The great debate
But is one really better than the other? Or does it just come down to personal preference? Well, we’re throwing it back to 2018 and comparing the Apple iPhone XS and the Samsung S9 to take a deeper look into some of the most popular features consumers consider pre-purchase.
Camera
The iPhone camera features have always exceeded expectations with cool new modes and tricks than their competitor models, so we decided to look at just the camera quality itself.
Both models featured a front and rear camera with a flash, zoom and auto focus. Both model’s rear cameras were 12MP, while the Samsungs front camera was slightly better at 8MP (7MP for the iPhone XS).
When it comes to aperture, the model’s range was quite different. For those who don’t understand aperture, it is basically the size of the opening through which light can enter the camera. The way this is measured is by f-stops. The smaller the f-stop the wider the opening and therefore more light can reach the sensor, resulting in better low light pictures and less noise.
Now that’s all clear, let’s look at the cameras. The rear facing cameras dual aperture were almost the same, with both reaching a f/2.4 aperture. However, the Samsungs aperture range went a little wider at the widest aperture at an f/F1.5 while the iPhone XS widest was f/1.8. Then front camera aperture range varied drastically with the iPhone at an f/2.2 and the Samsung at an f/1.8.
Video recording is similar on both models, with 4K video recording at 60 frames per second. But the iPhone has the ability to record at 24 and 30 frames per second.
So, the camera comes down to what exactly you're wanting. If it’s video recording, go with the iPhone. If it's photos, go with Samsung.
Power and Battery
Both models had non-removable built-in rechargeable batteries. However, usage time on both models depended on a few factors: wireless, data connection and usage at the time. So we decided to list what each claimed to achieve:
iPhone XS
Talk time (wireless): Up to 20 hours
Internet use: Up to 12 hours
Video playback (wireless): Up to 14 hours
Audio playback (wireless): Up to 60 hours
Samsung
Internet Usage Time(3G) (Hours): Up to 11
Internet Usage Time(4G LTE) (Hours): Up to 12
Internet Usage Time(Wi-Fi) (Hours): Up to 14
Video Playback Time (Hours): Up to 16
Audio Playback Time (Hours): Up to 48
Audio Playback Time (Hours, Always On Display Off): Up to 80
Capacity
Both models came with the standard 64GB or 256 GB capacity, whereas the iPhone also had a 512GB capacity option. However, Samsung was one step ahead with an external memory card allowing for a whopping 400GB of extra storage space.
Accessories
Both models share features such as a headphone jack, GPS, Wifi and Bluetooth connectivity as well as their own versions of voiceover assistance, fast and easy payment and video calling. But the iPhone just takes it to the next level with Face ID, Animoji and Memoji, and the classic little nifty switch on the side to turn your phone to silent mode.
When it comes down to it, both phones are awesome and will come down to your personal preferences. Both options are great for users of all types. But if your life's about video, go with the Samsung. If it’s photos and apps, go with the iPhone.