Choosing between Samsung’s flagship devices can be a thrilling, yet daunting, task. With the Galaxy S10 5G and the standard Galaxy S10, Samsung offered distinct experiences catering to different user needs. Both represent the pinnacle of smartphone technology for their time, but subtle and significant differences set them apart.
Are you wondering if the future-proof connectivity of 5G is worth the upgrade, or if the more compact and classic Galaxy S10 still holds its own? This comparison dives deep into the nuances of the Samsung Galaxy S10 5G versus the Samsung Galaxy S10.
We’ll explore everything from display technology and camera capabilities to battery life and overall performance. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which of these remarkable Samsung smartphones is the perfect fit for your digital life.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | s10 5g | s10 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED | 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED |
| Display Resolution | 3040 x 1440 (Quad HD+) | 3040 x 1440 (Quad HD+) |
| Processor | Snapdragon 855 (with 5G modem) | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 256GB | 128GB / 512GB |
| Rear Cameras | 16MP (Ultrawide) + 12MP (Wide) + 12MP (Telephoto) + DepthVision 3D | 16MP (Ultrawide) + 12MP (Wide) + 12MP (Telephoto) |
| Front Camera | 10MP (Dual Pixel) + 8MP (Depth) | 10MP (Dual Pixel) |
| Battery Capacity | 4500 mAh | 3400 mAh |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | No |
| Dimensions | 162.6 x 75.9 x 7.9 mm | 149.9 x 70.4 x 7.8 mm |
| Weight | 197g | 157g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- S10 5g: Features a larger 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 19:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1440 x 3040 pixels. The larger screen offers more immersive viewing but can be less comfortable for one-handed use.
- S10: Boasts a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a 19:9 aspect ratio and a resolution of 1440 x 3040 pixels. It provides a sharp and vibrant viewing experience in a more compact and manageable size.
- Winner: s10 5g
Processor & Performance
- S10 5g: Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 (5G variant) or Exynos 9820, coupled with 8GB of RAM. This chipset is designed for high-performance tasks and efficient 5G connectivity, offering excellent speed.
- S10: Equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9820, with options for 8GB or 12GB of RAM (depending on storage configuration). It delivers flagship-level performance for everyday use and demanding applications.
- Winner: s10 5g
Camera System
- S10 5g: Features a quad-camera setup on the rear: a 12MP wide, 12MP telephoto, 16MP ultrawide, and a 3D Depth camera. The addition of the depth sensor enhances portrait shots and AR experiences.
- S10: Comes with a triple-camera system on the rear: a 12MP wide, 12MP telephoto, and a 16MP ultrawide lens. It offers versatile shooting options for a wide range of scenarios.
- Winner: s10 5g
Battery Life
- S10 5g: Packs a substantial 4500 mAh battery, designed to handle the power demands of 5G connectivity and its larger display. This provides excellent endurance for extended use.
- S10: Equipped with a 3400 mAh battery. While sufficient for a full day of moderate use, it may struggle more with heavy usage compared to its larger sibling.
- Winner: s10 5g
5G Connectivity
- S10 5g: As the name suggests, this phone is built with 5G capabilities, offering significantly faster download and upload speeds where 5G networks are available. This future-proofs the device for next-generation mobile networks.
- S10: Does not support 5G connectivity. It is limited to 4G LTE networks, which are currently the standard.
- Winner: s10 5g
Design & Build
- S10 5g: Features a slightly larger and thicker build due to its bigger battery and 5G components. It maintains the premium glass and metal construction.
- S10: Offers a more compact and lighter design, making it more ergonomic for many users. It also uses premium materials for a high-end feel.
- Winner: s10
Storage Options
- S10 5g: Typically comes with 256GB of internal storage. It also supports microSD card expansion.
- S10: Offers more flexibility with storage options, usually starting at 128GB and going up to 512GB, with microSD card support.
- Winner: s10
Price
- S10 5g: Generally launched at a higher price point due to its advanced features, particularly 5G technology and larger display. This makes it a more significant investment.
- S10: Was positioned as the standard flagship, typically priced lower than the 5G variant at launch. It offered a more accessible entry into the S10 series.
- Winner: s10
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | s10 5g |
| 5G Connectivity | s10 5g |
| Battery Life | s10 5g |
| Camera Versatility | s10 5g |
| Compactness | s10 |
| Value (General) | s10 |
What They Have in Common
- Stunning Displays: Both devices boast vibrant Dynamic AMOLED displays with a sharp Quad HD+ resolution, offering excellent color accuracy and deep blacks for an immersive viewing experience.
- Powerful Performance: Equipped with the flagship Snapdragon 855 processor (or Exynos equivalent in some regions), both phones deliver smooth and responsive performance for demanding apps and multitasking.
- Versatile Camera Systems: You’ll find a highly capable triple rear camera setup on both the s10 5g and s10, including ultrawide, wide, and telephoto lenses, allowing for creative photography in various scenarios.
- Premium Design and Build: Both smartphones feature a sleek and premium design with glass front and back, an aluminum frame, and IP68 water and dust resistance, exuding a high-quality feel.
- Wireless Charging and Powershare: Convenience is key with both devices supporting wireless charging and Wireless PowerShare, letting you charge other Qi-compatible devices by placing them on the back of your phone.
- In-Display Fingerprint Sensor: Security and convenience are integrated with an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor on both the s10 5g and s10, providing quick and secure unlocking.
S10 5G Vs S10 Buying Guide
Performance and Connectivity
When considering performance, the S10 5G naturally pulls ahead due to its 5G modem, offering significantly faster download and upload speeds where 5G networks are available. This translates to smoother streaming of high-resolution content, quicker app downloads, and a more responsive online gaming experience. The S10, while still powerful with its robust processor, is limited to 4G LTE speeds.
For everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and general app usage, both devices perform admirably. However, if future-proofing your connectivity and embracing the cutting edge of mobile internet is a priority, the S10 5G offers a distinct advantage. The S10 remains a solid choice for those content with current 4G capabilities and a slightly more budget-friendly option. (See Also: Nintendo Switch Vs Switch Lite )
Display and Battery Life
Both the S10 and S10 5G boast stunning Dynamic AMOLED displays with vibrant colors and sharp resolutions, making them excellent for media consumption and gaming. The S10 5G features a slightly larger display, which can enhance the viewing experience for movies and multitasking. This larger screen size, however, is accompanied by a larger battery to power it.
The S10 5G packs a more substantial battery, designed to cope with the demands of 5G connectivity and its larger display. While the S10 offers decent battery life for a full day of moderate use, the S10 5G is generally expected to last longer, especially if not constantly utilizing 5G. Users who prioritize extended screen-on time and have access to 5G might find the S10 5G’s battery to be a significant draw.
Camera Capabilities
Both the Samsung Galaxy S10 and S10 5G offer impressive camera systems, with the S10 5G building upon the S10’s foundation. The S10 5G introduces an additional depth-sensing camera on the rear, enhancing its ability to capture portraits with improved bokeh effects and offering more advanced augmented reality (AR) experiences. This extra lens contributes to more nuanced and professional-looking shots.
While the main, ultrawide, and telephoto lenses are largely similar in quality between the two devices, the S10 5G’s extra sensor provides a subtle but noticeable edge in specific photographic scenarios, particularly for portrait photography and AR applications. For most users, the S10’s camera is more than sufficient, but the S10 5G offers a slightly more versatile and advanced photographic toolkit for enthusiasts. (See Also: Pixel 6a Vs Iphone 12 )
Price and Value
The S10 5G, being the more advanced and newer model at its launch, typically commanded a higher price point than the standard S10. This premium was for the added 5G connectivity, larger display, and enhanced camera system. If 5G is not a necessity for your current location or usage habits, the S10 offers excellent value for its flagship performance and features.
However, as time progresses and newer models emerge, the S10 may become significantly more affordable, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers. The S10 5G, on the other hand, represents a greater investment, but for those who want the latest in mobile technology and future-proof connectivity, it can be seen as a worthwhile expenditure, especially if purchased at a discounted price later in its lifecycle.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s10 5g If…
- You want the absolute latest in mobile connectivity and are in an area with 5G coverage.
- You desire a larger display for media consumption and gaming.
- You need the extra camera sensor for depth perception in photos.
- Battery life is a top priority, as the larger battery offers more endurance.
Buy s10 If…
- 5G connectivity is not a necessity for you at this time.
- You prefer a more compact and pocketable smartphone.
- You’re looking for a slightly more affordable flagship experience.
- You don’t need the absolute largest battery capacity available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the S10 5G have a better camera than the S10?
Yes, the S10 5G generally offers a slightly more advanced camera system. It includes an additional depth-sensing camera on the rear compared to the S10, which enhances its ability to capture portrait mode photos with improved background blur (bokeh) and offers more robust augmented reality (AR) features. While the core lenses are similar, the extra sensor on the S10 5G provides a distinct advantage for specific photographic applications.
Which phone has better battery life, the S10 or S10 5G?
The S10 5G typically offers better battery life due to its larger battery capacity. This is necessary to power its larger display and the more energy-intensive 5G modem. While the S10 provides a full day of use for most users, the S10 5G is generally expected to last longer, especially when not constantly utilizing 5G. However, heavy 5G usage can still drain the battery faster than 4G. (See Also: Galaxy Watch 6 Vs Active 2 )
Is 5G worth it on the S10 5G if I don’t have 5G coverage?
If you do not have 5G coverage in your area, the primary advantage of the S10 5G – its 5G connectivity – will not be realized. In such a scenario, you would essentially be paying a premium for a feature you cannot use. The S10 5G will still function perfectly on 4G LTE, but you won’t experience the drastically faster speeds. For areas without 5G, the S10 might be a more practical and cost-effective choice.
Is the S10 5G significantly larger than the S10?
Yes, the S10 5G is noticeably larger than the standard S10. It features a bigger display, which contributes to its overall increased dimensions and weight. While the S10 is designed for comfortable one-handed use for many, the S10 5G is more of a two-handed device for most users. If you prefer a more compact phone, the S10 would be the better option. If you enjoy a larger screen for media consumption, the S10 5G’s size might be appealing.
Which phone is a better value for money?
The “better value” depends heavily on your individual needs and priorities. If 5G connectivity is not a priority, and you want a flagship experience at a potentially lower cost, the S10 offers excellent value. It still provides a top-tier performance, display, and camera. However, if you want the latest connectivity, a larger screen, and slightly enhanced camera features, and you have access to 5G networks, the S10 5G can be considered good value, especially if found at a discounted price. The S10 5G is more future-proof.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S10 5G stands out as the more advanced device, offering superior connectivity with its 5G capabilities, a larger and more immersive display, and a slightly more versatile camera system. While the S10 remains a fantastic smartphone with excellent performance and features, the S10 5G represents a step forward in mobile technology. For those seeking future-proofing and the fastest possible mobile internet speeds where available, the S10 5G is the clear winner.
Winner: S10 5G