Samsung S20 vs S10 Plus: Which Samsung Reigns Supreme?
Choosing a new phone can be a tough decision, especially when you’re considering top-tier devices from the same brand. The Samsung Galaxy S20 and the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus are both premium smartphones, packed with features and boasting impressive performance. But which one comes out on top in this head-to-head comparison?
The S20 represents the next generation, offering cutting-edge technology and enhancements over its predecessor. The S10 Plus, while older, still holds its own with its sleek design, powerful specs, and a user experience that many still rave about. This comparison will help you determine which phone best fits your needs and budget.
We’ll delve into the key differences between the Samsung S20 and S10 Plus, examining their displays, cameras, performance, battery life, and overall value. Get ready to discover which Samsung powerhouse deserves a spot in your pocket. Let the battle begin!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | S20 | S10+ |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.2 inches | 6.4 inches |
| Display Technology | Dynamic AMOLED 2X | Dynamic AMOLED |
| Resolution | 3200 x 1440 pixels | 3040 x 1440 pixels |
| Processor | Snapdragon 865 / Exynos 990 | Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820 |
| RAM | 8GB / 12GB | 8GB / 12GB |
| Internal Storage | 128GB / 256GB | 128GB / 512GB / 1TB |
| Main Camera | 12MP + 12MP + 64MP | 12MP + 12MP + 16MP |
| Front Camera | 10MP | 10MP + 8MP |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | 4300 mAh |
| 5G Connectivity | Yes | No (some models) |
| Water Resistance | IP68 | IP68 |
| Operating System | Android 10, upgradable | Android 9, upgradable |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Display
- Samsung S20: Features a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate for incredibly smooth scrolling and animations. Offers vibrant colors and excellent brightness. However, the higher refresh rate can impact battery life.
- S10 Plus: Boasts a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a standard 60Hz refresh rate. Provides excellent color accuracy and brightness, though it lacks the fluidity of the S20’s 120Hz.
- Winner: S20
Processor
- Samsung S20: Equipped with either a Snapdragon 865 (in the US) or Exynos 990 (international) processor, offering significantly improved performance compared to the S10 Plus. Handles demanding tasks and games with ease. However, Exynos versions sometimes lag behind Snapdragon.
- S10 Plus: Utilizes a Snapdragon 855 (US) or Exynos 9820 (international) processor. Still a powerful chip, but it’s noticeably slower than the S20’s processors, especially for graphics-intensive tasks.
- Winner: S20
Camera System
- Samsung S20: Features a triple-lens rear camera system with a 12MP main, 12MP ultrawide, and 64MP telephoto lens, offering improved zoom capabilities and low-light performance. Provides excellent image quality and versatile shooting options.
- S10 Plus: Comes with a triple-lens rear camera system including a 12MP main, 16MP ultrawide, and 12MP telephoto lens. Delivers very good image quality, but struggles in low-light scenarios compared to the S20.
- Winner: S20
Battery Life
- Samsung S20: Has a 4000mAh battery. While the battery is decent, the 120Hz refresh rate can drain the battery quickly.
- S10 Plus: Offers a larger 4100mAh battery, generally providing better battery life than the S20, especially with the 60Hz refresh rate.
- Winner: S10 Plus
Design
- Samsung S20: Features a more modern design with a centered punch-hole front camera and a rectangular camera module on the back. Offers a premium feel and is available in various stylish colors.
- S10 Plus: Sports a sleek design with a dual-lens front camera in a pill-shaped cutout and a horizontal camera array. Still looks premium but is slightly less modern.
- Winner: S20
Software & Updates
- Samsung S20: Ships with Android 10 (upgradeable) and receives more frequent software updates and security patches than the S10 Plus. Provides a more up-to-date and secure experience.
- S10 Plus: Initially launched with Android 9 (upgradeable). Receives updates, but they are less frequent than those for the S20.
- Winner: S20
5G Connectivity
- Samsung S20: Supports 5G connectivity (depending on the model and region). Offers faster download and upload speeds where 5G networks are available.
- S10 Plus: Does not natively support 5G, limiting its connectivity options.
- Winner: S20
Price
- Samsung S20: Generally more expensive due to its newer technology and features.
- S10 Plus: Now available at a lower price point, making it a more budget-friendly option.
- Winner: S10 Plus
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Display Quality | S20 |
| Performance | S20 |
| Camera | S20 |
| Battery Life | S10+ |
| Value | S10+ |
| Design | S20 |
What They Have in Common:
- Water Resistance: Both phones are rated IP68, offering excellent protection against water and dust.
- Amoled Displays: Both devices feature vibrant and sharp AMOLED displays, providing excellent visual experiences.
- Expandable Storage: Both phones support microSD cards, allowing users to expand their storage capacity.
- Wireless Charging: Both models support wireless charging, providing convenient charging options.
- Samsung Ecosystem: Both phones seamlessly integrate with the Samsung ecosystem, including features like Samsung Pay and Bixby.
Samsung S20 Vs S10 Plus Buying Guide
Performance & Processing Power
The Samsung S20 boasts a significantly more powerful processor than the S10 Plus, leading to faster app loading, smoother multitasking, and improved gaming performance. The S20 typically features a Snapdragon 865 or Exynos 990, depending on the region, offering a substantial performance leap. The S10 Plus uses a Snapdragon 855 or Exynos 9820, which is still capable but shows its age when compared directly. This difference is most noticeable during graphically intensive tasks and demanding applications. This generation of processor brings about many improvements.
Camera Capabilities & Features
The S20’s camera system is a major upgrade. It includes a higher-resolution main sensor, telephoto lens, and ultrawide lens. The S20 also offers advanced features like 8K video recording and Single Take, which captures multiple photos and videos with a single tap. While the S10 Plus has a capable camera, the S20 excels in low-light performance and offers more versatile shooting options. The S20’s improved image processing results in sharper and more detailed photos in various scenarios. This makes the S20 the better camera in most situations.
Display Quality & Design
Both phones feature stunning AMOLED displays, but the S20 takes it further with a higher refresh rate of 120Hz (at 1080p). This results in smoother scrolling and animations, enhancing the overall user experience. The S20 also has a slightly smaller bezel and a more refined design. The S10 Plus offers a vibrant display with excellent color accuracy and brightness, but the 120Hz refresh rate of the S20 gives it an edge in terms of visual fluidity. The S20 has a more modern design, with a punch-hole camera.
Battery Life & Charging
The S20 generally offers a slightly improved battery life compared to the S10 Plus, although this can vary depending on usage. The S20 also supports faster charging, allowing for quicker top-ups. The S10 Plus has a respectable battery, but the S20’s optimized power management and larger battery capacity make it a better choice for heavy users. Both phones support wireless charging, but the S20’s charging speeds are faster. Both offer PowerShare as well.
Software & User Experience
Both phones run Samsung’s One UI, but the S20 comes with a newer version, offering a more refined and feature-rich experience. The S20 benefits from software updates for a longer period, ensuring it stays up-to-date with the latest features and security patches. The user interface on the S20 is generally smoother and more optimized. The S10 Plus still provides a great user experience, but it may not receive updates as frequently. The S20 has the advantage of having the latest software.
Price & Value
The S20, being a newer model, typically comes at a higher price point, especially when new. However, the S10 Plus may be available at a reduced price now, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. The value proposition depends on your budget and needs. If you prioritize the latest technology and features, the S20 is worth the extra cost. If you are looking for a phone with excellent features at a lower price, the S10 Plus could be a good choice. Consider where you will get the best deal.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Samsung S20 If…
- You want the latest processor for top-tier performance.
- You prioritize having 5G connectivity.
- You want a more advanced camera system with improved zoom capabilities.
- You value a slightly more compact design.
Buy S10 Plus If…
- You want a larger display.
- You’re looking for a more affordable option.
- You prefer a phone with a headphone jack.
- You want a longer battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the S20 and S10 Plus?
The primary difference lies in the processing power and camera system. The S20 features a more powerful processor for faster performance and a significantly upgraded camera with advanced features like 8K video recording. The S20 has a better screen refresh rate, more battery life, and more modern software. The S10 Plus still has many great features, but the S20 is more advanced.
Does the S20 have a better camera than the S10 Plus?
Yes, the S20 has a much better camera system. The S20 features a higher-resolution main sensor, an improved telephoto lens, and a more versatile ultrawide lens. The S20 also excels in low-light performance and offers features like Single Take. The S10 Plus has a capable camera, but the S20’s enhanced image processing and features make it superior in most shooting scenarios.
Is the S20’s display better than the S10 Plus’?
Yes, the S20 has a superior display. Both phones boast excellent AMOLED displays, but the S20 offers a higher refresh rate of 120Hz (at 1080p), resulting in smoother scrolling and animations. The S20 also has a slightly smaller bezel and a more refined design. The S10 Plus offers a vibrant display, but the 120Hz refresh rate gives the S20 an edge.
How does the battery life compare between the S20 and S10 Plus?
The S20 offers slightly improved battery life, although the actual performance can vary based on usage patterns. The S20 also supports faster charging capabilities, allowing for quicker top-ups. The S10 Plus has a good battery, but the S20’s optimized power management and sometimes larger battery capacity make it slightly better. Both phones have wireless charging.
Which phone is more expensive?
The S20 typically has a higher initial price point, being the newer model. However, the S10 Plus is now often available at a reduced price, making it a more budget-friendly option. The price difference depends on the retailer and the specific configuration. The S10 Plus can be a good value.
Which phone is better for gaming?
The S20 is the better choice for gaming due to its more powerful processor. It offers faster app loading times, smoother gameplay, and improved performance in graphically intensive games. The S10 Plus is still capable, but the S20’s superior processing power provides a more fluid and responsive gaming experience, particularly with demanding games. The S20 is more optimized.
Will the S10 Plus still receive software updates?
The S10 Plus will continue to receive software updates, but not for as long as the S20. The S20 benefits from a longer period of software support, ensuring it stays up-to-date with the latest features and security patches. The S10 Plus will still receive important updates for a while, but it will eventually reach the end of its update cycle. The S20 has the advantage.
Final Verdict
The Samsung S20 emerges as the superior choice due to its enhanced performance, a more versatile camera system, and a smoother display with a 120Hz refresh rate. While the S10 Plus remains a capable phone, the S20 offers significant improvements across the board, making it the better option for those seeking the latest technology and features. The S20 also benefits from longer software support.
Winner: Samsung S20