Apple and Samsung's Flagship Phones
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Introduction
The eternal battle between two worlds, Android and iOS, is, in fact, a battle between two companies—Samsung and Apple. Although many other manufacturers make excellent Android phones (only Apple has the rights to use iOS, of course), it really comes down to Samsung, as it is the biggest manufacturer, releasing the greatest number of phones.
So, it all comes to the iPhone, and the latest XS, and Galaxy, and the latest S10. Let's put them face to face.
Operating System
This is the most significant difference for most people. If you are an old iPhone user, who is used to iOS, then this is a no-brainer, you get the XS. However, it's a different story for Android users.
Because Android has so many variations, from version to version, from manufacturer to manufacturer, and of course, the endless variabilities of custom ROM, Android users are more likely to switch to something different.
For example, the S10, unfortunately, has a lot of Samsung bloatware, as it is not "stock Android."
Because iOS runs so smoothly and is usually more stable and secure than Android, it probably has an advantage in this category.
Yes, Android has more options, customizations, and more power when in the hands of tech-inclined users, but in general, iOS is more straightforward and smoother, yet powerful.
Display
When iPhone first introduced their Retina displays, they were groundbreaking, instantly becoming the best displays ever made. And they held that position for a while.
However, in recent years, the iPhone lost the crown. Now, Samsung has better displays, and S10 is no exception.
It produces a sharper, lifelike image, as it has a better resolution, with more pixels per inch.
The screen is also bigger—6.1 inches, the iPhone has 5.8—but the phone overall isn't, which is a huge bonus.
Camera
The camera is another territory where Apple dominated for years, but again, other manufacturers have stepped up, and now it's neck and neck, hard to decide which camera is the best.
iPhone has two back cameras, while the new Galaxy opted for one more, adding a third, ultra wide-zoom camera.
This is a neat addition, as it unlocks more possibilities. But, you aren't going to use it in your day-to-day activities that much. Judging by the picture quality, and stats, we will say it's a draw as judging camera quality is very subjective.
But, it is worth noting that this is a massive step in the right direction for Samsung. The previous Galaxy model, S9, only had one back camera, and it was a no-brainer that iPhone was the king of Instagram, back then. Now, it's a different story, with more models having cameras equally powerful, S10 one of them.
Specs
Apple has the best CPU, that has to be said. They make their own, and XS has A12 Bionic, which is the best one yet. Combined with the ultra-optimized iOS, iPhone simply flies and can outperform any Android phone when it comes to pure speed.
However, Galaxy S10 has its strengths. The Snapdragon 855 is a beast, the most powerful CPU Samsung ever used. What's more, S10 has double the RAM, and more storage even in the cheapest version (which is more than $100 less expensive than the lowest-priced XS).
Independence
It is always worrying that having a too powerful phone with a huge display may result in poor battery life. These two phones, however, are well-optimized and will last long, even under heavy use.
Still, Samsung did a much better job. Somehow they managed to put a 3400 mAh battery into this phone that is much more lightweight than iPhone. This battery is significantly bigger than iPhone's, as Apple only managed to put a 2658 mAh battery. That's not bad, but it's nothing compared to Samsung's, especially considering their phones really last long.
The Design
This design is also highly subjective and comes to personal preference, but we will try to stay objective.
To us, Samsung looks a little bit better. Instead of a "notch," Samsung has decided to drill a hole through the display for the front camera. This might seem radical, but in reality, your brain will get used to it, and you will completely stop noticing it. It is much less intrusive than Apple's "notch," and we like it.
Also, although it has a much larger screen, S10 is not bigger than the iPhone, which is a bonus, as you get more for less. Additionally, the phone weighs less, but it isn't too light, which is a big plus.
Still, when it comes to build quality, Apple is the king. All of their products are just built to last, and you can expect your iPhone to withstand everything, it's like a tank.
What About Other Models?
Well, because Apple only makes the iPhone, and different versions of it, comparing dozens of Samsung models to it wouldn't be fair.
But, if you are an Android user, and you like Samsung, you are in for a treat:
- If you want bigger screens, stylus support, and similar features, Galaxy Note is a good option for you. Although Galaxy S always takes all the attention, Galaxy Note phones are top of the line, and really are one of the best in the world. Last year's Galaxy Note 9 is no exception.
- Galaxy A9 is their midrange phone with more than decent specs, that offers some surprising features, as it is the first phone with four (!) rear cameras. If you are a photo-fanatic but don't have the money for flagship phones, this is the one you get.
- But, the fact that S10 is out doesn't mean that S9 or even S8 aren't good. In fact, if you are not that into buying the latest, use the significant price drop, and get yourself a premium device which Samsung Galaxy S9 definitely is.
Conclusion
If you are looking to buy one of the two flagship phones, you are one lucky person! Both are super awesome, and either one will make your year.
These devices are top of the line, and yes, they are incredibly expensive. But with both, there is no gambling; you really get what you pay for. If you have it, it will be money well spent, so enjoy!