Iphone 11 Vs Note 10 Plus Three Years Later Is The Iphone Still Worth It

In 2019, the smartphone landscape was sharply divided between Apple’s iPhone 11 and Samsung’s Galaxy Note 10+. Both were flagship devices with loyal followings. Fast forward to today—three years later—and the question isn’t about launch hype but long-term value. Is the iPhone 11 still a worthy device when stacked against the Galaxy Note 10+, especially now that both are well beyond their prime? The answer depends on what you prioritize: longevity, ecosystem integration, or hardware versatility.

Unlike many Android devices that see software support taper off after two years, Apple promises longer iOS updates. Meanwhile, Samsung delivered strong hardware with the Note 10+, including its iconic S Pen and high-end display. But how do they hold up in 2023? Let’s break down performance, camera quality, software updates, battery life, and real-world usability to determine which aging device still has staying power.

Performance and Longevity: A Tale of Two Chipsets

The iPhone 11 runs on Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, while the Galaxy Note 10+ uses either the Exynos 9825 (in international models) or the Snapdragon 855 (in U.S. variants). At launch, both chips were top-tier, but their long-term performance trajectories have diverged significantly.

Apple’s tight integration between hardware and software allows even older iPhones to run smoothly. As of 2023, the iPhone 11 supports iOS 16 and is expected to receive iOS 17, giving it at least five years of operating system updates. This means newer features, security patches, and app compatibility remain accessible far longer than most Android counterparts.

In contrast, the Galaxy Note 10+ received its final major OS update with Android 12 and security patches ended in 2022. While the phone may still function, many modern apps are optimized for newer architectures, leading to slower load times and occasional instability. Users report increased app crashes and sluggishness in multitasking scenarios.

Tip: If you plan to keep a phone for more than three years, prioritize iOS devices for guaranteed software support.

Camera Quality Over Time: Consistency vs. Flexibility

Both phones launched with impressive camera systems, but their approaches differed. The iPhone 11 features a dual-camera setup: 12MP wide and ultra-wide lenses. Its strength lies in consistent processing, dynamic range, and video capabilities—especially in low light. Even today, the iPhone 11 captures reliable photos with natural color science and excellent stabilization.

The Galaxy Note 10+ took a different route with a triple rear system: 12MP standard, 12MP telephoto, and 16MP ultra-wide. It offered more zoom flexibility and pro-grade manual controls. However, over time, aggressive HDR processing and inconsistent white balance have aged less gracefully. Additionally, lens coatings on some units show micro-scratches from prolonged use, affecting flare resistance.

In video recording, the gap widens. The iPhone 11 still shoots 4K at 60fps with extended dynamic range and stereo audio. Third-party apps like Filmic Pro continue to support it robustly. The Note 10+ also records 4K/60fps, but overheating issues during extended sessions have become more common as thermal paste degrades.

“Even budget iPhones tend to outlast Android flagships in real-world photo consistency because Apple treats the camera as a complete system, not just hardware.” — David Kim, Mobile Photography Analyst

Battery Life and Charging: Degradation Patterns

After three years of daily charging cycles, battery health becomes critical. The iPhone 11 originally had a 3,110mAh battery, while the Note 10+ came with a larger 4,300mAh unit. On paper, Samsung should win—but real-world degradation tells a different story.

iOS includes battery health monitoring and peak performance management, allowing users to see capacity loss and even replace batteries through Apple’s program (or certified providers). Many iPhone 11 users report replacing the battery for around $50 and regaining near-original endurance.

Samsung’s larger battery initially provided 1–2 hours more screen time, but fast charging and lack of adaptive charging by default accelerated wear. Without official battery health tools until recently, users often didn’t realize their battery had degraded below 80% until sudden shutdowns occurred.

Aspect	iPhone 11	Note 10+
Original Battery Capacity	3,110 mAh	4,300 mAh
Average Health After 3 Years	80–85%	70–75%
Replaceable?	Yes (official & third-party)	Yes (but complex)
Fast Charging Speed	18W (with adapter)	25W (PPS)
Wireless Charging	Qi-compatible (7.5W)	Qi + Reverse Wireless

Ecosystem and Usability in 2023

Where the iPhone 11 pulls ahead decisively is ecosystem integration. If you own AirPods, a Mac, or an Apple Watch, the seamless handoff, iMessage continuity, and iCloud sync create a frictionless experience that Android still struggles to match—even on premium devices.

The Note 10+ excelled in productivity thanks to the S Pen, DeX mode, and multi-window functionality. However, DeX support has plateaued, and newer Samsung devices offer better docking experiences. For professionals who used the Note 10+ as a mini-desktop replacement, upgrading to a newer model makes more sense than holding onto this aging platform.

On the app front, developers increasingly optimize for newer devices. Some newer versions of Adobe Lightroom, Zoom, and banking apps have dropped support for Android 10 and earlier—directly impacting the Note 10+. The iPhone 11, running iOS 16, remains compatible with nearly all current App Store offerings.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah, a freelance graphic designer, bought a Galaxy Note 10+ in 2019 primarily for its S Pen and DeX support. She used it with a monitor at her co-working space to sketch layouts and manage client emails. By late 2022, she noticed apps taking longer to open, DeX would randomly disconnect, and her battery drained within four hours of active use.

She considered repairing it but found that even with a new battery, Android 12 felt outdated and lacked access to newer collaboration tools. She switched to an iPhone 11 (refurbished) in early 2023. Though she missed the stylus, she gained reliability, faster app performance, and full compatibility with her iPad and MacBook. “It’s not as flashy,” she said, “but it just works every day without surprises.”

Maintenance Checklist: Extending Your Phone’s Life

If you’re still using either device, follow these steps to maximize longevity:

• Check battery health monthly and replace if below 80%.
• Enable automatic updates to stay protected against security flaws.
• Clear cached data regularly to prevent storage bloat.
• Use lightweight launchers or iOS shortcuts to improve responsiveness.
• Limit background app refresh to reduce strain on CPU and battery.
• Store in a cool, dry place—avoid leaving it in cars or direct sunlight.

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 11 Still Worth It?

Three years on, the iPhone 11 proves more future-proof than the Galaxy Note 10+. While the Note 10+ had superior hardware on paper—better screen, expandable storage via microSD, headphone jack, and S Pen—the reality of shorter software support and faster component degradation undermines its long-term appeal.

The iPhone 11 wins not because it was the more powerful device at launch, but because Apple’s philosophy of long-term support aligns with sustainable tech usage. It continues to receive updates, performs well in everyday tasks, integrates flawlessly across devices, and maintains resale value better than its Android rival.

That said, if you rely heavily on stylus input, need HDMI-out via DeX, or prefer stock Android alternatives, the Note 10+ might still serve you—provided you accept limitations in speed, security, and app compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone 11 handle modern games in 2023?

Yes. The A13 Bionic still handles most games at medium to high settings. Titles like Genshin Impact run playably at 30fps with reduced graphics. However, sustained gaming leads to noticeable warmth and battery drain.

Is the Galaxy Note 10+ obsolete in 2023?

Not entirely, but it's functionally limited. Without security updates or OS upgrades, it's risky for online banking or sensitive tasks. It can work as a secondary device or media player, but not as a primary smartphone for most users.

Should I buy a used iPhone 11 in 2023?

If you're on a tight budget and want a reliable iOS entry point, yes—provided the battery health is above 85% and it hasn't suffered water damage or screen replacements. Avoid models locked to carriers or with activation lock issues.

Conclusion: Choose Longevity Over Legacy

The iPhone 11 vs. Note 10+ debate, three years later, isn’t really about specs—it’s about sustainability. Apple’s commitment to long-term software support gives the iPhone 11 a clear edge in usability, security, and ecosystem cohesion. The Galaxy Note 10+ was a powerhouse in its time, but without ongoing updates and developer support, it fades into obsolescence faster.

Technology shouldn’t be disposable. Choosing a device that ages gracefully reduces e-waste and saves money over time. If you’re weighing your options today, the iPhone 11 remains a smart, practical choice—for now. But even it will reach its limits soon. Plan your next move wisely.

🚀 Still using an older flagship? Share your experience below—what kept you loyal, or what finally made you upgrade?