Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review dives deep into Samsung’s highest-end handset, launched in March 2020, just as 5G networks began to roll out globally. With its record-breaking 108 MP main camera, 100× Space Zoom feature and Dynamic AMOLED 2X display running at 120 Hz, this flagship redefined expectations for camera performance, connectivity and premium design. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every aspect of the Galaxy S20 Ultra—from unboxing to benchmarks—highlighting real-world usage, in-depth statistics and expert insights. Whether you’re a mobile photographer, hardcore gamer or productivity enthusiast, keep reading this Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review to learn why it still stands out in the ever-competitive smartphone market.
Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra Review: Overview
When Samsung unveiled the Galaxy S20 Ultra in early 2020, it boasted one of the most ambitious spec sheets ever packed into a smartphone. Our Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review examines its crowning features—massive 6.9-inch display, cutting-edge camera array and robust 5 G connectivity—while assessing everyday performance benchmarks. Priced at launch around $1,399, it targeted power users and mobile photography enthusiasts seeking peak hardware. Two years on, the S20 Ultra’s blend of Telephoto periscope lens, UFS 3.0 storage options and One UI software prowess still offer competitive value, even as newer flagships emerge.
In this section we’ll outline what makes the Galaxy S20 Ultra unique, before diving into packaging, design, display technology, processing power, battery endurance, camera innovations, software features and connectivity extras.
Packaging and Unboxing
What’s in the Box?
This part of the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review starts with unboxing to set expectations for premium accessories. Upon lifting the lid of the minimalist black box, you’ll find:
- Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra (5G) handset
- 25 W Super Fast Charger (USB Power Delivery 3.0)
- USB-C to USB-C cable
- AKG-tuned USB-C earbuds
- SIM eject tool, quick-start guide and warranty card
- Pre-applied screen protector
Although the device supports up to 45 W wired charging, Samsung bundled a 25 W adapter—enough to reach roughly 60% charge in 30 minutes. In everyday use, the slight gap compared to 45 W results in only a 10–15-minute difference for a full charge, which most users find acceptable.
Design and Materials
Our Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review highlights a premium build: a stainless steel frame sandwiched between Gorilla Glass 6 on both front and back. Measuring 166.9 × 76 × 8.8 mm and weighing 222 g (5G model), it feels substantial yet balanced in hand. The IP68 rating certifies water and dust resistance, surviving up to 1.5 m immersion for 30 minutes, an essential feature for on-the-go reliability. Available in Cosmic Gray, Cosmic Black and Cloud White finishes, its polished, edge-to-edge display and subtly curved sides contribute to a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Display and Design
Dynamic AMOLED 2X and 120 Hz Refresh Rate
The 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X panel stands at the core of this Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review. Offering a 1440 × 3200 pixel resolution (511 ppi), HDR10+ certification and a peak brightness over 1,400 nits, it delivers razor-sharp text, vivid color reproduction and deep blacks. When switched to 120 Hz, scrolling feels buttery smooth, whether browsing websites or playing fast-paced games. Touch sampling of 240 Hz further reduces latency, improving responsiveness in titles like Call of Duty Mobile or Genshin Impact.
Switching between 60 Hz and 120 Hz optimizes battery life: at QHD+ resolution, 120 Hz can be more demanding, so Samsung allows a shift to FHD+ resolution for extended runtime without sacrificing smoothness. Adaptive refresh rate technology adjusts dynamically based on content, preserving precious battery percentage.
Build Quality and Ergonomics
In our Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review, the handset’s large footprint and weight are the only minor drawbacks when used single-handed. However, the ergonomic curve of the metal frame and slim bezels help the phone rest comfortably in the palm. The side-mounted fingerprint sensor under the display unlocks with reliable speed, while facial recognition via the front camera adds an extra layer of convenience. For those craving durability, Gorilla Glass 6 resists scratches better than predecessors, though a case is recommended for maximum protection.
Performance and Hardware
Processor Variants: Exynos 990 vs. Snapdragon 865
Depending on the region, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review unit you purchase may feature Samsung’s in-house Exynos 990 chipset or Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865. Benchmarks reveal a slight edge for the Snapdragon variant—around 10% higher on CPU and GPU scores—but real-world performance remains top-tier for both. Tasks like 4K video editing, multi-window productivity and intensive gaming run seamlessly. Thermal management employs a vapor chamber cooling system, keeping sustained loads in check without notable throttling during marathon gaming or benchmarking sessions.
Memory and Storage Options
Configurations start at 12 GB LPDDR5 RAM paired with 128 GB UFS 3.0 storage, scaling up to a formidable 16 GB/512 GB combo. A dedicated microSD slot supports cards up to 1 TB, a rare inclusion in 2020 flagship devices. Multitasking between dozens of open tabs, 4K livestreaming and background uploads is handled effortlessly. In our Galaxy S20 Ultra review tests, app launches average 0.3–0.5 seconds, and large game installs average transfer speeds over 1,000 MB/s.
Thermal Management and Benchmarks
Under sustained pressure—running a full AnTuTu benchmark or extended Fortnite sessions—the S20 Ultra maintains solid performance, scoring over 600,000 points on AnTuTu v8. Thermal throttling rarely dips CPU frequency below 90% of peak, thanks to the vapor chamber and graphite layers. In real-world gaming, frame rates remain locked at 60 fps in Asphalt 9 and hover above 40 fps in more demanding titles, cementing its status as a gaming powerhouse.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery Endurance
The 5,000 mAh battery anchors our Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review with all-day stamina. In practical tests, users can expect 10–12 hours of screen-on time under mixed usage—web browsing, social media, GPS navigation and video calls on LTE/5 G. In lab environments, it logged:
- Video playback (Wi-Fi, 50% brightness): 18 hours
- Web browsing (Wi-Fi): 13 hours
- Voice calls (3G): 35 hours
These figures surpass many competing flagships and confirm that heavy users can comfortably endure a full workday without top-ups.
Wired, Wireless and Reverse Charging
Although bundled with a 25 W charger, the S20 Ultra supports up to 45 W Super Fast Charging. Plugging in a compatible adapter restores 100% battery in about 65 minutes, shaving off 15–20 minutes relative to the stock brick. For cordless convenience, 15 W Qi wireless charging is available, alongside 9 W reverse wireless power sharing (Wireless PowerShare) to juice up earbuds or a smartwatch directly from the phone’s back.
Camera System
At the heart of this Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review lies a camera setup that redefined flagship photography in 2020. Four distinct modules combine with advanced AI processing to deliver versatile optical zoom, high-resolution stills and cinema-grade video features.
Main 108 MP Sensor and Nonacell Technology
The 108 MP ISOCELL Bright HM1 sensor uses Nonacell technology—grouping nine pixels into one larger 2.4 µm equivalent—to capture 12 MP images with exceptional light sensitivity and lower noise. Daylight shots brim with detail, while low-light scenes benefit from pixel-binning and multi-frame processing, yielding sharp, natural results. HDR10+ on-the-fly tone mapping ensures highlights and shadows remain balanced without oversaturation.
Telephoto Periscope Lens and 100× Space Zoom
Samsung’s periscope telephoto lens pushes optical zoom to 4×, then extends via hybrid processing to 10×. With Space Zoom enabled, the Galaxy S20 Ultra can digitally magnify subjects up to 100×. While the 100× shots introduce visible noise, well-lit scenarios produce usable cropped images around 30–40× that rival dedicated point-and-shoot cameras. Bird-watchers and sports fans will appreciate the ability to isolate distant objects—something few smartphones offered at the time of release.
Ultra-Wide Shooter and DepthVision Camera
A 12 MP ultra-wide camera provides a 120° field of view, perfect for landscapes and architecture. Autofocus is surprisingly snappy, and edge-distortion correction keeps horizons straight. The additional DepthVision sensor enables accurate bokeh effects in Live Focus mode and supports 3D scanning applications. Portrait shots exhibit natural subject separation and smooth background blur.
Video Recording Capabilities
Beyond stills, our Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review praises its video prowess: 8K@24fps recording, 4K@60fps front and rear, and Super Steady stabilization for action sequences. Professional users gain access to Pro Mode for granular control over ISO, shutter speed and white balance. The Director’s View feature simultaneously captures footage from multiple lenses, offering a multi-angle perspective ideal for vloggers and content creators. Real-time RAW output (8 bit) in 4K ensures flexibility for post-production editing.
Software and User Experience
One UI 2.1 and Android Updates
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review unit ships with Android 10 layered beneath One UI 2.1—Samsung’s intuitive skin designed for large screens. One UI’s one-handed mode, edge panels and customizable navigation gestures streamline day-to-day use. Samsung committed to three major Android updates and four years of security patches, so owners can anticipate Android 11, 12 and 13 along with monthly security fixes through at least 2023.
Software Features and Samsung DeX
One UI 2.1 enhances Camera, Messages and Settings apps with redesigned layouts. Quick Share simplifies file transfers to nearby Galaxy devices, while Nearby Share connects to Chromebooks and Windows PCs. Samsung DeX transforms the phone into a desktop-like workstation—wirelessly or via an HDMI adapter—letting users edit documents on a full-size monitor with keyboard and mouse support.
Connectivity and Extras
5G and Network Support
A key part of our Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review is its advanced 5G modem. Supporting both sub-6 GHz and mmWave frequencies, it achieves theoretical download speeds up to 2.0 Gbps under ideal conditions. In metropolitan areas with dense 5G coverage, real-world speeds often range between 200–800 Mbps—enough for 4K streaming, cloud gaming and high-bandwidth conferencing without hiccups. Legacy connectivity options include Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, NFC and aptX HD audio for wireless headphones.
Biometric Security and Audio Capabilities
The ultrasonic in-display fingerprint scanner provides secure and fast unlocking, even in wetter conditions. Facial recognition serves as a convenient secondary option. Stereo speakers tuned by AKG deliver balanced sound with Dolby Atmos support. While the headphone jack is absent, the included USB-C AKG earbuds maintain audio clarity, and the adaptive equalizer customizes sound to personal preferences.
Pros and Cons of the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra
- Pros: Unmatched 108 MP camera quality, versatile 100× Space Zoom, stunning 120 Hz Dynamic AMOLED display, robust 5 000 mAh battery, premium build with IP68 rating and Gorilla Glass 6, expandable storage slot.
- Cons: Significant weight and size may deter one-handed use, high initial price, bundled 25 W charger falls short of the 45 W max, occasional focus issues at extreme zoom levels, Snapdragon vs. Exynos performance disparity by region.
Price and Availability
At launch, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review model started around $1 399 (128 GB variant). Today, prices have eased, with refurbished and carrier-subsidized options dipping below $900. Retailers and online marketplaces like Amazon, Best Buy and Samsung’s official store carry the device in various configurations. Frequent promotions on 5G plans further reduce out-of-pocket costs, making the S20 Ultra an attainable flagship even in late-2022.
Conclusion
This Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra review confirms that, despite being introduced in 2020, the S20 Ultra remains a formidable flagship. Its groundbreaking camera system—bolstered by 108 MP resolution, periscope telephoto and Nonacell technology—continues to outshine many competitors. Add to that a gorgeous 120 Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, blazing performance from the Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865 chipset, robust battery life and comprehensive 5G support. Whether you’re crafting cinematic content, battling in graphically intense games or simply multitasking across productivity apps, the Galaxy S20 Ultra delivers top-tier results with confidence.
For users prioritizing camera innovation, premium design and future-proof connectivity, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra still stands tall among flagship smartphones in 2022 and beyond.
FAQ
- Is the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra worth buying in 2023?
Yes. With price reductions, continued software updates and flagship-level features, the S20 Ultra offers excellent value for photography enthusiasts and power users.
- How does the 100× Space Zoom perform in real-world use?
While 100× delivers impressive reach, optimal results appear around 30–40× in good lighting. Beyond that, digital noise increases, so moderate zoom yields sharper images.
- Can the battery last a full day on a single charge?
Absolutely. Our tests show 10–12 hours of screen-on time under mixed usage. Enabling 60 Hz mode and dark theme can extend endurance further.
- Does the device still receive Android updates?
Samsung committed to three major Android OS upgrades and four years of security patches. You can expect Android 11, 12 and 13 plus monthly security updates through at least late 2023.
- Which is better: Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865?
The Snapdragon 865 variant usually edges out in benchmarks and graphics performance, but real-world differences are minor. Both chipsets handle daily tasks and gaming smoothly.
Published by Revuvio · Reviewed March 2020 · Updated November 2022
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