Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+ Practical First-Hand Review

When it comes to high-end Android phablets, few names command attention like Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+. Launched in August 2019, these devices combined flagship-level power, a Dynamic AMOLED display, and the signature S Pen stylus to deliver a versatile smartphone experience. In this hands-on review, we’ll dive into their design, display, camera performance, battery life, S Pen capabilities, software nuances, and real-world pros and cons, helping you decide whether the Note10 duo still holds up in 2024’s competitive mobile market.

Design and Build Quality of Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+

Both Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+ continue the brand’s tradition of sleek curves and refined glass-and-metal construction. While the Note10 measures 151 x 71.8 x 7.9 mm and weighs 168 grams, the Note10+ stretches to 162.3 x 77.2 x 7.9 mm at 196 grams. Despite the size difference, each phone feels premium in hand, thanks to Gorilla Glass 6 on both front and back and an aluminum frame that resists bending without adding bulk.

Materials and Ergonomics of Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+

• Aluminum chassis: Aerospace-grade aluminum wraps the edges, giving both devices superb rigidity and a comfortable grip that avoids unwanted slippage.
• Gorilla Glass 6: Scratch resistance on the front and rear panels ensures durability for daily use, although a protective case remains advisable for users with an active lifestyle.
• Ergonomic balance: The smaller Note10 is ideal for one-handed operation, while the larger Note10+ offers a note-taking canvas that creatives and productivity buffs will appreciate.

Colour Variants and Detail Highlights

Samsung’s Aura Glow gradient remains the showstopper, shifting hues as it catches light, while Aura White and Aura Black present a more understated, professional look. The rear camera bump is subtle, almost flush with the matte finish, and the front display’s Infinity-O punch-hole for the selfie lens barely intrudes on the viewing area.

Display and Visual Experience of Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+

At the heart of the Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+ experience lie their industry-leading Dynamic AMOLED panels, both HDR10+ certified and optimized for high-contrast content.

Display Specifications

• Note10: 6.3-inch, 1080 x 2280 pixels, 401 PPI, HDR10+
• Note10+: 6.8-inch, 1440 x 3040 pixels, 498 PPI, HDR10+

Colour Accuracy and HDR Performance

Photos and videos on these devices pop with vivid reds and deep blacks, thanks to a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio that dynamically adjusts based on ambient light. Whether streaming Netflix in HDR or browsing photos, the Note10 duo delivers a lifelike palette. Gamers will benefit from the fast 60 Hz refresh rate and Adaptive Colour mode, which even enhances the visual fidelity of Android 10 and One UI-based games like Call of Duty Mobile.

Camera Capabilities of Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+

With a triple-camera array (plus an extra ToF sensor on the Note10+), Samsung raised the bar for versatile mobile photography in 2019.

Main and Ultra-Wide Sensors

• Main camera: 12 MP Dual Pixel PDAF, f/1.5–2.4, Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)
• Ultra-wide lens: 16 MP, f/2.2, 123° field of view

Telephoto and ToF Section

• Telephoto lens: 12 MP, f/2.1, 2x optical zoom, OIS
• ToF depth sensor (Note10+): Improves bokeh precision, supports 3D scanning for AR applications

Photography Results and Night Mode

During daylight tests, the phone’s HDR processing strikes a balanced tone: highlights aren’t blown out, and shadows retain detail. Telephoto shots retain surprising clarity at 2x zoom, while the ultra-wide lens captures expansive landscapes without the fish-eye distortion found in many competitors. In low-light conditions, Night Mode stitches multiple exposures for cleaner shots, with minimal noise and natural color reproduction.

Video Recording Excellence

Both models record up to 4K 60 fps with HDR10+ encoding, delivering cinematic footage that retains color depth even in complex lighting. Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) and the Super Steady Mode reduce shake, making handheld walking shots or active scenarios—like cycling—look silky smooth. Pro Video mode allows manual control over ISO, shutter speed, and focus, rivalling standalone camcorders for vloggers.

Performance and Hardware Rundown

The powerhouse duo of Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+ is built around either the Exynos 9825 (Europe) or Snapdragon 855 (US/China), paired with generous RAM and storage options.

Processor and Benchmark Scores

• Chipset: Exynos 9825 / Snapdragon 855
• RAM: 8 GB (Note10) / 12 GB (Note10+)
• Geekbench 5: ~750 single-core / ~2,500 multi-core

Whether multitasking with 10+ apps, editing 4K video in Adobe Rush, or running augmented reality experiences, both models breezed through tasks without hiccups or thermal throttling.

Storage and Expandability

The Note10 starts at 256 GB of internal storage, while the Note10+ offers 256 GB or 512 GB models. The latter also supports microSD expansion up to 1 TB, a rare feature in modern flagships that often omit expandable storage.

Battery Life and Charging Features

Endurance is a mixed bag: the smaller battery in the Note10 (3,500 mAh) generally lasts a full workday under moderate use, while the Note10+ (4,300 mAh) comfortably pushes into a second day with power-saving tweaks enabled.

Charging Speeds and Wireless Options

• Fast wired charging: 25 W adapter (45 minutes to 50% on Note10+, 40 minutes on Note10)
• Wireless charging: 12 W Qi-compatible pads
• Reverse Wireless PowerShare: Top up earbuds or a friend’s phone at 9 W

Power Management Tips

1. Enable Adaptive Power Saving in Settings → Device Care to limit background activity.
2. Lower screen brightness and switch from Quad HD+ to FHD+ resolution for extended runtime.
3. Turn off Always-On Display or schedule it to activate only during work hours.

S Pen Innovations and Productivity

The Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+ wouldn’t be true Note-series phones without the upgraded S Pen, now boasting Bluetooth LE connectivity and gesture controls.

Air Actions and Remote Features

• Camera control: Swipe in the air to switch lenses or capture photos remotely.
• Music playback: Jump tracks and adjust volume with flick gestures.
• Presentation pointer: Navigate slides in PowerPoint without touching your phone.

Note-Taking and Creativity

Samsung Notes offers real-time handwriting conversion to text, with support for PDF annotation and export as Word or PowerPoint files. Artists will appreciate the pressure-sensitive brush in PENUP and Clip Studio Paint Mobile, where tilt and pressure deliver nuanced strokes for sketches and detailed illustrations.

Software Experience and Updates

Both devices launched with One UI 1.5 on top of Android 9 Pie and are upgradeable to One UI 4/Android 12. Samsung’s commitment to four years of security patches keeps the Note10 duo relevant and secure well into late 2024.

One UI Highlights

• Dark Mode: System-wide option that conserves battery on AMOLED panels.
• Multi-Window: Run two apps side by side or pop-up view for true multitasking.
• Bixby Routines: Automate tasks like enabling Wi-Fi at home or launching music apps upon headphone detection.

Pros and Cons of Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+

• Pros: Stunning Dynamic AMOLED display, powerful Exynos/Snapdragon chipset, versatile quad-camera setup, feature-rich S Pen, expandable storage (Note10+), reverse wireless charging.
• Cons: Average battery life on smaller Note10, absence of headphone jack, high price point, plastic SIM tray feels less premium, competition from newer foldable devices.

Conclusion

After extensive daily use, the Samsung Galaxy Note10 and Note10+ continue to impress with their balanced combination of design, performance, and productivity tools. If you value an exceptional AMOLED screen, a capable stylus experience, and solid camera performance, these phablets remain a worthy investment. However, if battery life or a 3.5 mm audio jack is a dealbreaker, you might explore alternative flagships or the newer Galaxy Note20 series.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Samsung Galaxy Note10 still worth buying in 2024?

Yes, if you can find it at a discounted price. It delivers flagship-level performance, a premium Dynamic AMOLED panel, and the productivity power of the S Pen. Bear in mind that battery life may be shorter compared to newer models.

2. What is the main difference between Note10 and Note10+?

The Note10+ offers a larger 6.8-inch Quad HD+ display, a 4,300 mAh battery, microSD expansion up to 1 TB, and a dedicated ToF depth sensor for better bokeh effects. The Note10 is more compact with a 6.3-inch screen and 3,500 mAh battery, but still packs the same processor and camera trio.

3. How long does the Note10 battery last with heavy use?

Under intensive tasks such as gaming, video streaming, and GPS navigation, expect around 6–7 hours of screen-on time on the Note10, and roughly 8–9 hours on the Note10+ with its larger battery.

4. Can I use the S Pen for drawing and professional design work?

Absolutely. The S Pen’s 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt detection, and low latency make it suitable for sketching, digital painting, and note-taking in apps like Clip Studio Paint Mobile and Autodesk SketchBook.

5. Does the Samsung Galaxy Note10 support wireless charging for other devices?

Yes, both the Note10 and Note10+ feature Reverse Wireless Charging (PowerShare) at up to 9 W, allowing you to top up earbuds, smartwatches, or another Qi-enabled phone directly from the back panel.