**A Comparative Analysis of Samsung's Galaxy S5 and S7 Edge**
When it comes to smartphones, Samsung is always at the forefront of innovation and design. The latest addition to their lineup is the S7 Edge, a device that promises to outdo its predecessor, the Galaxy Note 5. But how do these two phones stack up against each other? In this article, we'll delve into the details of both devices and explore their similarities and differences.
**Design and Build**
The design of both phones is sleek and premium, with the S7 Edge boasting a curved edge that sets it apart from its predecessor. The phone's build quality is also superior, with a metal frame and Gorilla Glass 4 on the front and back. In contrast, the Note 5 has a more traditional rectangular shape and a plastic frame. While both phones are designed to withstand rough handling, the S7 Edge's curved design makes it easier to grip and less prone to scratches.
**Display**
The display of the S7 Edge is one of its standout features, with a larger 5.5-inch screen that offers a Quad HD resolution at 2560 x 1440 pixels. The phone's display is also brighter and more vibrant than the Note 5, making it perfect for outdoor viewing. The screen on both phones is AMOLED, which provides deep blacks and rich colors. However, the S7 Edge's display has a slightly higher refresh rate of 120Hz, making it smoother and more responsive.
**Performance**
Under the hood, both phones are powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon 820 processor, but the S7 Edge gets a slight boost in terms of RAM, with 4GB compared to 3GB on the Note 5. This means that the S7 Edge can handle more demanding tasks and apps, making it a better choice for power users. The phones also come with 32GB or 64GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD card.
**Camera**
One area where the S7 Edge excels is in its camera capabilities. While both phones have 12-megapixel sensors, the S7 Edge's sensor has larger pixels, which allow for more light to enter and create brighter photos. The Note 5 also has a wide-angle selfie camera, but it's smaller than the one on the S7 Edge. In terms of low-light photography, the S7 Edge is significantly better, capturing sharper images with more vibrant colors. However, the Note 5 can be prone to overexposure, which can result in lost detail and washed-out colors.
**Software**
Both phones come with TouchWiz UI, but Samsung has made some notable changes to its software this year. One of the most significant upgrades is the addition of a new theme store, which allows users to customize their home screens and icons. The S7 Edge also gets a more intuitive interface, with a focus on ease of use and accessibility. Additionally, the phone's camera app has been revamped, with features like optical image stabilization and manual mode.
**Battery Life**
The battery life of both phones is impressive, but the S7 Edge has a slight edge in terms of performance. The phone's 3,000mAh battery provides all-day coverage, while the Note 5's 2,600mAh battery struggles to keep up. However, it's worth noting that the Note 5's battery life can be improved with the use of power-saving features.
**Additional Features**
Other notable features on both phones include water resistance (IP65) and a microSD card slot for expandable storage. The S7 Edge also gets a new feature called "S Pen", which is a stylus that allows users to create notes, draw, and even control the phone's interface. This feature is particularly useful for those who prefer writing or drawing on their devices.
**Verdict**
In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Galaxy Note 5. While both phones have similar features, the S7 Edge boasts improved camera capabilities, a more intuitive interface, and better battery life. The phone's design is also sleeker and more premium than the Note 5. If you're looking for a smartphone that checks all the boxes, the S7 Edge is definitely worth considering. However, if you're on a budget or don't need the latest and greatest features, the Note 5 is still a solid choice.
**Low-Light Photography Comparison**
One of the most noticeable differences between the two phones is their performance in low-light photography. The Note 5 can be prone to overexposure, which can result in lost detail and washed-out colors. In contrast, the S7 Edge captures sharper images with more vibrant colors, even in the darkest conditions.
To test this difference, I took both phones into areas where I could barely see with a naked eye. The Note 5's representation was pretty close to what I could see in real life – it was hard to distinguish between details, and the image was relatively washed out. However, the S7 Edge's camera captured images that were significantly better, even in low-light conditions.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, both phones have their strengths and weaknesses. While the Note 5 is still a solid choice for those who want a premium smartphone with impressive features, the S7 Edge is a more significant upgrade that offers improved performance, camera capabilities, and design. If you're looking for a phone that checks all the boxes, the S7 Edge is definitely worth considering.