battery.
If battery life is a priority, the S9+ is the clear winner. The S9 offers decent battery life, but the S9+ can easily last a full day of heavy usage. Consider your usage patterns and how important it is to you to have a phone that lasts all day without needing to be charged.
Price and Value
The S9 and S9+ were initially launched at different price points, with the S9+ being more expensive. However, the prices have decreased significantly since their release. Considering the features and performance, both phones offer excellent value for their current prices.
Evaluate your budget and prioritize your needs. The S9+ offers more features for a slightly higher price. Consider your budget and the features that matter most to you. Both phones are excellent choices, so the final decision depends on your budget and desired features.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Galaxy S9 If…
- You prefer a more compact phone that’s easier to handle with one hand.
- You want a slightly more affordable option.
- You don’t prioritize having the longest battery life.
Buy S9+ If…
- You want a larger display for a more immersive viewing experience, especially for media consumption and gaming.
- You value the extra camera features, including the telephoto lens and enhanced portrait mode.
- You want longer battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Galaxy S9 and S9+?
The primary differences lie in size, display, battery, and camera capabilities. The S9+ is larger, has a bigger screen, a larger battery, and a dual-camera system with a telephoto lens, offering 2x optical zoom and improved portrait mode. The S9 is more compact and has a single-lens camera.
Which phone has a better camera?
The S9+ has a better camera due to its dual-lens system. The telephoto lens allows for 2x optical zoom and enhanced portrait mode capabilities, providing greater versatility in capturing photos. While the S9’s camera is excellent, the S9+ offers more features.
Does the S9+ have a better battery life?
Yes, the S9+ has significantly better battery life than the S9. The S9+ has a larger 3500mAh battery compared to the S9’s 3000mAh battery, providing longer usage times. This difference is noticeable, especially with heavy usage. It can last all day.
Is the S9+ worth the extra cost?
Whether the S9+ is worth the extra cost depends on your needs. If you value a larger screen, longer battery life, and the versatility of a dual-camera system, then the S9+ is likely worth the extra investment. Both are great phones.
Are both phones water-resistant?
Yes, both the Galaxy S9 and S9+ have an IP68 rating, which means they are water-resistant and dust-resistant. They can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. This is a great feature.
What are the storage options for each phone?
Both phones are available with various storage options, typically starting at 64GB and going up to 128GB or even 256GB, depending on the region and model. Both phones support microSD card expansion, allowing you to add more storage capacity.
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones offer excellent gaming performance, but the S9+ has a slight advantage due to its larger screen and potentially slightly better multitasking capabilities from its higher RAM. Both can play any game. The S9+ is better for gaming.
Final Verdict
The Galaxy S9 and S9+ both provide excellent performance and features. The S9 is a great choice for those who prefer a more compact phone, while the S9+ offers a larger display, longer battery life, and a more versatile camera system. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both phones remain competitive in the market.
Winner: Galaxy S9+