Blog

In this article, I give you my Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra review with specs included. This initial examination delves into the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, marking my inaugural impressions of the device. Regrettably, the standard Note 20 variant is not yet in my possession, but fret not, its assessment shall follow in due course.

As of now, I’ve had the privilege of acquainting myself with the Note 20 Ultra for approximately five to six days, offering a preliminary glimpse into its performance and features. While a comprehensive review is slated for release around August 18th, let’s delve into the nuances of this esteemed handset.

Evidently, one cannot ignore the conspicuous prominence of the rear camera module, colloquially referred to as the “bump,” which adorns the device’s posterior. Notwithstanding this protrusion, the Note 20 Ultra emerges as one of Samsung’s most aesthetically pleasing creations to date.

The matte glass finish exudes a satin sheen, rendering it not only visually appealing but also less prone to slippage and fingerprint smudges. The Mystic Bronze variant, with its lustrous highlights, exudes an aura akin to fine jewelry, lending a touch of opulence to the device’s aesthetic. However, the aforementioned bump is an inevitable consequence of housing an array of sophisticated cameras, including a periscope zoom lens, which we shall explore in greater detail later.

Of course, no discussion of the Galaxy Note series would be complete without acknowledging the quintessential S Pen, a hallmark feature renowned for its precision and versatility. With reduced latency, the latest iteration of the S Pen boasts enhanced responsiveness, catering to the discerning needs of pen aficionados. Beyond its utility as a stylus, the Note 20 Ultra offers a myriad of compelling features warranting consideration, provided one can reconcile its lofty price tag.

Indeed, the Note 20 Ultra commands a premium, with the 128GB model retailing at $1,299, accompanied by 12GB of RAM. For those with a penchant for higher storage capacities, a 512GB variant is available, albeit exclusively in Mystic Black.

Conversely, the base model presents a choice between Mystic Bronze, Mystic White, and Mystic Black, though availability may vary depending on regional preferences. Notably, the standard Note 20 iteration introduces a novel green color variant, featuring a hybrid glass-plastic rear panel designed to enhance durability. While this configuration may lack the premium allure of its Ultra counterpart, it nevertheless offers a pragmatic solution for users prioritizing resilience over opulence.

Given the Note 20 Ultra’s elevated profile, it’s advisable to procure a protective case to mitigate the aesthetic inconvenience posed by the conspicuous rear camera housing. Notwithstanding this caveat, the device boasts a robust construction, reinforced by Gorilla Glass protection, purportedly capable of withstanding falls of up to two meters without succumbing to damage. While I’ve yet to conduct a comprehensive drop test, Samsung’s assurances regarding the device’s durability instill a degree of confidence in its resilience.

Under the hood, the Note 20 Ultra is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 Plus chipset, ensuring seamless performance across a spectrum of applications and tasks. Coupled with 5G connectivity, encompassing both millimeter-wave and sub-6GHz frequencies, the device exemplifies cutting-edge technological prowess.

However, it’s worth noting that international variants may incorporate the Samsung Exynos 990 chipset, a competent albeit slightly inferior alternative in terms of performance. Nevertheless, for consumers within the United States, the Snapdragon 865 Plus represents the pinnacle of mobile processing power, facilitating swift multitasking and fluid user interactions.

With 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 128GB of internal storage, the Note 20 Ultra offers ample memory and storage capacity for most users’ needs. Furthermore, the inclusion of a microSD card slot, compatible with cards of up to one terabyte in capacity, obviates concerns regarding storage limitations. In an era dominated by streaming services, the necessity for expansive internal storage has diminished, making the microSD card slot a welcome addition for those seeking flexibility and expandability.

Comparisons with its predecessor, the S20 Ultra, underscore the Note 20 Ultra’s exceptional value proposition. Despite its slightly lower price point, the Note 20 Ultra outshines its predecessor in several key areas, including camera performance and autofocus capabilities.

Notably, the inclusion of laser autofocus complements the existing phase-detection autofocus system, addressing previous concerns regarding autofocus speed and accuracy. The device boasts a 108-megapixel main sensor, renowned for its imaging prowess, alongside a wide-angle lens and a telephoto lens capable of 5x optical zoom.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra represents the pinnacle of Samsung’s engineering prowess, combining cutting-edge technology with unrivaled performance and sophistication. While its exorbitant price may deter budget-conscious consumers, the device’s myriad features and capabilities justify its premium positioning. As I continue to explore its functionalities in greater depth, stay tuned for a comprehensive review unveiling the device’s full potential and nuances.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra undergoes scrutiny in this preliminary assessment, offering insights into its performance and features following a five to six-day acquaintance. While a comprehensive review is slated for release around August 18th, this initial examination provides a glimpse into the device’s capabilities and nuances.

Notably, the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra stands out as one of Samsung’s most visually appealing creations, despite the conspicuous rear camera module, colloquially known as the “bump.” The device’s matte glass finish exudes a satin sheen, mitigating slippage while resisting fingerprint smudges, thus enhancing its tactile appeal.

The Mystic Bronze variant, adorned with lustrous highlights, evokes a sense of luxury reminiscent of fine jewelry, underscoring Samsung’s commitment to aesthetic refinement.

The rear camera array, notwithstanding its pronounced bump, encompasses a versatile range of lenses, facilitating impressive zoom capabilities. While the Galaxy S20 Ultra boasted a 100x Space Zoom feature, the Note 20 Ultra’s 50x zoom suffices for most practical purposes, rendering the former’s extreme magnification somewhat superfluous.

Moreover, the optical zoom functionality, particularly at 5x magnification, yields crisp and detailed imagery, complemented by usable performance at 10x zoom. Indeed, the Note 20 Ultra’s camera configuration represents a notable improvement over its predecessors, striking a balance between versatility and practicality.

In addition to its formidable zoom capabilities, the Note 20 Ultra excels in video production, courtesy of its Pro Video mode, replete with customizable settings and microphone options. Moreover, the device supports 8K video recording at 24 frames per second, albeit lacking stabilization, necessitating the use of a tripod for optimal results.

While our review unit arrived devoid of a factory-installed screen protector, the fingerprint scanner exhibited reliable performance, mitigating the frustrations encountered with previous Samsung devices.

The inclusion of Voice over LTE (VoLTE) functionality underscores Samsung’s commitment to network compatibility, ensuring seamless connectivity for users within the United States. Furthermore, the relocation of the S Pen to the left side of the device caters to the needs of left-handed users, albeit potentially eliciting grumbles from right-handed counterparts. In terms of audio performance, the Note 20 Ultra impresses with its stereo speakers, delivering robust sound quality rivaling that of its competitors, notably Apple’s iPhone lineup.

The device’s display, boasting a peak brightness of 1500 nits in auto mode, sets a new standard for smartphone screens, ensuring optimal visibility even in bright outdoor settings. While the option to toggle between Vivid and Natural display modes offers users flexibility in color representation, the curved display may elicit mixed reactions from users, with some preferring the flat display of the standard Note 20 variant. Nevertheless, accidental edge presses are infrequent, attesting to the display’s ergonomic design.

In terms of durability and connectivity, the Note 20 Ultra incorporates IP68 water resistance, NFC, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and facial recognition capabilities. While the facial recognition feature may not meet the stringent security requirements of certain users, the device’s biometric authentication options, including the fingerprint scanner, offer reliable alternatives. Additionally, the inclusion of a robust 4500mAh battery ensures ample endurance, coupled with support for fast charging via a 25W charger.

Moreover, the Note 20 Ultra’s adaptive display modes optimize battery life by adjusting the refresh rate based on content consumption, ensuring efficient utilization of resources. Preliminary testing indicates satisfactory battery performance, with an estimated screen-on time ranging between five and six hours under heavy usage. Further evaluation over an extended period will provide a more comprehensive assessment of the device’s battery longevity and overall performance.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra emerges as a formidable contender in the smartphone arena, boasting an array of features and capabilities that justify its premium positioning. While its exorbitant price tag may deter budget-conscious consumers, the device’s impeccable design, versatile camera system, and robust performance make it a compelling option for discerning users seeking uncompromising quality and innovation. As I continue to delve deeper into its functionalities and performance metrics, stay tuned for a comprehensive review unveiling the device’s full potential and nuances.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra undergoes a detailed assessment, delving into its features, performance, and value proposition. While this review is a culmination of nearly three weeks of usage, a preliminary first look was provided earlier to offer initial impressions. Now, with an extended period of interaction, it’s time to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the device.

Firstly, the Galaxy Note 20 Ultra is positioned as the larger and more premium variant among the 2020 Note lineup, contrasting with the standard Note 20 model. Priced at $1,299 in the United States, it represents a significant investment for consumers, signaling the escalating trend of flagship smartphone prices. This hefty price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers, especially considering the challenging economic climate. However, juxtaposed against budget-friendly alternatives like the Pixel 4a, which offers compelling camera performance at a fraction of the cost, the Note 20 Ultra’s premium features justify its premium pricing.

In terms of physical dimensions, the Note 20 Ultra inherits the size and heft of its predecessor, the Note 10 Plus, making it a substantial device that may overwhelm users accustomed to smaller handsets. Nevertheless, its generous screen real estate, highlighted by a 6.9-inch AMOLED display, ensures an immersive multimedia experience, ideal for tasks such as video streaming and e-book reading. Despite the prevalence of curved displays in modern smartphones, the Note 20 Ultra’s subtle curvature mitigates accidental touches while preserving its sleek aesthetic.

Under the hood, the Note 20 Ultra packs Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 865 Plus chipset in the United States, offering robust performance and 5G connectivity capabilities. However, for users outside the U.S., particularly in regions serviced by Samsung’s Exynos processors, the performance differential may be less favorable. Nevertheless, the Note 20 Ultra’s support for sub-6 5G networks enhances network speeds and efficiency, a boon for users seeking faster data connectivity.

An essential aspect of the Note series is its productivity-centric features, epitomized by the S Pen stylus. With reduced latency and enhanced responsiveness, the S Pen remains a standout feature, catering to users’ creative and productivity needs. Furthermore, the device’s durable build, fortified with Gorilla Glass protection and IP68 water resistance, instills confidence in its longevity and reliability, mitigating concerns about accidental damage.

On the imaging front, the Note 20 Ultra delivers impressive camera performance, bolstered by its versatile triple-camera setup. Despite the proliferation of high-resolution sensors and advanced zoom capabilities, the Note 20 Ultra strikes a balance between functionality and practicality. While it may lack the extreme zoom capabilities of its predecessor, the S20 Ultra, the Note 20 Ultra’s 50x Space Zoom suffices for most users’ needs, delivering satisfactory results across a variety of shooting scenarios.

Moreover, the device’s video recording capabilities, including 8K video recording at 24 frames per second, offer users the flexibility to capture high-quality footage. However, the absence of stabilization necessitates the use of external accessories such as tripods to achieve smooth and steady footage. Additionally, the Note 20 Ultra’s audio performance impresses with its stereo speakers, delivering robust sound quality comparable to competing flagship devices.

In terms of battery life, the Note 20 Ultra’s 4,500mAh battery provides adequate endurance for most users, offering approximately five to six hours of screen-on time under heavy usage. While this falls within the expected range for flagship smartphones, further testing and evaluation over an extended period will provide a more comprehensive understanding of its battery performance.

Despite its premium pricing and substantial physical dimensions, the Note 20 Ultra’s impressive display, robust camera system, and productivity-enhancing capabilities position it as a worthy investment for discerning users. As the smartphone landscape continues to evolve, the Note 20 Ultra sets a high standard for innovation and excellence, catering to the diverse needs of modern consumers.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra stands out in a crowded smartphone market, offering a unique combination of features and capabilities tailored to power users and enthusiasts. While other flagship devices like the OnePlus 8 Pro may appeal to performance-oriented users with their Snapdragon chipset and large screens, the Note 20 Ultra’s distinctive selling point lies in its integration of cutting-edge technology and productivity-focused features, notably the S Pen stylus.

For those who prioritize specifications and seek a device that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in smartphone technology, the Note 20 Ultra presents an enticing proposition. Boasting top-of-the-line components and features across the board, Samsung has spared no expense in equipping this device with the latest advancements in mobile hardware and software. From the exceptional camera system to the responsive S Pen functionality, every aspect of the Note 20 Ultra is designed to deliver a superior user experience.

One of the standout features of the Note 20 Ultra is its camera system, which builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, the S20 Ultra, while addressing some of the issues that plagued that device. With a primary 108-megapixel sensor and improved laser autofocus, the Note 20 Ultra captures sharp, detailed images with remarkable speed and accuracy. The addition of optical zoom capabilities, up to 5x, enhances the device’s versatility, allowing users to capture high-quality photos from a distance without sacrificing image quality.

Furthermore, the device’s wide-angle and ultra-wide-angle lenses complement the primary sensor, ensuring consistent performance across various shooting scenarios. Night mode photography, in particular, benefits from the device’s wide dynamic range and low-light capabilities, producing stunning results even in challenging lighting conditions. While Samsung’s image processing tends to prioritize vivid colors and sharpness, some users may prefer a more natural, less saturated look, a characteristic that distinguishes devices like the Google Pixel from the Note 20 Ultra.

Video recording capabilities are another area where the Note 20 Ultra shines, rivaling dedicated video cameras in terms of quality and flexibility. With support for 8K video recording and advanced stabilization features, users can capture smooth, professional-looking footage with ease. However, as with still photography, Samsung’s tendency to oversaturate colors and apply aggressive sharpening may not appeal to purists seeking a more neutral, film-like aesthetic.

The inclusion of the S Pen stylus sets the Note 20 Ultra apart from its competitors, offering a level of precision and control that traditional touch input cannot match. Whether annotating documents, sketching ideas, or simply navigating the device, the S Pen enhances productivity and creativity in ways that extend beyond the capabilities of standard smartphones. While some users may find the stylus to be a niche feature, its integration into Samsung’s ecosystem of apps and services ensures a seamless user experience for those who embrace its potential.

In terms of design and build quality, the Note 20 Ultra exudes premium craftsmanship and attention to detail, with a sleek, modern aesthetic that reflects its status as a flagship device. The device’s large, vibrant display dominates the front panel, providing an immersive viewing experience for multimedia content and productivity tasks alike. Despite its size, the Note 20 Ultra remains relatively manageable, thanks to its slim profile and ergonomic design, though users with smaller hands may find it challenging to operate single-handedly.

Under the hood, the Note 20 Ultra packs a powerful punch, courtesy of its Snapdragon 865 Plus chipset and generous RAM allocation. Whether multitasking between apps, gaming at high frame rates, or streaming media in 4K resolution, the device handles demanding tasks with ease, showcasing the full potential of its hardware capabilities. Additionally, support for 5G connectivity ensures fast and reliable network performance, enabling users to stay connected wherever they go.

Battery life is a critical consideration for any smartphone user and the Note 20 Ultra delivers respectable endurance thanks to its sizable battery and efficient power management features. With a capacity of 4,500mAh, the device offers all-day usage under typical conditions, though heavy users may find themselves reaching for the charger by day’s end. Fortunately, the device supports fast charging technology, allowing for quick replenishment of the battery when needed.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra represents the pinnacle of smartphone technology, offering a comprehensive suite of features and capabilities tailored to the needs of discerning users. From its exceptional camera system to its responsive S Pen stylus, every aspect of the device is designed to enhance productivity, creativity, and entertainment. While its premium price may deter budget-conscious buyers, those who prioritize performance and versatility will find the Note 20 Ultra to be a worthy investment that delivers on its promise of excellence.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra presents an impressive array of features and capabilities tailored to meet the demands of discerning users who prioritize performance, productivity, and creativity. One of the standout features of the Note 20 Ultra is its reduced latency S Pen stylus, which offers enhanced responsiveness and precision for a more fluid writing and drawing experience. With pressure sensitivity and reliable palm rejection, the S Pen delivers a seamless user experience, though the device’s glossy screen surface may pose some minor challenges for pen usage. Fortunately, the Note 20 Ultra’s compatibility with Wacom EMR pens provides users with alternative options, including larger styluses like the Wacom Bamboo Ink or those from the Galaxy Tab series.

In terms of durability, the Note 20 Ultra boasts Gorilla Glass Victus protection, offering robust resistance against scratches and impacts. While no smartphone screen is completely immune to damage, the Note 20 Ultra’s tough glass construction provides ample protection for everyday use. Additionally, the device’s camera bump may cause a slight wobble when placed on a flat surface, though this issue can be easily mitigated by using a compatible case. Despite the inconvenience, the Note 20 Ultra’s camera performance remains uncompromised, delivering exceptional image quality and versatility in various shooting conditions.

Speaking of the camera, the Note 20 Ultra’s triple-camera setup offers a comprehensive range of focal lengths, including a primary sensor with an impressive 108-megapixel resolution and optical zoom capabilities up to 5x. With improved laser autofocus and advanced image processing algorithms, the Note 20 Ultra delivers crisp, detailed photos with minimal shutter lag, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects or low-light scenes. While the device’s aggressive image processing may result in slightly oversaturated colors and sharpness, its overall performance remains impressive, particularly in comparison to other flagship smartphones.

On the design front, the Note 20 Ultra showcases Samsung’s commitment to premium craftsmanship and aesthetics, featuring a sleek, modern design with a satin finish in Mystic Bronze, Mystic White, or Mystic Black. Despite its large size, the device remains relatively manageable, thanks to its slim profile and ergonomic contours. Furthermore, the inclusion of an ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and facial recognition adds an extra layer of security and convenience, ensuring quick and reliable access to the device’s contents.

In terms of connectivity and functionality, the Note 20 Ultra offers a comprehensive suite of features, including IP68 dust and water resistance, NFC support for Samsung Pay and Google Pay, and Wi-Fi 6 compatibility. Additionally, the device’s 4,500mAh battery provides ample power for all-day use, with support for fast charging technology ensuring rapid replenishment when needed. While the device’s 120Hz refresh rate may impact battery life, users can adjust settings to optimize performance and efficiency according to their preferences.

For users in the United States, the Note 20 Ultra offers broad support for major carriers, including T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon, with features like Voice over LTE and 5G connectivity ensuring seamless connectivity and performance. However, users should note that carrier-specific features like Wi-Fi calling may vary depending on the network provider. Furthermore, the absence of a factory-installed screen protector may require users to invest in additional accessories for added protection against scratches and damage.

Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra stands out as a premium flagship device that excels in performance, design, and functionality. While its premium price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers, those who prioritize quality and versatility will find the Note 20 Ultra to be a worthy investment that delivers on its promise of excellence. With its exceptional camera system, responsive S Pen stylus, and robust build quality, the Note 20 Ultra offers a compelling combination of features and capabilities that cater to the diverse needs of modern smartphone users.