Galaxy S10 Vs Iphone 7 Plus Is The Upgrade Really Worth It In 2024

If you're still using an iPhone 7 Plus in 2024, you're running one of Apple’s most durable handsets—launched in 2016, it was praised for its build quality, performance, and iconic design. But technology has moved fast. The Samsung Galaxy S10, released in 2019, represents a major leap in hardware and software capabilities. So, is upgrading from the iPhone 7 Plus to the Galaxy S10 actually worthwhile nearly a decade later? The answer depends on your needs, expectations, and how much you value modern features over proven reliability.

Performance and Software Experience

The iPhone 7 Plus ran Apple’s A10 Fusion chip—a powerhouse in its time. Even today, iOS updates remain compatible with this device up to iOS 16 (with limited support), but app performance has noticeably slowed, especially with newer versions of social media apps, games, and multitasking tools. Background app refresh is sluggish, and switching between apps often triggers reloads rather than seamless transitions.

In contrast, the Galaxy S10 launched with either the Exynos 9820 or Snapdragon 855 (depending on region), both significantly more powerful than the A10. While not flagship-tier by 2024 standards, the S10 still handles daily tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and productivity apps with ease. It supports Android 13 via One UI 5, offering five years of OS and security updates—a stark improvement over Apple’s older devices that lose support faster despite longer initial compatibility.

Tip: If you rely on apps like Google Docs, Zoom, or Adobe Express, the Galaxy S10 will deliver smoother performance due to better RAM management and background processing.

Display and Design Comparison

The iPhone 7 Plus featured a 5.5-inch LCD screen with a resolution of 1920×1080. For its era, it delivered vibrant colors and excellent brightness, but it lacks the depth and contrast of modern OLED panels. By 2024 standards, the display feels outdated—especially when viewing HDR content or using dark mode interfaces.

The Galaxy S10 steps up with a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, Quad HD+ resolution (3040×1440), and HDR10+ support. The difference is immediately noticeable: deeper blacks, crisper text, and superior outdoor visibility. The curved edges and hole-punch front camera give it a contemporary look, while the 7 Plus retains thick bezels and a home button—a design philosophy abandoned years ago.

From a design perspective, the S10 also introduces IP68 water resistance (the 7 Plus only has basic splash resistance), slimmer dimensions, and glass back construction that enables wireless charging—an absent feature on the older iPhone.

Camera Capabilities in 2024

The iPhone 7 Plus was revolutionary for introducing dual rear cameras: a 12MP wide and 12MP telephoto setup enabling 2x optical zoom and Portrait Mode. In daylight, it still captures decent photos with natural color reproduction. However, low-light performance is weak, autofocus lags, and video maxes out at 4K/30fps without advanced stabilization.

The Galaxy S10 improves dramatically with a triple-camera system: 12MP wide (f/1.5–f/2.4 variable aperture), 12MP telephoto (2x zoom), and 16MP ultra-wide lens. This configuration allows creative framing previously impossible on the 7 Plus. Night Mode enhances low-light shots, and 4K video recording supports 60fps with improved EIS. Front-facing, the S10’s 10MP selfie cam outperforms the 7MP FaceTime camera, particularly in group selfies thanks to wider field-of-view.

“Smartphone photography isn’t just about megapixels—it’s about flexibility. The ultra-wide lens alone opens new creative doors.” — Lena Patel, Mobile Photographer & Tech Reviewer

Battery Life and Charging Options

The iPhone 7 Plus packs a 2,900mAh battery. With moderate use, it lasts a full day—but heavy usage often requires midday charging. It relies solely on Lightning cable charging (up to 15W with fast charger, though sold separately), and there's no wireless option.

The Galaxy S10 improves with a 3,400mAh battery and far greater efficiency thanks to adaptive power management and optimized Android routines. Real-world testing shows 1.2 to 1.5 days of light use. More importantly, it supports 15W wireless charging and 15W fast wired charging. You can top up quickly without cables, a convenience many users grow to depend on.

Feature	iPhone 7 Plus	Galaxy S10
Display	5.5\" LCD, 1080p	6.1\" AMOLED, QHD+
Processor	A10 Fusion	Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (wide + telephoto)	Triple 12MP+12MP+16MP (inc. ultra-wide)
Front Camera	7MP	10MP
Battery	2,900mAh	3,400mAh
Charging	Wired only (up to 15W)	Fast wired + 15W wireless
Water Resistance	IP67 (splash-resistant)	IP68 (submersible up to 1.5m)
OS Support (2024)	iOS 16 (no future updates)	Android 13 / One UI 5 (security updates until 2025)

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Journey

Sarah, a freelance graphic designer based in Portland, used her iPhone 7 Plus since 2017. She loved its compact size and iOS simplicity but began struggling in 2023. Apps crashed during client calls, her Instagram stories looked dim compared to peers’, and she couldn’t edit videos smoothly on her phone. After borrowing a friend’s Galaxy S10, she noticed immediate improvements: faster export times in Adobe Premiere Rush, clearer client Zoom meetings via the front camera, and the ability to shoot architectural details with the ultra-wide lens during site visits. She upgraded in early 2024 and hasn’t looked back—even adapting to Android took less than a week thanks to Samsung’s Smart Switch tool.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide If the Upgrade Makes Sense

1. Evaluate Your Current Pain Points: Are you experiencing frequent app crashes, slow camera startup, or battery drain before lunch?
2. List Desired Features: Do you want wireless charging, better night photos, or a modern edge-to-edge screen?
3. Check App Compatibility: Try installing key apps (e.g., banking, work tools) on the S10 via a demo unit or friend’s phone.
4. Test Data Transfer: Use Samsung Smart Switch to simulate moving contacts, messages, and photos from iPhone to Android.
5. Assess Longevity: The S10 may receive one final security update in 2025. If you plan to keep it beyond 2026, consider a newer model instead.

Tip: Before selling your iPhone 7 Plus, disable Find My iPhone and remove your Apple ID to ensure a clean transfer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my iPhone accessories work with the Galaxy S10?

No. The S10 uses USB-C, so your Lightning cables and headphones won’t be compatible. You’ll need new chargers and adapters. However, wireless earbuds like AirPods will pair via Bluetooth.

Is the Galaxy S10 still secure in 2024?

Yes. Samsung provided security patches for the S10 until early 2025. As of 2024, it remains protected against known vulnerabilities. Avoid sideloading apps and stick to Google Play Store downloads for maximum safety.

Can I run modern games smoothly on the Galaxy S10?

Most high-end titles like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty: Mobile run at medium settings with occasional frame drops. It’s not ideal for hardcore mobile gamers, but casual gaming is still very much viable.

Final Verdict: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

For most iPhone 7 Plus users, moving to the Galaxy S10 in 2024 is a meaningful upgrade—not because the S10 is cutting-edge, but because it bridges the gap between legacy hardware and modern smartphone expectations. You gain a vastly superior display, expanded camera versatility, wireless charging, and a more future-proof operating system. While neither phone is “new” in 2024, the S10 offers tangible improvements that enhance daily usability.

However, if you’re deeply embedded in the Apple ecosystem—using Mac, iPad, Apple Watch, or AirPods—the switch to Android may introduce friction that outweighs the hardware benefits. In that case, consider upgrading within the iPhone lineup instead.

“The best upgrade isn’t always the newest phone—it’s the one that solves your current frustrations.” — Marcus Tran, Senior Editor at MobileEdge Review

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’ve been holding onto your iPhone 7 Plus out of loyalty or hesitation, now might be the time to test the waters. The Galaxy S10 delivers a polished, capable experience that honors its flagship roots. Whether you buy used or refurbished, it represents excellent value in 2024 for those seeking a functional, modern smartphone without paying premium prices. Try it for a week. You might wonder why you waited so long.

💬 Have you upgraded from an iPhone 7 Plus to an Android phone? Share your experience, tips, or regrets in the comments below!