Galaxy S24+ Vs iPhone 13

Galaxy S24+
Galaxy S24+
Starting at

Refurbished price:£337.00

Versus £997.95 new

See options
iPhone 13
iPhone 13
Starting at

Refurbished price:£205.00

Versus £599.00 new

See options

Ratings

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus, released in early 2024, and the Apple iPhone 13, launched in late 2021, represent two distinct eras of smartphone technology. While the Galaxy S24 Plus is a modern, large-format Android flagship, the iPhone 13 remains a popular choice for those who prefer the iOS ecosystem in a more compact form factor. The three-year gap between these devices introduces significant differences in display technology, processing power, and long-term software support, making the choice between them a matter of prioritising cutting-edge features versus established reliability.

Scores

Durability

The Galaxy S24 Plus and iPhone 13 offer distinct outlooks regarding their remaining functional lifespans and software support cycles.

  • Software Longevity: The Galaxy S24 Plus is designed for the long term, with the manufacturer promising seven years of operating system and security updates, potentially keeping the device current until 2031.
  • Physical Resilience: Both devices feature high-quality glass and metal construction with high water resistance ratings, though choosing a quality-assured refurbished option ensures the hardware has been inspected for continued durability.
  • Repair Access: The iPhone 13 benefits from a vast global network of repair providers, while the Galaxy S24 Plus is part of a newer initiative to make parts more accessible for independent repairs, supporting a longer practical lifespan.

Year of Release

2024

2021

Compatible with latest Update

Yes

Yes

OS

Android

iOS

Foldable

No

No

Performance

Despite the age difference, both smartphones handle daily tasks with ease, though they cater to different levels of multi-tasking intensity.

  • System Responsiveness: The Galaxy S24 Plus utilises a much newer processor and a higher amount of memory, which allows it to handle intensive multi-tasking and demanding modern applications without slowing down.
  • Battery Endurance: With a significantly larger battery capacity, the Galaxy S24 Plus is built to last through a full day of heavy use, whereas the iPhone 13 is efficient but may require more frequent charging for power users.
  • Resource Management: The iPhone 13 remains consistently smooth for standard apps and social media, but users may notice slightly longer loading times when switching between several heavy programmes compared to the newer Samsung.

Memory (GB)

12 GB

4 GB

Screen quality

The viewing experience is one of the most noticeable areas of divergence between these two generations of mobile hardware.

  • Display Fluidity: The Galaxy S24 Plus features a high refresh rate display that adjusts up to 120Hz, making animations and scrolling appear notably smooth compared to the standard 60Hz rate on the iPhone 13.
  • Brightness and Visibility: For users who frequently use their phones outside, the Galaxy S24 Plus offers a higher peak brightness, ensuring the screen remains legible even under direct sunlight.
  • Size and Immersion: The 6.7-inch screen of the Galaxy S24 Plus provides an immersive experience for watching videos, whereas the 6.1-inch iPhone 13 is easier to navigate with one hand while still offering sharp image quality.

Resolution

1440 x 3120

1170 x 2532

Screen type

Dynamic LTPO AMOLED 2X

Super Retina XDR OLED

Audiovisual

Both devices are capable of capturing high-quality memories, but the Galaxy S24 Plus offers more versatility in its camera array.

  • Zoom Capabilities: The Galaxy S24 Plus includes a dedicated telephoto lens for clear zoomed-in photos, while the iPhone 13 relies on a dual-camera system that lacks a physical zoom lens.
  • Video Consistency: Apple is often praised for its natural video stabilisation and consistent colour across lenses, making the iPhone 13 a reliable tool for simple video creation and social media.
  • Low-Light Performance: The newer sensors in the Galaxy S24 Plus are better equipped to pull in light in dark environments, resulting in bright night photos with less visual noise than the older iPhone model.

Main camera

50 megapixels

12 megapixels

Front camera

12 megapixels

12 megapixels

Miscellaneous

Practical differences in ports and connectivity may influence which device fits better into your existing ecosystem of accessories.

  • Connectivity and Ports: The Galaxy S24 Plus uses the universal USB-C port, compatible with most modern electronics, while the iPhone 13 uses the proprietary Lightning port which requires specific cables.
  • Security Methods: Samsung utilises an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor built directly into the display for quick access, while the iPhone 13 relies on facial recognition technology for secure unlocking.
  • Handling and Weight: The iPhone 13 is noticeably lighter and more compact, making it a better fit for smaller pockets, whereas the Galaxy S24 Plus prioritises a larger screen area for productivity.

Weight

197 g

173 g

Screen size (in)

6.7

6.1

Mobile network

5G

5G

SIM card

Dual Physical SIM + eSIM

Physical SIM + eSIM

Carrier compatibility

Unlocked

Unlocked

Connector

USB-C

Lightning

When looking at user feedback from various communities, the Galaxy S24 Plus is frequently lauded for its vibrant display and the longevity of its software support. Users appreciate the flexibility of the camera system and the long-lasting battery. However, some find the large size a bit difficult to manage for one-handed use. The iPhone 13 is often cited as a reliable workhorse that continues to perform well years after its release. Its compact size and the simplicity of its software are major draws, though some users now feel the standard screen refresh rate and the older port style are starting to show their age.

Users who prioritise having the latest display technology, a versatile zoom camera, and a device that will receive updates for the next several years will likely find the Galaxy S24 Plus to be the better fit. On the other hand, those who prefer a smaller, more manageable phone and are already comfortable with the iOS interface may lean toward the iPhone 13. Choosing a sustainable choice like a quality-assured refurbished model allows users to access these technologies while reducing environmental impact. Ultimately, the decision rests on whether you value the modern, large-screen experience of the Galaxy or the proven, compact reliability of the iPhone.

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