Apple and Samsung together account for nearly two-thirds of the smartphone market. The popularity of iPhones and Galaxies is due to good design, user experience, personalization and brand loyalty.
If you're not sure which brand to choose for your next device, this guide can help. Here are some things to consider when choosing between an iPhone and a Samsung Galaxy.
The latest models are the iPhone 15 and Galaxy S24 .
what we likeContinuity with other Apple devices.
Not available on devices running other popular systems such as Android, Windows, and ChromeOS.
iPhone is the ideal choice if you have a Mac computer, iPad or Apple Watch. You can start an activity or project on one Apple device and pick up where you left off on another device.
Apple's AirDrop feature also makes it easy to transfer files from one iOS or macOS device to another.
Additionally, Apple Watch is only compatible with iOS and Mac devices. That means if you want an Apple smartwatch, you'll need an iPhone to get the most out of it.
what we likeSet up apps and programs like TWRP Custom Recovery for advanced customization access.
If not done properly, gaining root access to a device can render the device unusable.
Samsung has customized its user interface differently from other Android devices. Older devices use Samsung Experience, while newer devices with at least Android Pie use Samsung One UI.
Samsung's interface is simple, intuitive, and task-focused. You'll spend less time looking for apps and features and more time doing the things you want to do with your device.
In terms of design, Samsung devices come with a library of themes. You can create themes to give your device a unique look.
If you are an advanced user, root your Samsung device and install custom recovery firmware to access its backend. Many people use these methods to install leaked updates and programs that are not included on Samsung devices.
There is some risk involved in performing such a function, but many power users like knowing they can do it.
what we likeiOS updates are released promptly for all compatible devices.
You may have to wait for smaller updates to fix bugs and other minor issues.
When the latest iOS update is released, it works on the latest iPhones, and often on multiple models from previous years. It takes most iOS users several months to update to the latest system version. Most Samsung devices only get the latest version of Android when it's first released.
what we likeIf the internal storage is not enough, add more storage manually.
MicroSD cards for expandable storage are usually sold separately.
Samsung devices use microSD cards to expand storage space. Users can expand the internal storage space of some Samsung phones up to 1 TB.
Prices vary by brand and capacity, but microSD cards are often sold at stores like Best Buy and Target. Samsung also sometimes offers free microSD cards with the purchase of new devices.
what we likeiOS users are often the first to learn about the latest app craze.
iOS apps tend to consume more space than Android apps.
Apps often release updates on iPhone before other devices because developers find it easier to create apps on iOS. Many developers wait until an app becomes popular on iOS before trying to build an Android version. If you want to make sure you have access to the latest apps, an iPhone may be a better choice.
what we likeSamsung didn't go with a top-notch design.
Replacing a broken or damaged screen can be costly.
Samsung devices have one of the best displays on the market. Known for its rich colors and details, Samsung's OLED displays are featured on all Galaxy S models.
OLED displays are great for watching videos and displaying pictures. While ultra-high-end iPhones also come with OLED displays, if you want a lower-cost or older iPhone, you may have to opt for an LCD display, which is less bright and has less color variation.
what we likeYou don't have to close the application to get better performance.
Navigating iOS can be challenging.
Many people like that their iPhone runs fast and smoothly, rarely freezing or crashing.
High-performance features like gaming, watching videos, or having multiple apps open at the same time don't seem to slow down your iPhone. Certain iPhone navigation and gestures may be difficult for those unfamiliar with iOS, but these gestures are easy to learn.
what we likeSamsung devices tend to have better day-to-day battery life under normal usage.
High performance users may experience faster battery drain.
Despite past missteps, Samsung devices tend to have good battery life due to their large battery capacity. Some Samsung smartphones also support super fast charging; including S24, Z Fold 5, etc.
what we likeUsers who stay away from risky behaviors are relatively safe.
The bugs may lie dormant for some time.
Apple devices have a high level of security. While not foolproof, you can keep your iPhone free of bugs and viruses if you avoid dangerous practices. Other ways to keep your iPhone secure include keeping iOS up to date, not installing unauthorized apps, services or programs, and using strong passwords.
what we likeGreat for low light photography.
It can be difficult to capture image and video details, especially in third-party applications.
Samsung has significantly improved the quality of its cameras over the years. Samsung mobile camera is one of the best cameras among Android devices. Some of the top features include wide-angle mode, low-light HDR, and scene optimizer to adjust camera settings based on the subject to get the ideal shot.
what we likeThe high dynamic range capabilities are excellent.
Low-light images may appear dull and dull.
The iPhone camera sparkles. Many users find it easier to take their first shot with an iPhone, and the images don't suffer from a lack of detail or overexposure.
Features like Live Photos are known for sharing because they can capture three-second GIFs. The iPhone camera is also great for capturing images and videos on third-party apps like Instagram and Snapchat.
what we likeA standard 3.5mm audio jack can be used on the latest Samsung devices.
There are no real downsides to this feature.
Samsung phones are among the only new smartphones to feature a 3.5mm audio jack. While the latest Samsung Galaxy phones, such as the S24, don't have a headphone jack, other phones, such as the Galaxy A25 5G and Galaxy S10/10+, do. All older Samsung devices include one too. The 2016 iPhone SE was the last iPhone to feature a headphone jack.
Both Apple and Samsung phones are excellent, each with their own pros and cons. For those who want a simple user experience, the iPhone may be the ideal choice.
Samsung devices may be better suited for power users who like more control and variety. Choosing a new smartphone depends on lifestyle and personal preferences.
