Galaxy S10+ Vs Galaxy Z Flip3 5G

Galaxy S10+
Galaxy S10+
Starting at

Refurbished price:135.00

Versus €1,009.00 new

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Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
Galaxy Z Flip3 5G
Starting at

Refurbished price:290.88

Versus €1,299.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus, released in March 2019, represents a traditional smartphone design, while the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, launched in August 2021, introduces a clamshell foldable form factor. These devices offer distinct user experiences, primarily differing in their physical design, display technology, and overall performance capabilities. Both operate on the Android platform, but their respective release dates mean they have received different generations of software updates.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its initial release date and the manufacturer's software support policy.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S10 Plus was released in March 2019, making it an older device compared to the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, which launched in August 2021. This age difference impacts their expected software support.
  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S10 Plus originally shipped with Android 9.0 Pie and received its last major Android update with Android 12 (One UI 4.1). While it may still receive security patches, it has reached its end-of-life for new Android operating system versions. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G launched with Android 11 and has since received updates up to Android 14, with expectations for further updates, extending its software lifespan significantly beyond the S10 Plus.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S10 Plus features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance, along with Gorilla Glass 6 on the front and Gorilla Glass 5 on the back for protection. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G has an IPX8 water resistance rating, meaning it can withstand submersion in water but lacks official dust resistance due to its folding design. Its main foldable screen uses Ultra Thin Glass, while the cover screen is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus.

Year of Release

2019

2021

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

Android

Foldable

No

Yes

Performance

Performance differences between these two devices stem from their respective generations of internal components, impacting how smoothly they handle various tasks.

  • Everyday Responsiveness: The Galaxy S10 Plus, powered by its generation's processor, handles daily applications and general navigation smoothly. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G, featuring a newer and more efficient processor, offers a noticeable boost in speed and responsiveness, particularly with demanding applications and multitasking.
  • Multitasking and Storage: Both devices offer various storage configurations, with the S10 Plus having options up to 1TB and 12GB RAM, while the Flip3 5G offers up to 256GB storage and 8GB RAM. For users who frequently switch between many applications or engage in intensive tasks, the newer device's processing power and optimized software contribute to a more fluid experience.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S10 Plus is equipped with a 4100 mAh battery, which generally provides a full day of moderate use. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G has a smaller 3300 mAh battery. Due to its smaller capacity and the demands of its foldable display and 5G connectivity, heavy users of the Flip3 5G may find themselves needing to recharge more frequently.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The display experience is a significant differentiator, not only in terms of technology but also in form factor.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S10 Plus features a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a QHD+ resolution (3040x1440 pixels), offering sharp visuals and vibrant colors. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G boasts a 6.7-inch Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X main display with an FHD+ resolution (2640x1080 pixels) when unfolded. While the S10 Plus has a higher pixel density, the Flip3's display offers a smoother visual experience.
  • Refresh Rate and Viewing Experience: The S10 Plus has a standard 60Hz refresh rate. The Z Flip3 5G's main display features a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, providing smoother scrolling and more fluid animations. Additionally, the Flip3 5G includes a 1.9-inch Super AMOLED cover screen, which allows users to view notifications, control music, and take quick selfies without unfolding the device.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: Both devices utilize AMOLED technology, known for deep blacks and high contrast. The Z Flip3 5G's newer display technology generally offers improved peak brightness, which can enhance visibility in bright outdoor conditions.

Resolution

1440 x 3040

1080 x 2640

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED

Foldable Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems, but they differ in their configurations and photographic strengths.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S10 Plus features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 12MP wide-angle lens with variable aperture, a 12MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 16MP ultrawide lens. This provides flexibility for various shooting scenarios, including zoomed shots. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G has a dual-camera system on the rear, consisting of a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 12MP ultrawide lens. It lacks a dedicated telephoto lens.
  • Front Camera and Video: For selfies, the S10 Plus has a dual front camera (10MP wide and 8MP depth sensor), which can assist with portrait effects. The Z Flip3 5G features a single 10MP front camera. Both devices are capable of recording 4K video, with the S10 Plus supporting 4K at 60fps and HDR10+ recording. The Flip3 5G also supports 4K video recording.
  • Low-Light Performance and Features: While both can capture good images in adequate lighting, the S10 Plus's variable aperture on its main lens can offer some advantages in challenging low-light conditions. The Flip3 5G's camera performance is considered good for everyday use, but some users note that dynamic range can suffer in certain situations.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

10 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and convenience.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S10 Plus supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0. It also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and a USB-C port. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G offers newer connectivity standards, including 5G support, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.1. It features a USB-C port but omits the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
  • Physical Design and Handling: The S10 Plus is a traditional slab phone, measuring 157.6 x 74.1 x 7.8 mm and weighing around 175g to 198g. The Z Flip3 5G's foldable design allows it to be significantly more compact when closed (86.4 x 72.2 x 15.9-17.1 mm), making it easier to carry in smaller pockets or bags, while unfolding to a larger screen (166 x 72.2 x 6.9 mm). It weighs 183g.
  • Security and Other Features: Both devices offer biometric security options. The S10 Plus features an in-display fingerprint sensor. The Z Flip3 5G integrates its fingerprint sensor into the side power button. The S10 Plus also includes Wireless PowerShare, allowing it to wirelessly charge other compatible devices.

Weight

175 g

183 g

Screen size (in)

6.4

6.7

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G cater to different user preferences, primarily due to their distinct form factors and generational advancements. Users often praise the S10 Plus for its robust battery life, versatile triple camera system with optical zoom, and the inclusion of a headphone jack. Criticisms sometimes point to its software update longevity, which has now concluded for major Android versions. The Galaxy Z Flip3 5G is frequently lauded for its unique, compact foldable design, its vibrant 120Hz main display, and its improved performance for modern applications. However, some users express concerns about its battery life and the durability of the foldable screen over extended use, as well as the absence of a telephoto camera.

Users prioritizing a traditional smartphone experience with a long-lasting battery, a dedicated telephoto camera, and a headphone jack may find the Galaxy S10 Plus well-suited to their needs. Conversely, those who value a compact, stylish device with a modern, high-refresh-rate display, 5G connectivity, and a unique folding form factor will likely lean towards the Galaxy Z Flip3 5G. When considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, offering a sustainable choice for consumers.

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