Samsung Galaxy S10

Samsung Galaxy S10 Review

Key Features

• Display: 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED, HDR10+ certified, 1440 x 3040 resolution (550 ppi), 1200 nits peak brightness, 19:9 aspect ratio, protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 6.
• Processor: Exynos 9820 (8 nm) Octa-core CPU with Mali-G76 MP12 GPU (EMEA/LATAM models).
• RAM & Storage: 8GB RAM with options for 128GB or 512GB of UFS 2.1 storage (expandable storage not supported)
• Cameras: Rear triple camera system: 12MP main (f/1.5, OIS), 13MP telephoto (f/2.4, OIS), 16MP ultrawide (f/2.2). Front-facing 10MP camera (f/1.9).
• Battery: 3400 mAh Li-Polymer battery with 15W fast charging, 15W fast wireless charging, and Wireless PowerShare.
• Operating System: Launched with Android 9.0 (Pie), upgradable to Android 12.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0 LE, NFC, USB Type-C 3.1 with OTG and DisplayPort.
• Other: In-display fingerprint sensor, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, IP68 water and dust resistance.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional Dynamic AMOLED display with vibrant colors, deep blacks, and high peak brightness.
• Versatile triple camera system with excellent photo and video capabilities.
• Powerful Exynos 9820 processor for smooth performance, suitable for everyday tasks and gaming.
• Premium build quality with a sleek, ergonomic design.
• Fast charging and convenient wireless charging options.
• Stereo speakers offer a great audio experience.
• IP68 rating provides water and dust resistance.
• Comprehensive connectivity options including Wi-Fi 6.

Cons:

• Battery life might not be sufficient for heavy users.
• No microSD card slot for expandable storage.
• Software updates are no longer the latest Android version.
• The front-facing camera's position in the top-right corner is not always ideal for content consumption.
• Exynos processor performance can sometimes trail behind its Snapdragon counterpart.

User Experience

The Samsung Galaxy S10 provides a fluid and enjoyable user experience. The Dynamic AMOLED display is a standout feature, offering stunning visuals. The device is responsive thanks to the Exynos 9820 chipset and 8GB of RAM, handling multitasking and demanding applications with ease. The One UI software is intuitive and offers a range of customization options. The in-display fingerprint scanner is convenient, albeit not the fastest. The camera system is robust, delivering high-quality photos and videos in various conditions. The stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos contribute significantly to the multimedia experience. Battery life is decent, but users might need to recharge once during the day. The device's comfortable form factor, coupled with the premium finish, enhances its overall usability.

Hardware & Design

The Galaxy S10 features a premium design, combining a glass back (protected by Gorilla Glass 6) with a metal frame. The build quality is excellent and the device feels sturdy. The curved edges on the display and back make the phone comfortable to hold. The hole-punch display cutout for the front-facing camera is a design element that some might find distracting, while others might get accustomed to it. The phone is available in various eye-catching colors. The absence of a headphone jack is a downside for some, but the USB-C port supports audio output. The device's dimensions of 149.9 x 70.4 x 7.8 mm and a weight of 157g strike a good balance between portability and screen real estate.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy S10 remains a capable smartphone, despite its age. Its top-tier display, versatile camera system, powerful performance, and premium build make it a compelling option, especially if found at a discounted price. The lack of expandable storage and an older operating system are drawbacks. However, the S10's strengths outweigh its weaknesses for many users. For those who prioritize a high-quality display and camera experience, the Galaxy S10 is a worthwhile consideration in the secondary market.