Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, especially when you’re deciding between two top-tier devices from the same brand. Today, we’re diving deep into the Samsung Galaxy S10 and its upgraded sibling, the S10+.
Both phones promise a premium experience, but subtle yet significant differences set them apart. This in-depth comparison will help you determine which phone best suits your needs and budget. We’ll explore everything from display quality and performance to camera capabilities and battery life.
Get ready to uncover the key distinctions between the Samsung Galaxy S10 and S10+, and discover which one deserves a place in your pocket. Let the battle of the flagships begin!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | s10 | s10+ |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 6.4 inches |
| Resolution | 3040 x 1440 pixels | 3040 x 1440 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820 | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 512GB | 128GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Main Camera | Triple 12MP | Triple 12MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP + 8MP (depth) |
| Battery | 3400 mAh | 4100 mAh |
| Wireless Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Dimensions | 149.9 x 70.9 x 7.8 mm | 157.6 x 74.1 x 7.8 mm |
| Weight | 157 g | 175 g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- S10: Features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 3040 pixels. Offers vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles, but the smaller size may feel less immersive for some users.
- S10+: Boasts a larger 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, also with a 1440 x 3040 pixel resolution. The bigger screen provides a more immersive experience, ideal for media consumption, but can be less comfortable to hold for some.
- Winner: s10+
Battery Life
- S10: Equipped with a 3400mAh battery. Provides decent battery life, typically lasting a full day with moderate use, but heavy users might need to recharge before the end of the day.
- S10+: Packs a larger 4100mAh battery. Offers significantly improved battery life, easily lasting a full day and often extending into a second day with moderate usage.
- Winner: s10+
Cameras
- S10: Features a triple-lens rear camera system with a 12MP main, 12MP telephoto, and 16MP ultrawide lens. Delivers excellent image quality with versatile shooting options.
- S10+: Also has a triple-lens rear camera system identical to the S10, but with the addition of a second front-facing camera for enhanced depth sensing. Offers similar image quality on the rear but improves selfie capabilities.
- Winner: s10+
Size and Weight
- S10: More compact and lighter, making it easier to handle and use with one hand. Offers a more pocketable design, but the smaller screen may feel cramped to some.
- S10+: Larger and heavier, which can feel less comfortable for some users. However, the increased size provides a more immersive experience and a larger battery.
- Winner: s10
Front Camera
- S10: Features a single 10MP front-facing camera. Captures good quality selfies, but lacks the depth-sensing capabilities of the S10+.
- S10+: Has a dual front-facing camera setup with a 10MP main and 8MP depth sensor. Produces better quality selfies with improved bokeh effects and depth perception.
- Winner: s10+
RAM and Storage Options
- S10: Offers 8GB of RAM with storage options ranging from 128GB to 512GB. Sufficient for most users, but the S10+ provides more RAM in some configurations.
- S10+: Available with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options up to 1TB. Provides more headroom for multitasking and storing large files.
- Winner: s10+
Price
- S10: Generally more affordable than the S10+, making it a better value for users prioritizing cost savings.
- S10+: Typically more expensive, reflecting its enhanced features and larger size.
- Winner: s10
Overall Performance
- S10: Uses the same processor as the S10+, delivering excellent performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking.
- S10+: Uses the same processor as the S10, delivering excellent performance for everyday tasks, gaming, and multitasking. The extra RAM in some configurations provides a slight advantage.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | s10+ |
| Battery Life | s10+ |
| Portability | s10 |
| Storage Options | s10+ |
| Front Camera | s10+ |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Technology: Both phones utilize Dynamic AMOLED displays, offering vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles.
- Processor: Both the Galaxy S10 and S10+ are powered by the same processor, either a Snapdragon 855 or an Exynos 9820 depending on the region. This ensures similar performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- Camera System: Both phones share the same core triple-camera system on the rear, allowing for similar photo and video quality across both devices.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, allowing users to conveniently charge their devices without cables. They also offer reverse wireless charging.
- Water Resistance: Both phones are IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, providing peace of mind in various environments.
- Software Experience: Both phones run on the same version of One UI based on Android, offering a consistent software experience.
S10 vs S10+ Buying Guide
Design and Display
The Samsung Galaxy S10 and S10+ both boast stunning displays, but the S10+ takes the lead with its larger 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen compared to the S10’s 6.1-inch display. Both offer vibrant colors, excellent brightness, and HDR10+ certification. The S10+ also features a dual-lens front-facing camera, which slightly impacts the overall screen real estate with its pill-shaped cutout, while the S10 has a single-lens punch-hole design. Ultimately, both phones offer premium viewing experiences, but the S10+ delivers a more immersive experience for media consumption.
Performance and Battery Life
Both phones pack powerful processors, ensuring smooth performance for demanding tasks. However, the S10+ generally edges out the S10 in battery life. The S10+ houses a larger 4,100mAh battery, providing significantly longer usage times compared to the S10’s 3,400mAh battery. This difference is especially noticeable during heavy usage, such as gaming or streaming videos. Both phones support fast wired and wireless charging, but the larger battery in the S10+ provides a more extended user experience without needing to recharge. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )
Camera Capabilities
The camera systems on both the S10 and S10+ are exceptional. Both phones share the same triple-lens rear camera setup: a 12MP wide-angle, a 12MP telephoto, and a 16MP ultrawide lens. The S10+ enhances the photography experience with its dual front-facing cameras, which offer slightly improved depth sensing for portrait mode shots. While the core camera performance is largely identical, the S10+ provides a marginal advantage in certain portrait scenarios and offers a wider field of view for selfies.
Storage and Memory Options
Both the S10 and S10+ are available in various storage and RAM configurations. The S10 offers options up to 512GB of internal storage and 8GB of RAM. The S10+ provides more high-end configurations, with options going up to 1TB of storage and 12GB of RAM. This provides a clear advantage for users who require more space for photos, videos, and apps, or those who frequently multitask. Both phones support microSD card expansion, adding flexibility for storage needs.
Durability and Build Quality
Both phones are constructed with premium materials, featuring a glass front and back with an aluminum frame. They both offer IP68 water and dust resistance, providing peace of mind against accidental spills or exposure to the elements. While both are durable, the larger size of the S10+ may make it slightly more susceptible to damage from drops. A protective case is always recommended for either phone. The build quality is top-notch in both cases, ensuring a premium feel.
Price and Value
The S10 and S10+ were initially released at different price points, with the S10+ being the more expensive option. The price difference reflects the larger display, bigger battery, and more storage configurations. Considering their current market value, the S10 often represents a slightly better value proposition if you don’t require the extra features of the S10+. Evaluate your needs and budget. Both phones offer excellent value for their premium features and performance. Consider what features are most important to you. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s10 If…
- You prefer a more compact phone that’s easier to handle with one hand.
- You want a flagship phone at a slightly lower price point.
- You value portability and ease of carrying in your pocket.
- You don’t need the absolute biggest battery or screen.
Buy s10+ If…
- You want the biggest and best display for media consumption and gaming.
- You prioritize longer battery life for extended use.
- You want the extra storage options, including the 1TB model.
- You want a slightly more premium feel due to the larger size and potentially more RAM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the S10 and S10+?
The primary differences lie in the display size (6.1″ vs 6.4″), battery capacity (3,400mAh vs 4,100mAh), and front-facing camera setup (single vs dual). The S10+ offers a larger screen, longer battery life, and a slightly enhanced selfie experience. Both share the same core features and performance capabilities, making the choice about preferences.
Which phone has a better display?
Both phones have excellent Dynamic AMOLED displays. However, the S10+ has a larger 6.4-inch screen compared to the S10’s 6.1-inch screen, providing a more immersive viewing experience, especially for media consumption. Both offer vibrant colors, excellent brightness, and HDR10+ certification, but the size difference is noticeable.
How does battery life compare between the two?
The S10+ has a significantly larger 4,100mAh battery, leading to longer battery life compared to the S10’s 3,400mAh battery. The S10+ will easily last a full day of heavy use, while the S10 may require a recharge sooner, particularly with gaming or video streaming. Battery life is a key factor.
Are the cameras on both phones the same?
The rear camera systems on both phones are identical, featuring a triple-lens setup. The difference is in the front-facing camera: the S10+ has a dual-lens setup, offering slightly better depth sensing for portrait mode. Both capture excellent photos and videos, but the S10+ has a slight edge in selfies. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )
What storage options are available?
Both phones offer various storage options. The S10 goes up to 512GB, while the S10+ offers configurations up to 1TB, catering to users who need extensive storage for photos, videos, and apps. Both support microSD card expansion, allowing for further storage expansion. Storage capacity varies based on model.
Is the S10+ worth the extra cost?
The S10+ is worth the extra cost if you value a larger display, longer battery life, and the enhanced selfie capabilities of the dual front-facing camera. If these features aren’t a priority, the S10 provides excellent value. Consider your needs and budget when making the decision.
Which phone is more durable?
Both phones are built with premium materials and have IP68 water and dust resistance. The larger size of the S10+ may make it slightly more susceptible to damage from drops, but the difference is minimal. A protective case is recommended for both phones. The durability is similar for both models.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S10 and S10+ are both excellent smartphones, offering premium features and performance. The S10+ stands out with its larger display, longer battery life, and slightly improved front-facing camera. While the S10 remains a strong contender, the S10+ provides a more immersive and enhanced overall experience, making it the superior choice for users who prioritize those aspects.
Winner: S10+