The Samsung Galaxy S9 was launched in 2018, bringing flagship features such as a stunning Super AMOLED display, powerful hardware, and a camera that stood out for its innovation. This device quickly became one of the best smartphones in its time. While newer devices have since surpassed it, the Galaxy S9 still provides solid performance and value, especially for users looking for a premium experience at a lower cost. In this review, we’ll dive deep into what the Samsung Galaxy S9 offers and help you decide if it’s the right device for you.
Samsung Galaxy S9 Review
The Samsung Galaxy S9 was designed to be the perfect combination of aesthetics, performance, and camera quality. Its sleek design, solid build, and the introduction of the variable aperture camera made it a standout when it first hit the market. The device still holds up as a great choice for people who want reliable performance and excellent display quality without the need for the latest flagship phone.
The 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display is one of the most impressive features of the device. It offers crisp, vibrant colors, sharp resolution, and deep blacks, which make it one of the best screens in its class. The phone has a slim and modern design with curved edges, making it comfortable to hold. Despite being a few years old, the display quality holds up well, especially for watching videos and gaming.
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Key Features of Samsung Galaxy S9
Performance & Software
Under the hood, the Galaxy S9 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 (or Exynos 9810 depending on the region). This processor, paired with 4GB of RAM, delivers fast and smooth performance. you’re multitasking, gaming, or using demanding apps, the device handles them with ease. The Android 8.0 Oreo operating system provides a clean and user-friendly experience, and the device is upgradable to newer Android versions, ensuring longevity.
Camera Quality
The camera on the Galaxy S9 was one of its most celebrated features. The 12MP rear camera with f/1.5 – f/2.4 variable aperture offers exceptional low-light performance. In well-lit conditions, the camera produces sharp, vibrant images. In low light, the wider aperture helps capture more light, producing clearer photos. It also comes with Super Slow-Mo video recording at 960 fps, which adds creative possibilities for users who love capturing unique video moments.
The 8MP front camera comes with auto-focus, providing clear and detailed selfies. The front camera also supports face recognition, adding convenience for unlocking the device.
Battery & Charging
The 3,000mAh battery is decent but not groundbreaking. It gets you through the day with average use, but heavy users may need to charge the phone before the end of the day. Fortunately, the device supports fast charging and wireless charging (Qi standard), allowing you to power up quickly and conveniently.
Build & Design
The Samsung Galaxy S9 features a glass back and metal frame, giving it a premium look and feel. It is also IP68 certified, meaning it is resistant to both dust and water, making it ideal for use in various conditions. The fingerprint scanner is conveniently placed just below the camera, making it easy to unlock the device with a touch.
Audio
The stereo speakers tuned by AKG provide rich, clear audio, and are one of the standout features of the Galaxy S9. you’re listening to music or watching videos, the audio quality is impressive, offering loud and clear sound without distortion. The speakers are tuned to offer a better balance of bass and treble, making the audio more enjoyable.
Face Recognition & Fingerprint Scanner
The Galaxy S9 comes with facial recognition for easy unlocking. However, it also features a fingerprint scanner for added security, placed on the back of the phone near the camera. It’s easy to access, and the scanning process is quick and reliable.
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Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 5.8-inch Super AMOLED, 2960 x 1440 pixels |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 (USA) / Exynos 9810 (global) |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Internal Storage | 64GB (expandable up to 400GB via microSD) |
| Rear Camera | 12MP, f/1.5 – f/2.4 variable aperture |
| Front Camera | 8MP, f/1.7 |
| Battery | 3,000mAh, Fast Charging, Wireless Charging |
| Operating System | Android 8.0 Oreo (upgradable to later versions) |
| Water Resistance | IP68 |
| Audio | Stereo speakers by AKG |
| Dimensions | 147.7 x 68.7 x 8.5 mm |
| Weight | 163g |
Pros
- Stunning Super AMOLED display with sharp colors.
- Smooth multitasking and app handling.
- High-quality shots with a variable aperture for low light.
- IP68 rating for water and dust resistance.
- Fast charging and wireless charging options.
- Sleek and durable build with metal and glass materials.
Cons
- Similar to the previous model, few changes were made.
- The 3,000mAh battery is decent but could be better.
- Although convenient, it may still feel awkward for some.
- When launched, the Galaxy S9 had a high price tag, though now more affordable.
Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy S9 continues to be a strong contender for those looking for a high-quality smartphone at a lower price compared to the latest flagships. Its Super AMOLED display, fast performance, and impressive camera system still hold up well, even years after its release. The device may not have all the features of newer models, but it offers great value for its price.
If you don’t need the latest and greatest but still want a phone that performs well across the board, the Galaxy S9 is an excellent choice. With its premium design, solid camera, and fast performance, it is a device that delivers on the essentials without breaking the bank.
