Apple iPhone 12 vs Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra

The Verdict

The iPhone 12 and Galaxy S20 Ultra represent different philosophical approaches to smartphone design. Samsung's flagship offers a significantly larger 6.9-inch display with 120Hz refresh rate versus the iPhone's 6.1-inch 60Hz panel, making the S20 Ultra superior for scrolling and gaming. Samsung also delivers a more ambitious camera system with a 108MP main sensor, 48MP periscope telephoto with 4x optical zoom, and 8K video recording, while the iPhone 12 keeps things simpler with a capable 12MP dual setup and 4K recording at 60fps. Battery capacity heavily favors Samsung at 5000 mAh with 45W charging compared to iPhone's modest 2815 mAh and 20W charging. However, the iPhone 12 excels in processing efficiency. Its A14 Bionic chip consistently outperforms the Snapdragon 865 in single-core tasks and real-world app performance. The iPhone is also 56 grams lighter, more compact, and runs the tightly integrated iOS ecosystem. The $600 price difference is substantial. At $799, the iPhone 12 delivers exceptional value for daily performance and longevity. The S20 Ultra's $1399 price tag targets enthusiasts wanting camera versatility and display specifications. For most users, the iPhone 12 offers better value and faster performance. Camera enthusiasts and those prioritizing display quality should consider the S20 Ultra despite its premium cost and heavier build.