Galaxy S10 • Unlocked vs iPhone 8 • Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S10, released in March 2019, and the Apple iPhone 8, launched in September 2017, represent flagship smartphones from their respective manufacturers. While both devices offer a premium experience, they cater to different user preferences through their distinct operating systems and hardware philosophies. The Galaxy S10 operates on Android, featuring a larger, more vibrant display and a versatile multi-camera system, whereas the iPhone 8 runs on iOS, emphasizing a compact design and a streamlined user experience.

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, their release timelines and software support cycles are key factors.

• Software Longevity: The iPhone 8, having been released in 2017, received major iOS updates up to iOS 16, with security updates continuing for a period thereafter. Users should note that it is no longer supported by iOS 17 or higher. The Galaxy S10, launched in 2019, received its last major Android OS update with Android 12 for its original models, and security updates for these models concluded around March 2023.
• Physical Durability: Both devices feature glass backs, which contribute to their aesthetic but can be prone to damage. The Galaxy S10 utilizes Gorilla Glass 6 for its main display, offering enhanced scratch and drop resistance. The iPhone 8 features durable glass and aluminum construction.
• Repairability and Water Resistance: The iPhone 8 received an iFixit repairability score of 6 out of 10, indicating that components like the screen and battery are relatively accessible for repair, though the glass back is challenging to replace. The Galaxy S10 received a lower iFixit repairability score of 3 out of 10, largely due to extensive adhesive and integrated components, making repairs more difficult. The Galaxy S10 is rated IP68 for water and dust resistance, offering protection against immersion in up to 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes. The iPhone 8 is rated IP67, providing protection against immersion in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes.

The performance of a smartphone is crucial for daily tasks, from app usage to demanding games and multitasking.

• Processing Power: The Galaxy S10 is equipped with a powerful octa-core processor, which enables smooth handling of demanding applications and efficient multitasking. The iPhone 8 features a capable chip that delivers responsive performance for its operating system and applications.
• Multitasking and Storage: The Galaxy S10 typically comes with 8GB of RAM in its base configuration, supporting fluid transitions between multiple open applications. It offers storage options of 128GB or 512GB, with the added flexibility of expandable storage via a microSD card. The iPhone 8 includes 2GB of RAM, which is optimized for iOS to provide a smooth user experience. Storage options for the iPhone 8 include 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB, without expandable storage.
• Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S10 houses a 3400 mAh battery, designed to provide a full day of moderate use, and supports wireless charging as well as Wireless PowerShare, allowing it to charge other compatible devices. The iPhone 8 has an 1821 mAh battery, which, combined with iOS's power management, aims to offer reliable daily usage, and it also supports wireless charging.

The display is a primary interface for smartphone interaction, and both devices offer distinct visual experiences.

• Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S10 features a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 3040x1440 pixels, resulting in a sharp 550 pixels per inch (ppi). This display technology provides deep blacks and vibrant colors, supporting HDR10+ for enhanced contrast and color accuracy. The iPhone 8 comes with a more compact 4.7-inch Retina HD LCD display, offering a resolution of 1334x750 pixels at 326 ppi.
• Clarity and Brightness: The Galaxy S10's display is designed for excellent clarity and can achieve high brightness levels, making it suitable for outdoor viewing and offering reduced blue light emissions for eye comfort. The iPhone 8's LCD screen includes True Tone technology, which adjusts the display's white balance to match ambient light, and offers a typical maximum brightness of 625 nits.
• Design and Features: The Galaxy S10 features an 'Infinity-O' display with a punch-hole cutout for the front camera, maximizing screen real estate with curved edges. The iPhone 8 retains traditional bezels and includes 3D Touch, which provides pressure-sensitive interactions with the screen.

For many users, the camera system is a critical component, and these phones approach photography with different capabilities.

• Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S10 boasts a versatile triple-camera setup on its rear, comprising a 12MP wide-angle lens, a 12MP telephoto lens with 2x optical zoom, and a 16MP ultra-wide-angle lens. This configuration allows for a range of photographic styles, from expansive landscapes to detailed close-ups. The iPhone 8 features a single 12MP wide-angle rear camera with an f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization, designed for consistent performance in various conditions.
• Photography Performance: The Galaxy S10's multiple lenses provide flexibility for different shooting scenarios, including improved low-light performance and the ability to capture HDR10+ video. The iPhone 8's single lens, combined with Apple's image processing, delivers reliable photo quality for everyday moments.
• Video and Front Camera: The Galaxy S10 is capable of recording 4K video at 60 frames per second and features a 10MP front-facing camera. The iPhone 8 supports 4K video recording at various frame rates (24, 30, or 60 fps) and includes a 7MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.