S24 Ultra vs Note 20 Ultra: Which Samsung Reigns Supreme?
Struggling to decide between the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra and the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra? You’re not alone. Both phones, even years apart, represent the pinnacle of Samsung’s mobile technology, offering premium features and powerful performance.
This in-depth comparison dives into the key differences and similarities, helping you determine which device best suits your needs and budget. We’ll explore everything from the stunning displays and camera capabilities to the processing power and battery life of both the S24 Ultra and the Note 20 Ultra.
Get ready to uncover the strengths and weaknesses of each phone. Whether you’re a long-time Samsung enthusiast or new to the ecosystem, this guide will provide a clear and concise overview to aid your decision. Let’s see which phone comes out on top!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | s24 ultra | note 20 ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.8 inches | 6.9 inches |
| Display Type | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED 2X |
| Resolution | 1440 x 3120 pixels | 1440 x 3088 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 / Exynos 2400 | Snapdragon 865+ / Exynos 990 |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 256GB / 512GB / 1TB | 128GB / 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | 200MP + 12MP + 10MP + 10MP | 108MP + 12MP + 12MP |
| Front Camera | 12MP | 10MP |
| Battery | 5000 mAh | 4500 mAh |
| Charging | 45W Wired, 15W Wireless | 25W Wired, 15W Wireless |
| S Pen | Included | Included |
| Operating System | Android 14 | Android 10 (Upgradable) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- S24 Ultra: Features a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a peak brightness of up to 2600 nits and adaptive refresh rate. It offers vibrant colors, excellent outdoor visibility, and smooth scrolling. The flat screen design is a welcome change for some, but may not appeal to those who prefer curved edges.
- Note 20 Ultra: Boasts a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals. While still excellent, the brightness isn’t as high as the s24 ultra, especially in direct sunlight. The curved edges can lead to accidental touches for some users.
- Winner: s24 ultra
Processor
- S24 Ultra: Equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 for Galaxy or Exynos 2400 (depending on region), offering significant performance improvements in both CPU and GPU compared to its predecessor. This results in faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and enhanced gaming experiences.
- Note 20 Ultra: Powered by either a Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990, the processor is still capable, but it struggles compared to the latest generation chips. It might show its age with demanding tasks or newer games.
- Winner: s24 ultra
Camera
- S24 Ultra: Features a versatile quad-camera system with a 200MP main sensor, offering exceptional detail and improved low-light performance. It also includes upgraded telephoto lenses with enhanced optical zoom capabilities. The software optimization further enhances image processing.
- Note 20 Ultra: Comes with a triple-camera setup featuring a 108MP main sensor. It captures great photos and videos, but it can’t match the detail and zoom capabilities of the s24 ultra. Low-light performance is also not as good.
- Winner: s24 ultra
Battery Life
- S24 Ultra: Packs a large battery, optimized by the new processor and software, providing all-day battery life with moderate to heavy usage. Fast charging capabilities ensure quick replenishment.
- Note 20 Ultra: Offers decent battery life, but it can struggle to last a full day with heavy use. The battery is likely degraded over time.
- Winner: s24 ultra
Design and Build Quality
- S24 Ultra: Features a more durable design with a flat display and a titanium frame, providing a premium feel and increased scratch resistance. It also incorporates a sleeker aesthetic.
- Note 20 Ultra: Boasts a premium design with a curved display and a stainless steel frame. However, the curved edges can be less practical for some users and the build might be less durable than the s24 ultra.
- Winner: s24 ultra
Software and Updates
- S24 Ultra: Runs on the latest One UI based on Android, offering a more refined user experience with improved features and longer software support. You can expect years of future updates.
- Note 20 Ultra: Runs on an older version of One UI based on Android. Software support will likely be limited, meaning fewer updates and security patches.
- Winner: s24 ultra
S Pen Functionality
- S24 Ultra: Includes an improved S Pen with lower latency and enhanced features. The S Pen integration with various apps provides great productivity and creativity.
- Note 20 Ultra: Features the S Pen with the same functionality of the S24 ultra.
- Winner: Tie
Price and Value
- S24 Ultra: Is a premium flagship device with a high price tag. However, considering its features and performance, it offers good value for its class.
- Note 20 Ultra: Is now available at a significantly lower price, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. However, it compromises on newer features and performance.
- Winner: s24 ultra (for those prioritising latest features), note 20 ultra (for value)
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance | s24 ultra |
| Camera | s24 ultra |
| Display Quality | s24 ultra |
| Battery Life | s24 ultra |
| Software Updates | s24 ultra |
| Value | note 20 ultra (If price is a major factor) |
What They Have in Common
- S Pen: Both phones feature the S Pen stylus, offering users a unique way to interact with their devices, taking notes, drawing, and navigating the interface.
- High-Quality Displays: Both the Galaxy S24 Ultra and Note 20 Ultra boast vibrant and sharp displays with high refresh rates, providing an immersive viewing experience for media consumption and gaming.
- Wireless Charging: Both phones support wireless charging, allowing users to conveniently charge their devices without the need for cables.
- Water Resistance: Both devices are water-resistant, providing peace of mind against accidental spills and splashes.
- Samsung Ecosystem: Both phones seamlessly integrate with the Samsung ecosystem, including features like Samsung DeX and SmartThings.
S24 Ultra Vs Note 20 Ultra Buying Guide
Performance and Processing Power
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra boasts the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Exynos 2400 processor (depending on the region), offering significantly enhanced performance compared to the Note 20 Ultra’s Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990. This translates to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming experiences. The S24 Ultra’s advanced chip architecture also contributes to better power efficiency, leading to longer battery life and reduced heat generation. The Note 20 Ultra still performs admirably, but the gap in processing power is substantial, especially when running demanding applications.
Camera Capabilities
The S24 Ultra features a more advanced camera system, with improvements across the board compared to the Note 20 Ultra. It likely incorporates a higher-resolution main sensor, improved zoom capabilities, and enhanced image processing through computational photography. Expect better low-light performance, more detailed images, and a wider range of shooting options. The Note 20 Ultra’s camera was excellent for its time, but the S24 Ultra’s advancements in both hardware and software provide a clear advantage, especially for video recording.
Display Quality
While both phones offer vibrant and sharp displays, the S24 Ultra likely utilizes newer display technology, potentially with improved peak brightness, color accuracy, and adaptive refresh rates. This can result in a more immersive viewing experience, particularly in bright outdoor environments. The Note 20 Ultra’s display is still excellent, but the S24 Ultra’s potential advancements in display technology will offer a more refined and visually appealing experience. The S24 Ultra’s display will also offer better energy efficiency.
Battery Life and Charging
The S24 Ultra is expected to offer improved battery life due to its more efficient processor and potentially a larger battery capacity. While the Note 20 Ultra has a decent battery, the S24 Ultra will likely provide all-day battery life for most users. Furthermore, the S24 Ultra might support faster charging speeds, reducing the time spent plugged into a charger. The charging capabilities of the S24 Ultra will be a welcome upgrade for heavy users.
Software and Features
The S24 Ultra ships with the latest version of Android and Samsung’s One UI, offering a more up-to-date and feature-rich software experience. This includes improved security updates, new features, and optimized software performance. The Note 20 Ultra, while still receiving some updates, is running an older version of Android, meaning it won’t have the newest features or as long of software support. The S24 Ultra’s software advantage extends to its user experience.
Design and Build Quality
The S24 Ultra may introduce design refinements and improvements in build materials compared to the Note 20 Ultra. The use of more durable materials and a refined design language can contribute to a more premium feel. While the Note 20 Ultra is a well-built device, the S24 Ultra will likely showcase the latest design trends and build quality advancements. The S24 Ultra’s design will also potentially include improvements in water and dust resistance, adding to its durability.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy s24 ultra If…
- You want the latest processor and performance.
- You prioritize the best camera system with advanced features.
- You desire the longest software support with the newest Android updates.
- You want a brighter display for outdoor visibility.
Buy note 20 ultra If…
- You can find it at a significantly lower price.
- You prefer the slightly larger display size.
- You are happy with a phone that still provides a premium experience.
- You don’t need the absolute latest in mobile technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the major performance differences?
The S24 Ultra features a significantly faster processor (Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or Exynos 2400) compared to the Note 20 Ultra (Snapdragon 865+ or Exynos 990). This results in faster app loading times, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming performance. The S24 Ultra also benefits from more efficient architecture, leading to better battery life and reduced heat generation. The Note 20 Ultra is still capable, but the S24 Ultra has a clear advantage.
How does the camera compare between the two phones?
The S24 Ultra boasts a more advanced camera system with a higher-resolution main sensor, improved zoom capabilities, and enhanced image processing. This leads to better low-light performance, more detailed images, and a wider range of shooting options. The Note 20 Ultra has a capable camera, but the S24 Ultra’s advancements in hardware and software provide a noticeable improvement, particularly for video recording capabilities.
What is the battery life like on each phone?
The S24 Ultra is expected to offer improved battery life due to its more efficient processor and potentially a larger battery capacity. While the Note 20 Ultra offers decent battery life, the S24 Ultra is likely to provide all-day battery life for most users. This will be a significant advantage for users who rely on their phones throughout the day, as well as the charging rate.
Does the S24 Ultra have a better display?
The S24 Ultra likely features newer display technology, potentially with improved peak brightness, color accuracy, and adaptive refresh rates. This results in a more immersive viewing experience, especially in bright environments. While the Note 20 Ultra’s display is still excellent, the S24 Ultra’s advancements will provide a more refined and visually appealing experience, including better power efficiency.
What software updates will each phone receive?
The S24 Ultra will ship with the latest version of Android and Samsung’s One UI, ensuring it receives the most up-to-date features and security updates for a longer period. The Note 20 Ultra, being an older device, will have a shorter software support lifecycle and will not receive all the latest features or the longest period of security updates from Samsung, compared to the S24 Ultra.
Are there any design differences between the two phones?
The S24 Ultra may introduce design refinements and the use of more durable materials. This can contribute to a more premium feel. While the Note 20 Ultra is well-built, the S24 Ultra will showcase the latest design trends. The S24 Ultra’s design is likely to include improvements in water and dust resistance, further adding to its durability and overall design elements.
Which phone is a better value for the money?
Considering the advancements in performance, camera, display, and software, the S24 Ultra offers a better overall value, despite its higher price. However, the Note 20 Ultra can be a good option if you are on a budget and can find it at a significantly reduced price, as it still provides a solid user experience. However, the S24 Ultra is a better long-term investment.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra surpasses the Note 20 Ultra in nearly every aspect. With a more powerful processor, superior camera system, improved display, and updated software, the S24 Ultra offers a significantly enhanced user experience. While the Note 20 Ultra remains a capable device, the advancements in the S24 Ultra make it the clear winner for those seeking the latest and greatest in smartphone technology.
Winner: S24 Ultra