Samsung Galaxy S10 vs Note 10: Which Samsung Reigns?
Struggling to choose between Samsung’s powerhouse phones? You’re not alone. The Samsung Galaxy S10 and Note 10 both boast impressive features, but which one is the ultimate champion? This comparison dives deep to help you decide which device best fits your needs and lifestyle.
The Galaxy S10, a flagship from an earlier year, still holds its own with a stunning display and powerful performance. However, the Note 10 arrived with some significant upgrades, promising an even more refined experience. We’ll explore the key differences to help you navigate this tough choice.
From design and display to camera capabilities and performance, we’ll dissect every aspect of the Samsung Galaxy S10 vs Note 10. Get ready to uncover which phone offers the best value and which one truly shines. Let’s get started and find your perfect Samsung match!
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Galaxy S10 | Note 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 6.3 inches |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED | Dynamic AMOLED |
| Processor | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820 | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9825 |
| RAM | 8GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 512GB | 256GB / 512GB |
| Main Camera | Triple 12MP + 12MP + 16MP | Triple 12MP + 12MP + 16MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP |
| Battery Capacity | 3400 mAh | 3500 mAh |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| S Pen Support | No | Yes |
| Operating System | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable | Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable |
| Expandable Storage | Yes (microSD) | Yes (microSD) |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Samsung Galaxy S10: 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 3040 pixels. Offers vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles. However, the slightly smaller size compared to the Note 10 might be a drawback for some.
- Note 10: 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2280 pixels. Provides a larger screen real estate for content consumption and productivity. The resolution is slightly lower than the S10, but still offers a great visual experience.
- Winner: Note 10
Processor
- Samsung Galaxy S10: Equipped with either the Snapdragon 855 (US) or Exynos 9820 (International). Both offer powerful performance for everyday tasks and gaming. Performance is great but might be a year older than note 10.
- Note 10: Features either the Snapdragon 855 (US) or Exynos 9825 (International), a slightly more efficient and optimized processor. Delivers faster processing speeds and improved battery efficiency.
- Winner: Note 10
Camera System
- Samsung Galaxy S10: Triple-lens rear camera system with a 12MP main lens, 12MP telephoto lens, and 16MP ultrawide lens. Captures excellent photos and videos in various conditions.
- Note 10: Triple-lens rear camera system, similar to the S10, but with some software enhancements and optimizations. Offers very similar image quality.
- Winner: Tie
S Pen (Note 10 Exclusive)
- Samsung Galaxy S10: Not Applicable.
- Note 10: Includes the S Pen stylus, offering note-taking, drawing, and remote control features. Enhances productivity and creativity.
- Winner: Note 10
Battery Life
- Samsung Galaxy S10: 3400 mAh battery. Provides decent battery life, but can drain quickly with heavy usage.
- Note 10: 3500 mAh battery. Offers slightly improved battery life compared to the S10, and can last a full day with moderate use.
- Winner: Note 10
Design
- Samsung Galaxy S10: Features a sleek design with a punch-hole camera. Available in various colors and materials.
- Note 10: More squared-off design with a central punch-hole camera. A more modern look.
- Winner: Tie
Software
- Samsung Galaxy S10: Runs on Android, with Samsung’s One UI. Offers a clean and user-friendly interface.
- Note 10: Runs on Android, with Samsung’s One UI. Offers a clean and user-friendly interface.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Samsung Galaxy S10: Generally more affordable due to being a previous generation device.
- Note 10: More expensive due to being the newer device.
- Winner: S10
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Size | Note 10 |
| Processor (Performance) | Note 10 |
| S Pen Features | Note 10 |
| Portability | Galaxy S10 |
| Value | Galaxy S10 |
What They Have in Common
- Display Technology: Both phones utilize Samsung’s Dynamic AMOLED displays, providing vibrant colors and excellent viewing angles.
- Water Resistance: Both the Galaxy S10 and Note 10 are IP68-rated, offering protection against water and dust.
- Main Camera System: Both devices feature a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, allowing for various shooting modes and excellent image quality.
- Operating System: Both phones run on Android, offering a similar user experience and access to the Google Play Store.
- Expandable Storage: Both phones support microSD cards, allowing users to expand their storage capacity.
- Wireless Charging: Both devices support wireless charging, providing a convenient way to power up.
Samsung Galaxy S10 Vs Note 10 Buying Guide
Design and Display
The Samsung Galaxy S10 boasted a sleek design with a curved display and a punch-hole camera. Its compact form factor made it comfortable to hold and use with one hand. The Note 10, on the other hand, featured a more boxy, premium design with minimal bezels and a centered punch-hole camera. The Note 10’s display was slightly larger, offering an immersive viewing experience, and it also integrated the S Pen stylus, adding a layer of functionality beyond just visual appeal. Both phones used Dynamic AMOLED displays, providing vibrant colors and excellent contrast.
Performance and Software
Both phones delivered top-tier performance at their respective launches, though the Note 10 generally had a slight edge due to its newer processor generation. The Galaxy S10 used the Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9820, depending on the region, while the Note 10 featured the Snapdragon 855+ or Exynos 9825. Both phones ran Samsung’s One UI, built on Android, offering a user-friendly and customizable experience. Software updates and support were similar, though the Note 10 might have had a longer lifespan of updates due to its later release.
Camera Capabilities
The Galaxy S10 featured a versatile triple-lens rear camera system, including a standard, ultra-wide, and telephoto lens. This setup allowed for various shooting scenarios, from landscapes to portraits. The Note 10 retained a similar camera configuration but with some software enhancements and potentially improved image processing. Both phones captured excellent photos and videos, boasting features like Super Steady video and various scene optimization modes. The Note 10’s camera might have offered slightly better low-light performance.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery life varied depending on usage, but the Note 10 generally had a slight advantage due to its larger battery capacity, allowing for longer usage times. The Galaxy S10’s battery was still adequate for a full day of use, but the Note 10 often provided more headroom. Both phones supported fast charging and wireless charging, making it convenient to top up the battery. The Note 10 also offered faster wired charging speeds.
S Pen Functionality (Note 10 Exclusive)
The Note 10’s signature feature was the S Pen stylus, which provided a range of functionalities. Users could take notes, draw, navigate the phone, and control various apps using air gestures. The S Pen added a layer of productivity and creativity that wasn’t available on the Galaxy S10. The Note 10’s S Pen had improved latency and added Bluetooth features, expanding its usability for both work and play. This feature was the key differentiator.
Pricing and Value
At launch, the Note 10 was generally priced higher than the Galaxy S10, reflecting its more premium features and larger size. However, the price difference has likely narrowed over time as both phones have aged. When considering value, it comes down to individual needs. If the S Pen’s features and a larger display are not crucial, the S10 might offer better value. Otherwise, the Note 10 provides a more comprehensive package, especially if considering the latest prices.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Galaxy S10 If…
- You prefer a more compact phone size.
- You’re looking for a slightly more affordable option.
- You don’t need the S Pen functionality.
- You prioritize a headphone jack.
Buy Note 10 If…
- You want the S Pen for note-taking, drawing, and remote control features.
- You prefer a larger display for media consumption and productivity.
- You want a more premium design.
- You desire the latest processor and RAM options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Galaxy S10 and Note 10?
The Note 10 features a larger display, a more boxy design, and the integrated S Pen stylus. It also usually boasts a slightly more powerful processor and potentially better battery life. The S10 is more compact and often more affordable. Camera performance is similar, but the Note 10 might have subtle improvements in some areas. The S Pen is the most significant differentiating factor.
Does the Note 10 have a better display than the S10?
Yes, the Note 10 typically has a slightly larger display with minimal bezels, providing a more immersive viewing experience. Both phones utilize Dynamic AMOLED technology, delivering vibrant colors and excellent contrast. The Note 10’s display might also have a slightly higher peak brightness. The overall screen quality is excellent on both devices, but the Note 10 has a slight edge.
Which phone has better battery life?
The Note 10 generally offers better battery life due to its larger battery capacity. While the Galaxy S10 provides adequate battery life for a full day of use, the Note 10 often provides more headroom, allowing for extended usage without needing to recharge. Battery life can vary based on individual usage patterns and settings, but the Note 10 usually has the advantage.
Is the S Pen worth the extra cost?
Whether the S Pen is worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you frequently take notes, sketch, or need precise control for tasks, the S Pen is invaluable. If you don’t use a stylus often, the Galaxy S10 offers a compelling alternative. Consider how you will use the phone before deciding if the S Pen is necessary.
Which phone has a better camera?
Both phones have excellent camera systems. The Note 10 typically has some software enhancements and potentially improved image processing compared to the S10. While both capture great photos and videos, the Note 10 might offer slightly better low-light performance. The differences are generally minor, and both phones provide versatile camera capabilities.
Are there any performance differences between the two phones?
The Note 10 generally has a slightly more powerful processor, the Snapdragon 855+ or Exynos 9825, versus the S10’s Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9820, depending on the region. Both phones offer excellent performance for everyday tasks, but the Note 10 might have a slight edge in demanding applications and gaming. Both phones handle multitasking very well.
Which phone is better for gaming?
Both phones are capable gaming devices. The Note 10, with its slightly more powerful processor, might offer a marginal advantage in some games. However, the gaming experience on both phones is generally excellent, with smooth frame rates and vibrant graphics. The choice depends on your budget, with both providing a high-quality gaming experience.
Final Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 offers a more feature-rich experience, primarily due to the inclusion of the S Pen. While the Galaxy S10 provides a more compact and often more affordable option, the Note 10’s larger display, improved battery life, and enhanced functionality make it the superior choice for users seeking a premium smartphone experience. The S Pen functionality is the key differentiator.
Winner: Samsung Galaxy Note 10