Galaxy S24 Vs iPhone 17

Galaxy S24
Galaxy S24
Starting at

Refurbished price:£273.00

Versus £817.67 new

See options
iPhone 17
iPhone 17
Starting at

Refurbished price:£688.00

Versus £799.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S24, released in January 2024, and the Apple iPhone 17, launched in September 2025, represent distinct approaches to flagship smartphone design and functionality. While both devices offer premium experiences, they cater to different user preferences through their respective Android and iOS operating systems, as well as varied hardware and software philosophies. The Galaxy S24 emphasizes a compact form factor with extensive software support, whereas the iPhone 17 focuses on advanced display technology and an enhanced camera system.

Scores

Durability

When considering the long-term usability of these devices, both the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 17 offer robust support, though their timelines differ.

  • Release Timeline: The Galaxy S24 was introduced in January 2024, making it an earlier release compared to the iPhone 17, which debuted in September 2025. This difference in launch dates impacts their respective software support cycles.
  • Software Longevity: Samsung has committed to providing up to seven years of OS and security updates for the Galaxy S24, offering an extended period of software relevance. The iPhone 17, running on iOS 26, is expected to receive major iOS updates for approximately five to six years from its release, followed by additional security updates.
  • Physical Durability: The Galaxy S24 features an Armor Aluminum frame and Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on its front and back, alongside an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. The iPhone 17 incorporates Ceramic Shield 2 for enhanced scratch resistance on its display and also carries an IP68 rating for water and dust protection.

Year of Release

2024

2025

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Both smartphones are equipped with advanced internal components designed to deliver smooth and responsive user experiences, though their underlying architectures differ.

  • Processing Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 is powered by a current-generation processor, enabling it to handle demanding applications, multitasking, and graphic-intensive games efficiently. The iPhone 17 features Apple's A19 chip, which provides efficient performance for everyday tasks, advanced computational photography, and console-quality gaming.
  • Memory and Storage: The standard Galaxy S24 typically comes with 8GB of RAM and offers storage options up to 512GB. The iPhone 17 is equipped with 8GB of RAM and starts with 256GB of storage, with a 512GB option also available.
  • Battery Behavior: The Galaxy S24 houses a 4000 mAh battery, which, combined with software optimizations, is designed to provide sufficient power for a full day of typical use. The iPhone 17 features a 3692 mAh battery, with Apple claiming all-day battery life and faster charging capabilities.

Memory (GB)

8 GB

8 GB

Screen quality

The visual experience on both devices is a highlight, with each offering vibrant displays tailored for clarity and responsiveness.

  • Display Technology and Size: The Galaxy S24 features a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display, known for its deep blacks and vivid colors. The iPhone 17 comes with a slightly larger 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display, also offering rich color reproduction and high contrast.
  • Brightness and Clarity: The Galaxy S24's display can reach a peak brightness of 2600 nits, ensuring good visibility even in bright outdoor conditions. It has a resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels. The iPhone 17's display offers an even higher peak outdoor brightness of 3000 nits and a resolution of 2622 x 1206 pixels, providing sharp visuals.
  • Refresh Rate: Both devices feature adaptive refresh rates for smooth scrolling and animations. The Galaxy S24 offers a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, capable of scaling down to 1Hz to conserve battery. The iPhone 17 also includes ProMotion technology, providing an adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, which contributes to a fluid user interface and supports an Always-On display feature.

Resolution

1080 x 2340

2622x1206

Screen type

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR

Audiovisual

Both smartphones offer advanced camera systems designed to capture high-quality photos and videos in various conditions.

  • Rear Camera System: The Galaxy S24 is equipped with a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, including a 50-megapixel main sensor, a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 10-megapixel telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom. The iPhone 17 features a 48-megapixel Dual Fusion camera system, which includes a main lens that can also achieve an optical-quality 2x telephoto effect, and a 48-megapixel Ultra Wide lens.
  • Photography Performance: The Galaxy S24 delivers crisp and vibrant images with good dynamic range in favorable lighting, though some users note that low-light performance and digital zoom can be less consistent. The iPhone 17's camera system is designed for enhanced detail and color accuracy, with improvements in computational photography for various scenarios, including low light.
  • Front Camera and Video: For selfies and video calls, the Galaxy S24 has a 12-megapixel front camera and supports 8K video recording from its main rear camera. The iPhone 17 features an 18-megapixel Center Stage front camera, designed for improved clarity and video call features, and supports 4K Dolby Vision video recording.

Main camera

50 megapixels

48 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

18 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Beyond core performance and visual aspects, several practical features contribute to the overall user experience of these devices.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S24 supports 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.3, utilizing a USB-C 3.2 port for charging and data transfer. The iPhone 17 also supports 5G, but steps up to Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 6, and features a USB-C port.
  • Biometric Security: The Galaxy S24 incorporates an ultrasonic in-screen fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking and authentication, alongside facial recognition. The iPhone 17 relies on Face ID, Apple's facial recognition system, for biometric security.
  • Design and Handling: The Galaxy S24 measures 147 x 70.6 x 7.6 mm and weighs 168g, offering a compact and lightweight feel. The iPhone 17 is slightly larger and heavier at 149.6 x 71.5 x 7.95 mm and 177g, featuring an aluminum frame and a frosted glass back.

Weight

167 g

177 g

Screen size (in)

6.2

6.3

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

USB-C

The Samsung Galaxy S24 and iPhone 17 both stand as capable smartphones, each with strengths that appeal to different user priorities. User feedback for the Galaxy S24 often praises its compact size, vibrant display, and the significant commitment to software updates. Some users note that while its camera is good, it may not always outperform competitors in specific scenarios like extreme low light or digital zoom.

The iPhone 17, on the other hand, has been well-received for its advanced display technology, including ProMotion and high peak brightness, as well as its upgraded camera system and the powerful A19 chip. Users appreciate the seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem and the consistent performance.

Users prioritizing a compact Android device with extensive long-term software support and a versatile camera system may find the Galaxy S24 well-suited to their needs. Its bright display and efficient performance make it a strong contender for everyday use. Conversely, users who value the latest display innovations, a highly capable camera for both photos and videos, and the integrated experience of the iOS ecosystem will likely lean towards the iPhone 17. Its newer release date also offers a slightly longer period before the next generation of devices emerges.

For those considering either of these devices, exploring quality-assured refurbished options can provide an eco-friendly alternative, offering access to premium technology while supporting sustainable consumption.

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