Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S20
Starting at
£188.75£999.00 new
iPhone 12
Starting at
£170.00£649.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S20 and iPhone 12?
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the iPhone 12 starts at £170, £18.75 less than the Galaxy S20.
Refurbished from
RAM
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Refresh rate
- The Galaxy S20 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB.
- The Galaxy S20 has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
- Screen size: 6.2 inch on the Galaxy S20, 6.1 inch on the iPhone 12.
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 specs
The Galaxy S20 and iPhone 12 both came out in 2020 and offer different strengths that suit different users. The Galaxy S20 has a larger battery and more RAM, which helps keep apps running smoothly and supports longer usage between charges. Its screen offers a higher refresh rate and resolution, making it especially appealing if you prioritise a very smooth and sharp display. Storage options for the iPhone 12 are more varied, accommodating different needs. Overall, the Galaxy S20 fits users wanting a more powerful Android device with expandable storage, while the iPhone 12 suits those who prefer timely updates, iOS, and 5G.
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 price
Colour
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 battery life and software updates
Battery capacity and software updates are key when considering durability and long-term use. These devices differ in how they handle these factors, which will affect your daily experience and future-proofing.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S20 has a 4000 mAh battery, which provides more power for longer use between charges. This suits users who often rely on their phone throughout the day. The iPhone 12 has a 2815 mAh battery, which may fit users with lighter daily usage or those who charge more frequently.
Operating System
The Galaxy S20 runs on Android, offering more customisation and flexibility, while the iPhone 12 uses iOS, known for its streamlined experience and integration with other Apple devices. Your choice between the two will depend on your preference for these ecosystems.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 screen
Screen quality affects how you view content and interact with your device. These two models have different screen sizes, resolutions, and refresh rates that each suit different priorities.
Refresh Rate
The Galaxy S20 features a 120 Hz refresh rate, which makes animations and scrolling smoother. This suits users who want a fluid visual experience, especially when gaming or browsing. The iPhone 12 has a 60 Hz refresh rate, which is standard and suits everyday use without the extra smoothness.
Resolution and Screen Size
The Galaxy S20 has a 6.2 inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen with a resolution of 1440 x 3200, delivering a sharp and vibrant display that is ideal for watching videos or detailed content. The iPhone 12 has a slightly smaller 6.1 inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen with a resolution of 1170 x 2532, which balances sharpness and size, making it comfortable for one-handed use.
Refresh rate
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 camera
Camera quality is important if you often take photos or video calls. These devices offer similar main cameras but differ slightly on their front cameras.
Main Camera
Both the Galaxy S20 and iPhone 12 have 12 megapixel main cameras, so they provide similar detail and capability for everyday photography needs.
Front Camera
The iPhone 12 has a 12 megapixel front camera, which captures more detail for selfies and video calls compared to the Galaxy S20's 10 megapixel front camera. This difference may appeal to those who prioritise front-facing camera quality.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 size and design
Several other features influence daily usability and connectivity. Consider network compatibility, storage options, physical size, and how you connect accessories.
Mobile Network
The iPhone 12 supports 5G connectivity, which suits users wanting faster mobile data speeds where available. The Galaxy S20 supports 4G, which remains widely used and reliable.
Storage Options
The iPhone 12 is available in 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB versions, offering wider choice depending on how much storage you need. The Galaxy S20 is stocked with 128GB, which fits many users well. Additionally, the Galaxy S20 has a microSDXC slot for storage expansion, useful if you want to add more space later.
Physical Size and Weight
The Galaxy S20 measures 161.9 mm high, 73.7 mm wide, and 7.8 mm deep, weighing 163 g. The iPhone 12 is slightly smaller at 146.7 mm high, 71.5 mm wide, and 7.4 mm deep, weighing 164 g. The iPhone 12's smaller height and width may be more comfortable for one-handed use.
Connector Type
The Galaxy S20 uses a USB Type-C connector, which is common on many Android devices and accessories. The iPhone 12 uses Apple's Lightning connector, which fits most Apple accessories but requires different cables.
SIM and Carrier Compatibility
Both devices are unlocked and accept a physical SIM plus eSIM, giving flexibility in how you use mobile plans.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S20 or iPhone 12: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S20 if
- you want more RAM (8 GB vs 4 GB)
- you want a bigger battery (4000 mAh vs 2815 mAh)
- you want a smoother screen (120 Hz vs 60 Hz)
Buy the iPhone 12 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £170, £18.75 less than the Galaxy S20
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (12 megapixels vs 10 megapixels)
- you want longer software support (supported, up to iOS 27 vs ended Mar 2025)
What our customers say
Customers who bought the Galaxy S20 say the phone looks clean and light with good condition screens. Many report the phone working well and matching the description of excellent condition. Some have experienced issues like screen unresponsiveness or blacklisting, but overall users appreciate the phone's condition and performance. The Galaxy S20 is praised for its neat appearance and reliable performance when in good condition.
Users of the iPhone 12 highlight that the phone looks like new with clean glass and a perfect frame. Many mention the battery feeling like new and smooth performance with apps running easily. The iPhone 12 is noted for its spotless condition, updated software, and good speed. Customers appreciate the variety of storage options and features like the included SIM removal tool. The iPhone 12 is described as a solid everyday phone with reliable performance and a clean look.
Both devices suit users looking for a refurbished phone that performs well and looks like new. The Galaxy S20 may appeal to those wanting a light and smooth Android device, while the iPhone 12 is for those who prefer iOS with consistent updates and 5G connectivity.
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 FAQs
Galaxy S20 vs iPhone 12 comes down to the RAM, battery and screen size. The Galaxy S20 has more RAM: 8 GB vs 4 GB. The Galaxy S20 has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
The iPhone 12 is cheaper refurbished, from £170 compared with £188.75 for the Galaxy S20.
The Galaxy S20 has a bigger battery: 4000 mAh vs 2815 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S20 ended in Mar 2025. The iPhone 12 is still supported and can run iOS 27.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S20 comes in 128GB, and the iPhone 12 in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
