- The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G excels with its 108MP camera and stunning 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a 120Hz refresh rate, making it ideal for photography and media consumption.
- While the Exynos 990 processor remains capable, it's not the most future-proof. The 5000mAh battery is decent but may not last a full day for heavy users.
- The S20 Ultra offers good value for budget-minded users but lacks ongoing software updates and newer features found in recent models.
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G, released in early 2020, was a powerhouse phone boasting top-of-the-line specs at the time. Let's dive into its specific features to see how it holds up in 2024.
Mega Pixels, Mega Memories: Camera
The S20 Ultra remains a camera champion. It sports a monstrous 108-megapixel main sensor that captures stunning detail. It also boasts a 40x zoom lens that lets you get incredibly close to your subject, although quality suffers at the furthest zoom ranges.
A Display Fit for Royalty
The phone features a gorgeous 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This translates to vibrant colors, deep blacks, and incredibly fluid scrolling, making it a joy to watch videos or play games on.
Still a Powerhouse, But Future-Proofing?
The S20 Ultra is powered by the Exynos 990 processor, which was top-of-the-line in 2020. While it can still handle most everyday tasks and games well, it might not be the most future-proof option compared to the latest processors on the market. If you're a power user who craves the absolute best performance, you might want to consider newer models.
All-Day Battery... Maybe?
The S20 Ultra packs a decent 5000mAh battery. However, with a large display and powerful components, it might not last a full day on a single charge for heavy users. Newer phones often offer better battery optimization, so you might find some competitors lasting longer.
Blazing Fast (If You Have It): 5G Connectivity
The S20 Ultra is a 5G phone, allowing you to experience blazing-fast data speeds if you live in an area with good 5G coverage. However, 5G availability is still spotty in many regions. Make sure 5G is a factor you need before prioritizing it.
Pros and Cons of Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G was a top-of-the-line phone in 2020, but with four years under its belt, is it still a good buy in 2024? Let's dive into the pros and cons to help you decide.
Pros
- Strong Performance: The S20 Ultra sported a Snapdragon 865 processor, which can still handle most everyday tasks and even some gaming.
- Excellent Camera: It boasts a versatile camera system with good image quality, including a powerful zoom lens.
- Beautiful Display: The S20 Ultra's display is a stunner, with a high resolution and smooth refresh rate.
- Expandable Storage: Unlike newer models, the S20 Ultra offers a microSD card slot for expandable storage.
- Competitive Price: With its age, the S20 Ultra can be found at significantly reduced prices compared to the launch.
Cons
- Limited Software Updates: The S20 Ultra is no longer receiving the latest software updates from Samsung. This means you might miss out on some security patches and new features.
- Aging Battery: Batteries degrade over time, so you might not get the same battery life as you would have with a newer phone.
- No Latest Features: Newer features like the improved camera systems and faster processors found in the S21 Ultra and later models are absent.
Who Should Consider the S20 Ultra 5G in 2024?
- Budget-Minded Users: If you're looking for a flagship experience at a fraction of the original price, the S20 Ultra is a good option.
- Non-Power Users: If you don't need the absolute latest features and prioritize a good camera and expandable storage, the S20 Ultra could be a good fit.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
- Gamers and Power Users: If you need the most powerful processor and the latest features for demanding tasks, a newer phone is the way to go.
- Those Who Want Long Software Support: If staying up-to-date with the latest security patches and features is important, look for a phone with ongoing software support.
Read More: Samsung Galaxy S20 5G vs. Galaxy S20 FE 5G Comparison
Final Words
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G can still be a decent phone in 2024, especially for those on a budget. However, the lack of ongoing software updates and the absence of newer features make it a less attractive option than newer models. Consider your needs and priorities before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G have expandable storage?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G has expandable storage. You can use a microSD card to increase the storage capacity, with support for cards up to 1TB. This allows you to store more photos, videos, apps, and files beyond the built-in storage options.
2. Does the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G support wireless charging?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G supports wireless charging. It is compatible with Qi and PMA wireless charging standards, allowing you to charge your device without cables. Plus, it supports Wireless PowerShare, enabling you to charge other devices wirelessly using the S20 Ultra.
3. How much does the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G cost?
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G costs vary based on the storage capacity and region. Generally, it starts around $1,399 for the base model. However, you can buy a used Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G for less than half the price of a new model. Prices may differ depending on promotions, retailers, and any additional features or accessories included in the purchase.
4. Does the Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G Have a Headphone Jack?
No, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G does not have a headphone jack. For audio, you can use USB-C wired headphones, wireless Bluetooth headphones, or an adapter for traditional 3.5mm headphones.
5. Is the Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G Good for Gaming?
Yes, the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G is excellent for gaming. It features a powerful processor, ample RAM, a high-resolution display with a 120Hz refresh rate, and 5G connectivity. These specifications ensure smooth gameplay, fast load times, and an immersive gaming experience.
6. How Is the Battery Life on the S20 Ultra 5G?
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G has a robust 5000mAh battery, providing excellent battery life. It typically lasts a full day with regular use, including browsing, streaming, and gaming. Battery performance can vary based on usage patterns, settings, and network conditions. Fast charging and wireless charging options also enhance convenience.
