Samsung A32 Vs Note 9 Is The Older Flagship Still Worth It

When choosing between a newer mid-range phone like the Samsung Galaxy A32 and an older flagship such as the Galaxy Note 9, the decision isn't just about price. It's about longevity, performance, user experience, and whether legacy excellence can still compete with modern accessibility. Released in 2018, the Note 9 was a powerhouse in its time—boasting top-tier specs and the iconic S Pen. Fast forward to 2024, and the Galaxy A32, launched in 2021, offers updated software support, better cameras on paper, and improved connectivity at a fraction of the original cost. But does that mean it outperforms its predecessor in real-world use?

This article breaks down every critical aspect—from hardware and software to camera quality and daily usability—to help you determine if the Note 9 still holds up against the more affordable A32.

Performance and Hardware: Flagship Power vs Modern Efficiency

The core difference between these two phones lies in their chipsets and overall system architecture. The Galaxy Note 9 runs on either the Exynos 9810 or Snapdragon 845, depending on the region—both of which were flagship-grade processors in 2018. These chips featured eight cores, advanced GPU performance, and high-speed memory bandwidth ideal for multitasking, gaming, and productivity.

In contrast, the Galaxy A32 uses the MediaTek Helio G80, a mid-range chipset designed for budget-conscious users. While capable for everyday tasks like browsing, messaging, and streaming, it lacks the raw power and thermal efficiency of the Note 9’s processor. For example, launching multiple apps simultaneously or editing high-resolution photos feels noticeably smoother on the Note 9—even years later.

Tip: If you frequently use demanding apps or games, prioritize processor strength over newer software features.

RAM also plays a role: the Note 9 came with 6GB or 8GB variants, while the A32 ships with 4GB or 6GB. More RAM means better background app retention and faster switching—a subtle but meaningful advantage for heavy users.

Battery Life and Charging: Capacity vs Optimization

The Note 9 packs a 4,000mAh battery, which was impressive in 2018 and remains competitive today. Samsung optimized power delivery and software efficiency to extend usage throughout the day, even under moderate gaming or video loads. With careful use, many owners still report getting a full day on a single charge.

The A32 steps up with a slightly larger 5,000mAh battery. On paper, this should translate to longer endurance. However, real-world results vary due to the less efficient Helio G80 and heavier software overhead from One UI over Android 11 (upgradable to Android 13). Users often find that screen-on time is comparable, especially when both devices are used for similar activities.

Charging speed favors the A32: it supports 15W fast charging, whereas the Note 9 maxes out at 18W but typically delivers around 12–14W in practice. Neither supports wireless charging, though the Note 9 benefits from reverse wireless charging via accessories.

“Battery health degrades over time. Even if capacity is high, an old battery may struggle with peak loads.” — David Lin, Mobile Device Engineer

Display Quality and Design

The Note 9 features a 6.4-inch Quad HD+ Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1440 x 2960 pixels. This results in sharp text, vibrant colors, and excellent outdoor visibility. Its curved glass design gives it a premium feel, though some users prefer flat screens for durability.

The A32 has a 6.4-inch Full HD+ Super AMOLED panel too, but only at 720 x 1600 pixels on base models and 1080 x 2400 on upgraded versions. While both use AMOLED technology, the lower pixel density on most A32 units leads to slightly blurrier text and icons. Still, the screen is bright and responsive, making it suitable for casual viewing.

In terms of build, the Note 9 uses aluminum frame and glass back, giving it a solid, weighty presence. The A32 opts for plastic construction, which makes it lighter but less durable. Dust and water resistance is another point in favor of the Note 9—it carries an IP68 rating, meaning it can survive submersion in water. The A32 has no official IP rating, limiting its resilience in wet conditions.

Camera Comparison: Old School Excellence vs New Features

The Note 9 sports a dual rear camera setup: a 12MP main sensor with variable aperture (f/1.5–f/2.4) and a 12MP telephoto lens. The variable aperture was a standout feature, allowing better low-light performance by opening wider in dark environments. Image processing is consistent, with natural color reproduction and strong dynamic range.

The A32 improves on versatility with a quad-camera array: 64MP main, 8MP ultra-wide, 5MP macro, and 2MP depth sensor. While the higher megapixel count sounds impressive, the smaller pixel size and weaker image processing result in inconsistent HDR performance and noise in low light. The ultra-wide and macro lenses add flexibility, but image quality drops significantly at the edges.

Front cameras are fairly even: 8MP on the Note 9 versus 20MP on the A32. Selfies from the A32 appear sharper initially, but skin tones can look oversaturated. The Note 9 produces more balanced, filmic portraits.

Feature	Note 9	A32
Main Camera	12MP, f/1.5–f/2.4	64MP, f/1.8
Telephoto	Yes (2x optical zoom)	No
Ultra-Wide Lens	No	Yes (8MP)
Low-Light Performance	Excellent (variable aperture)	Moderate (no stabilization)
Front Camera	8MP	20MP

Software Support and Long-Term Value

Here’s where the A32 gains significant ground. It launched with Android 11 and received updates up to Android 13, with security patches expected through 2024–2025. Samsung promised four years of security updates for the A32 series, ensuring better protection against emerging threats.

The Note 9 stopped receiving major OS updates after Android 10 and ended official security patches in 2022. While it runs stable software, it lacks access to newer privacy controls, Google Play Protect enhancements, and AI-powered features found in current Android versions. Apps like banking platforms or ride-sharing services may eventually drop support for outdated OS versions.

For long-term ownership, the A32 offers greater peace of mind. But keep in mind: older devices aren’t automatically insecure. Many Note 9 users continue using theirs safely by avoiding third-party app stores and keeping permissions tight.

Tip: Disable unused sensors and apps on older phones to reduce vulnerability risks.

Mini Case Study: Maria’s Upgrade Dilemma

Maria, a freelance photographer, inherited her brother’s well-maintained Note 9 after he upgraded to a newer model. She used it for six months alongside her A32, testing each for photo editing, navigation, and client communication. Despite the A32’s newer interface and extra lenses, she preferred the Note 9 for reviewing RAW files due to its superior screen accuracy and smoother scrolling in Lightroom. However, she noticed increasing delays in WhatsApp message delivery and occasional crashes in newer apps. Ultimately, she kept the Note 9 as a secondary device for media review and switched to the A32 as her daily driver for reliability and timely notifications.

Checklist: Should You Choose the Note 9 Over the A32?

• ✅ Need powerful performance for multitasking or light gaming?
• ✅ Prefer a brighter, sharper display with better outdoor readability?
• ✅ Want IP68 water resistance and premium build quality?
• ✅ Already own the Note 9 and maintain it well?
• ❌ Concerned about future app compatibility and security updates?
• ❌ Rely heavily on latest camera modes like Night Mode or Portrait Video?
• ❌ Use your phone intensively and expect multi-year software support?

If most checked items are positives, the Note 9 might still suit you. If negatives dominate, the A32 is the safer long-term investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Note 9 run modern apps smoothly?

Yes, for most standard applications like email, social media, and web browsing. However, newer versions of resource-heavy apps (e.g., TikTok, Instagram Reels, or cloud editors) may lag or crash due to outdated drivers and limited RAM optimization.

Is the S Pen still useful on the Note 9?

Absolutely. The S Pen enables precise note-taking, screenshot annotation, and remote shutter control. No other phone in this price range offers such functionality. Third-party styluses work on the A32, but without Bluetooth integration or pressure sensitivity.

Which phone holds resale value better?

The Note 9 once held strong resale value due to its flagship status, but demand has declined sharply since 2023. The A32 retains modest value in emerging markets, particularly regions where affordability matters most. Overall, neither holds significant long-term resale potential today.

Final Verdict: Balancing Legacy Strength and Modern Needs

The Galaxy Note 9 was a landmark device—powerful, elegant, and packed with features ahead of its time. Even now, its processor, display, and S Pen offer experiences that surpass what the A32 provides. For users who value performance, screen quality, and productivity tools, the Note 9 remains compelling—if they’re willing to accept outdated software and diminishing update support.

The Galaxy A32, meanwhile, wins on practicality. It offers sufficient performance for average users, better future-proofing, and essential modern features like USB-C, VoLTE, and improved standby efficiency. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable.

In 2024, the answer depends on your priorities. If you're tech-savvy, enjoy tinkering, and don’t rely on cutting-edge apps, the Note 9 is still worth considering—especially if acquired secondhand at a steep discount. But if you want hassle-free operation, reliable updates, and broader compatibility, the A32 is the smarter pick.

🚀 Ready to make your choice? Evaluate your daily usage, check battery health on used models, and consider trying both devices hands-on before deciding. Share your experience below—your insights could help others choose wisely!