In 2019, the Apple iPhone 11 and Samsung Galaxy Note 10 represented two distinct philosophies in smartphone design: Apple’s focus on ecosystem integration and long-term software support, versus Samsung’s emphasis on hardware innovation and productivity features. Three years later, both devices are well beyond their prime marketing cycles. Yet many users still rely on them daily. So, which holds up better in 2024? And more importantly — is the iPhone 11 still worth choosing over the Note 10 today?
This isn’t just about specs or nostalgia. It’s about real-world usability, longevity, app compatibility, and whether your phone can keep up with modern demands like multitasking, photography, and security updates.
Performance and Hardware Longevity
The iPhone 11 launched with Apple’s A13 Bionic chip, a 64-bit hexa-core processor built on a 7nm process. At the time, it outperformed every Android flagship, including Samsung’s Exynos 9825 or Snapdragon 855 found in the Galaxy Note 10 depending on region.
Even now, the A13 remains impressively capable. iOS is tightly optimized for Apple’s silicon, meaning tasks like launching apps, switching between them, and rendering complex UI elements remain fluid. Most current apps run smoothly, even those updated for newer models.
In contrast, the Galaxy Note 10’s performance has degraded noticeably over time. While the Snapdragon 855 was powerful in its day, Android’s looser hardware-software integration means older flagships often struggle as OS updates add overhead. Users report lag in system navigation, delayed app launches, and occasional stutters during camera use or multitasking.
iOS vs Android: Software Support and Updates
This is where the iPhone 11 pulls decisively ahead. Apple provides five years of iOS updates, and the iPhone 11 continues to receive major OS upgrades — including iOS 17 in 2023. That means access to new features like StandBy mode, improved autocorrect, enhanced privacy controls, and continued compatibility with the latest versions of apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, and banking services.
The Galaxy Note 10, meanwhile, stopped receiving major Android updates after Android 11. It got one additional year of security patches, ending in late 2022. Without ongoing support, the device no longer receives critical security fixes, leaving it vulnerable to emerging threats. Many newer apps either don’t install or function poorly due to outdated API levels.
“Long-term software support is the single biggest differentiator between premium iOS and Android devices.” — David Kim, Mobile Security Analyst at TechShield Labs
Camera Quality Over Time
Both phones had strong cameras in 2019, but their trajectories have diverged.
The iPhone 11 introduced Night Mode, Deep Fusion, and Smart HDR — computational photography features that relied heavily on the A13’s neural engine. These technologies have only improved with software updates. Even today, the iPhone 11 captures vibrant, balanced photos in daylight and surprisingly usable low-light shots, especially when stabilized.
The Note 10’s quad-camera setup (wide, telephoto, ultra-wide, depth) was versatile, but lacked aggressive AI processing. Over time, image quality feels dated — colors are less dynamic, low-light performance is inconsistent, and video stabilization doesn’t match Apple’s cinematic smoothness. Samsung’s lack of ongoing camera algorithm updates means the hardware hasn’t evolved.
For social media, scanning documents, or casual family photos, the iPhone 11 still delivers reliably. The Note 10 requires careful lighting and steady hands to produce comparable results.
Battery Life and Charging Experience
Apple claimed up to 17 hours of video playback for the iPhone 11; real-world usage typically yields 10–12 hours of screen-on time. After three years, most replacement batteries still achieve 80–85% health if properly maintained. Fast charging via USB-C (with a compatible adapter) gets you to 50% in about 30 minutes.
The Note 10 offered 4300mAh capacity and adaptive fast charging (25W), giving slightly better initial endurance. However, battery degradation has hit harder on average, partly due to higher display resolution and less conservative power management. Wireless PowerShare and reverse charging were innovative but rarely used.
| Metric | iPhone 11 (2024) | Galaxy Note 10 (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Current OS Support | iOS 17 (active) | Android 11 (ended) |
| Security Updates | Monthly (ongoing) | None since 2022 |
| App Compatibility | Full | Limited (some apps refuse install) |
| Battery Health (avg. after 3 yrs) | 80–85% | 70–75% |
| Daily Usability | Smooth for most tasks | Noticeable lag in multitasking |
Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma
Sarah, a freelance graphic designer, used her Galaxy Note 10 from 2019 to mid-2023. By early 2022, she noticed delays when using Adobe Creative Cloud apps. Exporting files took longer, and the S Pen lagged during sketching. In 2023, her banking app stopped supporting her device entirely.
She switched to a refurbished iPhone 11 and immediately noticed improvements: faster app launches, smoother zooming in design tools, and consistent iCloud syncing across her iPad. Despite similar age, the iPhone felt like a newer device thanks to iOS 16 and active app support. “It’s not just speed,” she said. “It’s trust. I know my phone won’t stop working next month because an update dropped.”
Value Retention and Resale Market
Apple devices consistently retain value better than Android counterparts. As of 2024, a used iPhone 11 in good condition sells for $120–$180, depending on storage. The Galaxy Note 10, however, fetches $60–$90, reflecting lower demand and shorter usability lifespan.
This gap stems from consumer confidence in iOS longevity. Buyers know an iPhone 11 will likely last another 1–2 years with updates, while the Note 10 is seen as obsolete. For budget-conscious users, this makes the iPhone 11 a smarter secondhand purchase.
Checklist: Is Your Old Phone Still Viable?
- ✅ Does it receive security updates?
- ✅ Can it run the latest version of essential apps (banking, messaging, email)?
- ✅ Is there noticeable lag when opening multiple apps?
- ✅ Does the battery last through a normal workday?
- ✅ Are you frequently forced to delete apps to free space?
- ✅ Does the camera produce acceptable quality for your needs?
If three or more apply negatively, it’s time to consider upgrading — or at least prioritizing long-supported devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Galaxy Note 10 still be used safely in 2024?
Not recommended for primary use. Without security patches, it's vulnerable to malware, phishing, and data breaches, especially when using financial or login apps.
Is the iPhone 11 too old to buy now?
No. As of 2024, it remains one of the most affordable iPhones with full iOS 17 support. For light users, students, or secondary devices, it offers excellent value if purchased in good condition.
Does the lack of 5G matter on these phones?
Only marginally. 5G coverage is still spotty in many areas, and most everyday tasks don’t benefit significantly. Wi-Fi 6 and download speeds are more impactful than cellular generation alone.
Final Verdict: Yes, the iPhone 11 Is Still Worth It
Three years later, the iPhone 11 outperforms the Galaxy Note 10 not because of superior original hardware, but because of sustained software investment. Apple’s commitment to long-term updates transforms what was already a solid device into a lasting tool. The Note 10, despite its productivity features and stylus innovation, succumbed to Android’s fragmented update model and hardware limitations.
If you’re choosing between the two today — even used — the iPhone 11 is the clear winner. It handles modern apps, stays secure, and integrates seamlessly with other Apple devices. For anyone needing a dependable, no-frills smartphone without spending $1,000, the iPhone 11 continues to deliver.
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