Iphone 12 Vs Note 10 Is The Iphone Still Worth It

In 2024, comparing a device like the iPhone 12—released in October 2020—with the Samsung Galaxy Note 10, which debuted in August 2019, might seem like comparing two aging contenders. But for budget-conscious buyers or those upgrading from older models, this decision remains relevant. Both phones were flagship devices in their time, but how do they stack up today? More importantly, does the iPhone 12 still justify its typically higher resale price over the now-discontinued Note 10?

The answer depends on what you value: long-term software support, ecosystem integration, camera consistency, or hardware flexibility. Let’s break down the key differences and real-world usability to determine whether the iPhone 12 remains the better investment.

Performance and Longevity: A Tale of Two Processors

The iPhone 12 is powered by Apple’s A14 Bionic chip, built on a 5nm process and still remarkably capable in 2024. Even under heavy multitasking or demanding apps like video editors and mobile games, the A14 delivers smooth performance. iOS optimization further enhances efficiency, meaning the phone rarely stutters or lags despite its age.

In contrast, the Galaxy Note 10 uses either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 (in U.S. models) or Exynos 9825 (in international versions). While powerful at launch, these chips show their age more clearly today. Users report slower app launches, occasional stutters in animations, and longer loading times in newer versions of Android.

Tip: If you plan to keep your phone for more than three years, prioritize Apple’s silicon—the A14 still outperforms many mid-range Android chips released in 2023.

Beyond raw speed, longevity also hinges on software updates. The iPhone 12 has received iOS updates through iOS 17 and is expected to support iOS 18 and possibly iOS 19. That’s five to six years of OS upgrades—a rarity in the smartphone world. The Note 10, however, stopped receiving major Android updates after Android 11 and security patches ended in 2022. This lack of support increases vulnerability to security threats and limits compatibility with new apps.

Camera Comparison: Quality Over Quantity

The iPhone 12 features a dual 12MP system: a wide and ultra-wide lens. Apple focuses on computational photography rather than megapixel counts. The result is consistent color science, excellent dynamic range, and strong low-light performance via Night mode. Video recording stands out in particular—supporting Dolby Vision HDR at 4K/30fps, a feature unmatched by most Android phones even today.

The Note 10 offers a triple-camera setup: 12MP main, 12MP telephoto, and 16MP ultra-wide. On paper, it looks superior, but real-world results vary. Samsung’s processing tends to oversaturate colors and over-sharpen images. Low-light performance lags behind the iPhone 12, especially as the software no longer receives camera optimizations.

“Even without the highest specs, Apple’s camera pipeline ensures reliability across lighting conditions and use cases.” — David Lin, Mobile Photographer & Tech Reviewer

If you shoot frequently in dim environments or value video quality for social media or vlogging, the iPhone 12 holds a clear edge. Its consistency across updates means photos taken in 2020 look similar to those taken today—important for users who want predictable output.

Ecosystem and Software Experience

This is where the iPhone often wins for loyal Apple users. If you own a Mac, iPad, or Apple Watch, the iPhone 12 integrates seamlessly. Features like AirDrop, Handoff, Universal Clipboard, and iMessage continuity create a frictionless experience that Android alternatives still struggle to match.

Samsung’s ecosystem is improving with Galaxy Buds, Watches, and DeX, but cross-device functionality isn’t as deeply integrated. Messaging remains fragmented due to RCS and SMS inconsistencies, and file sharing between devices can feel clunky compared to Apple’s instant wireless transfers.

iOS also offers a cleaner, less intrusive software experience. There’s no bloatware, fewer ads in system apps, and tighter privacy controls. With each update, Apple introduces meaningful privacy features—like app tracking transparency and microphone/camera indicators—that are absent or less prominent on older Android versions.

Feature	iPhone 12	Note 10
Software Updates	iOS 14 → iOS 17+ (5+ years)	Android 9 → Android 11 (3 years)
Ecosystem Integration	Excellent (Apple devices)	Moderate (Samsung only)
Privacy Controls	Advanced (App Tracking, Indicators)	Limited (No ongoing updates)
Bloatware	None	Preinstalled Samsung/Google apps

Design, Display, and Practical Features

The Note 10 boasts a 6.3-inch curved AMOLED display with a hole-punch front camera, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks. However, it lacks an official IP rating for water resistance (though it has some splash protection). It also removed the headphone jack—an unpopular move even in 2019.

The iPhone 12 reintroduced the flat-edge design reminiscent of the iPhone 4, with aerospace-grade aluminum and Ceramic Shield front cover. It carries an IP68 rating, surviving submersion up to 6 meters for 30 minutes. The 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen delivers better contrast and brightness than the Note 10, particularly outdoors.

One undeniable advantage of the Note 10 is the S Pen. For note-takers, artists, or professionals who annotate documents, the stylus adds unique utility. But unless you actively use a stylus, this benefit diminishes over time. The iPhone 12 offers no stylus support, though third-party capacitive pens exist for basic input.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Dilemma

Sarah used a Note 10 from 2019 until early 2023. By then, her phone was sluggish, apps crashed frequently, and she could no longer update WhatsApp or Instagram fully. She considered buying another used Android flagship but noticed the Note 10’s performance had degraded faster than her friend’s iPhone XS.

She eventually bought a used iPhone 12 for $320. Despite being a year newer, it felt faster, updated smoothly to iOS 16, and connected instantly to her MacBook for work. The camera produced cleaner photos for her small business, and iMessage integration made client communication easier. After six months, she said, “I didn’t realize how much I missed seamless syncing until I got back into the Apple ecosystem.”

Sarah’s case illustrates a broader trend: Apple devices tend to maintain usability longer, not just because of hardware, but because of cohesive software and service integration.

Step-by-Step: How to Decide Which Phone Is Right for You

1. Assess your ecosystem: Do you use other Apple or Samsung devices? Strong integration favors staying within one brand.
2. Check update status: Verify current OS version and update history. Avoid devices no longer receiving security patches.
3. Test real-world performance: Try opening multiple apps, switching between them, and using the camera in low light.
4. Evaluate long-term plans: If you want to keep the phone for 3+ years, prioritize Apple for longer software support.
5. Consider specific needs: Need a stylus? Note 10 wins. Prefer video quality and messaging? iPhone 12 pulls ahead.

Tip: Always factory reset a used phone before testing performance—residual data can slow down older devices artificially.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Note 10 still run modern apps smoothly?

Basic apps like Gmail, Chrome, and Facebook will run, but newer versions may lag or crash. Apps requiring strong GPU performance (e.g., TikTok, Instagram Reels, games) often stutter. Without recent security updates, using sensitive apps like banking services poses risks.

Is the iPhone 12 waterproof?

Yes. The iPhone 12 has an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive immersion in up to 6 meters of water for 30 minutes. However, water resistance degrades over time, especially on used units, so avoid intentional submersion.

Does the iPhone 12 support 5G?

Yes, the iPhone 12 was Apple’s first 5G-compatible phone. It supports both mmWave and sub-6GHz bands (depending on model), giving it faster connectivity than the Note 10, which is limited to 4G LTE.

Final Verdict: Is the iPhone 12 Still Worth It Over the Note 10?

Yes—for most users, the iPhone 12 remains the better choice in 2024. Its combination of sustained performance, extended software support, superior video capabilities, and ecosystem advantages outweighs the Note 10’s once-innovative features. While the S Pen and slightly larger screen gave the Note 10 an edge in productivity at launch, those benefits have eroded due to outdated software and discontinued support.

The iPhone 12 continues to receive updates, maintains strong resale value, and performs reliably in daily tasks. Unless you specifically need a stylus and are comfortable with limited security updates, the iPhone 12 offers greater long-term value.

💬 Have experience with both phones? Share your thoughts below—help others decide whether legacy flagships are still viable in today’s market.