Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus – Phone Specifications

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In today’s ever-evolving smartphone landscape, Samsung’s Galaxy series has long stood as a beacon for high-end, feature-rich mobile devices. The brand’s Galaxy Note smartphones have always been its top performers when it comes to innovation, and the Galaxy Note 10 Plus is no exception.

Launched as Samsung’s flagship phone for the latter part of 2019, the Galaxy Note 10 Plus builds on the legacy of its predecessors while aiming to set new benchmarks. It occupies a position in the market where only the creme de la creme dare to tread – the premium segment. This is not just any phone; it is a statement. With its grandiose 6.8-inch screen, it challenges the very notion of how big a phone screen can or should be, all while retaining a sense of luxury and opulence.

Of course, its impressive display is not the Note 10 Plus’ only merit. It embodies the pinnacle of what Samsung envisioned for its smartphones, boasting state-of-the-art technology wrapped in an exquisitely designed shell.

Editor’s Rating

4.4
out of 5

Design

Display

Battery

Camera

Performance

Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus: Key Features Overview
Display:	6.8″ Dynamic AMOLED, 3040 x 1440 resolution, 60Hz, HDR, Gorilla Glass 6, Ambient & Proximity sensor.
Hardware & Performance:	Snapdragon 855 (7 nm), Octa-core, Adreno 640, 12GB RAM, 256GB storage (expandable), runs on Android with Samsung One UI.
Battery:	4300 mAh, non-removable. Qualcomm Quick Charge 2.0, USB PD, Samsung Adaptive Fast, Qi wireless charging, Reverse charging. Max Speed: 45W wired, 15W wireless.
Camera System:	Rear: 12 MP main, 12 MP Telephoto, 16 MP Ultra-wide, 0.3 MP ToF. 4K UHD video, HDR, EIS. Front: 10 MP, 4K UHD video.
Build & Design:	6.39 x 3.04 x 0.31 inches, 6.91 oz. Gorilla Glass 6, Aluminum frame. IP68. Biometrics: Face unlock, Ultrasonic fingerprint. Colors: Aura glow, white, blue.
Connectivity:	4G (FDD/TDD), 3G, LTE-A Pro Cat 20, Nano SIM, Bluetooth 5.0, Wi-Fi 6, USB-C 3.1.
Multimedia:	No 3.5mm jack, 32-Bit DAC, Dolby Atmos, aptX-HD, multiple speakers, wireless screen share, FM Radio, noise-canceling mic.
Regulatory Approval:	FCC approved on Jul 19, 2019, ID: A3LSMN975U.
Price & Availability:	$1100, launched Aug 07, 2019. Includes USB cable, adapters, S Pen, earbuds, headset, and guides.

The premium price point reflects its stature, but for many, the features and experience it offers justify every penny. After all, the Galaxy Note 10 is more than a phone; it is a premium smart device that has plenty to offer to Samsung users.

In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes the Galaxy Note 10 Plus tick, why it has garnered such attention, and how it stands in comparison to its rivals. We will examine how the device performs when it comes to its camera capabilities, screen, and anything else that could give you an idea of whether the Galaxy Note 10 Plus is the right phone for you.

1. Design and Build

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Deep Dive:

• Security Features: The Note 10 Plus does not have an IR scanner, a feature previously found in the Note 9 and Note 8. Instead, it introduces an ultra-sonic in-screen fingerprint sensor, showing improvements from the technology used in the S10 Plus.
• Physical Buttons: Samsung’s move to combine the power button with the previously separate Bixby button streamlines the device’s design. Although it will take users some time to adjust, the change is an overall improvement since it minimizes accidental button presses.
• Headphone Jack Absence: This omission marks a significant design shift for Samsung, favoring the USB-C port. However, Samsung softens the blow by including AKG headphones in the package that utilize USB-C.
• Display Enhancement: The Galaxy Note 10 Plus boasts of a larger 6.8-inch display in a frame that is more compact than its predecessor, the Note 9, which had a 6.4-inch screen. The Infinity-O display with its centralized camera cutout and reduced bezels can be credited for this feat.
• Color Variants: While the iridescent Aura Glow tends to be a favorite for those who prefer a flashy look, it is a magnet for fingerprints. For those who lean towards a subtler style, the traditional Aura Black and Aura White variants are available. The Aura Blue also stands out in terms of aesthetics.
• Button Placement Nitpick: Placing the power button and volume controls on the left is a potential oversight. The majority of smartphone users are right-handed and will, therefore, find the placement inconvenient.

Samsung’s Galaxy Note 10 Plus design offers a blend of innovation, elegance, and functionality. Some of the choices made, like the removal of the headphone jack, show that the brand took a forward-thinking approach to the design of the Note 10 Plus. However, like any design, it comes with its share of hits and misses based on user preferences.

2. Display and Visual Experience

The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus champions a massive and vivid 6.8-inch Quad HD+ display, taking the legacy of Samsung’s display technology a notch higher. The incorporation of the punch-hole design for the front camera, coupled with the edge-to-edge curvature, offers users a comprehensive, immersive experience.

Deep Dive:

• Immersive Experience: The display spans from edge-to-edge, with pixels gently curving over the sides. This gives the device a sleek, continuous appearance, maximizing the visual area.
• Super AMOLED Technology: Samsung continues to use its signature Super AMOLED display tech, known for deep blacks and punchy colors. This, combined with the Quad HD+ resolution and high peak brightness, provides a striking visual experience.
• Camera Integration: A key standout is the center-aligned punch hole that seamlessly incorporates the front camera into the display. Compared to the distractions caused by notches in other devices, the punch-hole design is much less intrusive and easily fades into the background during media consumption.
• Size Comparisons: While 6.8 inches might sound intimidatingly large, the device’s dimensions aren’t much different from other large phones, such as the iPhone XS Max. The meticulous design gives the illusion of holding a screen rather than a phone.
• Resolution: Most users will not differentiate between Full HD+ and Quad HD+ during everyday use. This is why Full HD+ is the default resolution, but the option to switch to Quad HD+ is also available.
• Color Modes: Users have the flexibility to opt between “natural” and “vivid” color modes, allowing for a tailored viewing experience. The former aims for realism, while the latter accentuates colors for an enriched display.
• Refresh Rate: One potential downside is the 60Hz refresh rate, especially when other flagship devices are transitioning to a smoother 90Hz. However, the display quality remains unmatched in other regards.
• Ghost Touches: The Galaxy Note 10 Plus has very slim bezels. While aesthetically pleasing, they can result in unintended touches. The display’s tapered edges further increase the frequency of ghost touches. A palm rejection feature in future updates might be a remedy.

The Galaxy Note 10 Plus’ display is arguably one of the best in the market, offering an unparalleled visual experience. Its impressive size, vibrant colors, and the camera’s punch-hole design allow for an immersive user experience. However, the display is not without its drawbacks. Ghost touches are a potential issue, and the 60Hz refresh rate leaves room for improvement. Nonetheless, the display remains a strong selling point for the device.

3. Performance and Efficiency

The Galaxy Note 10 Plus redefines powerful performance in the smartphone arena. With a blend of hefty RAM, impressive internal storage, and top-tier chipset options, it handles both everyday tasks and intensive applications with ease.

In-depth Analysis:

• Top-tier Performance: The Note 10 Plus stands tall among the fastest Android phones currently available. Although not the absolute quickest when comparing across the board, it’s right up there, showcasing premium, lag-free performance.
• Generous RAM: The phone boasts 12 gigs of RAM, giving it an edge over some of its competitors. It’s particularly beneficial for power users who often find themselves running multiple apps or browser tabs simultaneously. The RAM size is also more than sufficient for Samsung DeX, the phone’s desktop mode.
• Chipset Choices: The Galaxy Note 10 Plus comes with either the Snapdragon 855 or the Exynos 9825, depending on one’s region. Although some might argue that Exynos users miss out on the Snapdragon 855, which is tailor made for gaming, both chipsets deliver excellent performance when it comes to everyday use.
• Gaming Excellence: Targeting the gaming community and those with a penchant for heavy applications, the Note 10 Plus incorporates a vapor cooling chamber. This prevents the device from overheating and ensures a seamless gaming experience.
• Expansive Storage: The Galaxy Note 10 Plus comes with two internal storage options: 256GB and 512GB. Both will prove to be more than enough for the majority of users. Still, there is an option to expand the storage further thanks to the phone’s microSD card slot, which is absent from the standard Note 10.
• Performance Benchmark: Our GeekBench tests returned a multi-core score of 10,849, reaffirming the device’s powerhouse status in the smartphone arena.

4. Battery Life

The Galaxy Note 10 Plus boasts an impressive battery life that is not only substantial in terms of duration but is also complemented by rapid charging capabilities. Its features ensure that a user’s Note 10 Plus will be their reliable companion throughout the day.

In-depth Analysis:

• Battery Life: The battery’s 4,300mAh capacity, the best in a Samsung smartphone yet, ensures fantastic battery life. The battery can easily last more than a day’s worth of heavy use, and most users will be left with between 20% and 30% battery life by the end of the day.
• Resolution Settings: The default 1080p setting, as opposed to QuadHD+, aids in conserving battery life. Although the difference between the two resolutions is hardly noticeable, the battery savings are tangible. An added touch is the ‘Always On Display’ setting, which, when activated, doesn’t significantly impact the battery but enhances user experience.
• Charging Capabilities: The Galaxy Note 10 Plus supports 45W charging, which is a first for the Samsung Galaxy Note line. Although the device ships with a 25W charger, the increase from the previous 15W offers a notable improvement. Charging the phone from 0% to 100% takes no more than 70 minutes with the included charger. For those opting for the separately sold 45W charger, a mere 57 minutes promises to deliver a full day’s charge.
• Wireless Charging: The Note 10 Plus also steps up its game when it comes to wireless charging. The device comes with 15W wireless charging, a welcome improvement from the 12W seen in the standard edition of the S10. To make the most out of the phone’s wireless charging, upgrading one’s charging stand might be necessary.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus is designed for modern-day users who need both endurance and quick charging capabilities. Its impressive battery life, coupled with the advanced charging tech, ensures that users spend more time utilizing the device rather than waiting for it to charge. The inclusion of faster wireless charging and the flexibility of choosing between 25W and 45W wired charging further enhances its appeal. This device is, without a doubt, geared to keep up with the fast-paced demands of today’s users.

5. Camera

The Galaxy Note 10 Plus offers a compelling camera system, sharing numerous similarities with the Galaxy S10 series while introducing subtle yet essential enhancements. With a blend of lenses designed for various photographic purposes, this device stands as an intriguing choice for photography enthusiasts.

Ultra-wide

Wide-angle

Telephoto

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In-depth Analysis:

• Versatility in Lenses: The Note 10 Plus has four rear cameras. Its main 12MP camera mirrors the capabilities of the S10 Plus camera, capturing colorful photos that boast the vibrancy Samsung is known for. The 16MP ultra-wide and 12MP Telephoto lenses make the phone even more versatile, allowing users a lot of control over their shots’ field of view. The Note 10 Plus is, therefore, excellent for both close-up shots and photos of vast landscapes. Finally, the phone also comes with the unique DepthVision camera.
• Night Mode Capabilities: With a dedicated Night Mode, the Note 10 Plus enhances its low-light photography. Moreover, the resulting photos do not suffer from excessive skin smoothing, which has been a common complaint among smartphone users. While the overall experience is a stark improvement to the Night Mode of the Note 9, the Google Pixel 3’s Night Sight Mode has an edge in certain low-light situations.
• DepthVision (ToF) Camera: The Note 10 Plus’ release marked the debut of Samsung’s DepthVision technology. Also known as Time-of-Flight, this camera is capable of measuring the distance and depth of the objects in a given scene. This functionality enhances the quality of Live Focus photos, offering more refined image separation than the Note 10, which relies on software-based blurring.
• Selfie Camera: Located on the phone’s screen is the 10MP punch hole camera. This selfie camera supports filters like Color Point and Big Circles, which bring one’s selfies to the next level. The Note 10 Plus takes the lead in providing a more engaging selfie experience, even when compared to formidable contenders like the Pixel 3.
• Video Capabilities: Recording video on the Note 10 Plus is an absolute breeze thanks to the phone’s “Super Steady” optical image stabilization (OIS). This feature ensures a smooth video feed, allowing the Note 10 Plus to go head-to-head with competitors like the iPhone XS Max. The built-in video editor has an intuitive interface that pairs well with the S Pen for precise edits.
• Live Focus Video: This adds the capabilities of the Live Focus feature to videos. Although it has captivating effects like background blur and dynamic filters, the results can be inconsistent. All in all, there is still room for improvement despite Live Focus Video being superior to the LG G8’s similar feature.
• Zoom-in Audio: While promising on paper, this feature amplifies all sounds within a setting, not just the targeted zoomed-in subject, which might not always result in the desired output.

Samsung’s Galaxy Note 10 Plus offers a rich camera experience, allowing users to capture moments with unparalleled clarity and dynamism. Its versatile lenses, enhanced night mode, engaging selfie filters, and improved video capabilities make the Note 10 Plus a top contender in the realm of smartphone photography. While there are aspects that warrant further improvement, both casual users and photography enthusiasts will find the overall package to be compelling.

6. Software

A phone’s software is just as crucial for the user experience as its hardware, and the software of the Note 10 Plus is primarily driven by Samsung’s excellent One UI Interface. However, although Samsung has certainly put a lot of thought into One UI, there are some elements of the interface that need to be refined.

In-depth Analysis:

• One UI Interface: Built for the large screens of Samsung’s flagship devices, One UI is user-friendly and ensures that users will have no trouble navigating the phone’s interface. The navigation buttons are placed at the bottom and are within reach of the thumb, which means that the phone can be used with one hand. One UI also offers a well-structured menu system.
• Samsung DeX: With the release of the Galaxy Note 10 Plus, Samsung has done away with requiring a dock for Samsung DeX. Instead, users can now access their phone’s desktop interface by connecting the device to a computer via USB-C. While this is a step in the right direction, the interface does have some issues still, an example being the slightly buggy drag-and-drop functionality.
• Link to Windows: This mode enables users to receive notifications sent to their Samsung device on their computer. This is achieved via the “Your Phone” and “Link to Windows” applications, which provide a connection between the one’s PC and their Note 10 Plus.
• Continuity Concerns: While Samsung has made strides in improving connectivity between its devices and computers, it falls short compared to the seamless continuity of Apple’s software. For example, there is no reliable desktop version of the Samsung Notes app. This limitation is particularly jarring given how note-taking is a key feature of the Note 10 Plus.
• Bixby: Samsung’s voice assistant, Bixby, continues to underperform. Bixby still struggles with understanding user commands despite having undergone multiple updates. Its underwhelming performance is a stark contrast to the otherwise polished software experience of the Note 10 Plus.

Samsung’s approach to the Note 10 Plus’ software shows that the company has a good understanding of its users’ needs. The One UI’s ergonomic design is a prime example of the software’s merits. Nonetheless, there are some unpolished aspects of the software that suggest there is more work to be done. Namely, Bixpy’s persistent issues continue being a point of frustration for users, and continuity between Samsung phones and computers could be improved.

7. Connectivity and Extras

In an age where connectivity is paramount, Samsung’s Note 10 Plus is designed to ensure its users stay connected across a variety of networks and platforms. From supporting multiple bands across 2G, 3G, and 4G to providing several wireless and wired connectivity options, the device ensures comprehensive coverage.

• Network Bands:
  • 2G: The Note 10 Plus supports GSM 850/900/1800/1900 bands globally. It also accommodates dual-SIM models and CDMA 800/1900 in the USA.
  • 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700 (AWS)/1900/2100 bands are supported globally, while CDMA2000 1xEV-DO is specific to the USA.
  • 4G: The Note 10 Plus supports a plethora of 4G bands, including 1 through 41 and 66 for global and LATAM regions. The USA enjoys bands 1 through 30, 46, 48, 66, and 71. Canada’s list of supported 4G bands closely mirrors that of the USA.
• Speed: With HSPA speeds of 42.2/5.76 Mbps and LTE-A (7CA) Cat20 2000/150 Mbps, users can expect quick downloads and seamless browsing experiences.
• Wireless Connectivity:
  • WLAN: The device supports Wi-Fi standards of up to 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6. Additionally, the Note 10 Plus can connect to both 2.4GHz and 5 GHz bands. Wi-Fi Direct, a technology that enables direct device-to-device connections, is also available.
  • Bluetooth: With Bluetooth 5.0, users can expect efficient, low-energy connections and higher data transfer speeds. The profiles A2DP, LE, and aptX are supported as well, and they serve to enhance connectivity between the device and wireless headphones.
• Positioning: Samsung has incorporated multiple global positioning systems into the Note 10 Plus, including GPS, GLONASS, BDS, and GALILEO. This ensures accurate location tracking across the globe.
• NFC & Radio: The Note 10 Plus supports Near Field Communication (NFC), which allows users to utilize their device for contactless payments and other NFC-based applications. In addition, the device does come with FM radio functionality, but it is restricted to users in the USA and Canada.
• Wired Connectivity: Charging and data transfer are achieved via USB Type-C 3.1. The device, therefore, boasts fast charging capabilities and excellent data transfer speeds.

8. Price and Availability

The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus had a premium price tag at launch, given its flagship specifications. The phone had to compete with the best of what the smartphone market had to offer at the time, and its pricing reflected this. As the device became older and Samsung began releasing newer flagship phones, however, the Note 10 Plus’ price has seen a steady decrease.

Analysis:

• Initial Pricing: The base model of the Note 10 Plus, offering 256GB of internal storage, was launched at $1,099, competing closely with the iPhone XS Max. However, Samsung’s offering proved to be of better value considering it offered four times the storage of Apple’s base model (64GB) for the same price. This also includes added features such as the S Pen and a microSD card slot.
• Availability: The Galaxy Note 10 Plus was announced on August 7 2019, and August 23 saw its official release. The device could be bought from all major US carriers, including AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile. Samsung also provided trade-in options for those interested in switching their device for the Note 10 Plus. This service was and continues to be exclusive to direct orders from Samsung’s website.
• Storage Options: Initially, the Note 10 Plus was available in two variants: the standard version with 256GB of internal storage and the US-exclusive variant with 512GB of internal storage. The latter cost $1,199.
• Deals & Discounts: While the initial pricing was on the higher side, deals frequently emerged, dropping the price to as low as $949 with activation. Notable discounts were expected during events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. In addition, the phone’s price was reduced further following the release of the Galaxy Note 20 line.
• Comparison with Competitors: Many smartphones now offer large screens, reducing the unique value proposition of the Note 10 Plus. However, Samsung remains unmatched when it comes to stylus integration. The only competitors to the Note 10 Plus in this respect are other Samsung smartphones, solidifying Samsung’s position as the leader of this niche market.

Although the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus started as a premium-priced device, it offered tangible value over its competitors, particularly in terms of storage and unique features. Its price has decreased over time, especially with the advent of newer Samsung models. Potential buyers may want to be on the lookout for seasonal sales or other promotions for the best deals.

9. Conclusion

At the time of its release, the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus was the pinnacle of what Samsung was capable of in terms of smartphone design and engineering. Many consider it to be one of the best flagships of 2019, and it was certainly a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a luxurious smartphone experience.

• Size and Display: The phone’s massive 6.8-inch display is the perfect canvas for the S Pen, allowing users to easily jot down notes, create art, or just navigate the phone’s interface with ease.
• Colors and Aesthetics: The Aura colors variants, especially the one dubbed Aura Glow, are a breath of fresh air amid the monotony most smartphone manufacturers go for. They allow the Galaxy Note 10 Plus to stand out not just in terms of its capabilities but its appearance as well.
• Performance: Although there are devices that outperform the Note 10 Plus when it comes to speed, it nonetheless remains quite snappy and more than capable of catering to power users.
• Camera Capabilities: Each of the phone’s five cameras has its unique utility, and combined, they make the Note 10 Plus into a powerhouse for photography that is perfect for casual users and photography aficionados alike. The phone’s camera software also offers plenty of filters and other additional features.
• Overall Experience: While it is rare for a phone to be called “fun,” there is no word that better describes the Galaxy Note 10 Plus. It made the process of using a phone exciting, giving users tools and features that sparked creativity and productivity.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus was a beacon of what smartphones could be before the wave of foldable devices began to change the landscape. It showcased the pinnacle of traditional smartphone design with a touch of luxury. Whether it was for productivity, creativity, or entertainment, the Galaxy Note 10 Plus had all the bases covered. In retrospect, it’s a testament to Samsung’s dedication to pushing the boundaries and setting new standards in the smartphone industry.

10. Pros and Cons

11. User Reviews and Feedback

12. Images and Videos

Vivid Clarity of Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus Display

Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus: Symphony in Design and Function

Elegant Contour of Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus