👍 Pros
- Still vibrant AMOLED display
- Expandable storage via microSDXC
- Headphone jack (a rarity now)
- Solid build quality, premium feel
- Good camera versatility for its era
👎 Cons
- Outdated processor for 2026
- Battery life struggles with modern apps
- Limited software updates (Android 12 max)
- Slow charging speeds by today's standards
- Punch-hole camera design is dated
Expert Review & Rating
Quick Overview
For the user who prioritizes a premium build, a stunning display, and a dedicated headphone jack without breaking the bank, even in 2026, the Samsung Galaxy S10+ might still whisper sweet nothings. It’s a relic, yes, but a well-preserved one for those who appreciate classic flagship design and aren’t chasing bleeding-edge performance.
The Best Features
The display, oh the display. That 6.4-inch Dynamic AMOLED panel with its 1440p resolution and HDR10+ support was, and frankly still is, a visual treat. Colors pop, blacks are inky deep, and the clarity holds up remarkably well for media consumption. Then there’s the headphone jack – a feature long abandoned by most flagships, making the S10+ a rare gem for audiophiles. And let’s not forget the microSDXC slot, offering expandable storage in an era where cloud dependence reigns. The build quality, with its Gorilla Glass 6 front and aluminum frame (or ceramic for the truly premium models), feels incredibly solid in hand, a testament to Samsung’s craftsmanship from that era. It truly felt like a ‘plus’ device.
Performance & Daily Usage
Navigating the UI is generally smooth. Apps open without excessive delay. Scrolling through social media is fine. However, pushing it with graphically intensive games or demanding multitasking reveals its age. The Exynos 9820 or Snapdragon 855 chips were kings in 2019, but in 2026, they’re more like seasoned veterans. Thermal management was decent back then, and it doesn’t really heat up much now because you’re unlikely to be stressing it that hard. It’s perfectly adequate for basic smartphone tasks, but don’t expect a speed demon.
The Compromises
Let’s be brutally honest: the biggest compromise here is performance. The 2019 chipsets simply can’t keep up with 2026’s demanding applications and operating system optimizations. Battery life, once a strong point, is now just ‘okay’ at best, especially with an aging cell and more power-hungry modern apps. Charging speeds are painfully slow by today’s 100W+ standards, making quick top-ups a thing of the past. Moreover, the software support officially capped at Android 12, means you’re missing out on the latest Android features and security patches. The punch-hole camera, while innovative for its time, now feels dated compared to under-display solutions or smaller cutouts. And the camera system, while versatile, lacks the computational photography prowess of current flagships.
Is It Worth Buying?
The still-gorgeous AMOLED display is its absolute best feature, while its severely outdated processor is its absolute worst flaw. In 2026, if you’re looking for a primary daily driver, the Galaxy S10+ is a hard pass due to its dated performance and lack of ongoing software support. However, as a secondary device for media consumption, a dedicated music player, or a nostalgic tech enthusiast, its low price point and enduring premium feel make it an interesting, albeit niche, consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
While the S10+'s camera hardware was excellent for its time, modern budget phones often surpass it in computational photography, low-light performance, and dynamic range, thanks to advancements in image processing and AI. The S10+ will still capture decent daylight photos, but struggles where newer phones excel.
Yes, for the most part. Apps like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Netflix, and Spotify will run, but you might notice slightly longer load times and occasional stutters compared to a contemporary device. Heavy multitasking or navigating complex apps might reveal its age more significantly.
The primary security concern is the lack of ongoing software updates beyond Android 12. This means the device is no longer receiving critical security patches, leaving it potentially vulnerable to newly discovered exploits. Using it for sensitive tasks like mobile banking without caution is not recommended.