samsung-s9-vs-iphone-x

Samsung S9 vs iPhone X: what are the differences?

On one side, Samsung... On the other hand, iPhone... But who will win in a head-to-head match for the title of best smartphone here? Here's our S9 vs iPhone X comparison to help you choose your next everyday companion.

Samsung S9 vs iPhone X: what are the features?

S9

iPhone X

Dimensions

14.77 x 6.87 x 0.85cm

14.36 x 7.09 x 0.77cm

Weight

158g

174g

Screen size

5.8 inches

5.8 inches

Screen resolution

2960 x 1440px (568ppi)

2436 x 1125px (458ppi)

Screen technology

Super-AMOLED

OLED

Processor chip

8-core Exynos 9810

6-core Apple A11 Bionic

RAM

4GB

3GB

Storage capacity (min.)

64 GB

64 GB

Battery capacity

3000mAh

2716mAh

Main-camera resolution

12 MP

12 MP

Second-camera resolution

-

12 MP

Front-camera resolution

8 MP

7 MP

Video resolution (max.)

4K

4K

Dual sim

Yes

Nope

Weather sealing

IP68

IP67

Removable battery

Nope

Nope

Wireless charging

Nope

Yes

Headphone jack

Yes

Nope

Fingerprint sensor

Yes

Yes

If you're looking for a refurbished iPhone, the iPhone X is an excellent choice, with a very good price/performance ratio.

Want to compare the two models further? Check out our comparison tool: iPhone X vs Samsung S9.

Ergonomics and design

On the design side, the iPhone X is still a very elegant smartphone. As with all iPhones, it comes in beautiful finishes and has a luxurious design. Its bezel-less display was an innovation compared to the iPhone 8. However, beware of fingerprints you might leave on its glass back!

Then we have the Samsung Galaxy S9, which also has a glass back and similarly gives off a feeling of elegance. However, it wasn’t anything new or refreshing compared to its predecessor’s design (the Samsung S8). 

In terms of ergonomics, we could give the Samsung S8 a slight edge. We argue it’s a little more pleasant to carry thanks to its lighter weight (10 grams less than the iPhone X) and allows a better grip since it’s slightly smaller and less thick (14.77 x 6.87 x 0.85cm vs iPhone X dimensions of 14.36 x 7.09 x 0.77cm). However, others might not appreciate that trade-off and instead prefer the bigger screen. 

⚖️Result: Tie

Performance

As far as the power of these two high-end smartphones, the advantage again goes to the Samsung S9. It has a technically more capable processor, equipped with the 8-core Exynos 9810 and 4GB of RAM. In all fairness though, the iPhone X does still have a very powerful A11 Bionic chip with a 4-core processor and 3GB of RAM.

⚖️Result: +1 for the Samsung S9 🏆

Operating system

The Samsung S9 is based on the Android operating system, while the iPhone X is based on iOS. Most people have their own preferences as far as these go, and it generally comes down to how much customization you like or what you’re most familiar with. 

For example, if you have a MacBook or an old iPhone, you will find the iOS very familiar. On the other hand, if you had a Google Pixel, another Samsung or any other phone or computer that is built on Android, you’ll likely prefer the Samsung S9. 

If you don't mind switching operating systems, you'll find both operating systems have their own advantages. For example, you will find a wider choice of applications on Android, but a more streamlined experience using iOS.

⚖️Result: Tie

👉Reading tip: iPhone vs Samsung: what are the differences?

Battery life and charging

Looking at the spec sheet, you’ll notice the Samsung S9’s battery is about 10% bigger than the one in the iPhone X. However, the difference in the two smartphone’s battery life is quite minimal.  The Samsung S9 is capable of about 4-6 hours of heavy use, 9-12 hours in regular use. These are similar to the results found in the iPhone X, thanks to great power efficiency. 

However, what we do appreciate is the wireless charging with the iPhone X, which is more practical for everyday use!

⚖️Result: +1 for the iPhone X 🏆

Screen and display

The displays of the S9 and iPhone X are among the best on the market. Both have a screen size of 5.8 inches. As far as resolution, the iPhone X features displays at 2436 x 1125 pixels/458ppi, and the Samsung S9 at 2960 x 1440 pixels/568ppp. 

While one might give the point to the S9 based solely on display resolution, we find the iPhone X’s colour rendering preferable. Overall, the viewing experience is a pleasure on both devices.

⚖️Result: Tie

Camera

Both the iPhone and Samsung S9 have 12MP main rear-camera sensors. 

The S9 gains a slight advantage in its front camera thanks to an additional 1MP over the iPhone X (8MP vs 7MP). In addition, the S9 has a variable aperture of f/1.5 and f/2.4. This will allow you to better capture light in dark settings as long as you’re not zoomed in too much.

On the other hand, the iPhone X is generally thought to capture more detailed photos. This is due to it having better image processing, which makes up for it not capturing as much light as the S9.

For this S9 vs iPhone X camera duel, we think there are no big differences. If you take a lot of shots at night or in the dark, you may prefer the Samsung Galaxy S9. But the average person would be happy with both.

⚖️Result: Tie

Price: new vs refurbished

Price

Refurbished

New

Difference

Samsung S9 64GB

£179

£449

-

60%

iPhone X 64GB

£229

£449

-

49%

When it comes to the S9 vs iPhone X prices, the refurbished versions win hands down. Indeed, expect to pay about 45 - 70% off compared to buying new. On top of that, your purchase also includes a 12-month minimum warranty. The same device at a lower price – and a less harmful impact on the environment.

⚖️Result: +1 for Refurbished 🏆🏆🏆

Only at Back Market can you receive massive savings through our exclusive offering of second hand phones and second hand iPhones, that have all undergone rigorous tests and refurbishing to ensure it works no different to a brand new smartphone. All devices sold through Back Market are attached with a 1-year warranty and hassle-free 30-day return policy to give you peace of mind.

On both sides, you have top-of-the-line products that will meet any and all of your needs. In our opinion, the difference will come down to which operating system you prefer. 

In any case, if you want to get these devices at a lower price and with the same quality, refurbished Samsung S9s and iPhone Xs on Back Market will give you access to phones that are 30-70% cheaper than new products.

Back Market

Written by BrianMarketing Manager Back Market UK & Ireland

When not talking about the latest eco-friendly tech and reducing our carbon footprint, Brian enjoys the odd game of football, a classic horror (book or film) or just to kick back with a beer or a proper Scottish whisky. Slàinte Mhath!

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