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The Ultimate Guide to Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G Specs Prices Pros & Cons

Release Date
2020, August 21
Camera
64MP
Battery
4300mAh
Battery Type
25W15W
Processor
Exynos 990
Screen
6.7"
Storage
128GB/256GB
Ram
8GB RAM
Operating System
Android 10, up to Android 13, One UI 5

Design and Build

The Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G is a beautifully crafted device, boasting dimensions of 161.6 x 75.2 x 8.3 mm and a weight of approximately 192 grams for the Sub6 5G variant and 194 grams for the mmWave 5G variant. The front is constructed from durable Corning Gorilla Glass 5, ensuring robust protection against scratches and minor drops. The rear of the device features a sleek plastic back, which provides a lightweight and comfortable grip. The Note20 5G's design language is modern and premium, catering to those who seek both functionality and style. Its Mystic color options, including Mystic Green, Mystic Bronze, Mystic Gray, Mystic Red, and Mystic Blue, add a touch of elegance to the overall aesthetic.

Display

The device showcases a stunning 6.7-inch Super AMOLED Plus display with HDR10+ support, delivering vibrant colors and deep contrasts. With a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels and a 20:9 aspect ratio, users can enjoy a crisp viewing experience with approximately 393 pixels per inch density. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5, offering additional peace of mind against accidental damage.

Performance

Powered by the Exynos 990 chipset (in global markets) or the Qualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G+ chipset (in the USA), the Galaxy Note20 5G is equipped with an octa-core processor. The global version combines two 2.73 GHz Mongoose M5 cores, two 2.50 GHz Cortex-A76 cores, and four 2.0 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. Meanwhile, the USA version includes one 3.0 GHz Kryo 585 core, three 2.42 GHz Cortex-A77 cores, and four 1.80 GHz Cortex-A55 cores. This powerful configuration ensures seamless multitasking and superior performance across applications. Additionally, the device features the Mali-G77 MP11 GPU in the global version and Adreno 650 GPU in the USA version, delivering outstanding graphics performance for gaming and media consumption.

Memory and Storage

With 8GB RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, the Galaxy Note20 5G provides ample space for apps, media, and more. However, the device does not include a microSD card slot, so users must consider their storage needs when choosing a variant. The generous RAM allows for smooth operation and efficient multitasking, maintaining responsiveness even with demanding applications.

Camera

The Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G boasts a versatile triple-camera system. It includes a 12 MP wide lens with dual pixel PDAF and OIS, a 64 MP telephoto lens with PDAF and OIS, offering 3x hybrid zoom, and a 12 MP ultrawide lens. This camera setup enables users to capture a wide range of subjects with clarity and detail, from sweeping landscapes to portrait shots. The device supports video recording at up to 8K resolution at 24 frames per second, along with 4K and 1080p options at varying frame rates. Additional features include LED flash, auto-HDR, panorama, stereo sound recording, and gyro-EIS & OIS for stabilized footage.

Selfie Camera

The front-facing camera incorporates a 10 MP wide lens with dual pixel PDAF, ensuring sharp and focused selfies. Users can record videos up to 4K at 30/60fps and enjoy features like dual video call and Auto-HDR to enhance their video chats and captures.

Battery and Charging

Fueling the Galaxy Note20 5G is a non-removable Li-Ion 4300 mAh battery, delivering satisfactory usage time for a full day of moderate to heavy usage. The device supports 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. This flexibility in charging methods allows users to quickly recharge their devices or share power with other compatible gadgets.

Software and UI

Out of the box, the Galaxy Note20 5G runs on Android 10, with an upgrade path to Android 13 utilizing Samsung's One UI 5. This highly customizable interface enhances user experience by providing intuitive controls, a variety of themes, and a suite of Samsung-exclusive applications. One UI's focus on one-handed usability and ergonomic design makes navigating the device a pleasure.

Network and Connectivity

The Galaxy Note20 5G is designed for connectivity on a global scale. It supports GSM, CDMA, HSPA, EVDO, LTE, and 5G, providing fast and reliable network access in various regions. The phone's connectivity features include Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC. With USB Type-C 3.2 for data transfer and charging, this device meets the modern standard in connectivity.

Audio and Multimedia

For audio, the Note20 5G offers stereo speakers, enhancing the media experience with rich, immersive sound. However, it does not include a traditional 3.5mm headphone jack, which may necessitate the use of adapters or Bluetooth headphones.

Sensors and Additional Features

The smartphone includes a variety of sensors, such as an under-display ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, and barometer. These sensors enhance the gadget's functionality and user interaction. Whether for gaming, navigation, or monitoring physical activity, these features contribute to a well-rounded smartphone experience.

Pricing and Availability

The Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G is available globally, with pricing starting around $218 or equivalent in local currency. This positioning makes it a competitive option in the flagship market, offering premium features at a relatively affordable price point.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G stands as a formidable contender in the smartphone arena, combining high-end specifications, a premium design, and a comprehensive feature set. Its blend of power, connectivity, and photography prowess makes it an attractive choice for users seeking a reliable and immersive mobile experience. While it lacks expandable storage and a headphone jack, the Note20 5G's advantages far outweigh its drawbacks, solidifying its place in Samsung's esteemed Note series lineage.

Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G Drawbacks

  • No expandable storage: The device lacks a microSD card slot for memory expansion.
  • Plastic back: Compared to glass or metal, the plastic build may feel less premium.
  • No 3.5mm headphone jack: Users need to rely on wireless solutions or USB Type-C audio devices.
  • Battery could be larger: A 4300 mAh battery may be insufficient for power users, especially with the demands of 5G technology.
  • Charging speed: While the device supports 25W wired charging, faster charging options are available in other competing devices.
  • FM radio availability: FM radio is only available on the Snapdragon model and is market/operator dependent.
  • Price: The launch price was considered high given the hardware specifications and competition in the market.
Network
Technology GSM / CDMA / HSPA / EVDO / LTE / 5G
2G bands GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 - SIM 1 & SIM 2 (dual-SIM model only)
3G bands HSDPA 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100
4G bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 14, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 38, 39, 40, 41, 46, 48, 66, 71 - SM-N981U
5G bands 2, 5, 41, 66, 71, 260, 261 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - SM-N981U
Speed HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE (7CA) Cat20 2000/200 Mbps, 5G
Launch
Announced 2020, August 05
Status Available. Released 2020, August 21
Body
Dimensions 161.6 x 75.2 x 8.3 mm (6.36 x 2.96 x 0.33 in)
Weight 192 g (Sub6 5G), 194 g (mmWave 5G) (6.77 oz)
Build Glass front (Gorilla Glass 5), plastic back
SIM Nano-SIM and eSIM or Hybrid Dual SIM (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by)
Display
Type Super AMOLED Plus, HDR10+
Size 6.7 inches, 108.4 cm2 (~89.2% screen-to-body ratio)
Resolution 1080 x 2400 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~393 ppi density)
Protection Corning Gorilla Glass 5
Platform
OS Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5
Chipset Exynos 990 (7 nm+) - GlobalQualcomm SM8250 Snapdragon 865 5G+ (7 nm+) - USA
CPU Octa-core (2x2.73 GHz Mongoose M5 & 2x2.50 GHz Cortex-A76 & 4x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) - GlobalOcta-core (1x3.0 GHz Kryo 585 & 3x2.42 GHz Cortex-A77 & 4x1.80 GHz Cortex-A55) - USA
GPU Mali-G77 MP11 - GlobalAdreno 650 - USA
Memory
Card slot No
Internal 128GB 8GB RAM, 256GB 8GB RAM
Main Camera
Triple 12 MP, f/1.8, 26mm (wide), 1/1.76", 1.8µm, dual pixel PDAF, OIS 64 MP, f/2.0, 27mm (telephoto), 1/1.72", 0.8µm, PDAF, OIS, 3x hybrid zoom 12 MP, f/2.2, 120˚, 13mm (ultrawide), 1/2.55", 1.4µm
Features LED flash, auto-HDR, panorama
Video 8K@24fps, 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30/60/240fps, 720p@960fps, HDR10+, stereo sound rec., gyro-EIS & OIS
Selfie camera
Single 10 MP, f/2.2, 26mm (wide), 1/3.2", 1.22µm, dual pixel PDAF
Features Dual video call, Auto-HDR
Video 4K@30/60fps, 1080p@30fps
Sound
Loudspeaker Yes, with stereo speakers
3.5mm jack No
Comms
WLAN Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/6, dual-band, Wi-Fi Direct
Bluetooth 5.0, A2DP, LE, aptX
Positioning GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO
NFC Yes
Radio FM radio (Snapdragon model only; market/operator dependent)
USB USB Type-C 3.2, OTG
Features
Sensors Fingerprint (under display, ultrasonic), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass, barometer
Battery
Type Li-Ion 4300 mAh, non-removable
Charging 25W wired, PD3.0 15W wireless (Qi/PMA) 4.5W reverse wireless
Misc
Colors Mystic Green, Mystic Bronze, Mystic Gray, Mystic Red, Mystic Blue
Models SM-N981B, SM-N981B/DS, SM-N981U, SM-N981U1, SM-N981W, SM-N9810, SM-N981N
SAR 0.95 W/kg (head)     0.72 W/kg (body)
SAR EU 0.68 W/kg (head)     1.37 W/kg (body)
Price $ 218.00 / £ 210.99 / € 404.27

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