Which one is best for you?
Two of the biggest releases of 2018, iPhone XS and Galaxy Note9 are sleek, futuristic looking phones, packed with incredible technology. With super-fast neural processing units, dual lens-cameras with optical image stabilisation and more, these highly sought-after devices are really pushing the boundaries of what a phone can do – and how you interact with it.
Whichever you choose, you’ll have a lot to explore – but there are a few noticeable differences. The Galaxy Note9 has the larger screen and, like it’s predecessors, is distinguished by the S-Pen. This is a built in stylus that lets you jot a quick note, personalise messages, select part of an image or video and more. iPhone XS on the other hand, has the front-facing TrueDepth camera. This can create a 3D map of your face that makes its facial recognition so secure, you can use it to verify your identity for Apple Pay.
As to the main cameras – they each have their individual strengths. iPhone XS has 12-megapixel dual lenses, one set to 2x optical zoom and one to wide angle. This lets you create a range of effects – including Portrait Lighting, to make your selfies look like they’ve been taken in a professional studio. Galaxy Note9 also has 12-megapixel dual lenses with one set to 2x optical zoom. The other lens is able to switch between two aperture sizes, automatically adjusting to get the best picture in different light levels. The variable aperture lens also adds to the range of effects you can create – whether by using the pre-set modes or tweaking the settings yourself.
There’s only space here to scratch the surface of what these phones can do. Check our quick feature guide for more inspiration before you decide.
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Apple
iPhone XS
Create stunningly detailed images thanks to Smart HDR – or adjust depth of field to create professional looking portraits
See more with 60% greater dynamic range than its predecessor, iPhone X
Share your feelings with 3D Animoji that mirror your own expression
Enjoy a smoother gaming and streaming experience with the new A12 Bionic chip
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Samsung
Galaxy Note9
Immerse yourself in crystal clear images and video on the 6.4-inch Infinity Display
The dual aperture camera with optical zoom adapts to light just like your eyes, so you can take beautiful pictures day and night
Control your phone remotely from up to 10 metres with the new Bluetooth S Pen
Create and share a fun Augmented Reality version of yourself with AR emojis
| Name | iPhone XS | Galaxy Note9 |
|---|---|---|
| Image |
Buy the iPhone XS |
Buy the Galaxy Note9 |
| Display | 5.8 inches | 6.4 inch Infinity Display |
| Size and weight |
Height: 158.2 mm Width: 77.9 mm Depth: 7.3 mm Weight: 192 grams |
Height: 161.9 mm Width: 76.4 mm Depth: 8.8 mm Weight: 201 grams |
| Rear camera | Dual 12 MP | 12 MP + 12 MP |
| Front camera | 7 MP | 8 MP |
| Video recording | 4K video recording at 24fps | 4K video recording at 30 fps or 60 fps |
| Processor | A12 bionic chip | Exynos 9810 |
| Battery | 2658 mAh | 4000 mAh |
| Storage |
64 GB 256 GB 512 GB |
128 GB |
| Splash, water and dust resistant | Yes | Yes |
| Buy now | Buy the iPhone XS | Buy the Galaxy Note9 |