Galaxy S24+ Vs iPhone 16 Pro

Galaxy S24+
Galaxy S24+
Starting at

Refurbished price:399.00

Versus €1,167.06 new

See options
iPhone 16 Pro
iPhone 16 Pro
Starting at

Refurbished price:645.00

Versus €1,239.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus, released in January 2024, and the iPhone 16 Pro, launched in September 2024, represent high-end offerings from their respective manufacturers. While both are premium smartphones, they cater to different user preferences through their distinct operating systems and hardware philosophies. The Galaxy S24 Plus runs on Android, offering a customizable experience, while the iPhone 16 Pro operates on iOS, known for its integrated ecosystem. Key differentiators lie in their display technologies, camera systems, and long-term software support strategies.

Scores

Durability

Evaluating the practical lifespan of a smartphone involves considering its physical resilience, software update longevity, and ease of repair.

  • Release Timeline and Age: The Galaxy S24 Plus was released in January 2024, making it slightly older than the iPhone 16 Pro, which launched in September 2024. This difference in release dates means the iPhone 16 Pro will generally receive software updates for a slightly longer period into the future.
  • OS Support Duration: Samsung has committed to providing seven years of operating system and security updates for the Galaxy S24 Plus, extending its software support significantly. Apple typically supports its iPhones with major iOS updates for about six to seven years, with security updates often continuing for longer. The iPhone 16 Pro is expected to receive major iOS updates for a similar duration, potentially until 2031.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy S24 Plus generally scores high in repairability, with some assessments giving it an 8 or 9 out of 10. This is attributed to features like easily removable back panels and battery pull tabs. The iPhone 16 Pro marks a significant improvement in repairability for Apple, achieving a score of 7 out of 10. This is due to a dual-entry design allowing access from both front and back, and an easier battery replacement process.

Year of Release

2024

2024

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both devices offer robust performance suitable for demanding applications and multitasking, though they achieve this through different hardware configurations.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 Plus is powered by either the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or the Exynos 2400, depending on the region. These processors enable smooth operation for everyday tasks, handle intensive gaming, and support advanced AI features. The iPhone 16 Pro features Apple's A18 Pro chip, designed for efficient handling of complex computations, graphics-intensive applications, and seamless multitasking within the iOS environment.
  • RAM and Multitasking: The Galaxy S24 Plus comes with 12GB of RAM, which contributes to its ability to keep numerous applications open in the background and switch between them without noticeable delays. The iPhone 16 Pro is equipped with 8GB of RAM. Apple's optimized software and hardware integration allow for efficient memory management, providing a fluid multitasking experience despite a lower RAM figure compared to its competitor.
  • Storage Options: The Galaxy S24 Plus offers internal storage options of 256GB and 512GB. The iPhone 16 Pro provides a wider range of storage capacities, including 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB, offering more flexibility for users with varying storage needs.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S24 Plus houses a 4900 mAh battery. User experiences vary, with some reporting solid all-day usage, while others, particularly in regions with the Exynos chip, note average battery life and occasional heating during heavy use. The iPhone 16 Pro has a 3582 mAh battery, and users generally report it provides a full day of use with moderate activity, benefiting from the efficiency of its processor and operating system.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both devices is a highlight, with each offering a high-quality display designed for clarity and vibrant colors.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S24 Plus features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its deep blacks and vivid color reproduction. The iPhone 16 Pro comes with a slightly smaller 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, which also delivers excellent contrast and color accuracy.
  • Resolution and Clarity: The Galaxy S24 Plus boasts a QHD+ resolution of 3120 x 1444 pixels, providing a very sharp and detailed image. The iPhone 16 Pro offers a resolution of 2622 x 1206 pixels, ensuring crisp text and clear visuals.
  • Brightness Levels: Both phones offer high brightness, crucial for outdoor visibility. The Galaxy S24 Plus can reach a peak brightness of up to 2600 nits. The iPhone 16 Pro has a typical brightness of 1000 nits and can peak at 2000 nits, providing ample illumination for various lighting conditions.
  • Refresh Rate: Both devices feature adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, which allows for smooth scrolling, fluid animations, and a responsive user interface. This dynamic adjustment helps conserve battery life by lowering the refresh rate when high speeds are not needed.

Resolution

1440 x 3120

1206 x 2622

Screen type

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

LTPO Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones are equipped with advanced camera systems capable of capturing high-quality photos and videos, though their approaches and specific strengths differ.

  • Rear Camera Systems: The Galaxy S24 Plus features a versatile triple-camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor, a 12MP ultrawide lens, and a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The iPhone 16 Pro also has a triple-camera system, with a 48MP main sensor, a 48MP ultrawide sensor, and a 12MP telephoto lens offering 5x optical zoom.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S24 Plus is noted for its solid photo and video quality in various conditions, with AI-powered editing features enhancing post-capture possibilities. The iPhone 16 Pro's camera system is praised for its overall performance, particularly in low-light scenarios, and its ability to capture detailed images. Users appreciate features like photographic styles for creative control.
  • Video Recording: Both devices offer high-quality video recording capabilities. The iPhone 16 Pro supports 4K 120fps video recording in Dolby Vision, providing a high resolution and frame rate combination.
  • Front Camera: Both phones feature a 12MP front-facing camera, suitable for high-quality selfies and video calls.

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and display, several other features contribute to the overall user experience and practical utility of these devices.

  • Connectivity: Both smartphones support 5G for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S24 Plus includes Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. The iPhone 16 Pro steps up with Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3, offering potentially faster and more stable wireless connections.
  • Port Types: The Galaxy S24 Plus uses a USB-C 3.2 port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 16 Pro also features a USB-C port, specifically supporting 10Gbps data transfer speeds.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S24 Plus incorporates an in-display fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. The iPhone 16 Pro relies on Face ID, Apple's facial recognition technology, for secure authentication.
  • Build Materials and Durability: The Galaxy S24 Plus features an Armor Aluminum 2 frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both the front and back for enhanced durability. The iPhone 16 Pro utilizes a titanium frame and Ceramic Shield on the front, contributing to its robust construction. Both devices carry an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The Galaxy S24 Plus measures 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7 mm and weighs 196 grams. The iPhone 16 Pro is slightly more compact at 149.6 × 71.5 × 8.25 mm and weighs 199 grams. The choice between them may come down to preference for screen size versus a more compact form factor.

Weight

197 g

199 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.3

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C (USB 3)

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus and the iPhone 16 Pro each offer a compelling smartphone experience, distinguished by their respective ecosystems and design philosophies. User feedback for the Galaxy S24 Plus often highlights its vibrant display, robust performance (especially in Snapdragon regions), and the utility of its integrated AI features. Some users, particularly those with the Exynos variant, have noted concerns regarding battery longevity and occasional heating. The camera system is generally well-regarded, though some post-update color processing has drawn criticism.

The iPhone 16 Pro receives praise for its premium build quality, comfortable in-hand feel, and the smooth, integrated experience of iOS. Its camera system is consistently lauded for its performance, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. While battery life is generally considered good for a single day, some users have reported minor software glitches or instances where certain social media applications do not fully utilize the high refresh rate display.

Users prioritizing extensive customization, a larger display, and a longer guaranteed software update period may find the Galaxy S24 Plus aligns better with their needs. Conversely, those who value a highly optimized ecosystem, consistent camera performance, and a slightly more compact form factor might lean towards the iPhone 16 Pro. Both devices represent excellent choices, and for those seeking a more sustainable option, quality-assured refurbished versions of either model are available, offering an eco-friendly alternative.

See all articles

Our recent comparisons