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Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9

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Galaxy J5 (2017)

Starting at

£60.00
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Galaxy S9

Starting at

£116.50£449.00 new
See options
(56 reviews)
(689 reviews)

What's the difference between the Galaxy J5 (2017) and Galaxy S9?

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 comes down to the RAM, screen size and main camera. Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2017) starts at £60, £56.50 less than the Galaxy S9. The Galaxy S9 is the newer model, released in 2018.

Refurbished from

£60£116.50

RAM

3 GB4 GB

Screen size

5.2 inch5.8 inch

Main camera

13 megapixels12 megapixels

Front camera

13 megapixels8 megapixels

Software updates

Ended Mar 2019Ended Apr 2022
  • The Galaxy S9 has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB.
  • The Galaxy S9 has a bigger screen: 5.8 inch vs 5.2 inch.
  • The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 specs

The Galaxy J5 (2017) and Galaxy S9 differ in screen detail, memory, and camera focus. The Galaxy J5 (2017) suits those who want a smaller screen and a higher front camera resolution for selfies. The Galaxy S9 offers a larger, sharper screen and more RAM with bigger storage options, which helps with app multitasking and storing more data. Both phones run Android and support 4G on unlocked networks. The Galaxy J5 (2017) uses micro USB while the Galaxy S9 has USB-C, which may be a consideration for charging and accessories. Choose the Galaxy J5 (2017) if you prefer a simpler device for everyday use and better front camera detail. Opt for the Galaxy S9 if you want a roomier screen and more memory for apps and files.

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 price

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 battery life and software updates

Durability covers software updates and device design.

Software Updates

This means both phones operate on earlier versions of Android, which affects the newest system features but ensures a stable experience for everyday use.

Design Basics

Both phones have traditional flat smartphone designs suitable for those who prefer familiar handling and use.

Battery

3000 mAh3000 mAh

Foldable

NoNo

Ip rating

N/AIP68

Software updates

Ended Mar 2019Ended Apr 2022

Wireless charging

N/AYes

Year of release

20172018

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 performance

RAM

3 GB4 GB

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 screen

Screen quality is key for viewing comfort and detail. Both phones use Super AMOLED technology but differ in size and resolution, affecting how much you see and how sharp images appear.

Screen Size and Comfort

The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a 5.2 inch screen, which suits those who want a compact phone that is easier to hold and use with one hand. The Galaxy S9's 5.8 inch screen provides more space for watching videos and browsing, ideal for users who value a roomier display.

Screen Resolution

With a resolution of 720 x 1280, the Galaxy J5 (2017) offers clear visuals for everyday tasks like reading and messaging. The Galaxy S9's higher resolution of 1440 x 2960 delivers sharper detail and richer images, which benefits users who often watch high-definition content or prefer crisper text.

Resolution

720 x 12801440 x 2960

Screen size

5.2 inch5.8 inch

Screen type

Super AMOLEDSuper AMOLED

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 camera

Audiovisual features focus on front and main cameras. Each device has different megapixel counts that influence photo detail, which is important depending on whether you prioritise selfies or main photography.

Front Camera Detail

The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a 13 megapixel front camera. This higher megapixel count suits users who take a lot of selfies or video calls and want sharper front-facing photos.

Main Camera Suitability

The Galaxy S9 features a 12 megapixel main camera. While slightly lower in megapixels than the Galaxy J5 (2017), this camera is designed for capturing everyday photos with good detail, supporting users focused on general photography.

Camera type

N/ASingle (1x)

Front camera

13 megapixels8 megapixels

Main camera

13 megapixels12 megapixels

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 size and design

Other features include network compatibility, connectors, size, and storage options. These details help choose a device that fits your daily needs and preferences.

Connector Types

The Galaxy J5 (2017) uses a micro USB connector alongside a 3.5mm headphone jack. This may suit users with existing micro USB chargers and standard headphones. The Galaxy S9 offers a USB-C connector with a 3.5mm jack, which is common in newer devices and supports faster data transfer and charging.

Device Dimensions and Weight

The Galaxy J5 (2017) measures 146.2 mm in height, 71.3 mm in width, and 8 mm in depth, weighing 160 g. The Galaxy S9 is slightly taller at 147.7 mm, narrower at 68.7 mm, and a bit thicker at 8.5 mm, weighing 163 g. These subtle differences may affect hand feel and pocket fit.

Storage Capacity

The Galaxy J5 (2017) comes with 16GB of storage, suitable for users with basic app and media needs. The Galaxy S9 offers larger options at 64GB and 128GB, which is better for those who keep more apps, photos, and files on their phone.

Network and Card Support

Both devices support 4G networks and come unlocked for use with any carrier. They also both accept microSDXC cards, allowing extra storage via memory cards. Both use physical SIM cards.

Carrier compatibility

UnlockedUnlocked

Connector

Micro-USB + Jack 3.5mmUSB-C + Jack 3.5mm

Depth

7.8 mm8.5 mm

Height

146.3 mm147.7 mm

Mobile network

4G4G

Release date

N/A16 March 2018

SD card slot

microSDXCmicroSDXC

SIM card

Physical SIMPhysical SIM

Weight

160 g163 g

Width

71.3 mm68.7 mm

Galaxy J5 (2017) or Galaxy S9: which should you buy?

Buy the Galaxy J5 (2017) if

  • you want to spend less: it starts at £60, £56.50 less than the Galaxy S9
  • you want a higher-resolution main camera (13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
  • you want a higher-resolution front camera (13 megapixels vs 8 megapixels)

Buy the Galaxy S9 if

  • you want more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB)
  • you want a bigger screen (5.8 inch vs 5.2 inch)

What our customers say

Customers who bought the Galaxy J5 (2017) often highlight its good condition and value for money. They appreciate the phone for everyday use and as a first phone for children, noting it is simple to use and good for beginners. Some mention the SIM slot size can be an issue with bigger SIM cards. Overall, users find it reliable and well suited for basic tasks, though some note it is less suitable for newer apps.

Galaxy S9 customers praise the phone's condition, often finding it better than expected even in fair condition. They find it works smoothly and suits their needs well, especially appreciating the larger storage options. Some mention minor screen marks or battery top-up needs during the day, but generally users are pleased with performance and appearance. A few report issues with accessories or overheating.

The Galaxy J5 (2017) is well suited for users who want a straightforward phone with a good front camera and basic storage. The Galaxy S9 suits those who want a larger, sharper screen and more room for apps and media, with plenty of storage space.

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 FAQs

Galaxy J5 (2017) vs Galaxy S9 comes down to the RAM, screen size and main camera. The Galaxy S9 has more RAM: 4 GB vs 3 GB. The Galaxy S9 has a bigger screen: 5.8 inch vs 5.2 inch.

The Galaxy J5 (2017) is cheaper refurbished, from £60 compared with £116.50 for the Galaxy S9.

Both have the same battery: 3000 mAh.

The Galaxy J5 (2017) has a higher-resolution main camera: 13 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.

Updates for the Galaxy J5 (2017) ended in Mar 2019. Updates for the Galaxy S9 ended in Apr 2022.

The Galaxy S9 adds more RAM (4 GB vs 3 GB) and a bigger screen (5.8 inch vs 5.2 inch). Refurbished, it costs £56.50 more (from £116.50 vs £60).

Refurbished, the Galaxy J5 (2017) comes in 16GB, and the Galaxy S9 in 64GB and 128GB.

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