Galaxy S24 Vs iPhone 13 mini

Galaxy S24
Galaxy S24
Starting at

Refurbished price:323.00

Versus €956.40 new

See options
iPhone 13 mini
iPhone 13 mini
Starting at

Refurbished price:228.00

Versus €829.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S24 (2024) and the iPhone 13 Mini (2021) are both compact smartphones, yet they cater to different user preferences and offer distinct experiences. While the Galaxy S24 represents a modern Android flagship with a focus on advanced features and extended software support, the iPhone 13 Mini is a smaller, older iOS device known for its exceptionally pocketable design.

The primary differentiators lie in their operating systems, physical size, and camera capabilities, reflecting their respective release timelines and design philosophies.

Scores

Durability

The longevity of a smartphone is influenced by its release date, software support, and repairability. These factors determine how long a device remains functional and secure for everyday use.

  • Release Timeline and Age: The Galaxy S24 was released in January 2024, making it a current-generation device. The iPhone 13 Mini, released in September 2021, is an older model that was discontinued in September 2023.
  • OS Support Duration: Samsung has committed to an extensive seven years of OS and security updates for the Galaxy S24, meaning it is expected to receive updates up to Android 21. Apple typically provides 5-6 years of major iOS updates; the iPhone 13 Mini is expected to receive updates until around 2028, supporting iOS 26.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy S24 has demonstrated a high repairability score, with some assessments giving it a 9 out of 10, noting easy battery removal and good internal organization. The iPhone 13 Mini's repairability is lower, initially scoring 5/10 and later improving to 6/10 with a software update addressing Face ID repair, though it still involves more adhesive and specialized tools.

Year of Release

2024

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Performance in a smartphone translates to how smoothly applications run, how quickly tasks are completed, and the overall responsiveness of the device during daily use.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 features a current-generation processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications, intensive multitasking, and graphic-heavy games with smooth performance. The iPhone 13 Mini is equipped with a powerful chip that provides a responsive and fluid experience for most users, efficiently managing everyday tasks and many modern games.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: With 8GB of RAM, the Galaxy S24 offers ample capacity for seamless multitasking, allowing users to switch between numerous applications without noticeable slowdowns. The iPhone 13 Mini, with 4GB of RAM, provides a capable multitasking experience for its size, though it may manage fewer active background applications compared to devices with higher RAM.
  • Storage Options: Both devices offer a range of storage capacities, starting at 128GB and extending to 512GB, providing sufficient space for apps, photos, and videos for most users.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S24 includes a 4000mAh battery, which generally provides enough power for an average day of use, though heavy usage may require more frequent charging. The iPhone 13 Mini, with its 2438mAh battery, offers improved battery life compared to its predecessor and can last a full day for moderate users, but it has the shortest battery life among its series.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and differences in technology, resolution, and brightness significantly impact the visual experience.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: Both devices feature OLED displays, offering deep blacks and vibrant colors. The Galaxy S24 utilizes a Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, while the iPhone 13 Mini has a Super Retina XDR OLED display, both providing clear and detailed visuals.
  • Size and Viewing Experience: The Galaxy S24 has a 6.2-inch display, offering a more expansive viewing area suitable for media consumption and productivity. The iPhone 13 Mini features a 5.4-inch display, which is exceptionally compact and ideal for one-handed use, though some users may find it less suitable for extensive video watching or gaming.
  • Brightness and Refresh Rate: The Galaxy S24 boasts a high peak brightness of 2600 nits and an adaptive refresh rate of up to 120Hz, contributing to smooth scrolling and excellent outdoor visibility. The iPhone 13 Mini offers a peak brightness of 1200 nits and a standard 60Hz refresh rate, providing a bright and clear display for most conditions.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

1080 x 2340

Screen type

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Camera systems are a key consideration for many users, with capabilities varying in lens configuration, low-light performance, and video features.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S24 features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP wide lens, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, offering flexibility for various photographic situations. The iPhone 13 Mini has a dual-camera system with a 12MP wide lens (featuring sensor-shift optical image stabilization) and a 12MP ultrawide lens, known for its consistent image quality.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S24 aims for more natural-looking colors and performs well in bright conditions, though some users have noted mixed results in low-light environments. The iPhone 13 Mini delivers strong low-light performance and accurate colors, making it reliable for everyday photography.
  • Video Recording Quality: The Galaxy S24 supports video recording up to 8K at 30fps and offers 4K 120fps slow motion, providing advanced video capabilities. The iPhone 13 Mini records video at up to 4K 60fps and includes cinematic mode, offering high-quality video capture with creative options.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, practical elements like connectivity, physical design, and additional sensors contribute to the overall user experience.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S24 uses a USB Type-C port for charging and data transfer, while the iPhone 13 Mini utilizes Apple's proprietary Lightning port.
  • Build Materials and Durability: The Galaxy S24 features an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance and is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back. The iPhone 13 Mini also has an IP68 rating and features a Ceramic Shield front cover for enhanced durability.
  • Weight and Dimensions: The Galaxy S24 measures 147.00 x 70.60 x 7.60 mm and weighs 168 grams, offering a compact yet standard smartphone feel. The iPhone 13 Mini is significantly smaller and lighter at 131.5 x 64.2 x 7.65 mm and 141 grams, making it exceptionally easy for one-handed use and pocketability.

Weight

167 g

140 g

Width

7,06 cm

6,42 cm

Height

14,7 cm

13,15 cm

Depth

0,76 cm

0,75 cm

Screen size (in)

6.2

5.4

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and iPhone 13 Mini offer distinct advantages, appealing to different user priorities. User feedback for the Galaxy S24 often praises its vibrant display, smooth performance, and the promise of long-term software support. Some users have expressed mixed opinions on its battery life and low-light camera performance, though video quality is frequently highlighted as a strong point.

The iPhone 13 Mini is consistently lauded for its unique compact size, making it ideal for one-handed operation and easy portability. Its camera system is generally well-regarded for everyday photos and videos, and its battery life is considered sufficient for moderate use, despite being the shortest in its series. Criticisms often revolve around its smaller screen size, which can make media consumption and gaming less immersive for some, and the absence of a telephoto lens.

Users prioritizing a modern Android experience with extensive software longevity, a versatile camera system including a telephoto lens, and a high-refresh-rate display may find the Galaxy S24 well-suited to their needs. Its slightly larger screen offers a more expansive view for content. Conversely, users who value an exceptionally small and lightweight device, prefer the iOS ecosystem, and prioritize ultimate portability will likely lean towards the iPhone 13 Mini. It remains a strong choice for those seeking a premium smartphone experience in a truly compact form factor.

For those considering either device, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, extending the lifespan of these capable smartphones.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons