Samsung Galaxy S vs. Galaxy S II vs. Galaxy S III: A Comprehensive Comparison

Published: 09/04/2025

Samsung’s Galaxy S series has been pivotal in shaping the smartphone landscape. From the groundbreaking Galaxy S to the refined Galaxy S III, each iteration introduced significant advancements. This article delves into the evolution of these models, highlighting their key features and improvements.

So, guys, without wasting time, let’s jump into the article to learn the Samsung Galaxy S vs. Galaxy S II vs. Galaxy S III.

Comparison Table: Galaxy S vs. Galaxy S II vs. Galaxy S III

FeatureGalaxy SGalaxy S IIGalaxy S III
Release Year201020112012
Display4.0″ Super AMOLED (480×800)4.3″ Super AMOLED Plus (480×800)4.8″ Super AMOLED HD (720×1280)
Processor1 GHz Cortex-A8Dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A9Quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A9
RAM512 MB1 GB1 GB
Storage Options8/16 GB, expandable via microSD16/32 GB, expandable via microSD16/32/64 GB, expandable via microSD
Rear Camera5 MP8 MP8 MP with enhanced features
Front CameraVGA2 MP1.9 MP
Battery Capacity1,500 mAh1,650 mAh2,100 mAh
Operating SystemAndroid 2.1 (Eclair), upgradableAndroid 2.3 (Gingerbread), upgradableAndroid 4.0.4 (Ice Cream Sandwich), upgradable
Dimensions122.4 x 64.2 x 9.9 mm125.3 x 66.1 x 8.5 mm136.6 x 70.6 x 8.6 mm
Weight119 g116 g133 g

1. Design and Build

Galaxy S: Introduced a sleek design with a plastic body, measuring 122.4 x 64.2 x 9.9 mm and weighing 119 g. It featured a physical home button flanked by touch-sensitive keys.

Galaxy S II: Refined the design with a slimmer profile at 8.5 mm thickness and lighter weight of 116 g. The device maintained the plastic build but with a more textured back for improved grip.

Galaxy S III: Embraced a nature-inspired design with rounded edges and a glossy finish. It measured 136.6 x 70.6 x 8.6 mm and weighed 133 g. The design was more ergonomic, fitting comfortably in hand despite the larger display.

2. Display Evolution

Galaxy S: Featured a 4.0-inch Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 480×800 pixels, offering vibrant colors and deep blacks.

Galaxy S II: Upgraded to a 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus display, maintaining the same resolution but enhancing color accuracy and brightness.

Galaxy S III: Boasted a significant leap with a 4.8-inch Super AMOLED HD display at 720×1280 pixels, delivering sharper images and a more immersive viewing experience.

3. Performance and Hardware

Galaxy S: Powered by a 1 GHz Cortex-A8 processor and 512 MB of RAM, suitable for basic tasks and early Android applications.

Galaxy S II: Introduced a dual-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A9 processor with 1 GB of RAM, significantly improving multitasking and overall performance.

Galaxy S III: Further advanced with a quad-core 1.4 GHz Cortex-A9 processor and 1 GB of RAM, handling demanding applications and multitasking with ease.

4. Camera Capabilities

Galaxy S: Equipped with a 5 MP rear camera capable of 720p video recording and a VGA front camera for basic selfies.

Galaxy S II: Upgraded to an 8 MP rear camera with 1080p video recording and a 2 MP front camera, enhancing photo and video quality.

Galaxy S III: Maintained the 8 MP rear camera but introduced features like burst shot and best photo selection. The 1.9 MP front camera supported HD video calls.

5. Battery Life and Capacity

Galaxy S: Came with a 1,500 mAh battery, offering moderate usage time.

Galaxy S II: Slightly increased to a 1,650 mAh battery, providing better endurance due to hardware optimizations.

Galaxy S III: Featured a substantial 2,100 mAh battery, accommodating the larger display and more powerful processor, resulting in improved battery life.

6. Software and Features

Galaxy S: Launched with Android 2.1 Eclair, featuring Samsung’s TouchWiz UI, offering basic smartphone functionalities.

Galaxy S II: Shipped with Android 2.3 Gingerbread, introducing features like NFC support and improved multitasking.

Galaxy S III: Debuted with Android 4.0.4 Ice Cream Sandwich, incorporating innovative features like Smart Stay, Direct Call, and S Voice, enhancing user interaction.

Conclusion

The evolution from the Galaxy S to the Galaxy S III showcases Samsung’s commitment to innovation and user-centric design. Each model brought significant enhancements in display technology, performance, camera capabilities, and software features. The Galaxy S III, in particular, set new standards with its intuitive features and robust hardware, solidifying Samsung’s position in the smartphone market.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Samsung Galaxy S vs. Galaxy S II vs. Galaxy S III.

Which series is best in Samsung A or S?

The Samsung S series is better than the A series in terms of performance, camera quality, and premium features. It’s Samsung’s flagship line, while the A series focuses on mid-range affordability.

What is the difference between Samsung S series and A series?
  • S Series: Premium flagship models, high-end specs, better cameras, and longer software support.
  • A Series: Budget to mid-range devices, decent performance, more affordable, with slightly fewer features.
Which Samsung Galaxy is the best?

Currently, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra is considered the best Galaxy phone due to its top-tier specs, AI features, and camera performance.

How old is the Samsung S3?

The Samsung Galaxy S III was released in May 2012, making it around 12 years old as of 2024.

How old is the Samsung S2?

The Samsung Galaxy S II was launched in April 2011, making it about 13 years old as of 2024.

Saba Noreen Avatar
Saba Noreen

Technology expert with strong knowledge of the latest tools, trends, and innovations. I help others understand and use tech better, from software to smart solutions. Passionate about solving problems and staying ahead in the tech world.

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