Samsung Galaxy S10+

Is the Samsung Galaxy S10+ more than just a flagship or just another iteration in a long line of top models? This device was one of the most intriguing smartphones to test at the end of 2019, and it was already a top choice for those seeking a solid combination of performance, design, and advanced features. In this article, we share our honest experience with the phone after months of use, focusing on how the S10+ holds up after the time since its launch, what’s good, and what could be improved.

Design and Build – First Impressions and Daily Use

Natural Look and Build Quality

When you first pick up the Galaxy S10+, you immediately feel the premium build quality. The front is dominated by a stunning 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with a resolution of 3040 x 1440 pixels, without any notch. Instead, the smartphone uses a punch-hole design for the selfie camera, which significantly reduced the bezel space. The frame is made of aluminum with a Gorilla Glass front, giving a sense of luxury and durability.

Comfort and Ergonomic Feel

Despite its size, the Galaxy S10+ combines the ergonomic design of its predecessors, making daily use comfortable and hassle-free. It has withstood minor drops or bumps, but we still recommend using a case for added protection. Weighing 175 grams and measuring 157.6 x 74.1 x 7.8 mm, it feels substantial in the hand and fits comfortably in the pocket.

Display and Sensors – Visual Experience and Functionality

Infinity Display and Brightness

Beyond the design, the display is impressive – incredibly vibrant and sharp, with support for HDR10+ and SDC (standards for cinematic display). In daily use, whether watching videos, browsing the web, or using apps, the experience is top-notch. The automatic contrast adjustment technology ensures that content always looks perfect.

Fingerprint Sensor and Other Sensors

The under-display fingerprint sensor works like a well-oiled machine – fast and precise. The device recognized the fingerprint even in low-light conditions or after an hour of use, which is crucial for daily security and unlock speed.

Software Features and Daily Reliability

Android and One UI – A Better Experience

The S10+ runs Android 9 Pie with One UI, designed from the start for a more enjoyable experience with larger screens. After several updates, the software was stable and intuitive, with additional customization options. From dual messenger options to customizable themes, the phone offers a personalized experience.

Apps and Performance Speed

The device was well-optimized with a powerful Exynos 9820 or Snapdragon 855 processor, meaning multitasking was smooth, and performance remained top-tier even after a long period of use. In daily conditions, gaming and demanding apps ran flawlessly, and the 4100 mAh battery capacity allowed for a full day of use without major concerns.

Performance, Battery, and Camera – What Remains After Time

Battery Life

After more than a year of use, the battery capacity remained at 70-80% of the initially tested values, which is still enough for a full day of use with active 4G connection and plenty of content. Fast charging via USB-C allows the battery to reach full capacity in half an hour, which is particularly useful in emergencies.

Cameras – From Photography to Videography

The three rear cameras – wide, telephoto, and ultra-wide – were in use every day. Photography has always been Samsung’s strong suit, and after years of use, we can still praise the excellent sharpness, precise color management, and good performance in low light. Video recording at 4K with OIS is smooth and reliable, while the ultra-wide camera is often used for landscape shots and group backgrounds.

Conclusion – Is It Worth Using for the Long Term?

Our long-term impression of the Galaxy S10+ is positive. The device is still relevant and competitive even after several years since its launch, capable of delivering top-tier results. Moreover, although it is now an outdated model compared to newer releases like the Galaxy S21 or S23, it still handles daily tasks well and hasn’t lost its appeal or functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How long does the Galaxy S10+ battery last after a year of use? After a year, the battery capacity remains at 70-80%, which is still enough for daily use, but expect slightly less autonomy than newer models.
• Is the Galaxy S10+ still worth buying? If you’re looking for a top-tier phone for daily use without the need for the latest technologies like 5G, the S10+ is still a great choice.
• Does the Galaxy S10+ support 5G? No, the Galaxy S10+ does not support 5G. It is a 4G LTE device.
• Can the Galaxy S10+ be upgraded to the latest Android version? Yes, Samsung has been known to provide several years of software updates for its flagship devices. The S10+ received Android 11, which is the latest stable version as of now.
• Is the Galaxy S10+ water-resistant? The Galaxy S10+ has an IP68 rating, which means it is dust-resistant and can withstand being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for up to 30 minutes.