Why Buy the Samsung Galaxy S20+?
The Samsung Galaxy S20+ stands out as a powerhouse device that bridges premium features with practical everyday use. Its 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display delivers stunning visuals with a 120Hz refresh rate, making every swipe and scroll buttery smooth. The screen’s 1200 nits peak brightness ensures visibility even under direct sunlight, while HDR10+ support brings content to life with exceptional color accuracy and contrast.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the versatile quad-camera system. The 64MP telephoto lens offers 3x hybrid zoom capabilities, perfect for capturing distant subjects without sacrificing detail. Combined with the 12MP wide and ultrawide cameras, you get creative flexibility for any shooting scenario. What truly sets this phone apart is its 8K video recording capability—future-proofing your content creation as 8K displays become more common.
Performance remains solid thanks to either the Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865 5G chipset, depending on your region. The 8GB of RAM handles multitasking smoothly, while 128GB of internal storage provides ample space for apps, photos, and videos. Samsung DeX support transforms the phone into a desktop-like experience when connected to an external display, adding productivity versatility that competitors often lack.
The premium build quality shows Samsung’s attention to detail. Gorilla Glass 6 protects both front and back, while the aluminum frame adds structural integrity. IP68 water resistance means you can use the phone confidently in various conditions without worrying about accidental splashes or brief submersion.
Key Considerations Before Buying the Samsung Galaxy S20+
Battery life presents a realistic expectation rather than an extraordinary one. The 4500mAh capacity earned an 87-hour endurance rating in testing, which translates to a full day of moderate use. Heavy users who stream video, play games, or use navigation extensively might find themselves reaching for a charger by evening. The 25W wired charging helps recover power reasonably quickly, though some competing devices offer faster charging speeds.
The absence of a headphone jack might disappoint audiophiles who prefer wired listening. While the phone supports high-bitrate audio and features stereo speakers tuned by AKG, you’ll need USB-C headphones or wireless earbuds. The bright side is excellent Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity and support for multiple audio codecs.
Chipset performance varies significantly between regions. The Snapdragon 865 version (USA) generally delivers better performance and efficiency compared to the Exynos 990 variant (Global). If you’re purchasing in a market with the Exynos model, you might notice slightly shorter battery life and warmer temperatures during intensive tasks. This regional difference affects the overall experience more than Samsung’s marketing materials typically acknowledge.
Size and weight make the S20+ a substantial device. At 186 grams and 161.9mm tall, it’s not a phone for small hands or pockets. One-handed use requires adjustment, and you’ll definitely notice its presence. The 6.7-inch screen is fantastic for media consumption, but portability takes a slight hit compared to more compact alternatives.
The 120Hz refresh rate comes with a compromise—you can enjoy it only at Full HD resolution. Switching to the maximum Quad HD resolution locks the display at 60Hz. Most users won’t notice the resolution difference during daily use, but the choice between smoothness and sharpness exists.
Who Should Consider the Samsung Galaxy S20+?
Content creators will find the S20+ particularly compelling. The 8K video recording capability, combined with Super Steady video stabilization and gyro-EIS plus OIS, produces professional-looking footage. The ability to extract 33MP still images from 8K video provides creative workflow advantages. Photographers who frequently zoom will appreciate the 64MP telephoto lens, which maintains detail better than purely digital zoom implementations.
Mobile photographers seeking versatility across different shooting scenarios benefit from the comprehensive camera system. The 12MP ultrawide lens captures expansive landscapes or tight interior spaces, while the main 12MP wide camera with dual pixel PDAF and OIS handles everyday photography with consistent results. The dedicated depth sensor enhances portrait mode accuracy, creating natural-looking background blur.
Power users who multitask heavily will appreciate the 8GB of RAM combined with Samsung’s One UI interface. Running multiple apps simultaneously, switching between tasks, and using split-screen features remain smooth throughout the day. Samsung DeX functionality adds another dimension for those who occasionally need a desktop-like interface for document editing or presentations.
Media enthusiasts get a premium viewing experience. The Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with HDR10+ support makes streaming services look exceptional, while stereo speakers provide immersive audio without headphones. The large screen real estate makes reading, browsing, and gaming more enjoyable, though the refresh rate limitation at maximum resolution might bother display purists.
Tech enthusiasts who want a relatively recent Samsung flagship at current market prices find good value here. While newer models exist, the S20+ still handles modern apps and games competently. The availability of Android 13 updates shows Samsung’s commitment to software support, ensuring the device remains secure and functional.
Alternatives to the Samsung Galaxy S20+
The Samsung Galaxy S21+ presents a direct successor worth considering. It offers improved battery efficiency, a more refined design, and better camera processing. However, it removes the microSD card slot, which the S20+ retains. If expandable storage matters for your media library, the S20+ holds an advantage.
Google Pixel 5 appeals to photography purists who prioritize computational photography over hardware specs. Its smaller 6-inch display and 8GB RAM match the S20+ in memory, but Google’s camera software often produces more natural-looking photos despite lower megapixel counts. The cleaner Android experience without heavy UI customization attracts users who prefer minimal software additions.
OnePlus 8 Pro competes on display quality with its 120Hz Fluid AMOLED screen that maintains high refresh rates at maximum resolution. It charges faster at 30W wired and offers similar wireless charging capabilities. The Snapdragon 865 processor provides consistent performance across all markets without regional chipset variations.
iPhone 11 Pro Max serves users considering a switch to iOS. Its 6.5-inch display is slightly smaller, but Apple’s ecosystem integration and long-term software support present compelling advantages. The camera system emphasizes consistency and video quality over zoom capabilities, appealing to different creative priorities.
Samsung Galaxy S20+ Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Samsung Galaxy S20+ record in 8K video quality?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S20+ can record video in 8K resolution at 24fps. It also supports 4K recording at 30fps and 60fps, 1080p at various frame rates including 240fps for slow motion, and 720p at 960fps for super slow motion. The camera system includes gyro-EIS and OIS for stable footage, plus HDR10+ recording for enhanced dynamic range. You can also extract 33MP still images from 8K video.
Does the Galaxy S20+ support 5G connectivity?
The Snapdragon 865 5G variant available in the USA supports 5G connectivity. The global Exynos 990 version supports LTE networks but does not include 5G capability. Check your regional model to confirm 5G support, as this varies depending on where you purchase the device.
Can I use the 120Hz refresh rate and Quad HD resolution simultaneously?
No, the Samsung Galaxy S20+ does not allow simultaneous use of 120Hz refresh rate and Quad HD resolution. You can choose either 120Hz at Full HD resolution or 60Hz at Quad HD resolution. This is a software limitation designed to balance performance and battery life. Most users find the 120Hz at Full HD setting provides the best overall experience for daily use.
How long does the battery last on the Samsung Galaxy S20+?
The 4500mAh battery achieves an endurance rating of 87 hours in standardized testing, which translates to approximately one full day of moderate use. Battery life varies significantly based on settings and usage patterns. Using 120Hz refresh rate, maximum brightness, and intensive apps will drain the battery faster. The phone supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging to share power with other devices.
Is the Samsung Galaxy S20+ waterproof?
The Samsung Galaxy S20+ has an IP68 rating, making it dust tight and water resistant. It can withstand immersion in fresh water up to 1.5 meters deep for up to 30 minutes. This protection covers accidental spills, rain, and brief submersion, but the device should not be used for swimming or showering. Salt water, chlorinated water, and other liquids may cause damage and are not covered by the IP68 rating.