Galaxy S20 Vs iPhone 14

Galaxy S20
Galaxy S20
Starting at

Refurbished price:193.00

Versus €909.00 new

See options
iPhone 14
iPhone 14
Starting at

Refurbished price:289.00

Versus €759.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S20, an Android smartphone released in March 2020, and the Apple iPhone 14, an iOS device launched in September 2022, represent different generations and operating systems in the smartphone landscape. While both offer premium mobile experiences, the iPhone 14 introduces more recent advancements in processing power and camera technology, alongside Apple's distinct software ecosystem. The Galaxy S20, running on Android, provides a different user interface and a greater degree of customization.

Scores

Durability

The practical lifespan of a smartphone is influenced by its release timeline, software support, and physical resilience.

  • Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S20 was released in March 2020, making it an older device compared to the iPhone 14, which launched in September 2022. This difference in release dates impacts their respective software support cycles.
  • Software Longevity: The iPhone 14, being a newer device, is expected to receive major iOS updates for a longer period, typically 5-7 years from its release. The Galaxy S20, having launched with Android 10, has received several major Android updates, with its official support likely concluding around Android 13. This means the iPhone 14 will benefit from newer features and security patches for an extended duration.
  • Physical Durability: Both devices feature robust designs. The Galaxy S20 includes durable glass on its front and back, along with an aluminum frame, and carries an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The iPhone 14 also boasts an IP68 rating and features a durable front cover, designed to offer enhanced drop performance.

Year of Release

2020

2022

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance in daily use, from app handling to multitasking, is a key differentiator between these two devices.

  • System Responsiveness: The iPhone 14 features a more recent processor, which contributes to smoother operation, faster app loading times, and efficient handling of demanding applications and games. The Galaxy S20, while powerful for its time, may show some age when running the most intensive modern applications compared to the iPhone 14.
  • Multitasking Capabilities: The iPhone 14 comes with 6GB of RAM, enabling efficient multitasking and quick switching between applications. The Galaxy S20 typically offers 8GB of RAM in its standard configuration, which also provides a capable experience for managing multiple apps simultaneously.
  • Storage Options: Both devices offer a base internal storage of 128GB. The iPhone 14 is available with up to 512GB of internal storage. The Galaxy S20 also starts at 128GB and uniquely offers expandable storage via a microSD card, allowing users to increase storage capacity up to an additional 1TB.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both smartphones is delivered through high-quality displays, though with some notable differences in technology and specifications.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Samsung Galaxy S20 features a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a high resolution of 3200x1440 pixels, offering sharp images and vibrant colors. The iPhone 14 has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2532x1170 pixels, known for its deep blacks and accurate color reproduction.
  • Refresh Rate: A significant difference lies in the refresh rate. The Galaxy S20 supports a 120Hz refresh rate, which provides a smoother scrolling experience and more fluid animations, particularly noticeable in supported content and games. The iPhone 14 features a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
  • Brightness: Both displays offer good brightness levels for various lighting conditions. The iPhone 14's display can reach a typical maximum brightness of 800 nits and a peak of 1200 nits for HDR content, ensuring good visibility outdoors. The Galaxy S20 also provides ample brightness for outdoor use.

Resolution

1440 x 3200

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer capable camera systems designed for capturing a variety of moments, with distinct approaches to imaging.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Samsung Galaxy S20 features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 12-megapixel wide lens, a 64-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x hybrid optical zoom, and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens. It is capable of recording video in 8K resolution. The iPhone 14 comes with a dual-camera system, comprising a 12-megapixel main camera with sensor-shift optical image stabilization and a 12-megapixel ultrawide camera. It introduces features like Photonic Engine for improved low-light performance and Action Mode for stabilized video.
  • Front Camera Performance: For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S20 has a 10-megapixel front camera. The iPhone 14 features a 12-megapixel front camera with autofocus, which can enhance clarity in various scenarios.
  • Video Recording: The Galaxy S20 offers 8K video recording, providing a high level of detail. The iPhone 14 supports 4K video recording with features like Cinematic Mode for depth-of-field effects and Action Mode for smooth, stabilized footage.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

10 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both the Galaxy S20 and iPhone 14 support 5G cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth for wireless connections. The Galaxy S20 uses a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, while the iPhone 14 utilizes Apple's Lightning port.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S20 incorporates an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The iPhone 14 relies on Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system, for biometric authentication.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S20 measures 151.7 x 69.1 x 7.9 mm and weighs 163 grams. The iPhone 14 has dimensions of 146.7 x 71.5 x 7.8 mm and weighs 172 grams. Both devices feature glass backs and aluminum frames, contributing to a premium feel. The iPhone 14 also includes additional safety features like Emergency SOS via Satellite and Crash Detection.

Weight

163 g

150 g

Screen size (in)

6.2

6.1

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

The Samsung Galaxy S20 and iPhone 14 cater to users with different priorities and preferences, largely due to their distinct operating systems and release timelines. Users often praise the Galaxy S20 for its vibrant, high-refresh-rate display and the flexibility of expandable storage. Its Android operating system also offers a high degree of customization, which is frequently highlighted by its user base. Some common criticisms for the S20, particularly as it ages, can revolve around its battery performance compared to newer devices and the eventual cessation of major software updates.

Conversely, the iPhone 14 is frequently lauded for its consistent performance, the intuitive nature of iOS, and its robust camera capabilities, especially in video recording and low-light photography with features like Photonic Engine. Users also appreciate Apple's long-term software support and the integrated ecosystem. A frequent point of discussion among users is the 60Hz refresh rate, which some find less fluid than higher refresh rate displays on other smartphones.

Users prioritizing a highly customizable experience, a high-resolution, high-refresh-rate display, and the option for expandable storage may find the Galaxy S20 well-suited to their needs. On the other hand, individuals who value long-term software support, a streamlined user experience, strong video capabilities, and advanced safety features will likely lean towards the iPhone 14. Both devices, whether new or as a quality-assured refurbished option, offer distinct advantages depending on individual user requirements.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons