The Samsung Galaxy S5 vs. S5 Mini: Comparing Specs, Value, Price, Dimensions, and News about the New Phones

By Chad Arias | Jul 02, 2014

Bigger isn't always better, especially when your wallet is at stake. Samsung is set to release their latest creations in the coming months, the Galaxy S5 and S5 Mini, and consumers are scrambling to decide which one to go with.

We've made things easier for you by comparing the two phones in a head to head battle. Phone size, battery life, screen clarity, and camera capabilities are always import factors when weighing the cost/quality dilemma.

Dimensions and Screen Size

Size is always a matter of taste when it comes to the specifications of a user. Some may prefer a nimble phone, which will fit nicely in a pocket, while others might enjoy a larger and higher quality screen.

Contrary to the name, the S5 Mini really isn't that much smaller than the S5. The S5 dimensions are 5.3 x 2.9 x 0.31, compared to the Mini at 5.2 x 2.6 x 0.36.

The weight differential is only an ounce, with the S5 weighing in at 5.1 ounces, and the Mini weighing in at 4.1 ounces.

When it comes to screen size, the Mini is smaller by a little more than an half inch, at 4.5 to 5.1 inches.

Screen Display

Aside from the screen size, the S5 comes with 1080p display while the Mini lags behind with 720p. Screen display quality is a major separation between the two phones.

Crystal clear quality can be a make or break spec, due to its effect on almost all phone functions.   

Camera

When it comes to the camera, the S5 Mini is half of what the S5 is.

8 megapixels compared to 16 megapixels is a crucial difference, depending on how much the user likes to take pictures. The front camera on both phones is 2 megapixels, for those who like to indulge in the dreaded "selfies."

The camera factor was one of the S5's biggest upgrades from the 4. When picking the Mini, you will lose out on most of these upgrades, especially the auto-focusing technology.

Battery    

The S5 comes with a 2800mAh removable battery, while the Mini is equipped with a 2100mAh removable battery.

Depending on how on-the-go a user is, the extended battery life of the S5 is at a day-and-a-half could be an important factor. Both phones have energy saving capabilities, which is an essential element to efficient use.

Storage

Although the Mini is only available in a 16GB option, a memory card can easily upgrade the phone to 64GB.

The S5 comes with a 16GB or 32GB, but once again a memory card can make both phones equal.

Overall, when deciding which phone to pick, the most important thing to think about is what your specific uses will be.

Screen, battery and camera quality are the major difference between the phones.

The prices have not yet been released for the two phones, so ultimately, the price may become the biggest deciding factor in the debate.

Latest News