Pixel 7 Pro Vs S20 Ultra Is Upgrading Really Worth It In 2024

If you're still using the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra—once a flagship powerhouse—it's natural to wonder whether upgrading to the Google Pixel 7 Pro makes sense in 2024. The mobile landscape has evolved significantly since 2020, with faster processors, smarter cameras, and longer software support. But does that translate into real-world benefits for someone already owning a high-end device from just a few years ago? This article breaks down the key differences between the Pixel 7 Pro and S20 Ultra across performance, camera quality, software experience, battery life, and future-proofing to help you decide if the upgrade delivers meaningful value—or if your current phone still has life left.

Performance and Hardware: Generational Leap or Diminishing Returns?

The S20 Ultra launched with the Snapdragon 865, a top-tier chip in 2020 that handled multitasking, gaming, and 5G connectivity with ease. In contrast, the Pixel 7 Pro features Google’s Tensor G2, built on a 5nm process and designed specifically for AI-driven tasks like speech recognition, photo enhancement, and real-time translation.

While raw benchmarks show mixed results—Snapdragon 865 still holds up well in CPU tasks—the Tensor G2 excels in machine learning operations and overall system efficiency. Real-world usage reveals smoother animations, faster app launches, and notably better thermal management. The Pixel 7 Pro rarely throttles under load, whereas the S20 Ultra can become warm during extended use, especially when recording video or playing graphics-heavy games.

Tip: If you frequently use voice assistants, live transcription, or AI photo editing, the Tensor G2 offers tangible improvements over older chips.

Another advantage: RAM and storage optimization. While both phones have 12GB of RAM, Android 13 (on Pixel) manages background processes more efficiently than One UI 5 (on S20), resulting in less memory bloat and quicker app switching. Additionally, the Pixel 7 Pro supports faster UFS 3.1 storage, improving file transfer speeds and app install times.

Camera Comparison: Computational Photography vs. Optical Power

The S20 Ultra was renowned for its versatile quad-camera setup, headlined by a 108MP main sensor and a 100x Space Zoom feature. On paper, this sounds superior. However, real-world image quality tells a different story—one where software often trumps hardware.

The Pixel 7 Pro uses a smaller 50MP main sensor but leverages Google’s industry-leading computational photography. Features like Magic Eraser, Face Unblur, and enhanced Night Sight produce cleaner, more natural photos in low light and complex scenes. HDR+ processing ensures balanced exposure even in high-contrast environments, something the S20 Ultra struggles with despite its hardware edge.

“Hardware gets you partway, but it’s the software tuning and AI enhancements that define modern smartphone photography.” — David Kim, Mobile Imaging Analyst at DXOMARK

In daylight, both phones capture excellent detail, though the Pixel tends to render colors more accurately. Indoors or at night, the gap widens. The Pixel 7 Pro consistently delivers brighter, sharper images with less noise. Its ultrawide and telephoto lenses also benefit from improved autofocus and stabilization, reducing blur in zoomed shots.

For videographers, the Pixel adds cinematic pans, improved audio focusing, and 4K/60fps recording with Dolby Vision HDR—features absent on the S20 Ultra, which maxes out at 8K but lacks dynamic tone mapping and advanced stabilization in most modes.

Battery Life and Charging: Efficiency Over Capacity

Feature	Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra	Google Pixel 7 Pro
Battery Capacity	5,000 mAh	5,000 mAh
Charging Speed	45W wired, 15W wireless	30W wired, 23W wireless (with compatible charger)
Estimated Daily Use	1 day (moderate), needs recharge by evening	1.2–1.5 days with adaptive battery
Software Optimization	Moderate (One UI power saving)	High (Adaptive Battery + Tensor efficiency)

Despite identical battery sizes, the Pixel 7 Pro lasts noticeably longer thanks to aggressive background app management and screen brightness adaptation. Google’s Adaptive Battery learns your habits and restricts non-essential apps from draining power. In real-world testing, users report extending usage into a second day with light tasks—a rarity on the aging S20 Ultra.

However, charging speed favors Samsung. The S20 Ultra reaches 100% in about 60 minutes with a compatible 45W charger, while the Pixel takes closer to 75 minutes. That said, the Pixel supports faster wireless charging with Google’s Pixel Stand (2nd gen), making overnight top-ups more convenient.

Software Experience and Long-Term Value

This is where the decision becomes clearer. The S20 Ultra received three major Android updates (up to Android 13) and four years of security patches—ending in 2023. As of 2024, it no longer receives official updates, leaving it vulnerable to new threats and incompatible with future app requirements.

In contrast, the Pixel 7 Pro guarantees five years of OS and security updates (until 2027). That means access to new Android features, ongoing bug fixes, and continued compatibility with banking apps, messaging platforms, and productivity tools that increasingly require up-to-date systems.

On the user experience front, stock Android on the Pixel offers a cleaner, faster interface with fewer preinstalled apps and distractions. Features like Call Screen, Hold for Me, and Now Playing provide unique utility not found on Samsung devices. Plus, seamless integration with Google services (Photos, Assistant, Wallet) enhances daily usability.

Tip: If you rely on cloud backups, smart replies, or voice commands, the Pixel’s ecosystem synergy offers noticeable quality-of-life improvements.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Upgrade Decision

Sarah, a freelance photographer and traveler, used her S20 Ultra daily for three years. By early 2024, she noticed slower app launches, inconsistent camera focus, and frequent overheating during outdoor shoots. She considered repairing the battery but hesitated due to cost.

After testing a friend’s Pixel 7 Pro, she was impressed by how quickly photos processed in Night Mode, how smoothly Google Photos organized her library using AI tagging, and how long the battery lasted during full-day shoots. She upgraded and now edits RAW files directly on-device using Lightroom, something that previously lagged on her aging S20.

For Sarah, the upgrade wasn’t just about newer specs—it restored confidence in her primary work tool. The combination of reliable software updates, superior photo processing, and consistent performance made the switch worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the S20 Ultra obsolete in 2024?

Not entirely. It still functions well for calls, messaging, and media consumption. However, lack of software updates, declining app compatibility, and reduced performance make it less ideal as a primary device, especially for power users.

Can I expect better signal and 5G performance on the Pixel 7 Pro?

Yes. The Pixel 7 Pro includes updated 5G modems with better carrier aggregation and mmWave support (in the US). Users report stronger signal retention in weak zones and faster download speeds compared to the S20 Ultra’s older modem.

Should I wait for the Pixel 8 Pro instead?

If budget allows and you want maximum longevity, yes. But the Pixel 7 Pro remains a powerful device with full update coverage through 2027. Unless you need features like the new Tensor G3 or enhanced display brightness, the 7 Pro offers excellent value in 2024.

Checklist: Is Upgrading Right for You?

• ✅ Are you experiencing slow performance or app crashes?
• ✅ Do you want better low-light photos without manual editing?
• ✅ Is your current phone no longer receiving security updates?
• ✅ Do you use Google services heavily (Photos, Assistant, etc.)?
• ✅ Are you planning to keep your next phone for 3+ years?

If you answered “yes” to three or more, upgrading to the Pixel 7 Pro is likely a smart investment.

Final Verdict: To Upgrade or Not?

The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra was a landmark device in its time, but technology moves fast. By 2024 standards, its hardware is aging, software support has ended, and camera processing feels outdated next to modern computational techniques.

The Pixel 7 Pro isn’t just an incremental upgrade—it represents a shift toward intelligent, efficient, and future-ready smartphone design. From longer software support and superior photo editing to smoother daily performance and enhanced privacy controls, the benefits are both immediate and long-term.

If you’re still on the fence, consider this: upgrading isn’t just about having the latest gadget. It’s about reliability, security, and getting the most out of your digital life. For most S20 Ultra owners, the Pixel 7 Pro isn’t just worth it—it’s overdue.

💬 Have you made the switch from S20 Ultra to Pixel 7 Pro? Share your experience, tips, or concerns in the comments below—we’d love to hear what mattered most to you.