Hot topics

Samsung Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5 comparison: when Galaxies collide

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 4
© nextpit

The Galaxy S6 is one of the most striking Android smartphones in a long time. Samsung took risks, ditched two of the Galaxy S series' most defining features (microSD cards and removable batteries) and seems to have succeeded. Coming off the back of the relatively lukewarm Galaxy S5 reception a year ago, this win was sorely needed. But the Galaxy S6 comes at a cost, so we asked the question: which Galaxy is better value for money? Find out in our Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5 comparison.

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: release date and price

The Galaxy S6 release date was April 10 globally with an official unveiling during MWC 2015. The Galaxy S6 price varies according to the amount of internal storage: from 599 USD for 32 GB up to 799 USD for 128 GB.

The Galaxy S5 release date was back in 2014 on April 11 and the Galaxy S5 price at launch started at 599 USD depending which carrier you bought it through. Keep in mind that price was for a 16 GB version though.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 11
Band-Aid vs fingerprint magnet: the choice is yours. / © ANDROIDPIT

The S5 is available on Amazon these days for around 400 USD while the S6 is actually more expensive on Amazon, going for around 620 USD. Keep this in mind as we're comparing these phones: we're looking at them as possible purchase options now, so a 2/3 ratio on current price is the reference point for what follows.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 8
Up front both phones look similar, but the Galaxy S6 (back) has thinner bezels. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: design and build quality

While I have to confess I have never been particularly impressed by Samsung's design language (except on the Galaxy Note 4, which I thought was near perfect), I do have to admit that the Galaxy S6 represents a significant break from the tried-and-true Samsung recipe of plastic covers with textured or dimpled backs.

From the front it's still quite hard to distinguish between the two devices, barring the fact that the S6's Home button is larger and the S5 is a little wider. The Galaxy S6 does have smaller bezels than the S5 though, thankfully, but all other features from the front look pretty much the same.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 7
The plastic trim on the Galaxy S5 (top) has been replaced by real metal on the S6. / © ANDROIDPIT

It's the sides and the back that are the most radical departures and where the Galaxy S6 earned its ''premium'' stripes. Where the Galaxy S5 had a metallic-looking, ribbed plastic trim on the sides with the infamous Band-Aid battery cover, the Galaxy S6 has an aluminum frame with a sheet of Gorilla Glass 4 on the back, which, in drop tests, tends to hold up even better than the display glass.

The flash and heart-rate monitor on the S6 shift to the side from the S5's position underneath the camera lens, but both cameras protrude slightly. On the down side for the S6, the phone is remarkably slippery and the glass back is a huge fingerprint magnet. On the plus side, the speaker has been shifted to the bottom edge rather than in its traditional position on the back.

The S6 is the clear winner here. While fingerprints and slipperiness are a real issue, the overall design of the phone is more accomplished and confident. Likewise the break with previous identical-looking Samsung flagships was well overdue. Having said that, the S5 does feel better in the hand (at least to me) even if it is much uglier.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 hero image
The back is where the most striking design differences lie. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: display

Both devices have a 5.1-inch Super AMOLED display. The difference is in definition. Where the Galaxy S5 rocks Full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080 pixels) producing a pixel density of 432 pixels per inch (PPI), the Galaxy S6 display boasts QHD (or 2K) resolution (2,560 x 1,440 pixels) for an eye-popping 577 PPI.

Just because the numbers are higher doesn't necessarily mean the S6 display is better though. There are many out there that think anything over Full HD resolution is a waste of time because QHD displays require more power and the human eye can't easily distinguish differences on pixel densities above 350 PPI.

Your position on display definitions is a matter of personal choice, but I have to admit I love the S6 display. It is insanely crisp and bright and easily the best display I've yet seen on an Android device. The Galaxy S5 is equally bright though, has equally good viewing angles and is just as saturated and vibrant as you'd expect. Again, the decision comes down to your feelings on Full HD vs QHD.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 5
Both Galaxy's run TouchWiz on Lollipop: the S6 is just better. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: software

We won't go into too much detail here, as the Galaxy S6 basically has all the features the S5 has plus some newer ones, but both devices are running Samsung's TouchWiz on Android Lollipop. The S6 is currently sitting pretty on Android 5.0.2 and the S5 on 5.0, but that's all set to change in the near future with the update to Android 5.1 awaiting both devices.

I was quite critical of the S5's software and interface when it launched and I stand by that judgment. It felt rushed, inconsistent and unfinished. Even after some updates it's still not quite there. The S6, on the other hand, has a much cleaner, more simplified and streamlined interface and for the first time I can honestly say I like TouchWiz.

Both devices support gestures (motion controls), both have fingerprint scanners, private mode, easy mode, built-in themes, multi-window, download booster, cloud printing, NFC, screen casting (MirrorLink), S Voice, S Health (and plenty of other Samsung apps) and a heart-rate monitor.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 6
The Galaxy S6 (left) has a much better touch-based fingerprint scanner than the Galaxy S5's swipe-based finger scanner. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: special features

As mentioned above, both Galaxy's have fingerprint scanners (although the S6's touch-based scanner is better than the S5's swipe-based scanner) but the S6 adds a few additional features into the mix. These include Qi wireless charging by default and turbo-charging capability.

The S5, on the other hand, has two quintessentially Samsung features that are no longer part of the S6 recipe: a removable battery and microSD expansion. The S6 replaces its microSD card slot with options for more internal storage: 32 GB, 64 GB or 128 GB, but this dramatically increases the cost. SD cards are slower and less secure but far cheaper than built-in memory.

The S5 is also IP67 water-resistant, which the S6 is not (officially). YouTubers have revealed that the S6 can handle just as much water as the S5 though. This is a tough one to call: Qi and turbo-charging vs microSD and a removable battery.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 2
The Galaxy S5 is officially water-resistant and the Galaxy S6 is unofficially. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: performance

This is one area where there is no competition and no cause for debate: the Galaxy S6 is incredibly fast and leaves the Galaxy S5 in the dust. The S6 has the impressive Exynos 7420 CPU powering things and it is the best CPU around right now. The S5 can't compete with a phone on the specs front when it is a year old, but the S5 was always slow, sluggish and glitchy.

Samsung completely reworked TouchWiz for the S6 and while it still isn't quite as smooth as I would like (being a stock Android user generally), it is easily the fastest that TouchWiz has ever been. The S6 simply destroys the S5 in processing power, resource management and battery optimizations, but we wouldn't expect anything different.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 10
The Galaxy S6 (right) has the superior camera, but the Galaxy S5 camera is still great. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: camera

The Samsung Galaxy line has always had exceptional cameras and the Galaxy S5 camera is fantastic, even a year after it first appeared. The Galaxy S6 camera, however, is simply from another dimension. It is the best camera on any smartphone on any platform you can get, with the possible exception of the Lumia 1020 but: Windows Phone, pfft.

As with display resolution though, this is a matter of personal preference. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the S5 camera, but if you want the absolute best of the best smartphone camera experience then there's no denying the S6 is the benchmark against which all other phones will be measured this year.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1
The Galaxy S5 (left) has a better battery that is also removable. The S6 sports Qi wireless charging and turbo-charging capabilities. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: battery

The Galaxy S6 has a 2,550 mAh non-removable battery compared to the Galaxy S5's removable 2,600 mAh battery. On paper it looks like the Galaxy S5 is the winner here, and in reality the same is true. Sure, the S6's battery and software optimizations are better than on the S5, but the QHD display and smaller cell comes at a cost. It's enough to get you through the day, but that's about it.

The S5 introduced us to the impressive Ultra Power Saving Mode which has only been improved with the jump to Android Lollipop's battery optimizations. The S6 has the same feature although we get wildly differing battery predictions from each device. As you can see from the shot below, at 92 percent battery remaining the S6 forecasts 3.3 days and the S5 promises 11.5 days. The display is to blame here again.

Let's face it: the S5 has a great battery. Not perfect but still better than the S6. The S6 is supported by the convenience of wireless charging and the time benefits of turbo-charging but does not let you switch out a dead battery for a fresh one, making a wireless charging pad or outlet a necessity.

AndroidPIT Galaxy S6 Galaxy S5 ultra power saving mode
The same Ultra Power Saving Mode exists, but that QHD display produces very different results. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: audio

Many people will be happy to have the speakers off the back of the latest Galaxy, even if front-facing speakers are the benchmark by which we judge all smartphone speakers. The S6 has bottom-mounted speakers compared to the S5 which uses the traditional location on the back.

The Galaxy S5 speakers are better though. They are of equal volume but a little hollower and bassier than the S6. The high notes aren't quite there and there's not the best clarity, but the S6 is too top-heavy, sounding like a tin can full of broken glass with only the echo of bass, as if it recently left the building.

Samsung galaxy s5 vs Samsung galaxy s6 1 3
The Galaxy S6 (bottom) has a bottom-mounted speaker, but it's not as good as the S5's. / © ANDROIDPIT

Galaxy S6 vs Galaxy S5: specs

  Samsung Galaxy S6 Samsung Galaxy S5
System Android 5.0.2 Lollipop + TouchWiz Android 5.0 Lollipop + TouchWiz
Display 5.1-inch, Super AMOLED, QHD (2,560 x 1,440 pixels, 577 ppi) 5.1-inch Super AMOLED, Full HD (1,920 x 1,080 pixels, 432 ppi)
Processor Octa-Core, 64 Bit (4 x 2.1 GHz + 4 x 1.5 GHz) Quad-Core, Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 (2.5 GHz)
RAM 3 GB 2 GB
Internal memory 32/64/128 GB (non-expandable) 16/32 GB (+ microSD)
Battery 2,550 mAh (non-removable) 2,800 mAh (removable)
Camera 16 MP (rear), 5 MP (front) 16 MP (rear), 2.1 MP (front)
Dimensions 143.4 x 70.5 x 6.8 mm 142 x 72.5 x 8.1 mm
Weight 138 g 145 g
Connectivity Wi-Fi, HSPA, LTE Cat.6, NFC, Bluetooth 4.1, USB 2.0, Infrared Wi-Fi, HSPA, LTE, NFC, Bluetooth 4.0, USB 3.0, Infrared
Price 599 USD (32 GB), 699 USD (64 GB), 799 USD (128 GB) 385 USD (16 GB on Amazon) 

Final verdict

All told, I tally a score of 6-5 in the S6's favor: design, software, performance and camera with a shared point for special features (depending on whether you value microSD and a removable battery or Qi and turbo-charging). I also gave both devices a point for displays as the preference for either a QHD display or Full HD is entirely subjective.

The S5 stands up extremely well after a year and is the winner in the categories of battery and audio. When it comes to price though, things get a little interesting. Right now, at just two-thirds the price of the Galaxy S6, the S5 represents extremely good value for money.

If you just want the best phone and don't mind the cost, get the Galaxy S6, no question. But if you want the best value for money, get the S5. It's ugly and slow but its camera is great and it still has a microSD card slot and removable battery.

This item has been completely rewritten since its first release, which is why previous comments might be outdated.

The current best Samsung phones to buy

  Editor's choice S23 with a bigger display 2023 flagship 2023 foldable flagship 2022 fodlable flagship 2023 compact foldable 2022 compact foldable Affordable flagship The popular mid-ranger
Product
Image Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra Product Image Samsung Galaxy S23+ Product Image Samsung Galaxy S23 Product Image Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 Product Image Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 Product Image Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 Product Image Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 Product Image Samsung Galaxy S23 FE Product Image Samsung Galaxy A54 Product Image
Review
Review: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra
Review: Samsung Galaxy S23+
Review: Samsung Galaxy S23
Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4
Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5
Review: Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4
Not yet tested
Hands-on: Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
Review: Samsung Galaxy A54
Price
  • $1,199.99
  • $999.99
  • $799.99
  • $1,799.99
  • $1,799.99
  • from $999.99
  • $999.99
  • $699.99
  • $449.99
Offer*
Go to comment (89)
Kris Carlon

Kris Carlon
Senior Editor

Kris is a former AndroidPIT Editor who came to the team via a lengthy period spent traveling and relying on technology to keep him in touch with the outside world. He can usually be found juggling three phones at once and poring over G+ posts, Reddit and RSS feeds.

View all articles
Liked this article? Share now!
Recommended articles
Latest articles
Push notification Next article
89 comments
Write new comment:
All changes will be saved. No drafts are saved when editing
Write new comment:
All changes will be saved. No drafts are saved when editing

  • 2
    Biffstar1234 Sep 15, 2015 Link to comment

    Having gone back to an S5 from an S6 my experience tells a different story. The S6 has awful memory management, killing apps almost as soon as you've left them to check a message or an email, its very laggy and has screens full of anomalies such as pink and green hues on the bottom third of the screen. Add to the fact they FEEL heavier than the S5 even though they're not, and they're too expensive to get half decent storage 64 or 128 is half decent in this day and age, and you have a phone that's just not up to the cost. The S5 on the other hand is quick and has a perfect screen and you don't have to use the cloud which is good as the s6 is awful with reception and data too.


  • 1
    darockk Sep 14, 2015 Link to comment

    want expandable memory? buy the 128GB version.
    want removable battery? buy a power bank

    so glad they have made a phone that looks awesome now. no doubt thanks to not having to worry about a removable battery, and losing the sd card slot means it costs less to produce so more money can be spent on the build quality.

    keep up the good work samsung, the s6 is an amazing phone.

    Those of you who are happy with their s5 im glad for you, but the screen on the s6 is so much better. and the camera..oh boy, where do i begin?...


    • 2
      Biffstar1234 Sep 15, 2015 Link to comment

      Good luck with your screen problems as in pink section on the bottom third of the screen. Look close .. it's there. Also, try playing a game then loading a few other apps then go back to your game. .. poof it's gone.


  • 3
    Bill Sutton Aug 10, 2015 Link to comment

    I have the s5 does everything I need it to with no problems no lag or battery problems probably the best phone ive had up to now hopefully will lst me a few years

    ManuelPost S.WaleedΠΑΝΤΕΛΗΣ ΑΝΑΠΛΙΩΤΗΣ


    • ΠΑΝΤΕΛΗΣ ΑΝΑΠΛΙΩΤΗΣ 2
      ΠΑΝΤΕΛΗΣ ΑΝΑΠΛΙΩΤΗΣ Aug 17, 2015 Link to comment

      I have the same opinion my friend every year all these sites they say same thing's for the oldest flagship models.Galaxy s5 is a very very good model after 5 years when I see very big difference I will change it. Whe don't leave for smartphones. ..........

      Post S.Waleed


  • 1
    Bradley Prater Aug 10, 2015 Link to comment

    I moved from the Note 4 to the S6. I've experienced immediate changes on how the phone handles, and have noticed how much better it performs with everyday use. It's so much faster, simply put. I've also owned the s4, and have played with my fair share of s5's. The stutter/lag I once experienced with these phones is gone on the S6. I've yet to see the phone stop in between apps or while multitasking, and the jidders and hangups between these apps is gone. So what I can't take the battery out. I was able to on my other phones, but never did. The only complaint I can possibly find would be no expandable memory. If you care about memory that much, buy the S5. Just remember, the S6 is better in every other possible way, and I can see that first hand. Smoothest phone I've used to date. I will be snagging an S6+ later this month.


  • 1
    Phillip Flores Jul 9, 2015 Link to comment

    I am trying to decide on a new smartphone as my old in the tooth Galaxy S3 is feeling slow and laggy. With so many excellent phones, I can narrow my choices to the S6, Droid turbo and the I phone 6. I do lament the lack of sd card, but I can honestly say I have never swapped a battery for a fresh one. Still, why isn't anyone making a phone that tops all the specs? the technology is available to every handset maker. Cost constraints aside, the most appealing phone to me is the moto x. WHY can't I have the specs for the droid turbo with a removable battery and sd slot. Am I asking too much?

    I would also like to address the troll who calls himself Michael Hannigan. Why do people like you troll comment forums to spout off your vitriolic diatribe? People like you turn an intelligent discourse into neanderthal flame wars. If you have nothing of value to add, go somewhere else please.


  • 1
    Rod Skaggs Jul 2, 2015 Link to comment

    Miiiichaelllll?????? How many times have I told you to stop playing with your brother's phone????? Now put it back and go put the clothes back on your dolls!!! Your case worker warned you about trying to act like an angry big person!!


  • 1
    Iqbal Khan YousufZai Jun 30, 2015 Link to comment

    Can anyone suggest me which smart phone is better S5, S6 or note 4?


    • 2
      SD3 Jul 2, 2015 Link to comment

      Note 4


  • An Droid 14
    An Droid Jun 14, 2015 Link to comment

    Replaced my S5 after a year with a S6 Edge. Internal memory (64gb) is sufficient and very fast.
    Battery life is not stellar, but I have a charger at home, work, and in my car.
    And as mentioned in the article, everything else is substantially better.


  • 3
    neil clarke Jun 8, 2015 Link to comment

    There's certainly nothing slow or sluggish about the S5 I've been using for the last 12 months so I don't know what's up with his,the S5 is a fantastic device that has as much grunt as any android device could possibly need right now,as much as I would love an S6 it wouldn't be because I want a more powerful device that's for sure

    Post S.WaleedPamelaMichel


  • 1
    Doug Rice Jun 8, 2015 Link to comment

    Whoever Michael Hannigan is, needs to watch how he responds to people who have an opinion that differs from his own. There's no need to he an insulting ass about it. People are entitled to their preferences and this moron insults people with every other word. In short, FUCK YOU, PUNK!


  • 3
    zohaibkhan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

    these comparisons are
    getting ridiculous now

    Andres R.


  • 2
    Qasim Shabbir Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

    Samsung galaxy s5 is batter than samsung galaxy s6

    Andres R.


  • 11
    Stuart Male Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

    I've got the s5 . I think I'm going to keep it after my contract runs out. It's a great phone.
    Slow and sluggish? This always makes me laugh when people talk about any mobile phone. How quick do apps have to open? Does .05 seconds really make a difference? Love my s5. It would take something really good for me to change I think.

    Post S.WaleedPamelaMichelDeji Obe


  • 2
    Cebile Mabuza Jun 6, 2015 Link to comment

    I like


  • 2
    Cebile Mabuza Jun 6, 2015 Link to comment

    I like this


  • 3
    ezg May 10, 2015 Link to comment

    First, I would like to note that I work for a phone retailer that handles all models of phones. Second, I try not to be biased about my reviews and only reiterate what I have heard from costumers and true use of product. The S6 is an amazing phone in many ways from size and performance and clarity. But from what I have heard from the costumers is that battery life was hurt a lot with new phone. The phone jams and cant be turned off or reset due to the permanent battery. 20 percent of your memory on the 32 GB is already used for software leaving you with only 25 actual GB without an option to expand. It was Samsung's way of saying you spend more on our phones if you want true use. I have had more people return the S6 and go for the S5. The S5 DOSE have the wireless charge option as well. I sadly will be leaving Samsung if these features are not replaced and I have been a die hard fan of Samsung.

    Andres R.Post S.WaleedGT Ohh


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      These are all lies.


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      You are a ding dong who thinks that the opnions if customers who already own something is valid. They just want to justify their choice.


      • 3
        Bill Sutton Aug 1, 2015 Link to comment

        Michael Hannigan you are a muppet Your comment


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      Yeah. Totally "unbiased"!


  • 1
    slowjams5 May 6, 2015 Link to comment

    I think not being able to use a micro card sucks, that why they can raise the price.


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      You are wrong. SD cards and removable batteries are ancient technologies. Smart people don't want either. People like you just resent the perceived lack of choice the company gives you. I'll bet you have neither an SD card or s second battery anyway. You uneducated consumers need to smarten up and join us here in 2015.


      • 1
        allen walker Jun 16, 2015 Link to comment

        you have obviously never been without elec. for more than a day. you also have enough disposable income to buy a new phone every 2 years as your battery becomes less dependable and loses charging abilities.


      • 2
        Ted Hernandez Jun 20, 2015 Link to comment

        Micheal Hanningan you're a fucking snarky idiot who has NO idea why the removable micro SD card and battery could be useful. FUCKING STUPID COCKSUCKING PRICK. Kill yourself.

        Bill Sutton


  • 1
    Antonio Solinas Apr 20, 2015 Link to comment

    I had the S3&S4,but with no swappable battery, or SD expansion, I am thinking of buying the S5,or the Note 4,


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      You are an idiot.


  • 1
    Susan Apr 18, 2015 Link to comment

    I've had Samsung phones for at least 8 years now. I'm disappointed about the removable battery. I thought the s6 looked nice but there's no way I'm giving up my s5 for it now. Hope the s7 or future phones come with removable batteries.


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      Smart phones are not for dumb people. Wishing for a removable battery is ignorant. Do you even have a spare battery? How many times have you been underwater with your current phone?


      • 3
        Bill Sutton Aug 1, 2015 Link to comment

        its £10 for a replacement battery in the uk for my s5 so when your battery fails on s6 its a new phone or expensive repair thats why i like a removable battery Michael Hannigan you dont have a clue what your talking about Your comment


  • 1
    Terry Saltz Apr 18, 2015 Link to comment

    I switched this past year from iPhone to S5 specifically cause the S5 is waterproof, removable battery and expandable storage. Now I feel betrayed.


    • 1
      Bilbo Baggins Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      You'll be pleased to know that your phone is still the exact same that it was. It's still water resistant.


  • Orville C. 2
    Orville C. Apr 18, 2015 Link to comment

    The Samsung galaxy S, has always been unique both in the design and to the user. However Samsung is now throwing all this exclusiveness out the door, even though this is why I've been an ardent Samsung user from the first S was released. After using the first S, I would begin to hunger for more within the S series, I skipped the S2 and went on to the S3, which blew me away and again caused me to hunger for more within the S. So I got the S4, this was so perfect that I had to have the S5. To say the least, I've hungered for the S4 (note reverse) with hesitation of seeing what Samsung will roll out in the S6. No more removable battery, no more SD card slot, hence no more personal touch of adding my own capacity of memory, no more uniqueness to the user. Amending Samsung S will change the concept of customizing my/ your phone to my/your every day life style. Now Samsung, I have two questions for you; What's next to go, swipe? (Or is this still exclusive). What makes an already factory customized (not user customized) phone any different to the user from the competitor? We were won over with the fact of having "Life Companion" in the palm of our hands. With new developments, plus and minuses, we now have a smart phone without a/my personal involvement/touch/contribution, outside of paying a sum of money. I've become. . Just a user without any uniqueness or exclusiveness to me. Hence choosing a smart phone in the future will no longer be a big deal. They all maybe now be "alike".

    Susan


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      You are an a-hole. You should not be allowed I have a phone.


      • 3
        Bill Sutton Aug 1, 2015 Link to comment

        Your commentMichael Hannigan do you want some salt and vinegar ?
        why is that you ask
        its for the chip on your shoulder


  • 1
    William Kotcher Apr 17, 2015 Link to comment

    Great article except you fail to tell us the S-6 does not receive a signal as well as the S-5, i am doing a side by side comparison, the S-6 is bad, period. Thanks for the fluff piece, i now have a sub standard phone.


  • 1
    Omar Salvatore Mar 21, 2015 Link to comment

    you people keep bitching WTF is wrong with you???? when samsung kept the shape of plastic and the cheap plastic feel of the phone people kept bitching it feels like a toy its all plastic and NOW that they abandoned plastic people keep bitching about SD card and battery moral of the story if you dont like the phone dot buy it thats it.... people will keep bitching forever


    • 1
      Ignacy Świerk Mar 23, 2015 Link to comment

      Average human eye doesn't see any diffrence in quality above 300ish ppi.
      http: //techdissected.com/ask-ted/ask-ted-how-many-ppi-can-the-human-eye-see/
      http: //en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pixel_density


      • 4
        Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

        This is either a lie, or I am not "average".


    • 6
      mark griesser Apr 5, 2015 Link to comment

      You're the only one bitching. I have read other legitimate concerns, arguments and disappointments all backed up with sincere reasons from loyal clients of Samsung.

      I am going to go on the record and say that if any electronic device has an internal battery it absolutely has to be removable/replaceable. They are a consumable item with a finite life. Every phone I've ever had I have had to get a replacement battery. Now I just order 3 or 4 from online when I get a new phone. I am virtually tether free. I just pop in a fresh ballery or carry one or two with me when out and about.

      We've learned all of this though with apple. Apple sells products(almost all of them) that have an expiration and they do not reverse engineer. Have an ipod touch? You cannot go to itunes and get apps for it. They don't even leave the old ones that will work for its valued customers that take care of their devices.

      Apple products overheat too. Why? Because apple doesn't care about you and heat kills.


      • 4
        Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

        This is a lie. I doubt you own more than one battery. These devices are esentially disposable because of the pace of technology. No one, except maybe clergy and extremely poor peeps, own phones for more than two years. And poor folk don't really have a legitimate reason for owning this type of technology, anyway. That leaves the clergy, and they can use flip phones.


  • 2
    lam Mar 19, 2015 Link to comment

    sadly a huge disappointment. So glad i settled for the s5. Not the best tech spike, but at least the storage and battery is still removable. I cared most about the gaming stats, and though it is certainly better, the s6 lacks both feature that makes me an android user: battery and SD card. 1 extra GB in RAM and a few improvements in the CPU don't make much noticeable differences. The screen however looks promising, but not enough to back off this whole non-removable issue.

    Deji Obe


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      I'm glad you "settled" too. So sad that someone would even say that. It is a hopeless perspective. "I'm glad I settled". Do you use that philosophy with everything n your life?


      • 3
        zohaibkhan Jun 8, 2015 Link to comment

        :)


  • 1
    Joe Blogs Mar 18, 2015 Link to comment

    Around 2002 I had an old original windows phone.Galaxy S1 come out several years later despite no flash on camera. I still became a fan.I scoffed at Apples offerings.No sd card slot no removable battery.Two years later contract was up and I upgraded to the S3.Here I was with large Sd cards to take in our caravan so we could hook up S3 to tv and watch movies on big screen.plus play games on the tv too.Could an apple do that nope.Apple Iphones dont need Sd cards as they have the cloud.Really ? only good if you have a decent data signal.Or none secure public wifi.Still clutching my S3 contract up I looked at the S5.It had been out a few months.It didnt wow me.So I thought id hang on till the S6.Totally dismayed, no sd cards no removable battery???.Now and again an app will crash the phone(black screen) the only way to recover is to take battery out.My wifes old nokia n8 did this often.She had to wait till the battery was flat to recover as it had none removable battery'. Sure you can buy a 128 gb phone huge price hike . If it breaks it not as simple, as taking out sd card. All my stuff gets backed up to sd sorry Samsung You have just lost me as a fan.Need to look at other models


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      A Nokia is not s Samsung. And the reason your apps always crash is that you are running them on obsolete technology. AND it is likely due, in part, to your storing app data on an SD card. SD card memory is slow and prone to errors. It sounds like you have more than your share of phone problems, and you deserve them for being an ignorant idiot.


  • 8
    Robert Haltom Mar 9, 2015 Link to comment

    I hope this non-removable battery and no SD card ordeal bites Samsung in the arse.
    These are features that I require and one of many reasons that I don't buy an iphone. What difference does it make if its 1mm slimmer? Most of us are going to put it in an otter box anyway!
    I will not purchase another Samsung in the future if this becomes the norm for them.
    - Note 4, Kitkat 4.4.4

    Joe BlogsChrissy Gillies


    • 2
      Chrissy Gillies Mar 11, 2015 Link to comment

      I fully agree and just today decided I need to upgrade my faithful S3 4-5yr old ph for a new one and was going to wait for an S6...not any more. :(


    • 4
      Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      No, most of us are NOT going to put it in a cheap (but insanely expensive) goofy Fischer price looking shell. It won't bite them in the ass. They are just keeping technology current. Do you also miss the rotary dial telephone?


  • 11
    Larry R. Mar 9, 2015 Link to comment

    I can't believe that Samsung is going down and not up. Why? wake up Samsung, I need to remove my sd micro and Battery. . this was a wrong move. how is this going to improve Samsung? if you want to improve it make the Battery last 3 or 4 days. but you won't. it's just a dumb move. I will not be Buying an S6, or any phone I can't change the Battery or sd.

    Deji ObeJoe BlogsChrissy GilliesRobert Haltom


    • My1 37
      My1 Mar 9, 2015 Link to comment

      my words.


  • 11
    Stuart Male Mar 4, 2015 Link to comment

    Why does the phone have to look good? It spends most of its time in my pocket.
    Bring back the removable battery and expandable storage for the s7 samsung. I might upgrade my s5 then.

    Deji ObeChrissy GilliesRobert HaltomJoergen Larsen


    • My1 37
      My1 Mar 4, 2015 Link to comment

      true dat.


    • 2
      Chrissy Gillies Mar 11, 2015 Link to comment

      Besides most of us have phs in cases I know I do!


    • 1
      Deji Obe Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

      Lol... i agree with this


  • 10
    sam pack Mar 3, 2015 Link to comment

    By the looks of this, none of you is gonna get the s6 i guess.. Lol. If it's not 1 thing it's another.. Bigger/smaller screen, removable/non-removable battery 🔋, plastic/metal body, sd card/no sd card.. Can't win! & by the way, that aqua s6 looks bad ass! (htc M8 user 👤) 😂✌

    Eric D8


  • 3
    Malcolm Simpson Mar 3, 2015 Link to comment

    If I wanted an iPhone, I would buy one. Samsung ceases to forge ahead with their own branded S - series with an iPhone knock-off. Pathetic, actually. A non-removable battery with lower capacity and without an SD card slot--wow. No indication Samsung reduced their bloatware, so unless the Exynos chip is hugely less power consumptive, I'll wait for LG to pop their next flagship.

    Joe BlogsChrissy GilliesRobert Haltom


    • 1
      Joe Blogs Mar 18, 2015 Link to comment

      Id have got the g3 sadly no sd slot either


      • 1
        Jeffrey Barron Mar 26, 2015 Link to comment

        Actually the G3 does


      • 2
        Jeanne G. Apr 11, 2015 Link to comment

        I have the G3. It does have an SD slot.


  • 11
    Deactivated Account Mar 3, 2015 Link to comment

    I been waiting for the S6 to come out to buy a new phone, still using the S3. What a waist non removable battery no microSD card. Glass back first time you drop it on a hard surface it is ruined. I have no problem with a plastic case. People need to get past looks over functionality I love the looks of the of the S5. I still like Samsung over the others but will be buying the Note 4 instead.

    Jeanne G.Joe BlogsRobert HaltomJoergen Larsen


    • 4
      Chadwick Mar 4, 2015 Link to comment

      no doubt..I jumped the gun and ended up getting the SGS5 for $1 during black friday.. if I would've been a little more patient I would 100% rather have got SGN4.. if you ask me the Note4 is the best phone America has to offer and probably will be until the Note5 comes out..

      anyway.. taking all the best aspects of the Galaxy S line of phones out (removable battery-micro SD slot) in order to accomplish a more iPhone centric phone is just pitiful and reveals just how much samsung rly does copy apple..

      go with teh ●Samsung Galaxy Note 4● and you'll be happy for the life of your contract 100% ..probably the only phone on teh market that can boast that much futureproofness👈😆👉

      Robert Haltom


    • 2
      Chrissy Gillies Mar 11, 2015 Link to comment

      Im in the same boat. Keep my s 3 in a case anyway. And use removeable SD for uploading pictures frol my dslr to drop box etc....pplastic, battery and SD were 3 of the main reasons I chose Sammy over apple....so sad

      Joe Blogs


  • 16
    Deactivated Account Mar 3, 2015 Link to comment

    These are excellent quality handsets both the Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge are elegant in design and performance nothing looks better than these handsets today. Galaxy S line owners should be proud of these products especially the performance looks top notch.


    • My1 37
      My1 Mar 4, 2015 Link to comment

      the S6 might be elegant in design, BUT! the reasons why ppl chose the Samsung devices are gone now as there is a non-replacable battery and no mSD, also from a practical point of view plastic is better.
      in the end you either put your phone into a case -> the elegant argument gets useless or have a phone that has the same problem as the 4S, a chance of roughly 99% breaking the screen if it falls...

      Joe BlogsRobert Haltom


      • 4
        Michael Hannigan Jun 7, 2015 Link to comment

        These are not valid reasons for choosing a device you ignoramus.


      • 1
        Doug Rice Jun 8, 2015 Link to comment

        And you are a condescending arrogant asshole, who probably wouldn't talk half the shit you do to a man's face...punk ass bitch! Keep ya mouth closed if you can't speak respectfully...bitch ass mother fucker! How's that?


      • 3
        Bill Sutton Aug 1, 2015 Link to comment

        Your commentMichael Hannigan what device do you have then ?


  • My1 37
    My1 Mar 3, 2015 Link to comment

    Samsung did NOTHING Right with a plastic back the damage isnt as damaging, also removing removable battery and expandable Storage? seriously

    but WHY THE HELL are the pices in USD even LOWER than in € when we have 699€ bs 649 USD which is 578€ this is RIPOFF for the europeans...

    Robert Haltom


  • Lee 16
    Lee Mar 2, 2015 Link to comment

    The Note 4 & S5 still the best Samsung devices out there and it seems like there going to be the last generation of the Samsung series with removable media storage and battery, another EPIC FAIL again for Samsung,
    As for that S6 camera Damn! It sticks out like a sore thumb what where they thinking? You put that S6 down on it's back and your asking for a scratched camera lens/glass, I can't wait for the scratch test to begin oh not forgetting the bend test bendgate 2 😆 R.I.P Samsung

    Chrissy Gillies


  • 11
    Stuart Male Mar 2, 2015 Link to comment

    What's with the metal body and glass back to look good? Once it's in a case it looks like every other phone. Now that it has no removable battery or expandable memory anyway. Soon it will be running ios. Please don't copy crapple. They are crap!

    Chrissy GilliesRobert HaltomLee


  • 9
    Ethan Mar 2, 2015 Link to comment

    The problem with this is just that it's barely any better than the S5 in terms of specs, and even then it loses out on the non-removable battery and no expandable storage. Another major problem is that it's practically NO better than the Note 4. The Note 4 is arguably the best smartphone out right now with great specs, amazing looks, very good camera and stunning screen. The S6 and S6 edge really aren't any better than samsungs already amazing Note 4. Give is a more advanced line of Notes instead of wasting your resources on this failing galaxy line.

    Robert HaltomLeeMoni MihailovBojan M.


  • 3
    Al Chirico Mar 2, 2015 Link to comment

    Lack of removable storage is a dealbraker for me. But not so much with the battery. Today, there are so many portable power choices that can either power a cell phone or even recharge a cellphone several times over. I think that by the time a battery really needs to be replaced, the phone would be obsolete anyway. just my 2 cents.

    Michael TBojan M.


    • Michael T 1
      Michael T Dec 28, 2015 Link to comment

      I know I am late into this discussion, but I just now chose an S5 over and S6, each available on my Verizon contract for the 2-year commitment. On the S6, the best solution for the battery and the memory are similar: an external battery source (which can come with the protective case) and a filehub server (like RAVPower FileHub), which also serves as a backup battery. But, either of these makes the phone cumbersome to carry and makes it less waterproof. I found another "steps backward" on the S6: connecting to HDMI through usb was taken away (you can connect to your tv other ways, but it's not as easy). The S5 has some issues beside the slightly slower performance and specs on the camera. The bloatware on my S5 only left me with 5 GB (out of 16 device memory), and none of the apps will move to the SD card, nor can they be deleted. Actually the biggest culprit (5.5 GB) is "Miscellaneous files," which Settings will not identify. So, I am left with very little room for additional apps and every app update brings me closer to a slow phone. This morning 20 apps updated and used an additional 370 MB. I'm hoping this problem is not as bad as it seems. Also, the wireless charging would be nice but setting that up with S5 SlimPWRcard could compromise the water/dust tightness.


  • 3
    Roger Mar 2, 2015 Link to comment

    I love my Note 4 having all the galaxy S phones up to the S5 I think my move to getting the Note 4 was the best since I saw the S6 yesterday.

    Robert HaltomChadwickMoni Mihailov


    • 4
      Chadwick Mar 4, 2015 Link to comment

      I regret on a daily basis falling for the $1 Samsung Galaxy S5 black friday best buy sale.. I'm to the point that I've been to both Verizon & Tmobile to see how it would work for me to get out of my AT&T contract and change carriers so that I can switch my Galaxy S5 for a Galaxy Note4.. as long as I can talk & data at the same time like AT&T then I'm down for the change.. the only hurdle then becomes convincing my gf who is an AT&T loyalist..

      Anyway..grats on your wise decision to change to the phablet.. the Note4 is in my opinion the best phone available in America and is future proof enough that you'll be phone envy free for the length of your contract👈😆✌

      Robert Haltom


  • gride420 5
    gride420 Feb 1, 2015 Link to comment

    please delete

    Moni Mihailov


  • 19
    Glostermeteor Jan 24, 2015 Link to comment

    If they get rid of the expandable storage and removeable battery the S5 will be the very last Samsung phone I buy.

    Chrissy GilliesRobert HaltomMoni MihailovGT OhhLuis V.


  • 4
    fred bloggs Jan 23, 2015 Link to comment

    All I want is removable battery, memory. Dual sim, and of course waterproof. I don't want any lame arse gadgets like heartbeat monitor, useless fingerprint sensor, or bling case.

    ChadwickGT OhhLuis V.


  • Lee 16
    Lee Jan 23, 2015 Link to comment

    Samsung release too many device and then wonder why they lose profit, I'm more than happy with my S5, even though my daily work phone is my S2 because these devices are just getting too big for everyday use/work I can't even take my S5 on site due to my work, I mean most of these phones are bigger than my work tools,

    yeah great if your sat on ya ass all day in a office but that's not the case with most people, the mobile companies should get out more and see what's happening in the real world,

    Overkill, Over Sized and Over Priced, if these spec's are anything to go by, do we really need this much RAM in today's every day tasks I don't think so,

    NO SD CARD? I'd rather my files/music/picture's to be on my SDCard, everyone goes on about cloud storage "which can be monitored, hacked, even dissappear or go completely offline leaving you with nothing"
    NONE REMOVABLE BATTERY? I like having a removable battery as I always have a spare battery on charge or fully charged ready to go, that means I can go for day's if not weeks without my phone even seeing a power lead.

    All mobile manufacturers nowadays suck monkey balls, it's getting out of control, there all thinking about the money and not the customers,

    the HOUSE always wins and we can't stop it...

    Moni MihailovGT OhhLuis V.


    • 7
      Melissa Jan 23, 2015 Link to comment

      I agree with most of your comment. But it should be middle ground for both worlds, the people who actually 'need' a bigger screen (your office workers who sit on their assets) (me) and smaller screens for you whom are out in the field. Working in an office is not really what makes it a requirement for larger display. Vision problems is the number 1 benefactor.

      GT Ohh


    • 5
      Robert Dale Jan 31, 2015 Link to comment

      I'm not too thrilled about storing photos, documents on the Cloud or some Server I have no control over.

      I prefer an SD Card for storing and double back up.

      However USB OTG , storing and backing up documents, files , could work, though inferior and why sacrifice on a 750-$800
      phone ?

      I use my Android as a Computer for Proposals, Emails, Business and Browsing, a lot of hours- batteries go downhill after a few hundred charges,
      that could be 8 months to a year , then
      I have a 90 or 80% battery ?

      Not sure a non removable battery is
      "Premium". Probably BAD.
      You want me to invest in a premium metal body-more durable is good but fixed, non removable Battery is bad.

      You can not carry a spare battery either....

      I think Samsung had it right on Note 4

      and ALMOST on Alpha ( too thin therefore
      too small battery, weaker Camera, etc.)

      So Note 4 is most perfect so far- give us smaller more powerful versions of Note 4.

      Removable Battery, SD Card.

      Great Technology, Engineering, but lacking common sense, Samsung.

      Wake up.

      Bojan M.EthanRogerMoni Mihailov


  • 19
    Moni Mihailov Jan 23, 2015 Link to comment

    I'm getting a S5 today and while reading what the S6 would be, I'm really glad that I'm getting the S5. Removable battery and micro SD are things every smartphone should have, metal body is for iPhone people who only care about their device looking good!

    Luis V.MelissaLee


  • 3
    John Urquidi Jan 23, 2015 Link to comment

    I don't see Samsung making the S6 without expandable storage, especially when the IPhone came with a 128 gig device, they do need to out do their competitor, plus that's one of the key features of any phone really is expandable memory. I would like to see Samsung improve on their S Voice and bring it in line with something like SIRI, Cortana or Dragon!

    Luis V.Moni Mihailov


  • 7
    Melissa Jan 23, 2015 Link to comment

    With everyone downgrading Samsung because of this so called 'cheap'design, has done nothing but caused them to upgrade the look, productivity, etc... all the while making it more unattainable for most. S5 being average $550 and S6 being $850 is a huge difference for a metal unibody and no choice of removable 🔋. By the way, I absolutely 😍 my S5!!!

    Deactivated AccountMoni MihailovLeeTagont


    • 10
      Tagont Jan 23, 2015 Link to comment

      I agree. I love my S5 LTE-A. I want removable battery, microSD and preferably water proof. Don't care about metal uni-body. Take these away and I wouldn't even consider upgrading.

      PamelaMichelLuis V.MelissaMoni Mihailov


    • gride420 5
      gride420 Feb 1, 2015 Link to comment

      I agree with both of you Melisa and Tagon1. I will not own a phone that doesn't have removable storage or battery. Many people use there phones as MP3 players now and if the S6 has no removable storage and only tops out at 128 then I am completely against it. Personally I have never owned a phone any better or even close to my S5 other than maybe my S3, but it was top notch back in the day also.

      PamelaMichelMoni Mihailov

Write new comment:
All changes will be saved. No drafts are saved when editing