Samsung Galaxy S5 vs iPhone 5s: Which is best?
Is the Android handset better than the flagship iOS device?

Fingerprint technology
Both devices have fingerprint scanners as standard. Apple introduced the concept last autumn with Touch ID on the 5s. This takes the form of a sapphire crystal coated ring on the home button. Place your thumb on the home button and it unlocks. You can also authorise this to make payments from the App and iTunes stores.
Samsung's effort resembles the clumsy and unreliable scanners you would find on a Windows laptop. You can unlock your phone by swiping down across the home button, and use it to authorise payments from your PayPal account. However, in practice the implementation falls short. It's also nearly impossible to get the placement of your finger right when you're holding the device in one hand.
Winner - iPhone 5s - Apple's fingerprint scanner is well executed, whereas Samsung's attempt is clunky and inconsistent.
Get the ITPro daily newsletter
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
-
What is polymorphic malware?
Explainer Polymorphic malware constantly changes its code to avoid detection, making it a top cybersecurity threat that demands advanced, behavior-based defenses
-
Outgoing Kaseya CEO teases "this is just the beginning" for the company
Opinion We spoke to Fred Voccola who remains a key figurehead at the firm as it enters its next chapter...
-
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
-
iPhone 5s: Top 10 tips and tricks
News iOS 7.1 hints include flash alerts, battery optimisations and make Siri smarter
-
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