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When it comes to smartphone battles, the iPhone 16 vs Samsung S24 showdown might just be the biggest to date. Both devices offer top-tier performance, sleek designs and camera systems that rival professional gear. But which one is truly worth your money? Whether you’re team Apple or team Samsung, we’re breaking it all down, feature by feature, to help you choose the right phone!

In this blog:

• Camera
• Display and design
• Performance
• Battery life and charging
• Features and extras
• Final verdict: which phone should you choose?

Camera

Let’s kick things off with the cameras. The Samsung S24 vs iPhone 16 camera debate is closer than ever.

iPhone 16 impresses with a dual-camera setup that includes a 48MP main fusion lens and a 12MP ultra-wide lens. It offers next-gen portrait capabilities, focus and depth control, macro photography and spatial photo/video capture. Apple has added a smart new camera control button to their iPhone 16 model, giving users quick access to their camera. It also records Dolby Vision up to 4K at 60fps for incredibly rich video.

The Samsung S24, on the other hand, boasts a triple rear setup with a 50MP wide-angle, 12MP ultra-wide and 10MP telephoto lens. While it matches the iPhone’s 12MP front camera, Samsung pulls ahead on zoom – with optical zoom at 3x and digital zoom up to 30x. Plus, it shoots in stunning 8K at 24/30 fps, making it a dream for content creators.

Verdict: Samsung S24 vs iPhone 16 in the camera department is all about preference. Samsung wins on zoom and resolution, while Apple leads in creative flexibility and cinematic quality.

Display and design

In the iPhone 16 vs Samsung S24 design battle, both phones are beautiful in their own way.

iPhone 16 features a 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR display with the dynamic island making multitasking feel seamless. Its colour-infused glass back, aluminium body and ceramic shield front make it ultra-stylish and durable. It’s available in ultramarine, teal, pink, white and black – so there’s a look for everyone.

Samsung S24 edges slightly larger with a 6.2-inch FHD+ AMOLED 2X display. It’s sleek, vivid and fluid, thanks to high refresh rates. The phone is built with Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on the front and back and comes in amber yellow, cobalt violet, marble grey, onyx black, sapphire blue and jade green.

Both phones carry an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, but the iPhone can survive deeper in up to 6 metres of water compared to Samsung’s 1.5 metres capacity.

Verdict: Style is subjective, but if you prefer brighter colours and a bit more display real estate, Samsung might be your winner. If depth protection and dynamic features matter more, the iPhone has the edge.

Performance

The iPhone 16 vs Samsung S24 performance comparison is neck-and-neck, but with a few key differences.

iPhone 16 is powered by the A18 chip, with a 6-core CPU, 5-core GPU and a supercharged 16-core neural engine that powers everything from gaming to advanced AI features.

Samsung S24 is no slouch, running the Exynos 2400 with an octa-core CPU and Adreno 830 GPU. It handles multitasking and high-performance gaming with ease.

Verdict: Samsung S24 vs iPhone 16 comes down to OS preference – Android users will love the power under the S24’s hood, but Apple’s integration with iOS makes the iPhone 16 lightning fast and impressively efficient.

Battery life and charging

If you need a phone that keeps going, the iPhone 16 vs Samsung S24 battery test is worth your attention.

iPhone 16 offers up to 22 hours of video playback and 18 hours if you’re streaming. It supports MagSafe wireless charging at up to 25W and fast charges up to 50% in 30 minutes with a 20W+ adapter.

Samsung S24 packs a 4000mAh battery and mirrors Apple’s 50% in 30 minutes fast charging (25W wired). It also supports 15W wireless and 4.5W reverse wireless charging – perfect for topping up earbuds or another phone.

Verdict: the iPhone has the slight edge in longevity, but the two phones are at a draw when it comes to overall charging versatility.

Features and extras

The iPhone 16 vs Samsung S24 battle isn’t just about the basics – it’s the extras that really show off each brand’s innovation.

iPhone 16 shines with safety features like Emergency SOS via satellite, crash detection and roadside assistance. It uses Face ID for fast unlocking and supports Apple’s latest visual intelligence to interpret surroundings.

Samsung S24 includes under-display fingerprint scanning, 5G support and new camera AI like ‘Best Face’ to help nail the perfect group shot.

Both offer a choice of 128GB, 256GB or 512GB storage, so there’s no compromise on space. You’ll also find new and advanced AI features on both phone models, each with their own pros and cons – you can head to our comparing AI in smartphones blog to find out more about what Samsung and Apple’s AI have to offer.

Verdict: Apple leans into safety and environmental awareness, while Samsung focuses on enhanced smart features and camera tricks.

Final verdict: which phone should you choose?

Ultimately, the iPhone 16 vs Samsung S24 debate comes down to what you value most in a smartphone. Here’s a rundown if you’re still unsure on which to choose:

• Choose the iPhone 16 if you want cinematic video, advanced safety features, MagSafe accessories and iOS performance.
• Go with the Samsung S24 if you prefer ultra-sharp zoom, a slightly bigger screen, reverse charging and Android customisation.

Ready to upgrade? Trade in your old phone today to get cash for your upgrade and switch to a refurbished phone to save even more on your next device… it’s smart for you, smart for the planet!