Samsung, following the success of its Galaxy line of flagship phones and tablets, decided to combine the two ideas into a ‘phablet’—a hybrid device that combines features from smartphones and tablets into one.
Typically, these ‘phablets’ feature a screen size closer to a small tablet, at 5.5 to 7 inches, making it easier to stream shows, play games, and multitask while still being able to fit into a pocket or small bag.
Samsung’s Galaxy Note devices, first released in 2011 with the Galaxy Note 1, were their entry into the phablet market. At release, the Galaxy Note was renowned for its larger display and pressure-sensitive Wacom stylus support through its S Pen, making it perfect for note-taking, art, digital scrapbooking, and split-screen multitasking.
While the Galaxy Note line was discontinued in 2020, it lives on through Samsung’s Fold line and the ‘Ultra’ editions of certain phablet-sized models of the Galaxy S series. Although no newer Galaxy Note models are coming out, the last few devices, the Galaxy Note 9, 10, and 20, are still fantastic devices, especially if you grab them refurbished—it’s a great deal.
If you’re interested in a larger phone that’s fantastic for multitasking and supports a pressure-sensitive stylus, we’ll help you find the right device for your needs.
Key Similarities Between The Galaxy Note 9, 10 and 20
As the Galaxy Note 9, 10, and 20 are all part of the same series, they share a few key similarities despite the time between releases. This includes hardware features, software, and the inclusion of the signature S Pen. Here are the key features of the three models:
S Pen Integration
All three Note models feature S Pen support and integration. The S Pen is a wireless digital stylus pen designed and developed by Samsung Electronics. It features Wacom’s digital pen technology. Wacom is one of the global leaders in graphic tablets and digital art.
Along with pressure sensitivity, the S Pen also allows for other features like translating text by hovering the pen, a screen magnifier, and even creating animated messages. Depending on the Note model, the S Pen might be made from different materials, with varied battery life and latency. For example, the S Pen for the Note 20 features a faster response time and longer battery life.
Large Display
Every Galaxy Note model is renowned for its large, high-resolution display. The Note 9 features a 6.4-inch display, while the Note 10 (base model) has a 6.3-inch display, and the Note 20 (base model) has a massive 6.7-inch screen. It’s perfect if you want a usable screen that’s larger than a typical smartphone but still small enough to fit in a pocket or bag.
Performance
The Galaxy Note series is well-known for being cutting edge, with even older models like the Galaxy Note 9 still holding up today with its 8 GB RAM option. If you want a device that still has a large amount of RAM and a strong processor, the Note series is a good choice.
Samsung’s Android OS
Every model in the Galaxy Note series features Samsung’s customised Android operating system and software support. This includes Samsung DeX, which allows for a desktop-like experience, and Samsung apps like Samsung Health.
Build Quality
When it comes to Samsung, one thing you can always count on is the build quality. From the Galaxy S flagship line to the Fold and the Note series, you can count on premium build quality from the first Note through to the latest, Note 20.
Battery Capacity & Wireless Charging
If you want a device with a large battery capacity, it’s a feature shared by all the Note series devices. The Note 9, 10, and 20 all boast large battery capacity sizes, ranging from 3500mAH to 4500mAh, depending on the model. The devices also all support fast wireless charging.
While the Galaxy Note 9, 10, and 20 are all part of the same series, it’s important to remember that each successive model also brings some key differences as technology advances and grows. For instance, the Galaxy Note 20, while it has the same larger displays, has an improved processor.
Key Differences Between The Galaxy Note 9, 10 and 20
As the different Galaxy Note models are successors, you can expect key differences between the devices. The main differences lie in the software, screen size, and processor.
The Galaxy Note 9 features a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 2960 x 1440 pixels. As the Note 9 is older than the 10 and 20 by a few years, it is no longer officially supported.
Official support for the Note 9 ended in late 2022, and aside from security patches, the device will remain at Android 10. Note 9 also features the Exynos 9810, which is dated compared to the processors in Note 10 and 20, but it is still great for streaming and taking notes.
The Note 10 features a 6.3-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen on the base model and a 6.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen on the Note 10+. Respectively, the resolution for the models is 2280 x 1080 pixels and 3040 x 1440 pixels. It also features an enhanced processor over the Note 9, making it a great choice for light gaming and intensive tasks.
The Galaxy Note 20 is the latest entry in the Note series, so if you’re looking for a cutting-edge display and processor, it’s the best choice. The base model features a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus screen, and the Ultra model features a 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen.
Another key difference between the models is the RAM options. The Note 9 supports 4 GB and 8 GB variants, while the Note 10 and 20 have 8 GB and 12 GB options.
The battery sizes are also different between the models. The Note 9 features a 4000mAh battery. The Note 10 has a smaller battery, 3500mAh in the base model (4300mAh in the Plus model), while the Note 20 has a 4300mAh battery in the base model (4500mAh in the Ultra model).
The only model that supports 5G is the Galaxy Note 20. It’s also important to note that not all models support Micro SD cards for extendable storage. For instance, the Note 9 features SD Card support, while the Note 10 base model doesn’t.
The only model with eSIM capability is the Note 20. Older models, like Note 9 and 10, don’t have the built-in feature. It’s also important to note that eSIM functionality will depend on the carrier.
Which One Is Better For You?
Choosing between the Galaxy Note 9, 10, and 20 will depend on personal preference and needs. The Galaxy Note 9 is a great choice if you’re on a budget but still want a phone-tablet hybrid with a larger battery and decent performance.
The Galaxy Note 10 is a great option if you’ve got a bit more to spend and want a device with a few improvements over the Note 9. It features an upgraded processor, a sleeker design, and enhanced charging speed.
The Note 20 is the latest entry in the Note series and is the best choice if you’re looking for the latest features and top-tier performance. Unlike the other models, it features 5G support, is powered by the Snapdragon 865+/Exynos 990 (depending on your region), has an advanced camera system, and improved S Pen support.
If you prioritise performance and cutting-edge tech, the Note 20 is a great option. If you want a budget-friendly phone, mainly for messaging and streaming shows that are still capable, the Note 9 and 10 are great.
Buy Refurbished Galaxy Note Phones at OzMobiles
For the best deals on refurbished devices, including the Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 10, Galaxy Note 9 and other Note devices, you’ll find the best deals at OzMobiles.
All the devices we stock, including our Galaxy Note range, undergo an extensive 72-point refurbishment process in our Melbourne headquarters. During this process, we thoroughly check every device's components, from the hardware to the software level, ensuring they are all fully functional and running optimally.
If you shop with us, our devices also come with a free 12-month warranty and a 30-day risk-free return. So, if you have a change of heart or there’s an issue with the device, you can return it. Our devices, including older models, all come with a battery life guarantee, so you can rest assured that the refurbished device will have an overall battery health of 80% or more and last you years to come.
If you have any questions about our second-hand Galaxy Note phones, like the refurbishment process—contact us today. Our team would be happy to help you find the right device.
