Note 10 Plus vs Note 10: Which Samsung Phone Reigns?
Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, especially when you’re looking at top-tier devices. The Samsung Galaxy Note series has consistently delivered premium features, but which one is right for you? This comparison dives deep into the details of two stellar phones.
We’re putting the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus head-to-head against the standard Note 10. Both devices offer impressive performance and innovative features, but there are key differences that could sway your decision. We’ll explore these differences to help you make an informed choice.
From display quality and camera capabilities to battery life and overall user experience, we’ll break down everything you need to know. Get ready to discover which Note phone is the perfect fit for your needs and lifestyle. Let’s see how the Note 10 Plus stacks up against the Note 10!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Note 10+ | Note 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.8 inches | 6.3 inches |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3040 pixels | 1080 x 2280 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9825 | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9825 |
| RAM | 12 GB | 8 GB |
| Internal Storage | 256 GB / 512 GB | 256 GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 16MP + ToF | 12MP + 12MP + 16MP |
| Front Camera | 10 MP | 10 MP |
| Battery | 4300 mAh | 3500 mAh |
| S Pen | Bluetooth with Air Actions | Bluetooth with Air Actions |
| Expandable Storage | Yes (MicroSD) | Yes (MicroSD) |
| Dimensions | 162.6 x 77.9 x 7.9 mm | 151 x 71.8 x 7.9 mm |
| Weight | 196 g | 168 g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display Size
- Note 10 Plus: Boasts a larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a higher resolution. This provides a more immersive viewing experience, especially for media consumption and multitasking. However, the larger size might be less comfortable for some users.
- Note 10: Features a 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, which is still vibrant and sharp, but slightly smaller. This makes it more compact and easier to handle with one hand. The smaller screen might feel cramped for some users.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Screen Resolution
- Note 10 Plus: Offers a higher resolution, contributing to sharper image quality and more detailed visuals. This is noticeable when viewing high-resolution content or during gaming.
- Note 10: Has a slightly lower resolution compared to the Plus model, still providing a crisp display but potentially less sharp in certain scenarios.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Battery Capacity
- Note 10 Plus: Equipped with a larger 4,300 mAh battery, providing significantly longer battery life. This is ideal for users who need all-day performance.
- Note 10: Features a 3,500 mAh battery, offering good battery life but potentially requiring more frequent charging compared to the Plus model.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
RAM
- Note 10 Plus: Comes with more RAM (12GB) in some configurations, leading to smoother multitasking and faster app loading.
- Note 10: Offers less RAM (8GB) in some configurations, still capable but potentially showing some performance difference under heavy load.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
Storage Options
- Note 10 Plus: Offers a base storage of 256GB with an option to upgrade to 512GB, providing ample space for files and media.
- Note 10: Starts with a 256GB storage option.
- Winner: Tie
Rear Camera System
- Note 10 Plus: Features a quad-camera system with an additional DepthVision camera, offering more versatility and enhanced features such as Live Focus video.
- Note 10: Has a triple-camera system, still delivering excellent image quality and a range of shooting modes.
- Winner: Note 10 Plus
S Pen Functionality
- Note 10 Plus: The S Pen offers similar functionality in both devices, including air gestures and note-taking capabilities.
- Note 10: The S Pen offers similar functionality in both devices, including air gestures and note-taking capabilities.
- Winner: Tie
Expandable Storage
- Note 10 Plus: Includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage up to 1TB.
- Note 10: Includes a microSD card slot for expandable storage up to 1TB.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | Note 10 Plus |
| Battery Life | Note 10 Plus |
| RAM | Note 10 Plus |
| Storage Options | Note 10 Plus |
| Portability | Note 10 |
| Overall Value | Note 10 |
What They Have in Common
- S Pen: Both devices include the S Pen, offering similar features like Air Actions for remote control and precise note-taking capabilities.
- Processor: Both phones are powered by the same processor (Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9825, depending on the region), ensuring similar performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- Design: Both phones share a similar design language, featuring a centered punch-hole front camera and a glass back with a metal frame.
- Operating System: Both phones run on Android, offering a similar software experience with Samsung’s One UI on top.
- Fast Charging: Both devices support fast charging, allowing for quick replenishment of the battery.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones feature wireless charging capabilities, providing a convenient way to power up.
Note 10 Plus vs Note 10 Buying Guide
Display and Design
The Note 10 Plus boasts a larger 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, significantly bigger than the Note 10’s 6.3-inch screen. This size difference translates to a more immersive viewing experience, especially for media consumption and multitasking. The Note 10 Plus also offers a higher resolution, resulting in sharper visuals. Both phones share the same premium design language with a glass back and metal frame, but the Plus model offers a more spacious canvas for content and creativity. The subtle design refinements and the difference in screen real estate are key differentiators.
Performance and Specs
Both phones deliver flagship performance, but the Note 10 Plus often gets the edge in raw power. The Plus typically features more RAM (12GB vs. 8GB) which contributes to smoother multitasking and handling of demanding applications and games. Internal storage also differs, with the Plus starting at 256GB and offering a 512GB option, while the Note 10 starts at 256GB. The processors are similar, but the extra RAM and storage in the Plus can provide a noticeable advantage in resource-intensive tasks. Both phones provide a seamless user experience.
Camera Capabilities
The camera systems are similar, both phones feature a versatile triple-lens setup, including a telephoto lens, ultrawide lens, and standard lens. The Note 10 Plus often has a slight edge due to its inclusion of a DepthVision sensor, which can enhance bokeh effects in portrait mode and assist with augmented reality applications. Both phones capture stunning photos and videos in various lighting conditions. They feature excellent image stabilization and offer a wide range of shooting modes, catering to both casual and advanced users. The slight advantage goes to the Note 10 Plus.
Battery Life and Charging
The Note 10 Plus houses a larger 4,300mAh battery compared to the Note 10’s 3,500mAh battery. This difference results in significantly longer battery life for the Plus, allowing it to easily last a full day of heavy usage. Both phones support fast charging, but the Note 10 Plus typically includes a faster charger in the box. Wireless charging is also supported on both devices, providing convenient charging options. The superior battery capacity of the Note 10 Plus makes it a better choice for users who prioritize longevity.
S Pen Functionality
Both phones come with the iconic S Pen stylus, offering a suite of features like note-taking, drawing, and remote control capabilities. The S Pen functionality is largely identical between the two models, including Air Actions for controlling the phone with gestures. The responsiveness and features are consistent across both devices, providing a seamless experience for users who enjoy using the stylus. The only difference is the physical size of the S Pen in relation to the phone.
Price and Value
The Note 10 Plus launched at a higher price point than the Note 10. The price difference reflects the larger screen, more RAM, and larger battery. However, the Note 10 offers excellent value for its price, providing flagship-level performance and features. The Note 10 is often more affordable, making it a compelling option for those seeking a premium smartphone experience without the premium price tag. The best choice depends on your budget and desired features. Shop around for deals.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Note 10 Plus If…
- You want a larger display for media consumption and productivity.
- You need longer battery life.
- You want more RAM and storage options.
- You value the additional ToF sensor for enhanced depth effects in photos.
Buy Note 10 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 need the largest screen size or the extra battery capacity.
- You are happy with the base storage and RAM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the Note 10 Plus and Note 10?
The Note 10 Plus boasts a larger display (6.8″ vs. 6.3″), a bigger battery (4,300mAh vs. 3,500mAh), and often more RAM (12GB vs. 8GB). It also includes a DepthVision sensor for enhanced portrait mode. The Note 10 offers a more compact design and is typically more affordable. These are the key distinctions between the two models.
Does the Note 10 Plus have a better camera than the Note 10?
The camera systems are very similar, with both featuring a versatile triple-lens setup. The Note 10 Plus has a DepthVision sensor, which can slightly enhance portrait mode and augmented reality features. The difference in photo quality is subtle, as both phones take excellent pictures in most conditions. The DepthVision sensor provides a slight edge.
Which phone has better battery life?
The Note 10 Plus has significantly better battery life due to its larger 4,300mAh battery compared to the Note 10’s 3,500mAh battery. This difference allows the Note 10 Plus to easily last a full day of heavy usage, while the Note 10 may require charging before the end of the day. The battery is a key advantage.
Is the Note 10 Plus worth the extra cost?
That depends on your needs and budget. If you prioritize a larger screen, longer battery life, and maximum RAM, the Note 10 Plus is worth the investment. If you prefer a more compact phone and want to save money, the Note 10 provides excellent value. Consider your usage patterns when deciding.
Do both phones support 5G?
Availability of 5G models varies by region and carrier. Both the Note 10 Plus and Note 10 were offered in 5G variants in select markets. Check with your local carrier to confirm 5G support. Not all models have 5G capability. It is dependent on the specific configuration.
What S Pen features are available on both phones?
Both phones offer the same core S Pen features, including note-taking, drawing, and Air Actions for controlling the phone with gestures. The responsiveness and functionality of the S Pen are nearly identical on both devices. The user experience is the same with the stylus. The experience is consistent.
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones can handle demanding games, but the Note 10 Plus’s larger RAM and often slightly better cooling may give it a slight edge in sustained gaming performance. The larger screen of the Plus also provides a more immersive gaming experience. However, both phones provide a lag-free gaming experience.
Final Verdict
The Note 10 Plus offers a larger display, longer battery life, and more RAM, making it the superior choice for power users who want the best features. While the Note 10 provides excellent value and a more compact design, the Note 10 Plus excels in key areas. The Note 10 Plus is the better overall device.
Winner: Note 10 Plus