Samsung Note 10 5g Vs Iphone Xs Max Is The Iphone Really Worth It In 2024

As we move deeper into 2024, flagship smartphones from just a few years ago are now considered legacy devices. Yet, many consumers still consider buying or holding onto high-end models like the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 5G and the iPhone XS Max due to their build quality, brand reputation, and initial performance. But with rapid advancements in mobile technology, the real question is whether the iPhone XS Max still holds its ground against a similarly aged Android contender — especially when both can be found at steep discounts today.

This isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about value, longevity, and daily usability. The Samsung Note 10 5G launched with one of the first consumer-ready 5G modems, while the iPhone XS Max represented Apple’s peak pre-5G design. Now, in a market dominated by AI features, faster refresh rates, and multi-year software support promises, how do these two stack up?

Performance and Real-World Speed in 2024

The heart of any smartphone experience lies in its processor and RAM. The Samsung Note 10 5G was powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 (or Exynos 9825 in some regions), paired with 8GB of RAM. The iPhone XS Max used Apple’s A12 Bionic chip with 4GB of RAM — significantly less on paper, but historically more efficient due to iOS optimization.

In 2019, the XS Max felt snappy and fluid. Today, in 2024, it still performs well for basic tasks: messaging, browsing, email, and even moderate photo editing. However, multitasking with multiple apps, loading complex web pages, or using newer versions of social media apps shows noticeable lag. Apps like Instagram and TikTok have grown heavier, and iOS updates since iOS 16 have increased system demands.

On the other hand, the Note 10 5G, despite running on older Android architecture, benefits from more RAM and broader app compatibility through Samsung’s One UI. While not immune to slowdowns, it handles background processes better. More importantly, its 5G connectivity remains functional on modern networks, whereas the XS Max lacks 5G entirely — a growing disadvantage as carriers phase out 4G priority.

Tip: If you're relying on long-term network support, 5G capability is no longer optional — it's essential for future-proofing.

Software Updates and Longevity

This is where the debate shifts dramatically. Apple has long prided itself on extended software support. The iPhone XS Max received updates all the way to iOS 17, released in 2023. That’s five years of OS upgrades — impressive by any standard. However, iOS 17 runs poorly on the XS Max. Users report sluggish animations, delayed app launches, and frequent crashes, particularly with newer features like Live Voicemail or StandBy mode.

Samsung, at the time, offered only two major Android OS updates for the Note 10 series. The device topped out at Android 11 with One UI 3.1. No security patches have been issued since late 2022. This means the Note 10 5G hasn't received critical security fixes for over 18 months — a serious concern in an era of phishing attacks and zero-day exploits.

“Even if a phone feels fast, outdated software creates invisible risks. Security trumps speed.” — Lena Patel, Mobile Security Analyst at TechShield Labs

While Apple wins on update duration, the practical usability of those updates on aging hardware raises questions. Samsung loses on update length, but the original software suite was more feature-rich and customizable.

Camera Comparison: Still Relevant in 2024?

Cameras age differently than processors. In controlled conditions, both phones can still take respectable photos. The iPhone XS Max uses a dual 12MP setup (wide + telephoto) with excellent color science and dynamic range. Its video recording, especially in 4K at 60fps, remains among the best ever on a smartphone — even by 2024 standards.

The Note 10 5G goes further with triple rear cameras: 12MP wide, 16MP ultra-wide, and 12MP telephoto with variable aperture. The ultra-wide lens adds creative flexibility, and Samsung’s HDR10+ display enhances photo review accuracy. Low-light performance favors the Note slightly due to larger sensor tuning, though Apple’s Smart HDR holds highlights better.

For video calls and selfies, the Note 10 5G’s 10MP front camera supports 4K recording and autofocus, while the XS Max’s 7MP TrueDepth cam relies on software enhancements. In daylight, both perform well. In dim lighting, the Note pulls ahead with brighter exposures.

Feature	Samsung Note 10 5G	iPhone XS Max
Rear Cameras	Triple: 12MP (f/1.5–2.4) + 16MP UW + 12MP telephoto	Dual: 12MP (f/1.8) + 12MP (f/2.4)
Front Camera	10MP, f/2.2, 4K video	7MP, f/2.2, 1080p video
Video Recording	4K@60fps, HDR10+	4K@60fps, Dolby Vision (limited)
Low-Light Performance	Good with Night Mode	Fair, no dedicated night mode

Battery Life and Charging: Who Lasts the Day?

The Note 10 5G packs a 4,300mAh battery with 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging. With moderate use in 2024 — mostly messaging, light browsing, and music — it lasts about 12–14 hours. Fast charging brings it from 0 to 50% in under 30 minutes.

The iPhone XS Max has a smaller 3,174mAh battery but benefits from iOS power management. Still, after years of charge cycles, most units show degraded capacity. Even with optimized settings, heavy users will need a midday charge. It supports only 18W fast charging (with adapter sold separately) and 7.5W wireless charging — significantly slower than Samsung’s offering.

Tip: Battery health below 80% drastically reduces real-world endurance. Check your iPhone via Settings > Battery > Battery Health.

Real-World Example: Two Users, Two Choices

Consider Sarah, a freelance photographer who bought an iPhone XS Max in 2019. She kept it because she loves the color accuracy and ecosystem integration with her MacBook. By 2023, she noticed the camera app lagging, iCloud uploads failing, and battery draining by noon. She upgraded to an iPhone 14 in early 2024, citing reliability concerns.

Meanwhile, James, a project manager, purchased the Note 10 5G for its S Pen and multitasking. He rooted it in 2021 to install a lightweight Android 13 custom ROM. With ad-blocking and minimal bloat, he still uses it daily in 2024 for notes, emails, and presentations. His advice: “Android gives you control. You can extend life if you’re tech-savvy.”

Their stories highlight a key truth: the iPhone offers longer official support but less customization; Android offers flexibility but requires user initiative to stay relevant.

Is the iPhone XS Max Worth It in 2024?

Only under very specific conditions. If you’re on a tight budget, need a temporary phone, and primarily use it for calls, texts, and light apps, the XS Max can work — provided the battery is replaced and iOS is downgraded to 15 or 16 for smoother performance.

However, for anyone needing reliable 5G, modern app compatibility, or strong security, the answer is no. The lack of 5G, poor performance on iOS 17, and discontinued support make it a liability. Meanwhile, the Note 10 5G, while also outdated, offers tangible advantages: higher RAM, expandable storage via microSD (with adapter), and actual 5G connectivity.

Checklist: Should You Buy or Keep Either Phone in 2024?

• ✅ Does it support 5G? (Note 10 5G: Yes / XS Max: No)
• ✅ Is the battery health above 85%?
• ✅ Has it received security updates in the last 12 months? (Neither has)
• ✅ Can it run your essential apps smoothly? (Test WhatsApp, Google Maps, banking apps)
• ✅ Are replacement parts available locally?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the iPhone XS Max run iOS 17 well?

No. While officially supported, iOS 17 causes significant lag, animation stutter, and reduced battery life on the XS Max. Most experts recommend staying on iOS 16.7 for better performance.

Is the Samsung Note 10 5G secure to use in 2024?

Not inherently. Without security patches since 2022, it’s vulnerable to known exploits. Use only if isolated from sensitive accounts, or consider flashing a custom ROM with active maintenance.

Which phone holds resale value better?

The iPhone XS Max held value better initially, but both have sharply depreciated. In 2024, neither exceeds $100 in used markets. Long-term, iPhones generally retain value better, but only when newer than four years.

Final Verdict: Value Over Brand Loyalty

In 2024, the decision between the Samsung Note 10 5G and iPhone XS Max isn’t about prestige — it’s about practicality. The iPhone’s polished interface and video capabilities are still admirable, but they’re outweighed by the lack of 5G and deteriorating performance. The Note 10 5G, while discontinued and unsupported, offers more modern connectivity and greater adaptability for technically inclined users.

If you're choosing between these two secondhand, the Note 10 5G is the more future-capable device — barely. But ideally, look one generation higher: consider the iPhone 11 or Samsung S20 series, which offer better balance of support, performance, and price.

🚀 Don’t settle for outdated tech out of habit. Evaluate your needs, test devices in person, and prioritize security and connectivity. Share your experience — has your old flagship stood the test of time?