The S9 and S9+ are both fantastic phones. However, there's no getting around the fact that the S9+ has its advantages. In fact, it's an objectively better smartphone than its smaller counterpart — Samsung has given the S9+ features not found in the S9, meaning you'll be missing out if you choose the 5.8" Galaxy over the 6.2".
We're not saying you shouldn't get the S9, or that the smaller Galaxy is bad. The S9+ isn't miles better than the S9, and in the end, which phone you go with really comes down to personal preference. However, that doesn't mean we can avoid the discrepancies. To make the right decision, you're going to want all the facts.
1. Dual Cameras
Two is better than one. For their first S-model dual camera release, Samsung followed other smartphone makers' leads by equipping the new tech on their plus-size device only. Sorry, S9 fans — you're stuck with the one camera.
That's not a bad thing, by any means — both the single and dual cameras are 12 MP with a variable aperture between f/1.5 and f/2.4. However, without the second camera, S9 owners will miss out on the ability to shoot Portrait shots, as well as the S9+'s 2X optical zoom.
If either of those features is important to you, consider going with the S9+, as the S9 won't be able to deliver in this area.
2. A Larger 6.2" Screen
We get it — some people like smaller phones. If that's your cup of tea, perhaps the S9's 5.8" display is right for you. However, if you're someone who binges a lot of Netflix on their smartphone, or likes the feel of a larger phone in their hand, the S9+ is the way to go.
Samsung's larger device has a display that's four tenths of an inch bigger than the S9's. At 6.2", TV and movies look fantastic, editing photos is a breeze, and seeing more of your conversations keeps previous texts fresh in your mind. As obvious as it is, the S9+ is a far better choice for those who enjoy a larger phone.
3. More RAM
RAM (random access memory) is important for multitasking — the more RAM you have, the more your S9 is able to do at once without slowing down or purging memory to make room for new actions. If you've ever switched back to a previously-used app to have it reload and lose your place, that's a lack of memory.
The S9 comes standard with 4 GB of RAM. It's a respectable amount (the iPhone X only comes with 3 GB, but that's a whole other conversation). However, the S9+ comes with 6 GB. That's two extra GB of memory to support games, videos, social media apps, and more, without worrying your phone will need to reload between apps.
4. A Larger 3,500 mAh Battery
Who doesn't want more battery power? The S9+ comes with a solid 3,500 mAh battery, a decent upgrade over the Note 8's 3,330 mAh battery, but the same size as the S8+'s. I guess if it ain't broke, don't fix it.
On the flip side, the S9 comes with a 3,000 mAh battery, just like the S8 before it. If you're looking for the Galaxy with the largest battery possible, you'll want to go with the S9+ for sure. Of course, that bigger battery compensates for the larger display on the S9+. We won't know until benchmarks how the S9+ stacks up to the S9 in terms of battery life.
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