Samsung Galaxy S5 vs Galaxy S4: Do you need to upgrade?

We investigate whether the 2014 handset is a must-have

The Samsung Galaxy S5 is due to launch on 11 April 2014. The fifth installment of the popular Android device packs a host of upgrades but are these necessary or can you bag a bargain with the cheaper Galaxy S4?

We compare the key features including: Display, operating system, battery life, performance, camera and unique features. We've also got a section on pricing and verdict.

Display & Design

There's little to differentiate between devices. Dimensions are similar - with Samsung continuing to use the love-it-or-hate it plastic chassis. For the displays, both smartphones use Super AMOLED technology, Gorilla Glass 3 and have the same full HD resolution. However, this hasn't stopped screen experts at DisplayMate from concluding the S5 has the best screen it's ever tested.

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Galaxy S4 - The 2013 model (left) ships with a 5in full HD display (1920 x 1080) and a pixel density of 441 pixels-per-inch (ppi). At 7.9mm and 130g it is the thinner and lighter of the two devices.

Khidr Suleman was the Technical Editor at IT Pro and during his time with the site was responsible for the reviews section. Prior to joining IT Pro, Khidr worked as a reporter at Incisive Media. He studied law at the University of Reading and completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Magazine Journalism and Online Writing at PMA Training.