In the fast-paced world of technology, each year brings new smartphones that challenge the status quo and set trends for future designs. Among these contenders is the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus, launched in early 2019. Although it is now a few generations behind, many potential buyers are still pondering: Is the Samsung S10 Plus a good phone? In this comprehensive review, we will delve into its design, performance, camera capabilities, battery life, software experience, and overall value for money.
Design and Build Quality
The design of a smartphone is often its first and most lasting impression. The Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus showcases a sleek and modern aesthetic that has made it a favorite among users.
Premium Materials
The Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus is crafted with premium materials that give it a luxurious feel. The front and back are both made of Corning Gorilla Glass 6, while the frame is constructed of aluminum. This combination not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds a layer of durability.
Display Features
One of the standout features of the S10 Plus is its Dynamic AMOLED display. Here are some key specifications of the display:
| Feature | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Screen Size | 6.4 inches |
| Resolution | 3040 x 1440 pixels (Quad HD+) |
| Aspect Ratio | 19:9 |
| HDR10+ Support | Yes |
The Quad HD+ resolution produces stunning clarity and color accuracy, which is especially beneficial for media consumption and gaming. The HDR10+ support ensures vibrant visuals and improved contrast, resulting in a mesmerizing viewing experience.
Ergonomics and Handling
Despite its large screen, the S10 Plus is designed to fit comfortably in your hand. The slightly curved edges of the display provide an immersive experience without making the phone cumbersome. However, users with smaller hands may find it challenging to operate the device one-handed.
Performance and Software
The performance of a smartphone is essential for daily usage, gaming, multitasking, and more. The Galaxy S10 Plus does not disappoint in this regard.
Powerful Hardware
Equipped with either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 or Samsung Exynos 9820 (depending on your region), the S10 Plus delivers exceptional performance. With 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 128GB to a whopping 1TB, it has more than enough capacity for most users.
Software Experience
The S10 Plus originally shipped with Android 9 (Pie) and has since been upgraded to Android 12. The interface, One UI, offers a user-friendly experience with smooth operation and customizable options. Samsung has invested significantly in enhancing the software experience, which is evident with features such as Night Mode, a dedicated Dark Theme, and various gesture controls.
Multitasking Abilities
Thanks to its powerful processor and ample RAM, the S10 Plus excels in multitasking. You can seamlessly switch between applications, browse the web, and even play graphics-intensive games without any noticeable lag. This is particularly beneficial for users who rely on their device for productivity.
Camera Capabilities
The camera setup on the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus has been a major selling point and continues to impress.
Photography Features
The S10 Plus features a triple-camera array on the rear, consisting of:
- A 12 MP wide-angle lens with dual aperture
- A 12 MP telephoto lens
- A 16 MP ultra-wide lens
This combination allows users to capture high-quality images in various conditions. The dual aperture feature enables excellent performance in low-light settings, ensuring that you can take stunning photos even at night.
Selfie Camera
For selfie enthusiasts, the S10 Plus is equipped with a 10 MP front camera and an additional 8 MP depth sensor. This configuration allows for beautiful self-portraits and high-quality video calls. The Live Focus feature also enables you to add professional-looking background blur, creating a striking separation between the subject and the background.
Video Recording
Video capture capabilities are equally impressive, with support for up to 4K video recording at 60fps. This makes it a great option for vloggers and content creators looking to produce high-quality videos on the go.
Battery Life and Charging
No smartphone review would be complete without discussing battery life, and the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus does not disappoint here.
Impressive Battery Capacity
The device boasts a 4100 mAh battery, which generally provides a full day of usage on a single charge. For typical users engaged in social media, streaming, and gaming, there’s adequate power to last through the day.
Charging Options
The S10 Plus supports fast charging, both wired and wireless. Additionally, it comes with the novel Wireless PowerShare, allowing users to charge other devices, including smartphones and wearables, wirelessly using the back of the S10 Plus as a charging pad.
Connectivity and Additional Features
The Samsung S10 Plus includes various connectivity options and additional features to enhance overall usability.
5G Capability
While the standard S10 Plus does not support 5G, Samsung released the S10 5G model later, which offers enhanced connectivity options. If 5G is crucial for you, you may need to consider this model.
Security Features
The S10 Plus comes equipped with multiple security features, including a fingerprint scanner embedded under the display and facial recognition technology. These features provide secure access without compromising convenience.
Value for Money
When evaluating whether the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus is a good phone, it’s essential to consider its value for money.
Current Pricing
As of October 2023, the S10 Plus is available at a significantly reduced price when compared to its launch price. Many retailers and online marketplaces offer it at competitive rates, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking premium features.
Comparison with Competitors
In the competitive smartphone market, the S10 Plus stands strong against contemporaries like the Google Pixel 4 XL and OnePlus 7 Pro. While each device offers unique features, the S10 Plus often excels in display quality, camera versatility, and overall performance.
Conclusion: Is the Samsung S10 Plus a Good Phone?
The Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus still holds up remarkably well in 2023, making it a worthy consideration for anyone in the market for a reliable and feature-rich smartphone. With its impressive display, powerful performance, versatile camera setup, and robust software experience, the S10 Plus has a lot to offer.
However, whether or not it is the right device for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a premium smartphone experience without the latest flagship price tag, the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus is, without a doubt, a good phone to consider.
As technology continues to evolve, the S10 Plus offers a well-rounded package that promises reliability and quality, ensuring it remains a strong contender in the realm of smartphones well into the foreseeable future. So, if you find yourself drawn to its impressive features and capabilities, it may very well be the perfect addition to your pocket!
Is the Samsung S10 Plus still a relevant phone in 2023?
The Samsung S10 Plus, released in early 2019, still holds its ground as a relevant smartphone in 2023. With its powerful Snapdragon 855 processor and options for 8GB or 12GB of RAM, it can handle most everyday tasks with ease. The software has also seen continuous updates from Samsung, so users can expect a relatively up-to-date experience with security patches and new features.
However, it’s important to note that while it can still perform well, advancements in smartphone technology mean that newer devices may offer better processing power, camera capabilities, and efficiency. If you are looking for the latest features such as improved AI processing and enhanced camera setups, you may want to consider newer models.
How does the camera quality compare to newer smartphones?
The Samsung S10 Plus features a versatile camera system, including a 12MP wide lens, a 12MP telephoto lens, and a 16MP ultra-wide lens. The phone produces vibrant and detailed photos, and it performs well in various lighting conditions. Its camera software includes a variety of shooting modes, such as Night Mode and Live Focus, allowing users to experiment with different photography styles.
While the camera is impressive, newer smartphones have introduced advanced technologies such as improved low-light performance and enhanced zoom capabilities. Features like computational photography, which combines multiple shots to produce an optimal image, have been integrated into modern devices. Therefore, while the S10 Plus camera remains strong, it may not compete with the latest flagship models on the market.
What is the battery life like on the Samsung S10 Plus?
The Samsung S10 Plus is equipped with a 4,100mAh battery, which generally provides a full day’s use under typical conditions. Users can expect around 10-12 hours of screen time depending on individual usage patterns, such as gaming, streaming, or browsing. The phone also supports fast charging and wireless charging, adding to its convenience.
However, battery longevity can decline over time due to regular use and battery wear. While the S10 Plus performs well in terms of endurance for most tasks, power users who rely heavily on high-demand applications may find they need to charge more frequently. In such cases, optimizing battery settings or investing in a power bank might be necessary.
Does the Samsung S10 Plus have good performance for gaming?
The Samsung S10 Plus is powered by the Snapdragon 855 chipset, which provides smooth performance for gaming and multitasking. With 8GB or 12GB of RAM, the device can efficiently handle graphically intensive games, and its AMOLED display offers vibrant colors and excellent contrast, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Though the S10 Plus performs well for most current mobile games, it may not consistently deliver the highest frame rates seen in more recent flagship devices equipped with newer processors and GPUs. Gamers looking for the utmost performance in demanding games might want to look at more recent models specifically designed for gaming, but the S10 Plus remains capable for casual and moderate gaming sessions.
What are the storage options available on the Samsung S10 Plus?
The Samsung S10 Plus offers multiple storage configurations, with options of 128GB, 512GB, and even 1TB, catering to various user needs. This wide range of storage options ensures that users can choose a model that fits their usage habits, whether they store lots of photos, videos, or apps. Additionally, the device supports microSD cards up to 512GB, allowing for even more expandable storage if needed.
While these options were competitive at launch, it’s worth considering your storage needs in light of other modern smartphones that offer cloud storage integrations and different formats. Nonetheless, the various storage options on the S10 Plus provide flexibility, particularly for users who prioritize having a substantial amount of on-device storage.
Is the display quality on the Samsung S10 Plus still impressive?
The Samsung S10 Plus boasts a 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a Quad HD+ resolution of 3040 x 1440 pixels, offering stunning visuals. The colors are vibrant, and the contrast ratio provides deep blacks, making it a joy to watch videos or play games. The screen also incorporates HDR10+ support, which enhances viewing experiences for compatible content significantly.
Despite the advancements in display technology seen in newer models, the S10 Plus’s screen still stands out for its quality. However, newer phones may offer features such as higher refresh rates and improvements in brightness for outdoor visibility. Overall, for watching media and general usage, the display on the S10 Plus remains impressive by today’s standards.
How does the Samsung S10 Plus compare in terms of value for money?
As of 2023, the Samsung S10 Plus can often be found at a reduced price compared to its original launch value, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to newer flagships. Given its robust feature set—including a strong processor, solid camera capabilities, and a high-quality display—many users may find it to be an attractive option without breaking the bank.
However, it is important to weigh the cost against newer devices that might offer better performance and features. While the S10 Plus remains a good value at a lower price point, prospective buyers should consider their specific needs, such as having the latest technology and longer-term software support when making their decision.