Pixel 5 Vs S10 Plus Is Upgrading Really Worth It In Current Year

In the fast-moving world of smartphones, deciding whether to upgrade from a capable device like the Samsung Galaxy S10 Plus to a newer but older-generation phone like the Google Pixel 5 can be confusing. Both phones were flagship contenders in their time — the S10 Plus launched in 2019 as Samsung’s premium Android experience, while the Pixel 5 arrived in 2020 with Google’s clean Android vision and strong camera performance. Now, in today’s market, where mid-range phones often outperform past flagships, the question isn’t just about specs — it’s about value, longevity, and real-world usability.

For users still relying on an S10 Plus, the allure of a Pixel 5 might stem from its promise of pure Android, guaranteed software updates, and superior computational photography. But does that translate into a meaningful upgrade in 2024 and beyond?

Performance and Hardware: A Closer Look

The Galaxy S10 Plus was powered by either the Exynos 9820 or Snapdragon 855 (depending on region), both high-end chips at launch. It came with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options up to 1TB with microSD expansion. In contrast, the Pixel 5 used the Snapdragon 765G — a mid-tier 5G-capable processor — paired with 8GB of RAM and only up to 128GB internal storage, no expandable option.

On paper, the S10 Plus has the edge in raw processing power. However, real-world performance tells a different story. The Pixel 5 benefits from a lighter, cleaner version of Android with fewer background processes and bloatware. This means smoother animations, faster app launches, and better multitasking despite the less powerful chipset.

Tip: Raw specs don't always reflect daily usability. Software optimization can make a mid-range chip feel faster than a high-end one bogged down by bloat.

Battery life also plays a crucial role. The S10 Plus packs a 4,100mAh battery, while the Pixel 5 has a slightly larger 4,080mAh unit. But thanks to more efficient software and adaptive battery features, the Pixel 5 often lasts longer on a single charge, especially for light to moderate users.

Software and Update Support: The Real Long-Term Value

This is where the Pixel 5 shines. Google promised three years of OS upgrades and five years of security patches for the Pixel 5, meaning it received updates through late 2025. As of 2024, it runs Android 14 and will continue receiving monthly security updates until late this year.

In contrast, the S10 Plus received three major Android updates (up to Android 12) and four years of security support, which ended in early 2023. That means no further official updates — a significant concern for security, app compatibility, and access to new features.

“Update policy is now a key factor in smartphone longevity. Devices without current software support become vulnerable and quickly fall behind in functionality.” — David Kim, Mobile Security Analyst at TechShield Labs

If you're using your S10 Plus today, you're likely missing out on critical security patches and newer Android features like improved privacy controls, better media handling, and AI-powered tools. The Pixel 5, even with older hardware, offers a safer, more modern software environment.

Camera Comparison: Computational Photography vs. Versatility

The S10 Plus featured a triple rear setup: 12MP main, 12MP telephoto, and 16MP ultra-wide. It delivered solid photos in daylight and had optical zoom capabilities. The front dual-camera system (10MP + 8MP depth) was excellent for selfies and portrait mode.

The Pixel 5, meanwhile, carried over Google’s legendary image processing with a 12.2MP main sensor and a 16MP ultra-wide lens. No telephoto, but Google’s Super Res Zoom and Night Sight algorithms often matched or exceeded optical zoom results in low light.

Feature	Samsung S10 Plus	Google Pixel 5
Main Camera	12MP Dual Pixel, f/1.5–2.4	12.2MP, f/1.7
Ultra-Wide	16MP, f/2.2	16MP, f/2.2
Telephoto	12MP, 2x optical zoom	No telephoto lens
Night Mode	Basic night mode	Advanced Night Sight with HDR+
Front Camera	Dual 10MP + 8MP depth	8MP, f/2.0

In practice, the Pixel 5 produces more consistent, vibrant, and natural-looking photos, especially in low light. Its HDR+ processing handles dynamic range better, and video stabilization is noticeably smoother. While the S10 Plus gives more flexibility with optical zoom and dual front cameras, most users find the Pixel's simplicity and output quality more satisfying day-to-day.

Real-World Example: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah had been using her S10 Plus since 2019. By 2023, she noticed apps were slower to load, the battery drained faster, and some newer apps started crashing due to outdated OS support. She considered buying a new mid-range phone but found a refurbished Pixel 5 for $220.

After switching, she immediately noticed improvements: faster app responses, cleaner interface, and significantly better night photos. The lack of a telephoto lens didn’t matter much — she rarely zoomed in manually. Most importantly, her phone felt secure and up-to-date, something she hadn’t realized was missing until she experienced it.

For Sarah, the upgrade wasn’t about chasing the latest specs. It was about reliability, peace of mind, and enjoying a phone that still feels modern — even if it’s not technically cutting-edge.

Is Upgrading Worth It in the Current Year?

The answer depends on your priorities.

• If you value long-term software support and clean Android, the Pixel 5 is a clear step forward from the S10 Plus, even in 2024.
• If you rely on expandable storage, headphone jack, or high-end gaming, sticking with the S10 Plus or considering a newer alternative may be wiser.
• If photography and daily smoothness matter more than raw power, the Pixel 5 delivers a surprisingly fresh experience.

Tip: Consider refurbished or second-hand Pixel 5 units. Many are still functional and affordable, offering excellent value for light users.

Checklist: Should You Upgrade?

1. Has your S10 Plus stopped receiving security updates? → Yes = Strong reason to upgrade
2. Are you experiencing slowdowns or app incompatibility? → Yes = Likely time to move on
3. Do you prioritize camera quality in low light? → Yes = Pixel 5 excels here
4. Do you need microSD support or 3.5mm jack? → Yes = S10 Plus wins; Pixel 5 lacks both
5. Are you budget-conscious and want a reliable secondary phone? → Yes = Refurbished Pixel 5 is ideal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Pixel 5 still run modern apps smoothly?

Yes. While it doesn’t have the latest chipset, its 8GB RAM and optimized Android allow it to handle most current apps — including social media, streaming, banking, and productivity tools — without lag. Demanding games may require lowering settings.

Is the S10 Plus obsolete in 2024?

Not entirely. It still functions well for basic tasks, but without security updates, it’s increasingly vulnerable to threats. App developers may also phase out support for older Android versions, limiting future usability.

Does the Pixel 5 support 5G?

Yes, it supports sub-6GHz 5G, though not mmWave. In areas with 5G coverage, it provides faster download speeds and improved network responsiveness compared to the LTE-only S10 Plus.

Final Thoughts: Upgrade for Experience, Not Just Specs

Choosing between the Pixel 5 and S10 Plus isn’t just about megapixels or processor speed. It’s about what kind of smartphone experience you want today. The S10 Plus was a powerhouse in its era, but technology moves fast. Without ongoing software support, even the best hardware becomes a liability over time.

The Pixel 5 may not win on paper, but in practice, it offers a more secure, polished, and future-ready experience. For users still clinging to aging flagships, upgrading — even to a phone from 2020 — can feel like stepping into the present.

If you’re on an S10 Plus and noticing sluggishness, update warnings, or poor photo quality in dim lighting, the Pixel 5 remains a compelling, cost-effective upgrade path in 2024. It proves that sometimes, smarter software and sustained support matter far more than the initial hype.

💬 Have you made the switch from S10 Plus to Pixel 5 — or another modern Android phone? Share your experience and help others decide their next move!