Upgrading From Iphone 8 Plus To Galaxy S10 Is It Actually A Big Deal

Moving from an iPhone 8 Plus to the Samsung Galaxy S10 marks more than just a phone swap—it’s a shift in operating systems, design philosophy, and user experience. For long-time Apple users, the jump to Android can feel daunting. But how significant is the actual upgrade? The answer depends on what you value: hardware innovation, software flexibility, camera quality, or ecosystem continuity. This deep dive explores whether the transition delivers meaningful improvements or simply changes the interface of your daily routine.

Design and Build: A Modern Leap Forward

The iPhone 8 Plus, released in 2017, features a traditional design with thick bezels, a home button, and a glass back for wireless charging. While durable and familiar, its look feels dated compared to modern smartphones. In contrast, the Galaxy S10, launched in 2019, embraces a sleek, edge-to-edge Dynamic AMOLED display with a hole-punch front camera—eliminating the need for a notch or chin. The difference in screen-to-body ratio alone transforms the visual experience.

Beyond aesthetics, materials matter. The S10 uses Gorilla Glass 6 on both front and back, with an aluminum frame that feels premium yet lightweight. Its curved display enhances immersion but requires a slight adjustment in handling. Meanwhile, the iPhone 8 Plus remains sturdy with its flat glass and aluminum chassis, though bulkier and heavier at 200 grams versus the S10’s 157 grams.

Tip: When switching from iOS to Android, use Samsung Smart Switch to seamlessly transfer contacts, messages, photos, and apps.

Display and Performance Comparison

The most immediate change users notice is the display. The Galaxy S10’s 6.1-inch Quad HD+ AMOLED panel offers richer colors, deeper blacks, and higher brightness than the iPhone 8 Plus’s 5.5-inch LCD. With a resolution of 3040 x 1440 pixels (vs. 1920 x 1080), text appears sharper and media more vibrant. The 16M color depth and HDR10+ support make streaming services like Netflix visually superior on the S10.

Performance-wise, the S10 runs on Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 855 (or Exynos 9820 in some regions), paired with 8GB of RAM. Compared to the iPhone 8 Plus’s A11 Bionic chip and 3GB of RAM, this represents a generational leap in multitasking and app responsiveness. Although iOS optimizes limited RAM efficiently, Android with more memory handles background tasks more fluidly—especially when juggling navigation, music, and messaging.

“Switching from an older iPhone to a flagship Android device often feels like stepping into a wider digital world—one with more customization, faster screens, and greater flexibility.” — Marcus Lin, Mobile Technology Analyst at TechPulse Asia

Camera Evolution: Different Philosophies, Similar Results

Photography capabilities have evolved significantly between these devices. The iPhone 8 Plus introduced dual 12MP rear cameras (wide and telephoto), delivering excellent color accuracy and portrait mode depth effects. However, its low-light performance lags behind current standards.

The Galaxy S10 steps up with a triple-lens setup: a 12MP wide lens, a 12MP telephoto, and a 16MP ultra-wide sensor. This third lens opens creative possibilities, allowing users to capture landscapes or group shots without stepping back. Samsung’s Scene Optimizer automatically detects subjects and adjusts settings, while Night Mode improves low-light clarity—a feature absent on the iPhone 8 Plus.

Front cameras tell a similar story. The S10’s 10MP selfie shooter outperforms the 7MP FaceTime camera in detail and dynamic range. Video recording is also enhanced, with 4K at 60fps and stereo audio capture.

Feature	iPhone 8 Plus	Galaxy S10
Display Size	5.5\" LCD	6.1\" AMOLED
Resolution	1920 x 1080	3040 x 1440
Rear Cameras	Dual 12MP (Wide + Telephoto)	Triple 12MP+12MP+16MP (Wide, Tele, Ultra-Wide)
Front Camera	7MP	10MP
Battery Capacity	2675 mAh	3400 mAh
RAM	3GB	8GB
OS at Launch	iOS 11	Android 9 (One UI)

Software and Ecosystem Shifts

Perhaps the most impactful aspect of this upgrade isn’t hardware—it’s the operating system. iOS offers simplicity, tight security, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. If you rely on AirPods, iCloud, Apple Watch, or MacBooks, leaving iOS disrupts that synergy.

Android, particularly Samsung’s One UI, provides greater customization. You can change launchers, default apps, icon packs, and even control gestures extensively. Features like Secure Folder, DeX mode (desktop experience), and split-screen multitasking offer functionality not available on iPhones. Google’s AI-driven tools—such as Live Transcribe, Now Playing, and advanced Assistant integration—add practical utility.

However, app quality varies. While major apps are cross-platform, some iOS versions receive updates earlier or include exclusive features. Additionally, sideloading apps introduces flexibility but also potential security risks if not managed carefully.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Transition After Five Years on iPhone

Sarah had used her iPhone 8 Plus since 2018. By 2023, she noticed slower app launches, reduced battery life, and frustration with outdated design. Curious about Android, she upgraded to a Galaxy S10 (refurbished). Within days, she appreciated the brighter screen and improved camera versatility, especially the ultra-wide lens for travel photography.

Her biggest challenge was adjusting to app layouts and notifications. She missed iMessage’s blue bubbles and read receipts. However, after setting up Google Messages with RCS and syncing her calendar via Gmail, the gap narrowed. Over time, she grew fond of Always-On Display and Edge Panels for quick access to tools. “It wasn’t revolutionary,” she said, “but it felt like my phone finally kept up with me instead of holding me back.”

Practical Checklist Before Making the Switch

• ✅ Back up your iPhone data to iCloud or computer
• ✅ Export important contacts, notes, and passwords
• ✅ Check carrier compatibility (S10 supports most GSM networks)
• ✅ Download Samsung Smart Switch on both devices
• ✅ Disable iMessage and FaceTime on your old phone to avoid message delivery issues
• ✅ Transfer photos using Google Photos or manual sync
• ✅ Reinstall essential apps from Google Play Store
• ✅ Customize One UI settings to match your usage habits

Is It Actually a Big Deal? Weighing the Impact

For someone still using an iPhone 8 Plus in 2024, upgrading to a Galaxy S10—even years after its release—is a meaningful improvement. The faster processor, better display, superior cameras, and modern design collectively enhance everyday usability. Battery life, while modest by today’s standards, is noticeably better due to optimization and larger capacity.

But the real “big deal” lies in breaking free from a five-year-old device stuck on iOS 16 (max) with no path to newer features. The S10, despite being discontinued, ran Android 12 and received security patches until 2023. That means access to newer APIs, foldable-ready interfaces, and AI enhancements unavailable on aging iOS hardware.

Still, consider longevity. The S10 is now several generations behind current flagships. If budget allows, jumping directly to a newer model like the Galaxy S23 or S24 would future-proof your investment. But for those seeking a cost-effective bridge into the Android world, the S10 remains a capable choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my iPhone accessories work with the Galaxy S10?

No, Lightning cables won’t charge the S10—it uses USB-C. Most Bluetooth headphones, including AirPods, will pair fine, but without seamless iCloud-level integration. Cases and screen protectors are not interchangeable due to different dimensions and curved edges.

Can I keep using iMessage after switching?

You can receive iMessages on your iPhone, but once you deactivate it or switch SIM cards, new messages sent to your number may fail to deliver unless deregistered from Apple’s servers. Use Apple’s official tool to de-register iMessage before switching carriers or phones.

Is the Galaxy S10 still secure and supported?

Samsung ended major OS updates for the S10 in 2021 and security patches in 2023. While it remains functional, it lacks the latest protections against emerging threats. Avoid storing sensitive financial data or using it as a primary business device without additional security layers.

Conclusion: A Worthwhile Step Into Modern Mobile Experience

Upgrading from the iPhone 8 Plus to the Galaxy S10 isn't just a change of brand—it's a step into a more flexible, visually engaging, and technically advanced mobile experience. While the core functions remain the same, the improvements in display, camera, speed, and interface modernization make a tangible difference in daily use. Yes, there’s a learning curve, especially around ecosystem differences and notification management. But for users ready to explore beyond Apple’s walled garden, the S10 offers a balanced, powerful entry point.

💬 Have you made the switch from iPhone to Galaxy? Share your experience—what surprised you, what you miss, and whether it was worth it.