Samsung Galaxy S5 vs Galaxy S4: Do you need to upgrade?
We investigate whether the 2014 handset is a must-have

The S5 has some unique hardware features which help it to stand out. As already mentioned the latest smartphone has a better camera and is waterproof/dustproof. Here we look at three more features exclusive to the S5.
Heart rate monitor
A sensor on the back of the device allows users to measure their pulse with a finger. Although a useful indicator for health conscious users, it's limited to use before and after exercise. The heart-rate monitor is a good example that shows the stagnation of the smartphone market as vendors scramble to find features to add.
This is included on the home-button and allows users to log into the device with a swipe. Samsung has also teamed up with PayPal, so users will be able to authorise payments with this feature.
Paypal authorisation will be supported in 26 countries at launch. These include the US, UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Poland, Turkey, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Russia, Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong. Download Booster
The S5 supports the Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac 2.4G + 5GHz bands and has a 2x2 MIMO antennae for up to double wireless connection speeds. It is also able to combine 4G and Wi-Fi signals to increase download speeds. A useful feature for those with unlimited 4G data allowances.
Sign up today and you will receive a free copy of our Future Focus 2025 report - the leading guidance on AI, cybersecurity and other IT challenges as per 700+ senior executives
-
Using WinRAR? Update now to avoid falling victim to this file path flaw
News WinRAR users have been urged to update after a patch was issued for a serious vulnerability.
-
Amazon CEO Andy Jassy doubles down on the company's AI focus
News Amazon CEO Andy Jassy thinks companies need to "lean into" AI and embrace the technology despite concerns over job losses.
-
Red Hat and Samsung agree landmark software deal to develop next-gen storage
News The partnership is a first for Samsung as the companies commit to developing memory software designs that can keep up with emerging tech
-
The IT Pro Products of the Year 2019: All the year’s best hardware
Best Our favourite equipment from the past 12 months
-
Best business smartphones: The top handsets from Apple, Samsung, Google and more
Best The best business smartphones on the market today packed with work-focused features you need
-
Samsung Galaxy S5: Top 16 tips and tricks
Tutorials Get the most out of your Galaxy S5
-
Samsung Galaxy Tab S3 review
Reviews The best Android tablet around - but it’s still not a match for the iPad
-
Tablet market falls 15% as low-cost devices lead sales
News Weakened market caused by 'low-cost detachables" sees third-quarter tablet sales fall by 15%
-
Apple re-awarded $120m in Samsung spat
News Judge rules in favour of Apple in latest round of patent infringement bout
-
Samsung Galaxy S7/S7 Edge price, features and specs: Samsung Galaxy overtakes Apple iPhone US sales
Rumours Galaxy S7 beats iPhone 6s shipments in American market