Galaxy S24+ • Unlocked vs iPhone 15 Plus • Unlocked

Galaxy S24+ • Unlocked
Galaxy S24+ • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$399.99

Versus $814.00 new

See options
iPhone 15 Plus • Unlocked
iPhone 15 Plus • Unlocked
Starting at

Refurbished price:$403.00

Versus $829.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus, released in January 2024, and the Apple iPhone 15 Plus, launched in September 2023, are both large-screen smartphones offering robust performance and advanced camera systems. While the Galaxy S24 Plus operates on Android with Samsung's One UI, the iPhone 15 Plus runs on Apple's iOS, providing distinct user experiences. Key differences lie in their display technology, software support timelines, and camera capabilities.

Scores

Durability

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

  • Release Timeline: The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus was released in January 2024, making it slightly newer than the iPhone 15 Plus, which launched in September 2023. This difference in release date can influence the duration of future software support.
  • OS Support Duration: Samsung has committed to providing seven years of OS and security updates for the Galaxy S24 Plus, extending its software support until 2031. Apple typically provides 5-6 years of iOS updates for its iPhones, with the iPhone 15 Plus expected to receive updates until approximately 2031 if it follows the pattern of being supported for about 7 years from its discontinuation.
  • Repairability: The iPhone 15 Plus features a design that allows for easier removal of the back glass, contributing to improved repairability compared to some previous iPhone models. Apple has also eased its self-repair policy for the iPhone 15 series, allowing the use of used parts for certain repairs. The Galaxy S24 Plus is generally considered to have moderate repairability, though parts availability can vary.

Release Year

2024

2023

Last OS Compatibility

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both devices are equipped with powerful internal components designed to handle demanding applications and multitasking efficiently.

  • Processor Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 Plus features a current-generation processor, which ensures smooth operation for everyday tasks, gaming, and intensive applications. The iPhone 15 Plus is powered by a powerful chip, providing strong performance for a wide range of uses, from casual browsing to graphically intensive games.
  • Multitasking and Responsiveness: The Galaxy S24 Plus comes with 12GB of RAM, contributing to efficient multitasking and app management. The iPhone 15 Plus, with 6GB of RAM, also offers a responsive user experience, handling multiple applications without significant slowdowns.
  • Storage Options: The Galaxy S24 Plus is available with 256GB and 512GB storage options. The iPhone 15 Plus offers more varied storage tiers, including 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S24 Plus is equipped with a 4900 mAh battery, which users have praised for providing excellent battery life, often lasting through a full day of heavy use and sometimes extending to two days. The iPhone 15 Plus has a 4383 mAh battery, and users generally report good battery life, often sufficient for a full day.

Memory

12 GB

6 GB

Screen quality

The display is a primary interaction point, and both devices offer high-quality viewing experiences with distinct characteristics.

  • Display Technology and Clarity: The Galaxy S24 Plus features a 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a QHD+ resolution (3120 x 1440 pixels), providing sharp images and vibrant colors. The iPhone 15 Plus has a 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2796 x 1290 pixels, known for deep blacks and accurate color reproduction.
  • Brightness Levels: The Galaxy S24 Plus can reach a peak brightness of up to 2600 nits, making it highly visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The iPhone 15 Plus offers a peak outdoor brightness of up to 2000 nits, ensuring good visibility in various lighting environments.
  • Refresh Rate and Smoothness: The Galaxy S24 Plus boasts an adaptive refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz, which contributes to smoother scrolling and a more fluid visual experience, especially during gaming or fast-paced content. The iPhone 15 Plus features a standard 60Hz refresh rate, which provides a consistent viewing experience for most everyday tasks.

Resolution

1440 x 3120

1290 x 2796

Screen type

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer advanced camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos in various conditions.

  • Main Camera Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 Plus includes a triple camera system with a 50MP main sensor, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultrawide lens. The iPhone 15 Plus features an advanced dual-camera system with a 48MP main sensor and a 12MP ultrawide lens.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S24 Plus delivers solid photo and video quality across its lenses, with users generally finding it capable, though some note that its camera performance, while good, may not always stand out against top-tier competitors. The iPhone 15 Plus's 48MP main camera is praised for its detail and overall image quality, performing well in various lighting conditions.
  • Video Recording: Both devices are capable of recording high-resolution video. The Galaxy S24 Plus supports up to 8K video recording at 24/30fps and 4K at 30/60fps. The iPhone 15 Plus supports 4K video recording at 24, 25, 30, or 60 fps.
  • Front Camera: Both phones feature a 12MP front camera, suitable for high-quality selfies and video calls.

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core features, several practical elements contribute to the overall user experience and device utility.

  • Connectivity: Both the Galaxy S24 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus support 5G connectivity for fast mobile data. The Galaxy S24 Plus also supports Wi-Fi 7, offering potentially faster wireless speeds, while the iPhone 15 Plus supports Wi-Fi 6. Both include Bluetooth 5.3.
  • Ports and Sensors: Both devices have transitioned to a USB-C port for charging and data transfer. The Galaxy S24 Plus features an ultrasonic in-display fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication, alongside face recognition. The iPhone 15 Plus relies on Face ID for secure facial recognition.
  • Build Materials and Durability: The Galaxy S24 Plus uses an Armor Aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 for its front and back, offering a sturdy build with IP68 dust and water resistance. The iPhone 15 Plus features an aluminum design with a Ceramic Shield front and color-infused glass back, also rated IP68 for dust and water resistance.
  • Dimensions and Handling: The Galaxy S24 Plus measures 158.5 x 75.9 x 7.7 mm and weighs 196g. The iPhone 15 Plus measures 160.9 x 77.8 x 7.8 mm and weighs 201g. Users often find the iPhone 15 Plus comfortable to hold despite its large size due to its ergonomic design.

Weight

7 oz

201 oz

Screen size (inches)

6.7

6.7

Network

5G

5G

SIM card

Physical SIM + eSIM

eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus each offer compelling features, catering to different user preferences and ecosystems. User sentiment for the Galaxy S24 Plus often highlights its bright, smooth display, extended software support, and strong battery life. Some criticisms include potential performance variations depending on the processor in different regions and camera consistency.

For the iPhone 15 Plus, users frequently praise its powerful performance, reliable camera system, and consistent battery life. Common points of discussion include its 60Hz display, which some users find less fluid compared to higher refresh rate screens, and the absence of a dedicated telephoto lens.

Users prioritizing extensive software longevity and a highly customizable Android experience with a vibrant, high-refresh-rate display may find the Galaxy S24 Plus well-suited to their needs. Its robust battery and advanced connectivity options also make it a strong contender for those who are heavy users or require the latest wireless standards.

Conversely, individuals who value a streamlined user experience, consistent performance within the iOS ecosystem, and a strong, reliable camera for everyday photography might lean towards the iPhone 15 Plus. Its improved repairability and long-standing reputation for software updates also contribute to its appeal for users seeking a dependable device.

Both devices represent excellent choices in the large-screen smartphone category. For those considering a more sustainable option, quality-assured refurbished versions of both the Galaxy S24 Plus and iPhone 15 Plus are available, offering an eco-friendly alternative to purchasing new.

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