The Samsung Galaxy Note 20, once a flagship powerhouse, now faces the scrutiny of 2024’s tech landscape. While its S Pen and features remain enticing, newer devices have emerged. This review delves into the Note 20’s strengths and weaknesses to determine if it still holds up in 2024.
In 2020, the Note 20 was part of Samsung’s iconic Note series, designed for productivity enthusiasts and creatives. Its standout features like the S Pen and powerful specifications quickly gained popularity. But as we step into 2024, how does it stack up against the latest competitors? Let’s find out.
Design and Display
Design
The Galaxy Note 20 showcases a sleek and premium design, with a glass front and a plastic (or “glasstic,” as Samsung calls it) back. While the plastic back may not feel as luxurious as glass, it has practical benefits like reduced fingerprints and improved scratch resistance.
The squared-off edges provide a comfortable grip, although they can make the device feel slightly bulky. The seamless integration of the S Pen is a standout feature, offering an intuitive way to jot down notes, draw, and navigate. However, the large camera module on the back does protrude significantly, making the phone feel a bit awkward in hand.
Pros:
- Premium design with a comfortable grip.
- S Pen integration enhances functionality.
Cons:
- Plastic back feels less luxurious compared to glass.
- Bulky feel due to the large camera module.
Display
The Note 20 features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080p. The colors are vibrant, and the viewing angles are excellent, making it perfect for media consumption. However, the 60Hz refresh rate stands out as a significant drawback, especially when compared to newer phones with 90Hz or 120Hz displays. This limitation can lead to a less fluid user experience, particularly when scrolling or gaming.
On the bright side, the display’s brightness is a highlight, reaching up to 1,500 nits. This means it performs exceptionally well in bright sunlight, whether you’re watching videos, playing games, or browsing social media.
Pros:
- Bright and vibrant display with excellent color accuracy.
- Good viewing angles for multimedia.
Cons:
- 60Hz refresh rate feels outdated in 2024’s competitive market.
Performance and Battery Life
Performance
Under the hood, the Galaxy Note 20 is powered by either the Snapdragon 865+ or the Exynos 990, depending on your region. The Snapdragon variant shines with its raw performance and power efficiency, while the Exynos model occasionally struggles with heat management and frame rate consistency. Both configurations come with 8GB of RAM and storage options up to 256GB, providing a generally smooth user experience.
In day-to-day usage, the Note 20 performs admirably, handling multitasking and demanding applications with ease. However, heavy gaming sessions may cause the Exynos version to throttle due to heat, which is something to consider if you’re an avid gamer.
Pros:
- Good performance for multitasking and app loading.
- Snapdragon version offers superior power efficiency.
Cons:
- Exynos variant can overheat and lag during intensive tasks.
Battery Life
The Note 20 packs a 4,300mAh battery, which typically lasts a full day with moderate usage. However, if you’re a heavy user, you might find yourself reaching for a charger before the day is over. The 25W fast charging support is a saving grace, allowing the phone to reach about 50% capacity in just 30 minutes.
It’s worth noting that battery life can vary significantly based on how you use the phone. For instance, if you’re frequently using the S Pen for note-taking or drawing, it may drain the battery faster than standard usage. Fortunately, Samsung’s One UI offers various settings to help prolong battery life, such as adaptive power saving and app power management.
Pros:
- Decent battery life for most users.
- Fast charging capabilities are handy.
Cons:
- Battery life may not meet the demands of heavy users.
Camera and Software
Camera
The camera system on the Galaxy Note 20 is a mixed bag. It features a triple camera setup: a 12MP main sensor, a 64MP telephoto lens, and a 12MP ultra-wide camera. While it may not compete with the latest flagship camera systems, the Note 20 still captures excellent images in various conditions, delivering vibrant colors and good detail. The ability to shoot in 8K video, albeit at a limited 24fps, adds to its multimedia capabilities.
In good lighting, the camera performs exceptionally well, capturing detailed and vibrant shots. Low-light performance is decent, although it may struggle slightly compared to newer models with advanced night modes. The telephoto lens offers 3x hybrid zoom, which is useful for getting closer to your subjects without losing too much detail.
Pros:
- Solid camera performance with vibrant image quality.
- 8K video recording is a nice touch.
Cons:
- Zoom capabilities lag behind newer competitors.
- Video recording features are not as advanced.
Software
Running on Android 10 with Samsung’s One UI 2.5 skin, the Note 20 provides a user-friendly experience filled with features. The S Pen’s functionality remains a highlight, offering a seamless note-taking experience along with various Air Gestures. However, One UI does come with its fair share of bloatware, which can feel overwhelming at times. While the Note 20 has received software updates, including Android 11 and One UI 3.1, the pace of these updates is slower compared to some competitors.
The software experience is generally smooth, and One UI has made significant strides in usability over the years. Features like split-screen multitasking, customizable home screens, and a dark mode enhance the overall experience. However, some users may find the pre-installed apps unnecessary and would prefer a cleaner interface.
Pros:
- One UI is feature-rich and user-friendly.
- S Pen offers unique functionality for productivity.
Cons:
- Bloatware can clutter the user experience.
- Update schedule lags behind competitors.
Value and Competition
Value Proposition
The value proposition of the Galaxy Note 20 heavily depends on its current price point. If you can find it at a significant discount, it could still be a worthwhile investment, especially if the S Pen is a must-have for you. As of now, the Note 20 can often be found at reduced prices due to the release of newer models, making it an attractive option for users who want a capable smartphone without breaking the bank.
However, it’s important to consider the long-term viability of the Note 20. While it may be a great deal at the moment, its older hardware and slower software updates could impact its longevity. Depending on your usage needs and budget, the Note 20 might be a suitable choice, but you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
Competition
The Note 20 faces tough competition from newer flagship phones like the Google Pixel 7, OnePlus 10 Pro, and Samsung’s own Galaxy S22 lineup. These devices often offer better performance, display quality, and camera capabilities at similar or even lower price points.
For instance, the Google Pixel 7 is known for its exceptional camera performance and clean software experience, while the OnePlus 10 Pro boasts faster charging and a higher refresh rate display. The Galaxy S22 lineup also brings improvements in processing power and camera technology, making it a compelling alternative.
When considering the Note 20, it’s essential to compare its features and price to those of its competitors. Newer phones may offer more value for your money, especially if you prioritize cutting-edge performance, display, and camera capabilities.
Recommendation
In conclusion, if you can snag the Note 20 at a great price and appreciate the S Pen’s functionality, it remains a compelling option. But for those who prioritize the latest and greatest features, newer flagship alternatives may be a better investment in the long run.
Conclusion
Key Takeaways
The Galaxy Note 20 is still a capable device with much to offer, especially for those who value the S Pen experience. However, it’s essential to recognize that it’s beginning to show its age, particularly with its 60Hz display and older processor.
Recommendation
If you’re on the hunt for a powerful phone with S Pen capabilities and can find the Note 20 at an attractive price, it’s still a solid choice. However, if cutting-edge features and performance are your top priorities, newer devices are likely to provide better value for your money. As with any purchasing decision, carefully weigh the Note 20’s strengths and weaknesses against your specific needs and budget.
FAQ
Q: Is the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 still a good buy in 2024?
A: The Note 20 is still decent, but it shows its age against newer flagship phones. If you can find it at a good price, it can still offer good value, but its long-term viability may be a concern.
Q: What are the main differences between the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 and the Note 20 Ultra?
A: The Note 20 Ultra features a larger display, higher refresh rate, more powerful processor, improved camera system, and a glass back, but at a higher price.
Q: Is the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 worth buying over the Samsung Galaxy S21?
A: The S21 is a more modern option with better specs, but the Note 20’s S Pen is a unique selling point. Your choice should depend on your budget and needs, as well as the relative prices of the two devices.