Samsung Galaxy S8 & S8 Plus Review: Reliable, Solid & Strong

Smartphones have become an essential tool in day-to-day life, with consumers being given numerous options. Samsung’s Galaxy series of phones were hot items, often raising the bar for the industry. However, a previous incarnation, the Galaxy Note 7, was plagued with an impossible-to-ignore flaw: they would ignite into flames. Now, the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus have arrived to earn back goodwill while also providing a capable phone, and the pair delivers.

SAMSUNG GALAXY S8 & S8 PLUS REVIEW

GALAXY S8 & S8 PLUS: HOW DO THEY DIFFER?

The Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus are, for most intents and purposes, identical. The differences between them are their sizes, batteries and prices, with the S8 Plus costing an extra $100. In terms of longevity, the Plus’s battery is stronger than the standard S8’s, which means it will hold its charge for longer than its smaller brother.

As for their screen displays, the S8 will cover 5.8 inches, whereas the Plus model’s screen is 6.2 inches. As expected, the larger screen comes with a lower ppi value, with the S8 Plus rendering 529 ppi whilst the S8 exerts 590. Ultimately, the superior choice regarding the screen size will depend on which is more comfortable for your hands.

GALAXY S8 & S8 PLUS: HOW ARE THEY ALIKE?

Regardless of which you opt for, their sleek designs meld the aesthetically appealing frame with a strong screen, giving off an impressive, glossy finish. Both utilize the Super AMOLED sheets, which renders their displays immaculate. Android 7.0 serves as the operating system.

One positive remnant of the Note 7 is the iris scanner, which quickly responds upon sensing its owner’s eyes. Engadget’s reviewer generally enjoyed this luxury, but referenced how it occasionally worked improperly. Should it prove to be an easier option, a fingerprint scanner is also readily accessible. Unfortunately, it’s imperfectly placed; it resides on the back, by the camera.

Another change is the omission of a clickable home button. Now, this function is handled by a spot on the touchscreen that’s pressure sensitive. The Galaxy will vibrate when it reacts to your touch.

The biggest amelioration the eighth generation bestows is the addition of Bixby, who’s triggered by clicking a small button near the volume keys. Bixby is your virtual assistant, although it’s still a work in progress. Currently, summoning him will only bring up your appointments, breaking news and similar facets. Eventually, holding the button will allow you to interact with Bixby.

As for the audio, both S8 phones are loud. AKG earbuds are included with each phone, however, which is the ideal way to listen. Both versions of the S8, thankfully, bear a headphone jack on the bottom, as well as a USB-C port. Furthermore, they both offer resistance to dust and water, which is always a positive.

64GB of internal memory is available, with a microSD card potentially adding up to 256GB more. Both smartphones support the usual variety of compatibility features, including Bluetooth and Wi-fi. Additionally, the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus both come in five colors: Arctic Silver, Coral Blue, Maple Gold, Midnight Black and Orchid Gray.

The Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus, while incapable of making us forget the Note 7’s explosive failure, should prove to be a start in repairing Samsung’s charred reputation. Their flaws notwithstanding, they’re a well-built, versatile duo.