If you are preparing to purchase a smartphone among the latest releases from Samsung, it becomes important for you to know the options available. Though Samsung’s Galaxy S20 trio is claimed to be the best in the segment and offer the best value on investment, chances are it might not suit some user’s requirements. While there are some major changes in the form of performance and display, there are some little-to-no differences in the other aspects. In this article, we’ll compare the three models- the Galaxy S20, the S20+ and the S20 Ultra to help you make your purchase decision easier.
Selecting the best among the lineup
Size
The three Galaxy S20 models look different owing to the size of their displays. Where the base model Galaxy S20 measures 6.2 inches with smaller bezels, the Galaxy S20+ and the S20 Ultra stand with 6.4 inches and 6.9 inches measured diagonally. Another difference is a little extra thickness on the end of S20 Ultra compared to the S20 and the S20+. Also, the size of the rear camera module on the three devices is different.
If you are looking for something which you can move around carrying in your pockets, the smaller Galaxy S20 is the choice for you. For those who like to watch movies and play games on a big screen, the S20+ and the S20 Ultra is the smartphone to choose. Handling devices this big can become a heck of a task. Under such situations, you can use proven high-quality protective cases and covers from ESR.
Camera
If you look at the rear camera modules on the S20 and the S20+, you would notice the difference in the size, however, what you won’t notice is the camera configuration on both the devices is the same. Both the devices have a three-camera setup including a 12MP primary camera, a 64MP telephoto lens and a 12MP ultra-wide camera lens. If you look at the big picture, this setup can be quite flexible for capturing landscapes and doing still photography. The 30X digital zoom gives good results, however, after 10X zoom, the image you will obtain will look a little grainy.
While on the Galaxy S20 Ultra, you get a 108MP sensor with a 12MP ultrawide and 48MP telephoto zoom lens. Samsung calls it the Periscope Optical Setup which can be used to magnify the image up to 10X. With additional software tweaks, you can even obtain a 100X digital zoom.
Therefore, if you are someone who is not very fond of photography, the lower end versions, the S20 and the S20+ can be your choice. But if you like taking photos often and want a precision camera on your smartphone, the S20 ultra is something to invest in.
Battery
Battery life is an aspect that most smartphone users look after when making a purchase decision. However, if you are considering purchasing a smartphone from the S20 series, you need not be worried about the battery life.
With the Galaxy S20 powered by a 4000mAh battery, the S20+ by a 4500mAh battery, and the S20 Ultra with a 5000mAh cell, your battery will definitely last a day on normal to slightly heavy usage.
If you are the one who uses multiple features at once and the phone itself for heavy usage, the S20 Ultra is your best bet.
5G Connectivity
There’s not much difference between the features on the S20 and the S20+, except for the mmWave 5G connectivity which the latter offers. However, the age of 5G that we are in, the mmWave 5G coverage won’t simply matter unless we live in a well-established mmWave 5G coverage area. The same holds true for the Samsung S20 Ultra as well.
If you are someone who believes the era of 5G coverage is close enough, you can future-proof your purchase with the S20+ or the high-end S20 Ultra.
Price
Another notable difference is brought to light by the price tag these devices carry. The Galaxy S20 is priced at $999 for the 4G version, the S20+ at $1199.99 and the S20 Ultra at $1399.99. Since the Galaxy S20 comes as a 4G phone, it is cheaper. The extra $200 on the S20+ owes to the mmWave 5G technology, larger battery and a bigger screen too. However, it is hard to justify the value you get over an extra $200 premium.
The S20 Ultra looks premium, has a great camera module, even greater battery and display, however, there is nothing other than these features which truly stands out than the S20+ in hand.
With even bigger displays on your smartphone, it is prudent for you to make a little more investment in terms of these high-quality screen protectors from ESR.
The final verdict
The S20 lineup isn’t much about upgrades from the S10 lineup as they offer similar performance with almost the same hardware and software. The only difference is evident with the introduction of mmWave 5G technology in the S20+ and the S20 Ultra, and a slightly better camera on the high-end S20 Ultra.
As we mentioned earlier, if you would like to future-proof your purchase, the S20+ is a viable option. It has got a decent-sized screen which will work when you are looking for gaming and watching your favorite TV shows and movies. Plus, it has the 5G compatibility, with workable cameras and a pretty good processor as well. Furthermore, Samsung has been offering the S20+ at a discount of $200 for some time. Therefore, if you are looking to have a smartphone from the S20 lineup, the S20+ seems like a definite choice.
