Note 9 vs Note 20: Which Samsung Galaxy Note Reigns?
Stuck between a rock and a hard place, deciding which Samsung Galaxy Note to buy? You’re not alone. The Note series has always been a powerhouse, but with newer models constantly emerging, the choice can be overwhelming. This comparison dives deep into the battle of the titans: the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 versus the newer Galaxy Note 20.
We’ll dissect the key differences, from design and display to performance and camera capabilities. The Note 9, a classic in its own right, and the Note 20, bringing cutting-edge technology to the table, both promise a premium experience. Understanding these differences is crucial for making an informed decision.
Get ready to explore the strengths and weaknesses of each device. We’ll examine which phone offers the best value for your money and which one aligns with your specific needs. By the end, you’ll have a clear winner in the ultimate showdown: Note 9 vs Note 20. Let’s get started!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | note 9 | note 20 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.4 inches | 6.9 inches |
| Display Type | Super AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Processor | Snapdragon 845 / Exynos 9810 | Snapdragon 865+ / Exynos 990 |
| RAM | 6GB / 8GB | 8GB / 12GB / 16GB |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 512GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | Dual 12MP | Triple 12MP + 12MP + 108MP |
| Front Camera | 8MP | 10MP |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | 4300 mAh / 4500 mAh |
| S Pen | Bluetooth | Bluetooth, Improved Latency |
| Operating System | Android 8.1 (Oreo) | Android 10 |
| 5G | No | Yes (select models) |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Note 9: 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2960 x 1440 pixels. Offers vibrant colors and sharp details, but the screen is smaller and has a lower refresh rate compared to the Note 20.
- Note 20: 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Provides smoother scrolling and animations, with improved brightness.
- Winner: Note 20
Processor
- Note 9: Snapdragon 845 or Exynos 9810, depending on the region. Offers solid performance for its time, but is noticeably slower than the Note 20’s chip.
- Note 20: Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990, depending on the region. Provides significantly faster performance and better power efficiency.
- Winner: Note 20
RAM and Storage
- Note 9: 6GB or 8GB RAM, and 128GB or 512GB storage with microSD card support. Offers sufficient storage options but may struggle with demanding tasks compared to the Note 20.
- Note 20: 8GB RAM, 256GB storage (no microSD card support on the standard model). Provides faster multitasking and the newer UFS 3.0 storage offers faster file access.
- Winner: Note 20
Cameras
- Note 9: Dual 12MP rear cameras with variable aperture. Delivers good image quality in various lighting conditions, but lacks some of the advanced features of the Note 20.
- Note 20: Triple 12MP rear cameras with improved image processing and features like 8K video recording. Offers more versatility and better image quality, especially in low light.
- Winner: Note 20
S Pen
- Note 9: Bluetooth-enabled S Pen with remote control features. Offers a comfortable writing experience and useful features, but the latency is higher than the Note 20.
- Note 20: Improved S Pen with lower latency (9ms) and more responsive feel. Provides a more fluid and natural writing experience.
- Winner: Note 20
Battery
- Note 9: 4,000mAh battery. Provides all-day battery life for moderate use.
- Note 20: 4,300mAh battery. Offers similar battery life to the Note 9.
- Winner: Tie
Software
- Note 9: Android 9.0 (Pie) upgradable to Android 10. Received software updates for a couple of years but is now limited in its software support.
- Note 20: Android 10, upgradable to Android 13. Provides a more modern software experience, with access to the latest features and security updates for longer.
- Winner: Note 20
Design and Build
- Note 9: Glass front and back with an aluminum frame, IP68 water resistance. Features a classic design, but the bezels are larger than the Note 20.
- Note 20: Glass front and back with a metal frame, IP68 water resistance. Offers a more modern design with a smaller footprint and a more premium feel.
- Winner: Note 20
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Quality | note 20 |
| Performance | note 20 |
| Camera | note 20 |
| Battery Life | note 20 |
| S Pen Features | note 20 |
| Value | note 9 |
What They Have in Common
- S Pen: Both phones feature the iconic S Pen stylus, offering users a unique way to interact with their devices through note-taking, drawing, and remote control capabilities.
- Water Resistance: Both the Note 9 and Note 20 boast an IP68 rating, ensuring they can withstand submersion in up to 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, allowing for convenient and cable-free power-ups.
- Expandable Storage: Both devices offer microSD card slots for expanding storage, providing flexibility for users to store more files and media.
- Super Amoled Display: Both phones feature vibrant Super AMOLED displays, delivering vivid colors and deep blacks for an immersive viewing experience.
Note 9 vs Note 20 Buying Guide
Design and Display
The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 boasts a familiar design with its rectangular shape and curved edges, featuring a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display. The Note 20, on the other hand, presents a more modern aesthetic with a flatter screen and a refined camera module. The Note 20’s display is a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, offering a higher refresh rate for smoother scrolling and animations. Both phones feature in-display fingerprint sensors, though the Note 20’s is generally considered faster and more reliable.
Performance and Processor
Under the hood, the Note 9 houses either a Snapdragon 845 or an Exynos 9810 processor, depending on the region. The Note 20, however, is equipped with a significantly more powerful Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990, providing substantial performance gains. This translates to faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming experiences. The Note 20 also benefits from faster RAM and storage options, contributing to its overall performance edge.
Camera Capabilities
The Note 9 features a dual 12MP rear camera setup, which, while capable, is surpassed by the Note 20’s triple-lens system. The Note 20 includes a 12MP ultrawide lens, a 12MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP wide-angle lens, offering greater versatility in capturing photos and videos. The Note 20 also boasts enhanced video recording capabilities, including 8K video recording, and improved low-light performance due to its advanced processing.
Battery Life and Charging
The Note 9 is powered by a 4,000mAh battery, which provides decent battery life for everyday use. The Note 20 features a slightly larger 4,300mAh battery. However, real-world battery performance can vary depending on usage patterns. The Note 20 also supports faster wired and wireless charging compared to the Note 9, allowing for quicker top-ups. Both phones offer wireless charging capabilities, providing convenience.
S Pen Features and Functionality
Both devices come with an S Pen stylus, offering a range of productivity and creative features. The Note 9’s S Pen has Bluetooth connectivity, enabling remote control functions. The Note 20’s S Pen offers even lower latency, making it feel more responsive and natural when writing or drawing on the screen. The Note 20’s S Pen also unlocks new air actions, expanding the control options.
Price and Value
The Note 9, being an older device, is generally available at a significantly lower price point than the Note 20. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the Note 20 offers a more premium experience with its updated features, improved performance, and advanced camera system. When making a purchasing decision, it’s crucial to consider individual needs, budget, and desired features.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy note 9 If…
- You’re on a tighter budget and want a flagship experience at a lower price point.
- You prefer a slightly more compact design that’s easier to handle with one hand.
- You don’t need the latest processor or camera technology.
- You prioritize having a headphone jack.
Buy note 20 If…
- You want the latest and greatest in mobile technology, including a more powerful processor and camera system.
- You value a larger display for media consumption and productivity.
- You want the best possible performance for gaming and demanding apps.
- You want access to 5G connectivity (on select models).
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Note 9 and Note 20?
The Note 20 offers several improvements over the Note 9, including a more powerful processor, a more versatile camera system with 8K video recording, a higher refresh rate display, faster charging, and a more responsive S Pen. The Note 20 also boasts a more modern design, better performance, and expanded features over the Note 9. However, the Note 9 is usually cheaper.
Which phone has a better display?
The Note 20’s display is superior. It features a larger 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel with a higher 120Hz refresh rate. This results in smoother scrolling, animations, and a more immersive viewing experience. The Note 9’s display, while still excellent, lacks the higher refresh rate of the Note 20. The Note 20 display is more vibrant.
How does the camera compare between the two devices?
The Note 20’s camera system is significantly more advanced. It features a triple-lens setup compared to the Note 9’s dual-lens configuration. The Note 20 includes an ultrawide lens and a telephoto lens, offering greater flexibility. The Note 20 also offers 8K video recording and improved low-light performance. The Note 9’s camera is capable, but the Note 20 is better.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The Note 20 is the superior gaming device due to its more powerful processor (Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990), faster RAM, and higher refresh rate display. These features contribute to smoother gameplay, faster loading times, and a more responsive experience. The Note 9, while still capable, lags behind in raw processing power. The Note 20 is the superior choice for gamers.
What are the battery life differences?
The Note 20 typically has slightly better battery life due to its larger battery and the efficiency improvements of its newer processor. However, real-world battery performance can vary depending on usage. The Note 20 also supports faster wired and wireless charging. Both phones offer similar battery performance overall, but the Note 20 has the edge.
Is the S Pen improved in the Note 20?
Yes, the Note 20’s S Pen offers significant improvements. It has lower latency, making it feel more responsive and natural when writing or drawing. The Note 20’s S Pen also introduces new air actions, expanding control options and enhancing productivity. This makes the Note 20 a better choice for stylus users who value responsiveness.
Which phone should I buy?
The Note 20 is the better overall device, offering improved performance, a more advanced camera, and a more modern design. However, the Note 9 remains a viable option, especially for those on a budget. Consider your budget, desired features, and priorities when making your decision.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 emerges as the clear victor, boasting superior performance, a more advanced camera system, and a more refined design. While the Note 9 remains a capable device, the Note 20’s enhancements in nearly every aspect make it the superior choice for those seeking the ultimate flagship experience. Despite the Note 9’s affordability, the Note 20 is the better phone.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy Note 20