Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S6
Starting at
£81.32£399.00 new
iPhone XR
Starting at
£130.30£399.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S6 and iPhone XR?
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Refurbished, the Galaxy S6 starts at £81.32, £48.98 less than the iPhone XR. The iPhone XR is the newer model, released in 2018.
Refurbished from
Chipset
Battery
Screen size
Screen type
Main camera
- Chipset: Exynos 7420 Octa (14 nm) on the Galaxy S6, Apple A12 Bionic (7 nm) on the iPhone XR.
- The iPhone XR has a bigger battery: 2942 mAh vs 2550 mAh.
- The iPhone XR has a bigger screen: 6.1 inch vs 5.1 inch.
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR specs
The Galaxy S6 and iPhone XR offer distinct experiences suited to different needs. The Galaxy S6 features a sharper, smaller Super AMOLED screen and a higher resolution camera for detailed photos. Performance wise, both have 3 GB RAM but different chipsets, with the iPhone XR having a newer, more power-efficient chipset. Storage options are broader with the iPhone XR, offering up to 256GB. The Galaxy S6 is lighter and more compact, while the iPhone XR includes eSIM support and a physical SIM. Choose the Galaxy S6 for sharper images and a compact size, or the iPhone XR for a bigger screen, longer battery life, and up-to-date software support.
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR price
Colour
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery capacity, operating system updates, and basic hardware features that affect how long you can use each device comfortably. The two phones differ in battery size and software support, which influences daily use and longevity.
Battery Capacity
The iPhone XR has a 2942 mAh battery, which is larger than the Galaxy S6's 2550 mAh. This means the iPhone XR is likely to last longer between charges, suiting users who value extended battery life through the day.
Operating System
The Galaxy S6 runs on Android, while the iPhone XR uses iOS. Your choice may depend on which ecosystem you prefer or are already invested in, as this affects app availability and user experience.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR performance
Performance includes the chipset and memory, which affect how smoothly the phone runs apps and handles multitasking. Storage options also play a role in how much data you can keep on the device.
Chipset Efficiency
The Galaxy S6 features an Exynos 7420 Octa chipset built on 14 nm technology, while the iPhone XR has an Apple A12 Bionic chipset built on 7 nm. The smaller 7 nm process in the iPhone XR's chipset generally means better power efficiency and performance for demanding tasks.
Memory Capacity
Both phones have 3 GB of RAM, which is suitable for everyday apps and moderate multitasking. Users who keep multiple apps open simultaneously will find both devices comparable in this regard.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S6 is stocked with 32GB of storage, while the iPhone XR offers choices of 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB. If you need more space for apps, photos, and files, the iPhone XR provides more options to suit your needs.
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR screen
The screen is a key part of the user experience, affecting how you watch videos, browse, and interact with apps. The devices differ in size, resolution, and display technology, which shape how content looks and feels.
Screen Size
The iPhone XR has a larger 6.1 inch display compared to the Galaxy S6's 5.1 inch screen. This makes the iPhone XR better suited for watching videos, reading, and gaming with more screen space to enjoy.
Resolution
The Galaxy S6 offers a higher resolution of 1440 x 2560 pixels, providing sharper and more detailed images. This suits users who prioritise fine detail in photos and text.
Display Technology
The Galaxy S6 uses a Super AMOLED screen, known for vibrant colours and deep blacks. The iPhone XR has a Liquid Retina IPS LCD, which provides accurate colours and good viewing angles. Your preference between vivid or natural tones will guide your choice.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR camera
Camera quality and front-facing camera resolution affect how your photos and video calls come out. Each phone offers different strengths depending on what you value most in photography.
Main Camera Detail
The Galaxy S6 has a 16 megapixel main camera, which captures more detail in photos. This is ideal for users who want sharper images for everyday photography.
Front Camera Quality
The iPhone XR features a 7 megapixel front camera, higher than the Galaxy S6's 5 megapixels. This makes the iPhone XR especially suitable for selfies and video calls where clearer image quality matters.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR size and design
Other practical features like size, weight, SIM card options, and network compatibility influence how the phone fits your lifestyle and preferences.
Physical Size and Weight
The Galaxy S6 is smaller and lighter, measuring 143.4 mm in height and weighing 138 g, making it easier to hold and pocket. The iPhone XR is taller at 150.9 mm and heavier at 194 g, offering a more substantial feel.
SIM Card Options
The Galaxy S6 uses a physical SIM card only, while the iPhone XR supports both a physical SIM and eSIM. The eSIM option in the iPhone XR adds flexibility for managing multiple phone numbers or plans.
Carrier Compatibility
Both phones are unlocked and compatible with 4G networks, giving you the freedom to choose your mobile provider without restrictions.
Storage Expansion
Neither device includes an SD card slot, so storage capacity depends entirely on the built-in options.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S6 or iPhone XR: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S6 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £81.32, £48.98 less than the iPhone XR
- you want an OLED screen
- you want a higher-resolution main camera (16 megapixels vs 12 megapixels)
Buy the iPhone XR if
- you want a bigger battery (2942 mAh vs 2550 mAh)
- you want a bigger screen (6.1 inch vs 5.1 inch)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (7 megapixels vs 5 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy S6 looks like new and many find it ready to use straight away with just a SIM card. Some mention issues with the phone being locked to networks or receiving the wrong charging cable, but others praise its compact size and good condition. The camera and screen quality are appreciated by those who want a device for everyday use.
The iPhone XR receives consistent praise for its excellent condition and ease of setup. Customers highlight the larger screen as suitable for all ages, including older users who find it the right size. Battery health is noted as good even on refurbished units, though some mention the replacement battery is not an official Apple part, which may show a warning. Many users are happy with its speed, camera, and storage options, recommending it as a reliable choice.
The Galaxy S6 suits those who want a lighter, sharper screen and higher resolution photos in a smaller phone. The iPhone XR is a good fit for users seeking a larger display, longer battery life, and the latest software support with flexible SIM options.
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR FAQs
Galaxy S6 vs iPhone XR comes down to the chipset, battery and screen size. Chipset: Exynos 7420 Octa (14 nm) on the Galaxy S6, Apple A12 Bionic (7 nm) on the iPhone XR. The iPhone XR has a bigger battery: 2942 mAh vs 2550 mAh.
The Galaxy S6 is cheaper refurbished, from £81.32 compared with £130.30 for the iPhone XR.
The iPhone XR has a bigger battery: 2942 mAh vs 2550 mAh.
The Galaxy S6 has a higher-resolution main camera: 16 megapixels vs 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S6 ended in Jun 2018. Updates for the iPhone XR ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S6 comes in 32GB, and the iPhone XR in 64GB, 128GB and 256GB.
