Samsung Galaxy S9 Review: Is It Still Worth Buying?
The Samsung Galaxy S9 was a flagship device when it first hit the market, boasting top-notch features, a sleek design, and powerful specifications. Now, several years later, the question many buyers ask is, “Is the Samsung Galaxy S9 still worth buying?” In this review, we dive deep into the specifications, features, performance, and current usability of the Galaxy S9 to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you in 2024.
Overview: Samsung Galaxy S9 Key Specifications
- Display: 5.8-inch Super AMOLED, 2960×1440 resolution
- Processor: Exynos 9810 / Snapdragon 845
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage: 64GB/128GB/256GB, expandable via microSD
- Camera: Rear – 12MP with variable aperture; Front – 8MP
- Battery: 3,000mAh with fast charging and wireless charging
- Operating System: Originally Android 8, upgradable to Android 10
With the S9’s release, Samsung set a new standard in mobile photography, introduced impressive hardware, and delivered innovative features like AR Emoji and a variable aperture camera. But how well do these features hold up today? Let’s explore this Samsung Galaxy S9 review to determine if it still meets the mark.
Design and Display Quality
The Galaxy S9 showcases the familiar, premium look of Samsung’s Galaxy lineup, with a smooth, rounded-edge glass and metal frame that’s still visually appealing. Its 5.8-inch Super AMOLED display provides vibrant colors, deep blacks, and sharp details, supporting HDR10 for a vivid viewing experience.
For anyone who enjoys streaming, gaming, or browsing on a smaller screen, the S9 remains a compelling choice due to its compact size and excellent display quality. While newer models offer larger screens with even higher resolutions, the Galaxy S9’s display is still a top contender in its class.
Performance: Does It Still Hold Up?
Equipped with the Exynos 9810 or Snapdragon 845 (depending on the region), the Galaxy S9 was built for speed. Today, this processor handles everyday tasks well, from social media browsing to email checking and light gaming.
However, if you’re a heavy user or into mobile gaming, you may notice some slowdown, especially when compared to newer models with more RAM and faster processors. That said, for regular users, the Galaxy S9’s performance is likely sufficient even in 2024.
Software and Updates: Limited but Stable
Originally launched with Android 8, the Galaxy S9 received updates up to Android 10, though Samsung has since stopped providing further updates. This lack of software support could be a disadvantage for those who prioritize the latest security patches and Android features.
If you’re comfortable with a stable version of Android 10 and can work around the absence of new updates, the Galaxy S9 remains usable. However, for the security-conscious user, this might be a reason to look into newer Samsung models that will continue to receive regular updates and patches.
Camera Performance: Still Competitive?
The Galaxy S9 introduced an innovative dual-aperture lens, allowing the camera to switch between f/1.5 for low-light shots and f/2.4 for well-lit scenes. This feature helps the Galaxy S9 capture detailed, bright photos even in challenging lighting conditions.
- Low-Light Photography: The variable aperture is excellent in low-light settings, delivering crisp, clear images.
- Daylight Shots: Photos are vibrant and sharp, though they may lack some of the detail captured by newer sensors on more recent Galaxy models.
- Front Camera: With an 8MP selfie camera, the S9 still captures quality selfies, but it may struggle in low light compared to today’s higher-resolution front cameras.
For photography enthusiasts, the Galaxy S9 offers enough to be satisfied with standard social media shots, but serious mobile photographers may prefer a newer device with enhanced camera features.
Battery Life: Can It Last the Day?
The Galaxy S9’s 3,000mAh battery was sufficient at launch but may feel limited by today’s standards. Users report needing to charge by mid-day with heavy use. For moderate users, the battery can last the full day, but anyone using the phone extensively may find themselves reaching for a charger more frequently.
That said, the S9 supports both fast charging and wireless charging, which makes topping up the battery convenient. If battery life is a major concern, consider carrying a portable charger or researching models with more robust batteries.
Additional Features: What Else Does the Galaxy S9 Offer?
Beyond the basics, the Galaxy S9 includes several notable features that add to its appeal:
- Water and Dust Resistance: Rated IP68, the Galaxy S9 is water and dust-resistant, making it a durable option for various environments.
- Biometric Security: Facial recognition and an improved rear fingerprint scanner offer convenient ways to unlock the device.
- Expandable Storage: The S9 supports a microSD card, allowing for additional storage space – a feature often missing from recent models.
Although some of these features are now standard, they remain valuable and functional in the Galaxy S9, particularly for users who appreciate added durability and storage flexibility.
Comparing the Galaxy S9 to Newer Models
For potential buyers considering the Galaxy S9, it’s essential to evaluate what newer models offer:
- Performance: Newer Galaxy models come with increased RAM and advanced processors, which can handle multitasking, gaming, and heavy apps more efficiently.
- Software Support: Devices such as the Galaxy S21 or S22 receive ongoing software updates, keeping them more secure.
- Camera Quality: Newer Galaxy devices have multiple lenses, ultra-wide shots, and better night mode capabilities, appealing to advanced users.
If these updates are vital for your usage, investing in a newer model may be worth the additional cost. However, if you value the core features and a reliable, budget-friendly device, the Galaxy S9 remains an excellent option.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Samsung Galaxy S9
For current Galaxy S9 users, here are some solutions to common problems:
Battery Draining Quickly
To improve battery life, reduce background app usage, dim the screen brightness, and turn on power-saving mode. You may also consider disabling features like Always-On Display to conserve power.
Camera Performance in Low Light
Use the f/1.5 aperture mode in the camera settings to enhance low-light shots. Regularly cleaning the camera lens also helps maintain image quality.
Overheating
Overheating is common with intensive apps. Try restarting the device, clearing the cache, and removing background apps. If it persists, reset the device or limit heavy app usage.
If these issues persist, Samsung offers support resources for troubleshooting. You can also visit our Samsung phone troubleshooting guide for additional solutions.
Conclusion: Is the Samsung Galaxy S9 Still Worth Buying?
In this Samsung Galaxy S9 review, we’ve explored what this device has to offer in 2024. With its superb design, impressive display, reliable camera, and array of features, the Galaxy S9 remains a solid choice, especially for budget-conscious buyers looking for a secondary device or a primary device with basic functionality. While it may not have the latest specs or updates, its performance, camera, and durability make it a competitive option.
Ultimately, the Galaxy S9 still holds its own in specific areas, though it may not be the best choice for those who prioritize cutting-edge technology and extended software support. However, if you appreciate a high-quality display, a decent camera, and a comfortable design, the Galaxy S9 is a worthy option that delivers value even today.
This article is in the category Reviews and created by GalaxyTips Team