Is The Samsung Galaxy S10e Actually Better Than The Google Pixel Real Users Weigh In

The debate between flagship smartphones often comes down to personal preference, but when it comes to the Samsung Galaxy S10e and the Google Pixel series—particularly the Pixel 3 and Pixel 4—the conversation gets nuanced. While both devices launched around the same era and targeted power users seeking premium experiences in compact forms, they approached design, software, and functionality differently. To cut through marketing claims, we’ve gathered insights from real users, analyzed hands-on experiences, and compared key features to answer: Is the Galaxy S10e actually better than the Google Pixel?

Design and Build: Compact Powerhouses, Different Philosophies

The Galaxy S10e and Google Pixel (especially the Pixel 3 and 4) were among the last true compact flagships before the smartphone industry shifted toward larger screens. The S10e measures 142.2 x 69.9 x 7.9 mm and weighs 150g, making it one of Samsung’s most pocketable high-end phones. It features a flat 5.8-inch Dynamic AMOLED display with an in-display fingerprint sensor—a first for Samsung at the time.

In contrast, the Pixel 3 (145.6 x 66.2 x 7.9 mm, 140g) has a slightly taller but narrower body with a curved OLED screen and traditional rear-mounted fingerprint sensor. Its smaller bezels give it a more modern look, though some users found the “notch” on the S10e less intrusive than the Pixel’s top bezel housing dual front cameras.

Tip: If one-handed usability is critical, the S10e’s wider but shorter frame may feel more balanced than the Pixel’s taller, narrower grip.

Materials also differ: the S10e uses Gorilla Glass 5 on front and back with an aluminum frame, while Pixels typically feature glass backs and aluminum sides. Both support wireless charging and are IP68-rated for dust and water resistance—though the Pixel 4 dropped wired charging with its 18W adapter, a point of user frustration.

Performance and Software Experience

Under the hood, the S10e runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 855 (or Exynos 9820 in some regions), paired with 6GB or 8GB RAM depending on storage tier. This gave it strong multitasking and gaming performance even years after release. The Pixel, meanwhile, used the Snapdragon 845 (Pixel 3) or 855 (Pixel 4), but with only 4GB or 6GB RAM—less than competitors, including the S10e.

Despite lower specs on paper, Pixel devices are optimized tightly with stock Android. Real users report that the Pixel feels snappier in daily tasks due to minimal bloatware and aggressive background app management. However, heavy multitaskers often hit memory limits faster on the Pixel than on the S10e.

“After switching from the Pixel 3XL to the S10e, I noticed how much smoother app switching was. Samsung’s RAM management just handles five open apps better.” — Marcus T., tech reviewer and mobile photographer

Software updates are where the Pixel shines. Google guarantees three years of OS and security updates, and historically delivered them faster than Samsung. The S10e received Android 10, 11, and 12, plus four years of security patches—respectable, but not as timely initially. Over time, Samsung improved its update cadence, closing the gap.

Camera Showdown: Computational Photography vs. Versatility

This is where opinions diverge most sharply. Google’s Pixel line built its reputation on computational photography—using AI and advanced algorithms to produce stunning photos despite modest hardware. The Pixel 3 and 4 featured single rear sensors (12.2MP), yet consistently outperformed rivals in DxOMark rankings thanks to HDR+, Night Sight, and Super Res Zoom.

The S10e, by comparison, offers dual rear cameras: a 12MP wide-angle lens and a 16MP ultra-wide. No telephoto, but the ultra-wide adds creative flexibility. In daylight, both phones deliver excellent dynamic range and color accuracy. But in low light, many users still favor the Pixel’s Night Sight mode for its ability to brighten scenes without excessive noise.

Feature	Samsung Galaxy S10e	Google Pixel (3/4)
Rear Cameras	12MP (wide) + 16MP (ultra-wide)	12.2MP (single)
Front Camera	10MP	8MP + 8MP (dual front)
Night Mode	Yes (decent)	Excellent (industry-leading)
Video Recording	4K @ 60fps	4K @ 30fps
User Preference (Low Light)	Good detail, natural tones	Brighter, cleaner results

One real-world example stands out: Sarah L., a travel blogger based in Iceland, used both phones during a winter trip. “The Pixel made my Northern Lights shots usable without a tripod. The S10e captured wider landscapes beautifully, but needed manual mode to match the Pixel’s low-light clarity.”

Battery Life and Charging: Practical Endurance Matters

The S10e packs a 3100mAh battery—small by today’s standards, but efficient thanks to adaptive brightness and Doze mode. Most users report lasting a full day with moderate use. The Pixel 3 had a slightly smaller 2915mAh battery; the Pixel 4 dropped further to 2800mAh, leading to widespread complaints about needing midday charging.

Charging options favor Samsung: the S10e supports 15W fast charging (charger sold separately), 9W reverse wireless charging, and standard Qi wireless charging. The Pixel supports 18W wired charging (cable included with Pixel 4), but lacks reverse wireless charging.

Tip: Carry a compact USB-C PD charger if using either device—you’ll gain up to 50% charge in 30 minutes.

Mini Case Study: Daily Driver Comparison

Jamal R., a field technician in Denver, used the S10e and Pixel 4 interchangeably over six months. His job requires constant GPS navigation, photo documentation, and voice memos. He preferred the S10e for three reasons: longer battery life during 10-hour shifts, the convenience of the ultra-wide camera for equipment close-ups, and the ability to expand storage via microSD (up to 512GB). “I ran out of space on the Pixel twice. With the S10e, I added a 256GB card and never looked back,” he said.

Long-Term Value and User Satisfaction

When evaluating long-term ownership, several factors emerge: durability, software support, resale value, and ecosystem integration.

• Durability: Both phones have glass backs, but S10e owners report fewer cracks from drops, possibly due to its flatter design and inclusion of a protective case in some bundles.
• Resale: Pixel phones tend to depreciate faster, especially after new models launch. S10e retains value slightly better, likely due to broader market appeal.
• Ecosystem: Pixel integrates seamlessly with Google services (Photos, Assistant, Home). S10e works well across platforms but excels within Samsung’s ecosystem (DeX, SmartThings, Galaxy Buds).

“The S10e isn’t the most powerful phone Samsung ever made, but it’s one of the most balanced. For users who want a small phone that doesn’t compromise on core features, it’s hard to beat.” — Lisa Park, Senior Editor at MobileInsider Weekly

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Galaxy S10e run modern apps smoothly in 2024?

Yes. While it no longer receives major OS updates beyond Android 12, the S10e handles everyday apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, Gmail, and streaming services without lag. Gaming performance remains solid for titles like Genshin Impact at medium settings.

Which phone has better audio?

The S10e wins here—it includes stereo speakers tuned by AKG and retains the 3.5mm headphone jack. The Pixel 3 and 4 have front-firing stereo speakers (also well-tuned) but removed the headphone port, requiring adapters or Bluetooth.

Is the Pixel camera still competitive?

Surprisingly, yes. Thanks to Google’s computational photography, the Pixel’s single-lens system still produces excellent portraits, night shots, and HDR images. However, lack of ultra-wide or optical zoom limits versatility compared to the S10e.

Final Verdict: Which One Wins?

The answer depends on what you prioritize. If you value raw camera magic in low light, clean software, and tight Google integration, the Pixel remains compelling—even years later. But if you want more storage options, a headphone jack, slightly better battery life, and a versatile dual-camera system, the Galaxy S10e offers a more complete package for real-world use.

Among actual users, the S10e tends to win points for practicality and longevity. It wasn’t just a compact phone—it was a full-featured flagship scaled down intelligently. The Pixel, while brilliant in specific areas, made trade-offs that frustrated some daily drivers.

💬 Have you used both phones? Share your experience below. Help others decide whether the Galaxy S10e truly outshines the Google Pixel in everyday life.