Galaxy S9 Vs iPhone 12

Galaxy S9
Galaxy S9
Starting at

Refurbished price:€131.41

Versus €499.00 new

See options
iPhone 12
iPhone 12
Starting at

Refurbished price:€174.00

Versus €829.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S9, released in March 2018, and the iPhone 12, launched in October 2020, represent different generations and operating systems within the smartphone market. While the Galaxy S9 operates on Android, the iPhone 12 runs on iOS. These devices offer distinct user experiences, primarily differing in their core processing power, camera capabilities, and overall software longevity.

Scores

Durability

The expected practical lifespan and ongoing software support differ significantly between these two devices due to their respective release timelines.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S9 was released in March 2018, making it an older device compared to the iPhone 12, which launched in October 2020. This age difference impacts how long each device will continue to receive official software updates and security patches.
  • OS Support Duration: The Galaxy S9 concluded its major Android OS updates with Android 10. In contrast, the iPhone 12, running iOS, is expected to receive software updates for several more years, offering a longer period of access to new features and security enhancements.
  • Repairability: Both devices generally have moderate repairability. The iPhone 12 features Ceramic Shield protection on its front, which contributes to its durability. The Galaxy S9 utilizes Gorilla Glass 5 on both its front and back.

Year of Release

2018

2020

Compatible with latest Update

No

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

The performance capabilities of the Galaxy S9 and iPhone 12 reflect the advancements in mobile technology over their respective release periods.

  • Processing Power: The iPhone 12, equipped with a more recent processor, handles demanding applications and multitasking with greater efficiency and responsiveness. The Galaxy S9, while capable for its time, may exhibit slower app loading and less fluid multitasking with current, more resource-intensive applications.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: Users of the iPhone 12 can expect smoother transitions between apps and more consistent performance during heavy usage, supported by its optimized operating system and hardware. The Galaxy S9, with 4GB of RAM, provides adequate performance for everyday tasks, but may show limitations when running multiple complex applications simultaneously.
  • Storage Options: Both devices offer various internal storage configurations, typically ranging from 64GB to 256GB. The Galaxy S9 also features expandable storage via a microSD card, a feature not present on the iPhone 12.

Memory (GB)

4 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

Both smartphones feature high-quality OLED displays, but there are differences in their specifications and practical viewing experiences.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S9 features a 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display with a 2960 x 1440 pixel resolution, resulting in a high pixel density. The iPhone 12 has a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a 2532 x 1170 pixel resolution. Both offer vibrant colors and deep blacks characteristic of OLED technology.
  • Brightness and Outdoor Visibility: The iPhone 12's display offers higher peak brightness, particularly for HDR content, which can improve visibility in bright outdoor conditions. The Galaxy S9 also provides good brightness, with a peak of 864 nits.
  • Screen Protection: The iPhone 12 incorporates Ceramic Shield on its front, designed for enhanced drop performance. The Galaxy S9 uses Corning Gorilla Glass 5 for screen protection.

Resolution

1440 x 2960

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Super AMOLED

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

The camera systems of the Galaxy S9 and iPhone 12 reflect different approaches to mobile photography, with the iPhone 12 benefiting from newer advancements.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S9 features a single 12-megapixel main camera with a variable aperture (f/1.5-f/2.4), allowing it to adapt to different lighting conditions. The iPhone 12 has a dual 12-megapixel camera system, including a wide and an ultrawide lens, offering more versatility in framing shots.
  • Low-Light Performance and Features: The iPhone 12 includes Night Mode across all its cameras, significantly improving performance in low-light environments. While the Galaxy S9's variable aperture aids in low-light, it does not offer a dedicated Night Mode feature. The iPhone 12 also supports HDR video recording with Dolby Vision.
  • Front Camera: The iPhone 12 features a 12-megapixel front camera with Night Mode capabilities. The Galaxy S9 has an 8-megapixel front camera.

Main camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

8 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core specifications, several practical elements differentiate the user experience between the Galaxy S9 and the iPhone 12.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The iPhone 12 supports 5G connectivity and Wi-Fi 6, offering faster wireless speeds where available. The Galaxy S9 supports LTE and Wi-Fi 5. The Galaxy S9 includes a 3.5mm headphone jack and a USB-C port, while the iPhone 12 uses a Lightning port and omits the headphone jack.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S9 offers both a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor and an iris scanner for biometric authentication. The iPhone 12 relies solely on Face ID for secure unlocking and authentication.
  • Design and Handling: The iPhone 12 features a flat-edged design and weighs 164 grams. The Galaxy S9 has a more curved design and weighs 163 grams. Both devices carry an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.

Weight

163 g

164 g

Width

6,87 cm

7.15 cm

Height

14,77 cm

14.67 cm

Depth

0,85 cm

0.74 cm

Screen size (in)

5.8

6.1

Network

4G

5G

SIM card

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 display quality and the inclusion of a headphone jack and expandable storage, features that some users still value. Criticisms sometimes point to its battery life compared to newer devices and the eventual cessation of major software updates. The iPhone 12 generally receives positive remarks for its powerful performance, improved camera system with Night Mode, and the introduction of 5G connectivity. Some users have noted that its battery life, while improved over previous models, might require daily charging for heavy use, and the flat-edged design can feel less ergonomic to some.

Users prioritizing a device with a longer software support lifespan and more robust performance for demanding applications will find the iPhone 12 well-suited to their needs. Its advanced camera features, particularly in low light, also make it a strong choice for photography enthusiasts. Conversely, individuals who value traditional features like a 3.5mm headphone jack and expandable storage, and who are comfortable with an Android ecosystem that has reached its final major OS update, might consider the Galaxy S9. Both devices, when acquired as quality-assured refurbished options, offer an eco-friendly alternative for consumers seeking reliable technology.

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