Pixel 5 Vs S10 Is Upgrading From A Galaxy S10 Worth It

For users still holding onto a Samsung Galaxy S10, the question isn’t just about whether their phone still works—it’s whether it still performs well enough to justify staying put. The Google Pixel 5 offers a compelling upgrade path with its clean Android experience, strong camera system, and modern design. But does it deliver enough meaningful improvements over the Galaxy S10 to make switching worthwhile? This analysis dives into real-world performance, software support, camera capabilities, battery life, and long-term usability to help you decide.

Performance and Hardware Comparison

The Galaxy S10 launched in early 2019 with Samsung’s Exynos 9820 or Snapdragon 855 chipset (depending on region), 8GB of RAM, and a 6.1-inch Dynamic AMOLED display. At the time, it was a flagship powerhouse. Fast forward to 2023, and while the S10 still handles basic tasks smoothly, it struggles with heavier multitasking, newer games, and apps optimized for current hardware.

In contrast, the Pixel 5 arrived in late 2020 powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G—a mid-tier chip at launch. While not as powerful as the S10’s original processor in raw benchmarks, the Pixel 5 benefits from lighter software overhead, better thermal management, and more efficient background processing thanks to stock Android. Real-world usage shows smoother app launches, faster UI transitions, and more consistent responsiveness, especially after prolonged use.

Feature	Galaxy S10	Pixel 5
Processor	Snapdragon 855 / Exynos 9820	Snapdragon 765G
RAM	8GB	8GB
Storage Options	128GB/512GB (expandable)	128GB (non-expandable)
Display	6.1\" Dynamic AMOLED, 3040x1440	6.0\" OLED, 2340x1080
Battery	3400mAh	4080mAh
Charging	15W wired, 12W wireless	18W wired, 12W wireless, reverse wireless

The S10 has a sharper display and expandable storage—key advantages for media lovers and power users. However, the Pixel 5 compensates with a larger battery, more consistent performance due to lack of bloatware, and superior long-term software optimization.

Tip: If you frequently run memory-heavy apps or play graphics-intensive games, the S10 may feel sluggish despite its higher-tier chip. The Pixel 5's optimized software often feels snappier in daily use.

Camera: Computational Photography vs Versatility

Both phones feature dual rear cameras, but their philosophies differ sharply. The S10 uses a 12MP wide + 12MP ultra-wide setup, offering flexibility with zoom and framing options. It produces accurate colors and excellent dynamic range in daylight, though low-light performance lags behind current standards.

The Pixel 5 takes a different approach: a 12.2MP primary sensor paired with a 16MP ultra-wide lens. What it lacks in hardware, it makes up for in software. Google’s HDR+ and Night Sight algorithms consistently outperform the S10 in challenging lighting. Indoor shots are brighter, shadows reveal more detail, and night photos appear cleaner with less noise.

“Google’s computational photography turns modest hardware into a top-tier imaging system. For most users, photo quality matters more than megapixels.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at TechLens

Front-facing cameras also favor the Pixel. Its 8MP selfie cam delivers more natural skin tones and better low-light selfies compared to the S10’s 10MP shooter, which can oversharpen and wash out faces.

If your priority is creative control and multiple lens options, the S10 holds up well. But if you want point-and-shoot reliability across all lighting conditions, the Pixel 5 is a clear step up.

Battery Life and Charging Experience

One area where the Pixel 5 shines is endurance. Despite a modest efficiency gain from the 765G, the jump from 3400mAh to 4080mAh makes a tangible difference. In typical mixed use—email, social media, streaming, navigation—the Pixel 5 regularly lasts a full day and a half, while the S10 often needs a midday charge.

Fast charging is slightly faster on the Pixel (18W vs 15W), but neither supports ultra-fast charging by today’s standards. Both offer wireless and reverse wireless charging, letting you power up earbuds or another phone in a pinch.

Real-World Example: Commuter Workflow

Consider Maria, a marketing professional who commutes 90 minutes each way. She uses her phone for podcasts, messages, email, and occasional video calls. On her aging S10, she noticed increasing lag during video calls and had to carry a power bank by noon. After switching to the Pixel 5, she reported smoother call quality, longer battery life, and fewer forced reboots—especially after updating apps overnight.

Her experience reflects a broader trend: even if older flagships once performed well, sustained software updates and background processes take a toll over time. The Pixel 5’s combination of efficient hardware and lightweight OS delivers more reliable all-day performance.

Software Support and Longevity

This is where the decision becomes clearer. The Galaxy S10 received four years of major Android updates (up to Android 13) and five years of security patches—impressive for its time. As of 2024, official support has ended, meaning no further OS upgrades or monthly security fixes.

The Pixel 5, released later, benefits from Google’s commitment to longer support. It shipped with Android 11 and is eligible for updates up to Android 15, with security patches continuing through 2025. That means an additional two years of protection against emerging threats and access to new features like improved privacy controls, notification management, and AI tools.

• S10 Update Status: No further OS updates; security patches discontinued
• Pixel 5 Update Status: Up to Android 15, security patches until Q4 2025
• Implication: Better security, newer features, and longer resale value with Pixel 5

Tip: Phones without ongoing security updates are vulnerable to malware and phishing attacks. Consider this when using banking apps or storing sensitive data.

Is the Upgrade Worth It? A Practical Checklist

Deciding whether to upgrade should be based on your actual needs, not just specs. Use this checklist to evaluate your situation:

1. Is your S10 slowing down? Frequent app crashes, slow boot times, or overheating indicate hardware fatigue.
2. Do you need better low-light photos? If your current camera struggles indoors or at night, the Pixel 5 offers a significant leap.
3. Are you concerned about security? Without security patches, the S10 is increasingly exposed to digital risks.
4. Do you value clean, bloat-free software? Pixel’s stock Android provides faster updates and fewer preinstalled apps.
5. Can you live without expandable storage? The Pixel 5 has 128GB fixed storage—plenty for most, but limiting for heavy media users.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Pixel 5 feel faster than my S10?

Yes, in everyday use. Despite the lower-tier chip, the Pixel 5 runs stock Android with minimal background processes, resulting in smoother animations, quicker app launches, and fewer stutters—even after extended use.

Does the Pixel 5 have a headphone jack?

No, like most modern smartphones, the Pixel 5 omits the 3.5mm jack. You’ll need USB-C headphones or a Bluetooth adapter, unlike the S10, which includes one.

Is the build quality better on the Pixel 5?

Subjectively, yes. The Pixel 5 features an aluminum frame with a bio-resin coating that resists fingerprints and improves grip. It’s also IP68-rated for dust and water resistance, matching the S10’s durability rating but with a more modern tactile finish.

Final Verdict: When to Upgrade

Upgrading from the Galaxy S10 to the Pixel 5 isn’t about chasing the latest specs—it’s about gaining reliability, longevity, and peace of mind. If your S10 is showing signs of age, struggling with modern apps, or no longer receiving security updates, the move makes practical sense.

The Pixel 5 delivers superior camera performance in real-world conditions, notably in low light. It offers longer battery life, cleaner software, and guaranteed support through 2025. While it lacks expandable storage and a headphone jack, these trade-offs are common in modern devices and manageable with accessories.

For users who prioritize simplicity, security, and consistent performance, the upgrade is absolutely worth it. The S10 was a great phone in its era, but technology moves fast. Staying on outdated hardware increases risk and limits functionality.

💬 Have you upgraded from a Galaxy S10 to a Pixel 5? Share your experience, tips, or concerns in the comments below—your insights could help others make a confident decision.