Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS
Shop Samsung Galaxy
Galaxy S9
Starting at
£116.50£449.00 new
iPhone XS
Starting at
£138.35£559.00 newWhat's the difference between the Galaxy S9 and iPhone XS?
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS comes down to the battery, screen type and front camera. Refurbished, the Galaxy S9 starts at £116.50, £21.85 less than the iPhone XS.
Refurbished from
Battery
Screen type
Front camera
Software updates
Weight
- The Galaxy S9 has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
- Screen type: Super AMOLED on the Galaxy S9, Super Retina OLED on the iPhone XS.
- The Galaxy S9 has a higher-resolution front camera: 8 megapixels vs 7 megapixels.
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS specs
The Galaxy S9 and iPhone XS both offer a 5.8 inch screen and 4 GB of RAM, making them similar in size and multitasking ability. The Galaxy S9 has a larger 3000 mAh battery and supports microSDXC cards for extra storage, with options up to 128GB. For photography, the Galaxy S9 has a single main camera and a slightly higher resolution front camera, while the iPhone XS has a dual main camera setup. Audio preferences differ with the Galaxy S9 including a 3.5mm headphone jack and USB-C, while the iPhone XS uses a Lightning connector and includes eSIM support. These differences suit those who value expandable storage and headphone options or those who want iOS with ongoing updates and advanced camera features.
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS price
Colour
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS battery life and software updates
Durability covers battery, operating system updates and physical design elements. These factors affect how long the device stays powered and compatible with software over time.
Battery Capacity
The Galaxy S9 has a 3000 mAh battery which offers more capacity than the iPhone XS's 2658 mAh. If you prefer longer battery life between charges, the Galaxy S9 suits you better. The iPhone XS may require more frequent charging but still performs well for daily use.
Operating System
The Galaxy S9 runs on Android, offering flexibility and customisation options. The iPhone XS runs iOS, known for its smooth integration and regular updates. Your preference for either system will guide your choice here.
Battery
Foldable
Ip rating
Software updates
Wireless charging
Year of release
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS performance
Chipset
RAM
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS screen
Screen quality influences your viewing experience for video, photos and everyday use. Both devices have 5.8 inch displays but differ in resolution and screen technology.
Resolution
The Galaxy S9 has a higher resolution of 1440 x 2960 pixels, providing a sharper image with more detail. This suits users who watch high-resolution videos or appreciate fine screen clarity. The iPhone XS has a 1125 x 2436 resolution that still offers a clear and vibrant display.
Screen Type
The Galaxy S9 uses a Super AMOLED screen, known for deep blacks and vivid colours. The iPhone XS features a Super Retina OLED screen which also provides excellent colour accuracy and brightness. Both screens deliver rich visuals suited to different viewing preferences.
Resolution
Screen size
Screen type
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS camera
Camera and front camera specs affect photography and video calls. Audio connections shape how you listen to music or use headphones.
Main Cameras
The Galaxy S9 has a single 12 megapixel main camera, good for standard photos. The iPhone XS offers a dual 12 megapixel main camera setup, which can provide more versatility such as portrait mode effects. Photography enthusiasts may prefer the iPhone XS for this feature.
Front Cameras
The front camera on the Galaxy S9 is 8 megapixels, slightly higher than the iPhone XS's 7 megapixels. This may appeal to those who take a lot of selfies or use video calls frequently and want more detail.
Camera type
Front camera
Main camera
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS size and design
Miscellaneous features include storage options, network compatibility, physical dimensions and connectors. These affect usability, expansion and comfort.
Storage Options
The Galaxy S9 is stocked with 64GB and 128GB storage variants and supports microSDXC cards for expandable storage. This suits users who want flexibility to add more space. The iPhone XS offers 64GB and 256GB options but does not support memory cards, ideal for those who prefer built-in storage.
Connectors and Headphone Jack
The Galaxy S9 includes a USB-C port and a 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing use with standard headphones without adapters. The iPhone XS uses a Lightning connector and does not have a headphone jack, which suits users who use wireless headphones or Apple accessories.
SIM and eSIM
The Galaxy S9 uses a physical SIM card only, while the iPhone XS supports both a physical SIM and eSIM. This gives iPhone XS users the option to have dual lines or easier switching between networks.
Size and Weight
Both phones have similar heights and widths, with the Galaxy S9 being slightly lighter at 163 g compared to the iPhone XS at 177 g. The Galaxy S9 is 8.5 mm thick while the iPhone XS measures 7.7 mm. These small differences may affect how the phone feels in your hand.
Carrier compatibility
Connector
Depth
Height
Mobile network
Release date
SD card slot
SIM card
Weight
Width
Galaxy S9 or iPhone XS: which should you buy?
Buy the Galaxy S9 if
- you want to spend less: it starts at £116.50, £21.85 less than the iPhone XS
- you want a bigger battery (3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh)
- you want a higher-resolution front camera (8 megapixels vs 7 megapixels)
What our customers say
Customers say the Galaxy S9 often looks better than expected for a refurbished phone, with minimal marks and screens that hold up well. Many find it runs smoothly for everyday use and appreciate the storage space, especially the 128GB option. Battery life receives mixed comments, with some noting the need to top up by evening. Some mention overheating and issues with charging cables, but overall users find it reliable and well suited to those who prefer Android and value features like the headphone jack and expandable storage.
Reviews for the iPhone XS highlight its like-new appearance and smooth performance. Customers enjoy the larger 256GB storage option and find the device compact and comfortable to hold. Battery life generally lasts all day with evening charging. The dual main camera is appreciated for photography, while some report occasional issues with the front camera or heating. The eSIM support and continued software updates appeal to those wanting ongoing compatibility and flexibility.
Both phones suit different needs: the Galaxy S9 is good for Android users who want a sharp screen, headphone jack, and expandable storage, while the iPhone XS fits those looking for iOS with advanced camera features, software updates, and higher storage capacity.
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS FAQs
Galaxy S9 vs iPhone XS comes down to the battery, screen type and front camera. The Galaxy S9 has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh. Screen type: Super AMOLED on the Galaxy S9, Super Retina OLED on the iPhone XS.
The Galaxy S9 is cheaper refurbished, from £116.50 compared with £138.35 for the iPhone XS.
The Galaxy S9 has a bigger battery: 3000 mAh vs 2658 mAh.
Both have the same main camera: 12 megapixels.
Updates for the Galaxy S9 ended in Apr 2022. Updates for the iPhone XS ended in Apr 2026. Its last version is iOS 18.
Refurbished, the Galaxy S9 comes in 64GB and 128GB, and the iPhone XS in 64GB and 256GB.
