Galaxy S20 vs S20 Ultra: Which Samsung Reigns?
Choosing a new smartphone can be overwhelming, especially when two powerhouse devices like the Samsung Galaxy S20 and the S20 Ultra are in the running. Both offer cutting-edge features and impressive performance, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences.
This comparison dives deep into the key differences between the S20 and the S20 Ultra, helping you decide which phone is the perfect fit for your lifestyle. We’ll explore everything from display quality and camera capabilities to battery life and overall value.
Get ready to discover which Samsung device truly deserves a place in your pocket. We’ll break down the specs, highlight the strengths of each phone, and ultimately guide you toward making an informed decision between the Galaxy S20 and the S20 Ultra.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | s20 | s20 ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.2 inches | 6.9 inches |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3200 pixels | 1440 x 3200 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 12GB / 16GB |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP | 108MP + 12MP + 48MP |
| Selfie Camera | 10MP | 40MP |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Expandable Storage | Yes (microSD) | Yes (microSD) |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Weight | 163g | 222g |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- S20: 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate. Offers a vibrant and smooth display experience. Some users might find the screen size slightly smaller compared to larger phones.
- S20 Ultra: 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate. Provides an expansive and immersive viewing experience. The larger size can be less comfortable for single-handed use.
- Winner: S20 Ultra
Cameras
- S20: 12MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 64MP Telephoto. Captures excellent photos and videos with a versatile triple-lens system. Limited optical zoom compared to the Ultra.
- S20 Ultra: 108MP Wide, 12MP Ultra Wide, 48MP Telephoto (with 10x optical zoom), and a DepthVision sensor. Offers incredible zoom capabilities and detailed images. Can sometimes over-process images.
- Winner: S20 Ultra
Zoom Capabilities
- S20: 3x Hybrid Optic Zoom. Provides decent zoom capabilities, but falls short of the Ultra’s zoom prowess.
- S20 Ultra: 10x Optical Zoom, 100x Space Zoom (hybrid). Offers unmatched zoom range, allowing for incredible close-ups and distant shots. The 100x zoom can be a bit shaky.
- Winner: S20 Ultra
Battery Life
- S20: 4000mAh battery. Provides all-day battery life for moderate usage. Heavy users might need to recharge before the end of the day.
- S20 Ultra: 5000mAh battery. Offers excellent battery life, easily lasting a full day even with heavy use.
- Winner: S20 Ultra
Performance
- S20: Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 (depending on region), 12GB RAM. Delivers smooth and responsive performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- S20 Ultra: Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 (depending on region), 12GB or 16GB RAM. Provides top-tier performance, handling demanding tasks with ease.
- Winner: S20 Ultra
Design and Size
- S20: Compact and sleek design. Easier to handle and more pocketable than the Ultra.
- S20 Ultra: Large and premium design. Offers a more immersive display but can be bulky and less comfortable for some users.
- Winner: S20
Price
- S20: Generally more affordable than the S20 Ultra. Offers great value for its features.
- S20 Ultra: More expensive than the S20. Premium pricing reflects its advanced features and capabilities.
- Winner: S20
Video Recording
- S20: 8K video recording at 24fps. Offers high-resolution video capture.
- S20 Ultra: 8K video recording at 24fps. Offers high-resolution video capture.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | s20 ultra |
| Camera System | s20 ultra |
| Battery Life | s20 ultra |
| Performance | Tie |
| Portability | s20 |
| Overall Value | s20 |
What They Have in Common:
- Display Technology: Both phones utilize Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays, providing vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. They both support HDR10+ for enhanced video playback.
- Processor: Both the Galaxy S20 and S20 Ultra are powered by either a Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 processor, depending on the region, ensuring powerful performance for everyday tasks and gaming.
- 5g Connectivity: Both devices support 5G connectivity, enabling faster download and upload speeds where 5G networks are available.
- Water Resistance: Both phones are IP68-rated for water and dust resistance, offering protection against accidental spills and submersion.
- Operating System: Both phones run on Android, customized with Samsung’s One UI, providing a consistent user experience.
S20 vs S20 Ultra Buying Guide
Performance
Both the S20 and S20 Ultra boast impressive performance, but subtle differences exist. The S20 features either a Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990 processor, depending on the region, paired with 8GB or 12GB of RAM. The S20 Ultra ups the ante with the same processors but offers up to 16GB of RAM. This additional RAM in the Ultra translates to smoother multitasking and handling of demanding applications and games. The graphical processing capabilities are similar, but the Ultra can potentially handle more resource-intensive tasks without experiencing performance bottlenecks, providing a slightly superior experience for power users.
Camera
The camera systems are a key differentiator. The S20 features a versatile triple-lens setup. It includes a 12MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 64MP telephoto lens. The S20 Ultra, however, takes it up a notch. It features a 108MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, a 48MP telephoto lens with 10x optical zoom, and a DepthVision sensor. This allows for significantly better zoom capabilities and more detailed image capture, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The Ultra is the clear winner for photography enthusiasts.
Display
Both phones share impressive displays, but the S20 Ultra has a larger screen. The S20 has a 6.2-inch display, while the S20 Ultra boasts a 6.9-inch display. Both are Dynamic AMOLED 2X panels with a 120Hz refresh rate for incredibly smooth scrolling and animations. The higher refresh rate is noticeable when gaming and browsing. The larger screen on the Ultra provides a more immersive viewing experience, particularly for media consumption and gaming. Both screens are sharp and vibrant.
Battery Life
Battery life is another important consideration. The S20 has a 4,000mAh battery, while the S20 Ultra packs a larger 5,000mAh battery. The larger battery in the Ultra, combined with its slightly more efficient software, generally provides better battery performance. However, factors like screen usage and the use of 120Hz refresh rate can impact battery life. Both phones support fast charging, but the Ultra can also handle faster charging speeds. The Ultra offers a significant advantage for users who need extended battery life.
Design and Build Quality
Both phones share a premium design, featuring glass backs and metal frames. The S20 is more compact and easier to handle with one hand due to its smaller size. The S20 Ultra is larger and heavier, but feels equally premium. The Ultra has a more pronounced camera bump, which some users may find less aesthetically pleasing. Both phones are water-resistant to IP68 standards, providing protection against spills and submersion. The choice here depends on your preference for size and aesthetics.
Price and Value
The price difference between the S20 and S20 Ultra is substantial, especially at launch. The S20 offers a more affordable entry point into the high-end smartphone market. The S20 Ultra, with its superior camera system, larger display, and more RAM, comes at a higher price tag. Consider your budget and your needs. If you prioritize camera performance and don’t mind the larger size, the S20 Ultra offers more features for the price. If you want a more compact and cost-effective option, the S20 is an excellent choice.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s20 If…
- You prefer a more compact and lightweight phone.
- You want a phone that’s easier to handle with one hand.
- You are looking for a phone with a great balance of features and performance.
- You are on a tighter budget.
Buy s20 ultra If…
- You want the best possible camera system with impressive zoom capabilities.
- You want a larger display for media consumption and gaming.
- You need the longest battery life possible.
- You prioritize having the most premium and feature-rich phone available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the S20 and S20 Ultra?
The primary differences lie in the camera system, display size, and battery capacity. The S20 Ultra has a more advanced camera setup with a 108MP main sensor and significantly improved zoom capabilities. It also features a larger 6.9-inch display and a larger battery compared to the S20’s 6.2-inch display and smaller battery. The Ultra also boasts more RAM options.
Does the S20 Ultra have a better camera?
Yes, the S20 Ultra’s camera system is superior. It features a 108MP main sensor, a 48MP telephoto lens with impressive zoom capabilities, and a DepthVision sensor. This combination allows for higher resolution photos, improved zoom, and better overall image quality, particularly in low-light conditions. The S20 has a capable camera, but the Ultra excels.
Which phone has better battery life?
The S20 Ultra generally offers better battery life due to its larger 5,000mAh battery compared to the S20’s 4,000mAh battery. However, battery life can vary based on usage, with heavy users potentially seeing a significant difference. The Ultra’s battery life is consistently better in most situations, especially with heavy usage such as gaming or video playback.
Is the S20 Ultra worth the extra cost?
Whether the S20 Ultra is worth the extra cost depends on your needs and budget. If you prioritize camera performance, a larger display, and longer battery life, and are willing to pay a premium, the Ultra is worth considering. However, if you are looking for a more compact and affordable device, the S20 is still an excellent choice.
Does the S20 have expandable storage?
Both the S20 and S20 Ultra offer expandable storage via a microSD card slot. This allows users to increase the available storage capacity beyond the internal storage options. The microSD card slot supports cards up to 1TB, providing ample space for photos, videos, and other files. Both phones offer flexibility regarding storage.
What are the processor options for these phones?
Both phones are typically powered by either a Snapdragon 865 or an Exynos 990 processor, depending on the region. The Snapdragon 865 version is often considered to offer slightly better performance and efficiency. Both processors are high-performing and capable of handling demanding tasks and applications with ease, but the choice is regional.
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones are excellent for gaming, but the S20 Ultra has a slight edge due to its larger display and potentially more RAM. The 120Hz refresh rate on both phones provides a smooth gaming experience. The Ultra’s larger screen and increased RAM can provide a more immersive and lag-free experience, particularly for graphics-intensive games.
Final Verdict
Both the Samsung Galaxy S20 and S20 Ultra are outstanding smartphones, but the S20 Ultra surpasses the S20 in several key areas. The Ultra’s superior camera system, larger display, and extended battery life make it the clear winner for users seeking the ultimate mobile experience. Its features justify the higher price tag for those who demand the best.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra