Apple celebrated the 10th year since the unveiling of its landmark first iPhone in a big way – by announcing the [iPhone X](http://techbooky.com/apple-unveils-the-iphone-x/). This technologically advanced gadget is an immense departure from previous iterations of the popular smartphone, casting a vast shadow over its predecessors. As with any major Apple release, tech enthusiasts, experts, and potential buyers are eager to learn how the iPhone X stacks up against competitors. To meet this need, here is a detailed comparative review of the iPhone X and its close contender, the [Samsung Galaxy Note 8](http://techbooky.com/samsung-unveils-the-galaxy-note-8/), focusing on seven key differences.
The iPhone X signals a dramatic shift in Apple’s design philosophy, featuring a striking edge-to-edge display that offers a larger screen real estate compared to the iPhone 8 Plus. The traditional home button is conspicuously absent as its functionalities have been incorporated into other parts of the phone’s interface. A notable difference between the Note 8 and iPhone X lies in the iPhone X’s glass-based front and rear design. This not only ensures a sleek premium aesthetic but also enhances the device’s water and dust resistance.
2. **Portrait Mode**
Aside from introducing changes in design, the iPhone X also elevates the smartphone photography game. Its dual-lens rear-facing camera supports the ‘Portrait Mode’ photo effect, which creates a depth-of-field effect by keeping the subject in focus while subtly blurring the background. Although the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 also sports real dual cameras and a comparable ‘Live Focus’ feature, the iPhone X takes the lead through the ability to adjust the depth-of-field effect after capturing the shot.
3. **Always-on display**
The Samsung Galaxy Note 8 boasts an ‘always-on display’ feature. This means you get to see notifications, time, and date on the screen without having to wake it up. In contrast, the iPhone X lacks this feature, requiring you to wake the display to view such information unless a notification pops up.
4. **Stylus**
A unique feature of the Samsung Galaxy Note series is the provision of a stylus pen. The Note 8 comes with the high-tech S Pen stylus which becomes accessible with a simple tap. However, the iPhone X does not incorporate a stylus in its design. If you fancy the precision of a stylus, you would have to opt for a third-party model fully-aware it most likely won’t be compatible with the Apple Pencil stylus.
5. **Processor**
In terms of processor capabilities, the iPhone X and the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 embarks on diverging paths. The iPhone X utilises a powerful A11 Bionic chip built on a 64-bit architecture that is reported to be 30 percent faster and more efficient than its predecessor. On the other hand, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8 packs the Exynos 8895 octa-core processor.
6. **Display**
Both phones have harnessed different technologies to offer the best visual experiences. The iPhone X features a 5.8-inch display, boasting 2436 x 1125 at 458 ppi, a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1, and maximum brightness of 625 cd/m2. In contrast, the Samsung Galaxy Note 8’s sprawling 6.3-inch screen boasts a Quad HD Super AMOLED display at 2960 x 1440 at 521ppi.
7. **Camera**
The iPhone X equips a robust 12MP dual lens front-facing camera with f/1.8 for wide-angle and f/2.4 for telephoto apertures, and up to 10x digital zoom. The Samsung Galaxy Note 8, however, sports dual 12MP f/1.7 wide-angle telephoto rear cameras with a 2x optical zoom. Notably, the Samsung camera supports slow motion and ‘Live Focus’ features.
In closing, both the Apple iPhone X and Samsung Galaxy Note 8 are leading players in the smartphone market, each bringing their own set of unique features and tech innovations. With the details laid out, you can now make a more informed decision based on your personal preferences and needs.
About the Author
[Noelle Neff](http://noelleneff.com/about/) is an accomplished photographer and avid tech enthusiast. Following a significant early career breakthrough, she pursued photography at the University of Miami, concurrently sharing her insights on technology and her unique wedding photography experience.
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