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Two names consistently stand out in the growing world of smartphones: Apple’s iPhone and Samsung’s Galaxy. Choosing between these two giants can be a big commitment, given their distinct ecosystems and features. Read ahead for an in-depth iPhone vs. Samsung comparison that details design, user experience, camera capabilities, performance, ecosystem integration, and device pricing.
Apple’s iOS offers a consistent and user-friendly interface across all iPhone models. This makes the experience familiar if you’ve had an Apple device in the past.
iOS has features focused on device security, like Face ID to keep unauthorised users out, easy system updates, and data encryption. Additionally, iOS offers features like AirDrop for quick file sharing between other Apple devices, Siri voice-activated digital assistant, and seamless integration with other Apple services such as iCloud and Apple Music.
Samsung Galaxy devices run on Android OS, an operating system with flexibility and personalisation options. Nearly all phone models except for iPhones run on Android. If you’ve had other Android-run phones, like Google Pixel or Motorola, Samsung Galaxy will feel familiar.
Android allows users to customise their home screens and use third-party widgets. Samsung adds its own flair with the One UI, which offers features such as Edge Panels for quick access to apps and contacts. It also offers Samsung DeX to use your Galaxy more like a desktop computer than a smartphone.
The App Store offers additional important security features, like app sandboxing, which restricts third-party apps from making changes to your iPhone or from accessing files stored by other apps. App Store also has strict criteria for third parties to upload apps, ensuring that all apps are high-quality and secure.
Samsung Galaxy phones and all Android phones use the Google Play store. The Google Play app approval process is less stringent than Apple’s; however, all apps are checked for malware or viruses and for overall quality. Most major apps found on the App Store can be found on Google Play.
Apple devices, like iPhone, iPad, MacBook, Apple Watch, and Apple TV, work together seamlessly in Apple’s ecosystem. Features like handoff let you start a task or finish listening to a podcast on one device and finish it on another. Continuity allows for calls and messages to be taken on any device, too. iCloud, Apple’s cloud storage system, allows your data to be accessible across all devices.
Galaxy smartphones integrate well with Samsung tablets, smartwatches, TVs, and smart home devices. Features like Quick Share and Samsung Cloud provide data transfer, device syncing, and backup solutions on multiple devices. Samsung’s SmartThings app allows users to control their smart home devices from their Galaxy phone. Additionally, Samsung’s partnership with Microsoft brings enhanced productivity features, including seamless syncing with Windows PCs.
Apple’s iPhones use either aluminium, titanium, or stainless steel on the outer body, depending on the model. The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max use titanium to lighten the device’s weight, while the iPhone 14 uses aluminium and the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max use stainless steel. Apple uses Ceramic Shield glass in all models beginning with iPhone 12. Many of these models have a glass back as well.
iPhone Models starting with iPhone 13 are IP68 rated, which means they’re dust-tight and water-resistant. This means your phone can be submersed in a depth up to 6 meters for up to 30 minutes without damage. Older models are also dust-tight and water-resistant, but are water-resistant to a lesser degree.
Nearly all iPhone models no longer have the home button, a once-standard design feature that was removed in 2017. The most recent model with the home button is the iPhone SE (2022).
Samsung Galaxy phones focus on practical design elements, such as ergonomic curves, to make their large-screen phones comfortable and easy to hold.
Many Galaxy phones use Gorilla Glass or Gorilla Glass Victus, which can be up to four times stronger than other phones that use aluminosilicate glass composite. This glass was introduced on the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra. If you tend to drop your phone, Galaxy’s strong glass may be a good reason to make the switch.
Newer Galaxy models' bodies are made of titanium (S24 Ultra) or armour aluminium (S24 and S24+). Select older models, such as the S21, use durable plastic instead of Gorilla Glass for the back. Galaxy Ultra phones, beginning with the S21 Ultra 5G, come with a built-in S Pen stylus as well.
iPhones are powered by Apple’s custom-designed chipsets, which are known for their performance and efficiency. A10-A17 chips — which chip is used in which phone varies – provide excellent CPU and GPU performance, ensuring smooth multitasking, gaming, video-watching, and more.
Battery life is optimised through a combination of hardware and software. You can check on battery health and usage, which are accompanied by activity insights and optimisation suggestions based on how you use your phone. iPhones support Qi wireless charging from the iPhone 8 onwards.
Storage options vary greatly depending on the model. Older phones can have as little as 16GB of storage, while newer models can have as much as 1TB.
iPhones also feature eSIM or Nano SIM for easier wireless network connection. Depending on the model, some phones include just an eSIM or Nano SIM card option.
Samsung Galaxy phones are equipped with powerful chipsets such as the Snapdragon 888 or Exynos 2100, depending on the region. These processors deliver strong performance for all types of tasks, from gaming to productivity.
Galaxy devices often feature larger batteries, providing longer usage times. Galaxy phones support fast charging, starting with the S6 edge+, and Qi wireless charging, starting with the Galaxy S8 and S8+.
Storage options vary depending on the model. Galaxy models have storage options ranging from 16GB to 1TB. Many Galaxy phones also offer expandable memory via microSD cards. Select Galaxy phones also offer RAM Plus, which allows for memory expansion by using the phone’s storage as virtual memory, improving multitasking and performance.
Samsung Galaxy phones offer dual SIM, eSIM, and Standard, Micro, or Nano SIM cards, depending on the chosen model.
Some iPhone models feature dual or triple camera setups, with advanced sensors and lenses that provide excellent photo and video quality. The more recent models feature a 12MP front-facing camera and a 48MP rear-facing camera, with additional MP ranges for zoom and ultra-wide settings. For the typical iPhone user, these features translate into consistently high-quality photos and videos without extensive manual adjustments or professional-level photography knowledge.
Features like Night mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR ensure great performance in every lighting condition, from the beaming morning sun to midnight darkness. Portrait mode offers depth-of-field effects, so one object is in focus while the background is blurred. Video capabilities support 4K recording, cinematic stabilisation, and ProRAW format for professional-grade editing. You can also use QuickTake video to take photos while recording video.
Samsung Galaxy rear cameras are available up to 200MP, a significantly higher resolution than the iPhone camera. The front-facing camera is anywhere from 4MP to 12MP, depending on the model you choose.
Galaxy frame rate settings can be adjusted for smoother motion. These devices offer auto settings for photo capturing and video recording, as well as special settings like long-exposure photos, Night, Food, Panorama, and Portrait mode for ideal picture-taking in all sorts of settings. For advanced users, Pro mode gives them control over features such as ISO for light sensitivity, shutter speed, white balance, and manual focus to make the phone feel like a DSLR camera.
Brand-new iPhones start at £429 and go up to £1,599. The price depends on the storage selected, the iPhone series, and if you select Pro, Pro Max, Max, or Standard models. To get a great phone on a budget, refurbished iPhones offer the same quality with more models to choose from. Back Market’s refurbished iPhones typically range from less than £100 to £1,000, depending on the model, storage size, the phone’s physical condition, and other factors.
Brand-new Samsung Galaxy phones start at £399.99 and go up to £2,159.99, depending on the model and storage size. Just like the iPhone, Back Market offers refurbished Samsung Galaxy phones that bring the same features and performance quality as a new device, for a wallet-friendly price. Back Market’s Samsung Galaxy price range is between less than £100 to less than £2,000.
Feature | iPhone | Samsung Galaxy |
Operating system (OS) | iOS | Android OS with Samsung One UI |
Chipsets (SoC) | A10-A17, depending on model | Exynos or Snapdragon, depending on model |
Central Processing Unit (CPU) | 6-core | Octa-core or Quad-Core, depending on model |
RAM | 2GB-8GB, depending on model | 2GB-16GB, depending on model |
Storage | 16GB-1TB, depending on model | 16GB-1TB, depending on model |
Compatibility | Other Apple devices, wallets, wireless chargers, and more, depending on model | S Pen, Smart Watch, Microsoft computers, depending on model |
Camera megapixel: Front | 7MP-12MP, depending on the setting and model | 4MP-12MP |
Camera megapixel: Rear | Up to 48MP | Up to 200MP |
Build materials | Stainless steel, aluminium, or titanium frame, depending on model Ceramic Shield glass, beginning with iPhone 12 | Corning Gorilla Glass or Gorilla Glass Victus, depending on model Aluminium or Titanium frame, depending on model |
SIM card | eSIM and/or Nano SIM, depending on model | Dual SIM, eSIM, and Standard, Micro, or Nano SIM, depending on model |
Weight | 144 - 240 grams, depending on model | 102 - 263 grams, depending on model |
Full screen size | 4.7 - 6.7 inches, depending on model | 4.7 - 7.6 inches, depending on model |
Phone measurements | Height*: 5.45” - 6.33” Width: 2.65” - 3.02” Depth: 0.29” - 0.33” Depending on model | Height^: 3.34” - 6.8” Width: 2.64” - 3.11” Deth: 0.27” - 0.34” Depending on model |
*The smallest iPhone measured is the iPhone SE. The largest iPhone measured is the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
^The smallest Galaxy phone measured is the Samsung Galaxy S10E. The largest Galaxy phone measured is the Galaxy S24 Ultra. Measurements do not include the Galaxy Z Flip5 or the Galaxy Fold.
Choosing between an iPhone and a Galaxy phone ultimately comes down to personal preference and needs. If you value a seamless ecosystem, regular updates, and a polished user experience, an iPhone might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer customisation, a broader range of hardware options, and cutting-edge camera technology, a Samsung Galaxy may be more suitable.
Consider what aspects are most important to you, such as design, camera capabilities, and ecosystem integration, to make the best decision for your newly refurbished phone pick.
Make your next phone a refurbished one with Back Market. Better for your wallet and the planet, a refurbished phone offers all the features you need for work and play without the price tag of a brand-new device. Transparent device grading and ratings, free 30-day returns, and a 1-year warranty mean that you can shop for your new-to-you iPhone or Galaxy worry-free. No matter which device you choose, shop now to find the best models and prices for your lifestyle.
When not fighting the good fight for environmental sustainability, Haziq loves making reviews of everything and anything tech-related.
So… it seems that we're going to be spending a little time confined to our homes, with only the plants for company. It's probably a good time to grow a small vegetable garden on your balcony anyway, or… maybe just reconnect with your console or PC. But there will come a time when you have to work, so for those of you who are not used to working remotely, we’re here to offer you a small survival kit to equip you in these exceptional circumstances.
The production and end-of-life disposal of our smartphones, computers and other modern tech has a dramatic impact on the environment, which can often be overlooked when compared to other environmental issues. Half of the carbon emissions from the digital sector (making up 4% of global emissions) come from the production of such devices and refurbishing these instead of simply replacing, while not a perfect solution, can help to significantly limit their environmental impact. We’d like to tell you a little more about it here.
We’re all about the latest and most cutting-edge devices here at Back Market. The differences between this and previous year’s iPhone are more iterative than revolutionary. Additionally, the cost of the latest flagship device is soaring through the roof. So, could this be the time to save a few hundred quid and choose a refurbished iPhone 11 as your next phone?
The Apple iPhone XS Max was launched in September 2018, and since then, it has been dominating the world of smartphones. This Apple iPhone is the complete package. It is equipped with new and better features than its predecessors (i.e., iPhone X, iPhone XR, and iPhone XS). On Back Market, we present you with both a new and refurbished iPhone XS Max. And in this guide, we take you through the outstanding features of iPhone XS Max, from camera quality to screen design, hardware to the physical structure. This will help you flawlessly navigate the phone and get the best out of it.
Samsung stands out as a leading smartphone manufacturer for a good reason – quality. The company did not become the bestseller of Android devices overnight. Its flagship product line, Samsung Galaxy S, offers users new premium features and aesthetics with every release. The Samsung Galaxy S9 is one of the finest smartphones in the Galaxy S family. Its official launch was in March 2018, but it remains one of the most sought-after android devices. Are you wondering why anyone would be shopping for a device so old in the market? Hang on. If you want the best value for your hard-earned cash, don't be the first to buy a newly launched product unless you want to be a guinea pig. It's best to wait until the first buyers to review it.
So you've decided to treat yourself to a refurbished iPhone, and have zeroed in on the iPhone X and the iPhone 11. Stellar choices both, but what you eventually decide to buy depends on what you're looking for in a phone. Good looks? Power? Prestige? Okay, we're going a bit too far here ;-) On a serious note though, both phones provide serious value-for-money and won't disappoint. In fact, the latest IOS update 14.0.1 available on both devices will give you that seamless experience you've been waiting for on a mobile device. Let's get started then - hopefully by the end of this guide, you'll have made up your mind!
Looking for the cheapest Apple iPhone? Here's everything you need to know about iPhone deals and discounts, plus where to buy the cheapest iPhones.
It is the small things that matter to the consumer, and Apple has given its customers all reason to continue being loyal. The iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and the iPhone XR were launched in 2018. The models have improved battery life, better cameras, and a boost in performance. Previously iPhones lagged in the battery life category, but with the new XS models, the smartphone’s battery life is on the leaderboard. All these improvements give you enough reason to pick the iPhone over other smartphone brands. We shall discuss some of the different iPhone XS tests, including the drop test, battery life test, processor speed, and camera test.
Deciding what MacBook to get is never easy with the frequent new releases and new technology. And most people do not know what to look for when getting one. To pick the right Mac, you need to consider the purpose of the device. If the Mac is for sending emails, skyping, or using Instagram, you do not need an expensive laptop. While people looking for a gaming laptop will go for Macs with higher processor speeds. There are various factors to consider when getting a Mac: the cost, the laptop’s processor, memory just to mention a few.
So you're mulling over the refurbished iPhone 7, and the refurbished iPhone 7 Plus? Great choices both. Prices have fallen considerably, and with Back Market, you'll be enjoying a deeper discount (with peace of mind) but more on our quality charter later. Let's get right into it then - hopefully you'll have decided on a winner by the end of this article - will it be the refurbished iPhone 7, or the refurbished iPhone 7 Plus.
Ah! So you want a portable computer, and have settled on the gold standard of laptops, Apple's cherished MacBook Pro collection. Great choice! Pretty back-lit keyboards.. a smooth multi-touch trackpad, and an overall enjoyable user experience. What's even better? Apple has abandoned those flimsy Butterfly keyboards (a carpal nightmare, weren't they?) and replaced them with the super intuitive Magic Touch Keyboards.
Which of these two premium mobiles are you going to be taking home - the refurbished Samsung Galaxy S10, or the refurbished Samsung Galaxy S10+ ? Read on, and hopefully by the end of this comparison, you'll have zeroed in on a winner.
Should I buy the refurbished MacBook Pro or the refurbished MacBook Air? Do I want style or substance? Are they both necessarily exclusive? Questions, questions! But you've come to the right place to figure out which one's for you, the MacBook Pro or the MacBook Air!
Even though the iPhone 11 is an older model smartphone, it's still packed with features, and supports most modern apps. This makes it a perfectly good device as a fast-performing everyday phone.
This fee allows Back Market to invest in quality control with our refurbishers, to offer you the best experience possible when buying refurbished products from us.
We eat, sleep, and do bathroom stuff all with our phone in hand. But have we ever really checked in on its effect on the environment?
