Since its inception in 2010, the Samsung Galaxy S series has become synonymous with Android excellence. Over a decade, each generation brought unique features and advancements. This article ranks each model from worst to best based on critical reception, commercial success, technological importance, and personal insights. While some models introduced groundbreaking innovations, others faltered due to compromises or missteps. The ranking excludes variant lines like the Galaxy FE series and focuses solely on mainline releases.
Challenges and Missteps in Early Models
Early in the series, certain models faced significant criticism for their design choices and feature compromises. For instance, the Galaxy S6 was notable for its premium glass design but sacrificed key functionalities such as IP rating, removable battery, microSD support, and had a smaller battery capacity compared to its predecessor. Similarly, the original Galaxy S suffered from uninspired design, gaudy software, and lacked a camera flash. These early models highlight the challenges Samsung faced in balancing aesthetics with functionality.
In 2015, the Galaxy S6 represented a turning point in Samsung's design philosophy by adopting a glass aesthetic reminiscent of Apple's iPhone. However, this transition came at a cost. Key features such as the IP rating, expandable storage, and replaceable battery were removed, leading to user dissatisfaction. Additionally, the smaller battery size further detracted from the device's appeal. Meanwhile, the first Galaxy S, launched in 2010, showcased the limitations of early Android devices. Despite having decent core specifications, it fell short due to an uninspired build, subpar battery life, and lack of essential features like a camera flash. These examples demonstrate how Samsung navigated through various obstacles in its quest for innovation.
Triumphs and Innovations in Later Generations
As the series progressed, Samsung began addressing previous shortcomings while introducing cutting-edge technology. Notably, the Galaxy S7 rectified many issues from the S6 era by reinstating water resistance, offering microSD expansion, and delivering improved battery life. Furthermore, models like the Galaxy S22 Ultra integrated the iconic S Pen slot, bridging the gap between the S and Note series. These advancements positioned Samsung as a leader in smartphone technology, emphasizing meaningful evolution over mere iteration.
By 2016, the Galaxy S7 marked a pivotal moment in Samsung's history. It addressed all major criticisms of the S6 by reintroducing water resistance, supporting microSD cards, and providing significantly larger batteries. Its 12MP main camera delivered exceptional photo quality, making it one of the most sought-after smartphones globally. Moving forward, the Galaxy S22 Ultra continued this legacy by incorporating the S Pen directly into its design, thereby merging the strengths of both S and Note series. Moreover, the inclusion of AI-driven features and extended software updates demonstrated Samsung's commitment to enhancing user experience beyond hardware improvements. These milestones underscored Samsung's ability to adapt and innovate, consistently setting new benchmarks within the industry.