Display and Design
The Samsung Galaxy S9 features the Infinity Display, one of the best displays in any smartphone, with slightly thinner top and bottom bezels than its predecessor. The top bezel does a better job of hiding sensors, creating a more seamless black look. Additionally, the earpiece doubles as a second front-facing speaker, providing a bit of a stereo speaker effect, resulting in louder and clearer audio.
Improved Features
- Infinity Display
- Thinner Bezels
- Enhanced Sensor Hiding
- Front-facing Stereo Speaker
Build Quality
The phone retains the USB-C and wireless charging features, along with a headphone jack, water resistance, and clicky buttons. The glass build exudes a premium feel, although it does attract smudges.
Hardware and Connectivity
The Samsung Galaxy S9 maintains USB-C, wireless charging, fast charging, and a headphone jack, offering a comprehensive set of connectivity options. The inclusion of water resistance and clicky buttons, along with the overall build quality, further enhances its appeal.
Connectivity Features
- USB-C
- Wireless Charging
- Fast Charging
- Headphone Jack
Build Quality and Durability
With water resistance and clicky buttons, the Samsung Galaxy S9 boasts a durable build quality, ensuring a reliable and long-lasting user experience.
Fingerprint Reader and Health Sensors
The Samsung Galaxy S9 features a significant change in the placement of the fingerprint reader, now positioned in the middle instead of at the top next to the camera. This new placement enhances user experience and makes it easier to locate the reader. Additionally, registering your fingerprint is now a simple and quick process, requiring just a single swipe down the scanner during the phone setup.
Health Monitoring
- Blood Pressure Sensor
- Heart Rate Monitor
In addition to the heart rate monitor, the Galaxy S9 also introduces a blood pressure sensor, a new and innovative feature. While the heart rate monitor has been a part of previous models, the inclusion of a blood pressure sensor is a notable enhancement. Although the functionality of the blood pressure sensor may require specific instructions for accurate readings, it is a valuable addition to the phone's health monitoring capabilities.
Performance and Specs
The Samsung Galaxy S9 maintains the tradition of top-notch specifications, featuring the powerful Snapdragon 845 processor and offering options of four or six gigabytes of RAM. This combination results in a remarkably smooth performance, making it the most seamless Samsung phone to date. However, while the phone delivers impressive performance, there may still be occasional hiccups in certain Samsung apps and functions, such as when opening Bixby. Nevertheless, the Galaxy S9's performance and specs uphold its reputation as a high-performing flagship smartphone.
Software and Features
When it comes to software, the Samsung Galaxy S9 is packed with a plethora of advanced features and options. The device retains the vibrant and colorful Samsung software overlay on top of Android, which may not necessarily sway the opinion of those who already have a distaste for Samsung's software. However, for users who appreciate an abundance of features, the Galaxy S9 does not disappoint.
Security Features
- Iris Scanning
- Intelligent Scan
- Fingerprint Reader
The Galaxy S9 introduces iris scanning from the Note series, which provides a secure unlocking method, although slightly slower. Additionally, the new intelligent scan feature combines face scanning and iris scanning, dynamically selecting the most effective method based on lighting conditions. Furthermore, the device offers a new and improved fingerprint reader, offering users various options for secure and convenient access.
Additional Software Features
- Samsung's Big Screen Tricks
- Edge Shortcuts
- Customization Options
Moreover, the Galaxy S9 incorporates Samsung's signature big screen tricks and app shortcuts, along with edge shortcuts and extensive customization options, allowing users to tailor their experience to their preferences. While the device may appear feature-rich, the extensive array of capabilities is a hallmark of Samsung's commitment to providing a comprehensive user experience.
Bixby and Samsung Ecosystem
Despite its many positive attributes, the Galaxy S9 still features Bixby and the dedicated Bixby button. While Bixby offers some unique capabilities, its performance may not meet the expectations of all users. Additionally, the device comes pre-loaded with multiple browsers, smart assistants, calendars, and messaging apps, reflecting Samsung's persistent efforts to promote its ecosystem. However, as an Android device, users have the flexibility to remove unwanted elements, providing a customizable experience.
Battery Life
The Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus excel in numerous aspects, but battery life remains a notable area for improvement. While not inherently poor, the battery life may not match the exceptional standards set by other features of the device. The larger S9 Plus, equipped with a 3,500 milliamp-hour battery, may struggle to endure a full day of extensive use, especially when engaging in activities such as navigation, media consumption, and social media interaction.
Charging Capabilities
- Fast Charging
- Wireless Charging
Despite the battery's limitations, the Galaxy S9 compensates with its rapid charging capabilities, allowing users to quickly replenish the battery's charge during the day. The device's compatibility with fast charging adapters, including the one provided in the box, ensures that users can efficiently top up their battery levels. Additionally, the device supports wireless charging, offering an alternative method for convenient and efficient charging.
Camera and Photography
The Samsung Galaxy S9 boasts a new 12-megapixel camera on the back, with the S9+ featuring a second telephoto camera. Notably, it is the first modern smartphone to incorporate a variable aperture camera, able to switch between f/1.5 and f/2.4 depending on lighting conditions. In well-lit environments, it defaults to f/2.4, while in low light (under 100 lux), it switches to the wide-open f/1.5 aperture, allowing for significantly improved low-light photography.
Photo Quality
The photos captured by the Galaxy S9 camera exhibit vibrant colors and improved dynamic range, with a reduction in over-processing and over-sharpening. However, there is a tendency to slightly overexpose photos in auto mode. Despite this, the low-light performance has seen a notable enhancement, thanks to the f/1.5 aperture allowing for better light capture and reduced grain in low-light shots. While the camera performance is commendable, it still falls behind the Pixel 2 and iPhone X, making it the third-best camera in the smartphone market.
Video Capabilities
Additionally, the Galaxy S9's video recording supports the REC 2020 color space, providing enhanced color saturation on Samsung displays. However, users have the option to switch to REC 709 for standard color representation. The device's video recording capabilities further contribute to its appeal, offering a comprehensive photography and videography experience.
Comparing the Galaxy S9 and S9+
When considering the choice between the Galaxy S9 and S9+, it's essential to evaluate the key differences to make an informed decision. The S9+ offers a larger 6.2-inch display, 3500 milliamp-hour battery, and 6GB of RAM, while the S9 features a 5.8-inch display, 3000 milliamp-hour battery, and 4GB of RAM. The S9+ also includes a second telephoto camera, providing live focus and optical zoom capabilities. However, for everyday use, the RAM difference may not be significantly noticeable, and the additional camera features may not be essential for all users.
Choosing Between the Models
Ultimately, the decision between the Galaxy S9 and S9+ depends on individual preferences and usage patterns. While the S9+ offers some advantages in terms of display size, battery capacity, and camera features, the differences may not be substantial for the average user. Additionally, the pricing and value proposition of the S9 and S9+ make them both compelling options in the Samsung smartphone lineup.
Is the Galaxy S9 Worth It?
The Samsung Galaxy S9 offers a comprehensive Samsung experience, showcasing the best of the brand's features and capabilities. From the stunning display to the versatile hardware suite, the Galaxy S9 excels in numerous aspects, making it a highly recommended choice for users seeking a top-tier Android smartphone.
Pros and Cons
- Pros of Samsung Experience
- Cons of Samsung Experience
- Mastering the Display
- Overall Versatility and Performance
FAQ
Is the Galaxy S9 a significant upgrade from the S8?
The Galaxy S9 offers notable enhancements over its predecessor, particularly in the camera department with the introduction of a variable aperture camera. Additionally, it maintains the strengths of the S8 while refining certain aspects, making it a worthwhile upgrade for users seeking improved performance and camera capabilities.
Does the Galaxy S9 support expandable storage?
Yes, the Galaxy S9 features expandable storage, providing users with the flexibility to increase their device's storage capacity using a microSD card.
How does the Galaxy S9 compare to other flagship smartphones?
While the Galaxy S9 boasts impressive features and performance, it faces stiff competition from other flagship smartphones such as the Pixel 2 and iPhone X in terms of camera quality. However, its overall versatility and Samsung's signature features make it a strong contender in the smartphone market.
