What To Know
- The Note 3, while still sleek, has a more plasticky feel, whereas the Note 4 embraced a more premium metal frame with a textured back, giving it a more sophisticated aesthetic.
- The Note 3 comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor, while the Note 4 features either a Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 or an Exynos 5433 processor, depending on the region.
- While the Note 3 paved the way for the Note series’ success, the Note 4 refined the formula, offering a more polished and powerful experience.
The Samsung Galaxy Note series has always been a favorite among users who crave a powerful device with a large screen. If you’re considering joining the Note family, you might be wondering: Samsung Note 3 vs Note 4, which one is the right choice for you? Both devices offer a compelling blend of features and performance, but there are some key differences that could make one a better fit than the other.
Design and Display: A Visual Showdown
The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and Note 4 represent a significant leap in design language. The Note 3, while still sleek, has a more plasticky feel, whereas the Note 4 embraced a more premium metal frame with a textured back, giving it a more sophisticated aesthetic.
When it comes to display, both devices boast large, vibrant Super AMOLED screens. The Note 3 features a 5.7-inch 1080p display, while the Note 4 upgrades to a 5.7-inch Quad HD (2560 x 1440) display. The Note 4’s higher resolution results in sharper visuals and more detail, but the difference might not be noticeable to everyone.
Performance: Powerhouse Comparisons
Both the Note 3 and Note 4 are powered by powerful processors, ensuring smooth performance for demanding tasks like gaming and multitasking. The Note 3 comes with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 800 processor, while the Note 4 features either a Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 or an Exynos 5433 processor, depending on the region.
The Note 4’s newer processor delivers a noticeable performance boost, especially when it comes to graphics-intensive applications. If you’re a gamer or someone who frequently uses resource-heavy apps, the Note 4’s performance edge will be a significant advantage.
Camera Capabilities: Capturing Your Moments
The camera is a crucial aspect of any smartphone, and both the Note 3 and Note 4 excel in this department. The Note 3 features a 13MP rear camera with optical image stabilization (OIS), while the Note 4 boasts a 16MP rear camera with improved OIS and a faster autofocus system.
The Note 4’s camera takes sharper images with better low-light performance, thanks to its larger sensor and improved image processing. It also offers a wider range of features, including a more advanced HDR mode and a dedicated selfie camera with a wider lens.
Battery Life: Staying Connected Longer
Battery life is crucial for any smartphone, and both the Note 3 and Note 4 offer decent endurance. The Note 3 packs a 3200mAh battery, while the Note 4 features a 3220mAh battery.
Despite the similar capacity, the Note 4’s more energy-efficient processor and display contribute to better battery life. You can expect to get a full day of use with both devices, but the Note 4 might last slightly longer on a single charge.
Software and Features: A World of Possibilities
Both the Note 3 and Note 4 run on Android with Samsung’s TouchWiz UI overlay. While the Note 3 shipped with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, it was later upgraded to Android 4.4 KitKat. The Note 4 came with Android 4.4 KitKat and was eventually upgraded to Android 5.1.1 Lollipop.
The Note series is known for its S Pen stylus, and both devices offer a suite of S Pen-specific features, including Air Command, which provides quick access to various tools like S Note, Action Memo, and Screen Write. The Note 4 adds features like Smart Select and S Pen Remote, expanding the S Pen’s capabilities even further.
The Verdict: Which Note Reigns Supreme?
Ultimately, the choice between the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and Note 4 boils down to your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a powerful and capable phablet at a more affordable price, the Note 3 is a solid option. However, if you prioritize the latest features, improved performance, and a more refined design, the Note 4 is the clear winner.
The Final Word: A Legacy of Innovation
The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and Note 4 are both remarkable devices that have left their mark on the phablet market. While the Note 3 paved the way for the Note series’ success, the Note 4 refined the formula, offering a more polished and powerful experience.
Whether you choose the Note 3 or Note 4, you’ll be getting a capable and feature-rich device that will meet your mobile needs. However, if you want the best of the best, the Note 4’s upgrades and advancements make it the more desirable choice.
What You Need to Learn
Q1. Is the Note 3 still worth buying in 2023?
While the Note 3 is an older device, it’s still a capable phone for basic tasks and multimedia consumption. However, its lack of software updates and limited app compatibility might be a concern for some users.
Q2. Which Note has the better camera?
The Note 4 has a superior camera with a higher resolution sensor, improved OIS, and faster autofocus. It captures sharper images with better low-light performance.
Q3. Is the Note 4 still supported with software updates?
The Note 4 has received Android Lollipop updates but is unlikely to receive any further software updates.
Q4. What are the key differences between the Note 3 and Note 4?
The Note 4 offers a more premium design, a faster processor, a better camera, and a more advanced S Pen experience. The Note 3 is still a capable device but lacks the newer features and performance of its successor.
