Many of you prefer to buy a phone adapted to your actual needs rather than opting for the latest model. If that is the case for you, and you are a fan of Samsung, Back Market offers a complete comparison of the Samsung Galaxy S9 and its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy S8.
Samsung Galaxy S9 vs S8: strengths and weaknesses
With this list of the two phones’ strengths and weaknesses, you will already have a first glance at what you can expect. Although these models are not the latest generation, we must still indicate that their performances are sufficient for the current market, with an excellent value for money.
Samsung Galaxy S9
Strengths
- One of the most powerful Android smartphones.
- Superb picture quality.
- Good camera.
- Headphone jack.
Weaknesses
- No dual camera module.
- Less battery life than the Galaxy S8.
Between 15% and 25% more performance for the Samsung S9
The Samsung Galaxy S8 is equipped with an Exynos 8895 processor with 4 GB of RAM.
However, the next model has an Exynos 9810 processor, with 4GB of RAM and 64 Gb of storage. Both contain 8 cores and can host microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC memory cards. However, only the most recent allows the ability to insert 2 SIM cards at the same time.
After the manufacturer, the difference in processor provdes a 15 to 25% increase in performance. These are normal values in the transition from one generation of smartphone to another.
This is a plus for the S9, but the S8 is not too far behind.
An extra hour of battery life for the Samsung S8
This is an extremely important criteria when choosing a new phone. If it’s not capable of holding a charge for an entire day, there is no benefit in investing a large sum of money.
The Samsung Galaxy S8 battery offers better performance than that of the S9. In communication, you can use your phone for no less than 23 hours. This is an excellent statistic. With the S9, you can use the phone for 16 straight hours. For multitask endurance, the S8 is even stronger, with 12 hours and 16 minutes compared to only 11 hours and 18 minutes for the next generation.
Here, both batteries have a capacity of 3000 mAh and the ability to charge quickly; neither is removable.
The battery life therefore adds another strong point, without contest, to the S8.
The fingerprint sensor is better placed on the Samsung Galaxy S9
Although there has been no revolutionary design changes between the two models, once thing deserves to be highlighted: the S9 has been given a redesign of the digital fingerprint sensor with a position that is much better adapted than on the S8.
Otherwise, the slab for the screen and the facade remains the same, and the two benchmarks are very close. In terms of dimensions, the difference is hardly noticeable. The Samsung Galaxy S9 measures 14.77 x 6.87 x 0.85, while its counterpart the S8 measures 14.89 x 6.81 x 0.8. A minute change that has no effect on this very tight battle.
The fingerprint sensor is placed under the camera on the Samsung Galaxy S9 (left)
The screen is almost the same on both models.
On this point, the difference between the Samsung Galaxy S8 and its successor the S9 is not obvious. They both measure 5.8 inches, which gives them the capacity to fit inside jean pockets. Both screens are Super Amoled and they have excellent resolution. They have a definition of 2960 by 1440 pixels and resolution of 568 ppi. Thus, the screen resolution – a very important criteria for viewing photos and videos – does not differentiate the two models.
From the front, it is very difficult to distinguish the Samsung Galaxy S9 (left) from its predecessor (right)
The cameras of both models are suitable for budding photographers.
Here again, Samsung has not made any big changes. The main sensor of both devices is equipped with a 12 megapixel camera, which is very good for a smartphone. Aspiring photographers would be happy with either one of the two models. Those that are more closely interested in photography can make use of the adjustable opening, which is only on the Galaxy S9. This option offers the possibility of adjusting the diaphragm opening at f/1.5 or f/2.4. A small innovation that can make a difference, especially if you like to take portrait photos.
The front sensor is 8 megapixels for both versoins.
An innovation is present in terms of video for the S9, with the possibility of filming in super slow motion at 960 images per second during 0.2 seconds for a total of 6 seconds of video.
40% more audio power for the Samsung Galaxy S9
Depending on your smartphone usage preferences, the speakers could be a key point in the selection of your next acquisition. Although it can be complicated to decide between the Samsung Galaxy S8 and S9, the quality of audio performance allows the latter to stand out.
On the S8, the speakers and sound quality were clearly not a strong point. With their poor placement on the lower part, they were rapidly saturated. Now placed on each side of the screen, they provide almost 40% more power compared to those of the S8. These new AKG brand stereo speakers allow the S9 to take precedence over its predecessor in terms of performance.
To be noted that in terms of communication, both models operate on GSM 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 1900 MHz bands.
Verdict of our comparison: Samsung Galaxy S8 vs S9
With the slight differences, it is difficult to decide between the two phones. If the performances of one offer a slight advantage, the price of the other allows it to largely even the score, because the Samsung Galaxy S9 costs at least 100 euros more than its counterpart. Your criteria and personal preferences will therefore make the difference.
The Samsung Galaxy S9 is for you if:
- You listen to a lot of music and watch many videos.
- You have an older model such as the S6 or 7.
- Have a slightly higher budget.
- Research the best-performing camera.
The Samsung Galaxy S8 is for you if:
- You are looking for the best value for money.
- You don’t have a special interest in audio.
- You place a high value on battery life.
Leave your comments here :)