👍 Pros
- Still a vibrant, high-refresh display
- Versatile camera system with OIS
- Solid build quality
- Expandable storage via microSDXC
- Wireless and reverse wireless charging
👎 Cons
- Aging chipset (Exynos 990/Snapdragon 865) struggles with 2026 apps
- Limited software updates (Android 13 max)
- Battery life shows its age with heavy use
- Slow charging by 2026 standards
- Base model 128GB storage is tight now
Expert Review & Rating
Quick Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S20+ in 2026 is an interesting proposition, primarily for the budget-conscious user who still values a premium display and a capable camera system without needing the absolute latest in processing power. It’s a device for those who appreciate solid build quality and features like expandable storage, even if it means living with slightly dated performance and software. Think of it as a well-maintained classic car – still looks good, still drives, but won’t win any races against modern machines.
Performance & Daily Usage
In 2026, the Exynos 990 or Snapdragon 865 5G chipset inside the S20+ is definitely showing its age. Everyday tasks like browsing, social media, and light multitasking are generally fine. UI responsiveness, thanks to One UI 5 and the 120Hz display, still feels smooth enough for casual use. However, firing up demanding 2026 games or heavy productivity apps will reveal stutters and longer load times. Thermal management was decent in its prime, but under sustained load with modern applications, expect some noticeable warmth. This isn’t a power user’s phone anymore; it’s for the user with modest demands who prioritizes experience over raw horsepower.
The Best Features
Despite its age, the 6.7-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X display remains a standout feature. The 120Hz refresh rate and 1440p resolution still deliver a buttery-smooth and incredibly vibrant visual experience, making content consumption a joy. Secondly, the camera system, particularly the main 12 MP wide and 64 MP telephoto lenses with OIS, still holds up surprisingly well in good lighting. You can capture sharp, detailed photos and even decent 8K video (though 4K@60fps is more practical). The inclusion of a microSDXC slot for expandable storage is a massive win in an era where most flagships have dropped it, offering flexibility for media hoarders. Lastly, the premium glass and aluminum build still feels fantastic in hand, a testament to Samsung’s craftsmanship.
The Compromises
The biggest compromise is undoubtedly the aging chipset. While adequate for basics, it struggles with the demands of 2026’s more intensive apps and games. This also impacts future-proofing, as Android 13 is its final official OS update, meaning no new Android features or security patches beyond that. Battery life, while a respectable 4500 mAh on paper, has likely degraded over six years of use, and even when new, it wasn’t stellar. Charging speeds at 25W wired and 15W wireless are painfully slow compared to current standards. Finally, the base 128GB storage, without the microSD card, would be a significant bottleneck for most users today.
Is It Worth Buying?
In 2026, the Samsung Galaxy S20+ is a viable option for a very specific niche: someone seeking a secondary device, a child’s first smartphone, or an extremely budget-conscious user who values a great screen and camera over cutting-edge performance. It’s a solid, well-built phone that still offers a pleasant user experience for light tasks. However, for anyone needing a primary device that can handle modern apps, gaming, or requires the latest security updates, you should absolutely look elsewhere. While it was a flagship in 2020, its time as a primary daily driver for most users has passed. It’s not a viable option to buy TODAY in 2026 for anyone expecting a modern smartphone experience; its age is simply too pronounced.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The S20+'s main and telephoto cameras, with OIS, can still outperform some 2026 midrange phones in terms of detail and dynamic range, especially in good lighting. However, newer midrange devices often have better low-light processing and more advanced computational photography features.
Yes, the 120Hz refresh rate itself still provides a very smooth scrolling experience. The 'feel' of speed will be more limited by the aging processor, which might introduce micro-stutters in some apps, rather than the display panel itself.