Galaxy S9 Vs iPhone 11

Galaxy S9
Galaxy S9
Starting at

Refurbished price:127.00

Versus €499.00 new

See options
iPhone 11
iPhone 11
Starting at

Refurbished price:147.00

Versus €589.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S9, released in March 2018, and the Apple iPhone 11, launched in September 2019, represent different approaches to smartphone design and operating systems from their respective release years. While the Galaxy S9 runs on Android, offering a highly customizable experience, the iPhone 11 operates on iOS, known for its streamlined interface and ecosystem. Key differentiators between these two devices include their display technology, camera capabilities, and long-term software support.

Scores

Durability

When considering the longevity of these devices, several factors come into play, including their release dates, software update policies, and repairability.

  • Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S9 was released in March 2018, making it an older device compared to the iPhone 11, which launched in September 2019. This difference in release year directly impacts their expected software support lifespan.
  • OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S9 received its last major Android update with Android 10 in late 2020 and ceased receiving security updates in March 2022, marking its end-of-life for official software support. In contrast, Apple typically provides iOS updates for its devices for a longer period, often 5-6 years from release, meaning the iPhone 11, launched with iOS 13, has seen extended software support.
  • Repairability: The Galaxy S9 received a low repairability score of 4 out of 10 from iFixit, indicating that while some components are modular, the extensive use of adhesive and glass makes repairs challenging, particularly for the display and battery. The iPhone 11, on the other hand, has a slightly better repairability score of 6 out of 10, with critical display and battery repairs being more accessible.

Year of Release

2018

2019

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily use, encompassing everything from app responsiveness to battery endurance and multitasking efficiency.

  • Processor Capabilities: The iPhone 11 features a more recent processor, which translates to smoother operation and faster app loading times compared to the Galaxy S9. Users will experience a more fluid interface and quicker execution of demanding applications on the iPhone 11.
  • Battery Behavior: The iPhone 11 generally offers a longer battery life, with users reporting it can last through a full day of heavy use, and some tests showing over 11 hours of web surfing. The Galaxy S9, with its 3000 mAh battery, provided adequate battery life at its release, but its older age means that typical usage might require more frequent charging for heavy users.
  • Multitasking and Storage: Both devices offer various storage options, typically ranging from 64GB to 256GB, and both came with 4GB of RAM. The iPhone 11's more optimized software and newer processor generally allow for more efficient multitasking, even with similar RAM capacity. The Galaxy S9 does offer expandable storage via a microSD card, a feature not present on the iPhone 11.

Memory

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience is a significant aspect of smartphone usage, and both devices offer distinct display technologies.

  • Display Technology and Resolution: The Samsung Galaxy S9 features a 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display with a high resolution of 2960 x 1440 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of 570 ppi. This technology delivers deep blacks and vibrant colors. The iPhone 11 has a larger 6.1-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1792 x 828 pixels, offering a pixel density of 326 ppi.
  • Brightness and Clarity: The Galaxy S9's Super AMOLED panel provides excellent contrast and can achieve high brightness levels, making it suitable for outdoor visibility. The iPhone 11's LCD screen is also bright and colorful, with a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits, providing clear visuals in various lighting conditions.
  • Viewing Experience: The Galaxy S9's curved display offers an immersive viewing experience with its edge-to-edge design. The iPhone 11's larger screen size provides ample space for media consumption and general browsing, though its LCD technology and lower pixel density mean it does not offer the same level of contrast or pixel sharpness as the S9's AMOLED.

Resolution

1440 x 2960

828 x 1792

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Liquid Retina IPS LCD

Audiovisual

Camera performance is a key consideration for many users, and both the Galaxy S9 and iPhone 11 offer capable systems for capturing photos and videos.

  • Camera System Capabilities: The Galaxy S9 features a single 12 MP rear camera with a variable aperture, allowing it to adapt to different lighting conditions. The iPhone 11 boasts a dual-lens 12 MP rear camera system, including a wide and an ultrawide lens, providing more versatility for different shot types.
  • Low-Light and Everyday Photography: The iPhone 11 introduced a dedicated Night Mode, which significantly improves low-light photography by brightening scenes and enhancing clarity. While the Galaxy S9's variable aperture helps in low light, it does not have a dedicated night mode feature, making the iPhone 11 generally perform better in very dim conditions. For everyday photography, both phones capture good detail and colors in well-lit environments.
  • Video Recording Quality: Both devices are capable of recording 4K video at 60 frames per second. The iPhone 11 offers extended dynamic range for video and improved video stabilization. The iPhone 11 also features a 12 MP front camera capable of 4K video recording, a notable upgrade for selfie videos.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

8 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience of these smartphones.

  • Connectivity and Ports: Both devices support standard Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. The Galaxy S9 includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and uses a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 11 uses Apple's proprietary Lightning port and does not feature a headphone jack, requiring adapters for wired audio.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S9 offers multiple biometric options, including a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor and an iris scanner. The iPhone 11 relies solely on Face ID for secure facial recognition.
  • Design and Durability: Both phones feature glass backs and aluminum frames, contributing to a premium feel. The Galaxy S9 has a more compact design, weighing 163 grams, while the iPhone 11 is slightly larger and heavier at 194 grams. Both are rated for water and dust resistance (IP68), meaning they can withstand submersion in water.

Weight

163 g

194 g

Width

6,87 cm

7,57 cm

Height

14,77 cm

15,09 cm

Depth

0,85 cm

0,83 cm

Screen size (in)

5.8

6.1

Network

4G

4G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C + Jack 3.5mm

Lightning

User feedback for the Samsung Galaxy S9 often praises its vibrant Super AMOLED display and the inclusion of a headphone jack and expandable storage. Common criticisms, particularly in recent years, revolve around its limited software update lifespan and the challenges associated with repairs due to its construction. For the iPhone 11, users frequently highlight its strong camera performance, especially the Night Mode, and its consistent software experience. Some common points of discussion include its LCD display, which, while good, doesn't match the contrast of OLED panels, and the absence of a headphone jack.

Users prioritizing a highly customizable Android experience with a high-resolution OLED display and traditional features like a headphone jack and expandable storage may find the Galaxy S9 well-suited to their needs. Conversely, users who value a streamlined operating system, extended software support, and advanced camera features, particularly for low-light photography, will likely lean toward the iPhone 11. Both devices offer robust build quality and water resistance, making them durable choices. For those looking to make an eco-friendly and quality-assured choice, considering refurbished options for either model can provide excellent value and extend the life cycle of these capable smartphones.

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