Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ in 2025: Is It Still Worth Buying?

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Samsung Note 10 Plus - 2025

 

Introduction

Six years after its launch, the Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ remains a cult favorite among power users. But in 2025, with foldables and AI-driven flagships dominating the market, does this classic still hold up? We tested its performance, camera, and software support to see if it’s worth buying—especially in Nepal, where older flagships often sell at discounted prices.

Specs Overview

FeatureSpecification
Display6.8" Dynamic AMOLED, 1440x3040, HDR10+, Gorilla Glass
ChipsetSnapdragon 855 (USA) / Exynos 9825 (Global)
RAM/Storage12GB RAM, 256GB/512GB UFS 3.0 (expandable via microSD)
Cameras12MP main (OIS), 12MP telephoto (2x zoom), 16MP ultrawide, TOF depth sensor
Battery4,300mAh, 45W wired/15W wireless charging
SoftwareAndroid 12 (One UI 4) – No official Android 14/15 support
Price (Nepal)~NPR 80,000–100,000 (used/refurbished)

Performance in 2025: Can It Keep Up?

  • Daily Use: The Snapdragon 855 still handles social media, browsing, and light gaming smoothly. Multitasking is a breeze thanks to 12GB RAM.

  • Gaming: Runs PUBG Mobile at medium settings, but struggles with Genshin Impact on high (30fps with drops).

  • Thermals: No overheating issues, a rarity in 2025’s power-hungry apps.

Camera Review: How Does It Compare to Newer Phones?

  • Daylight Photos: 12MP shots remain vibrant and detailed, but lack computational tricks like the Galaxy S25 Ultra’s 200MP mode.

  • Night Mode: Outperforms 2019 rivals (e.g., Pixel 3), but modern phones like the Pixel 8 Pro crush it in low light.

  • Video: 4K/60fps holds up, but lacks stabilization compared to newer flagships.

Battery Life & Charging

  • Screen-on Time: ~5–6 hours (mixed use), down from ~7 hours in 2019 due to battery degradation.

  • Charging: 45W wired charging (0–70% in ~30 mins) is still competitive, but no Qi2 support.

Software Updates: The Biggest Limitation

  • End of Support: Stuck on Android 12 (One UI 4), missing critical security patches beyond mid-2025.

  • Workaround: Custom ROMs (e.g., LineageOS) can extend life, but void warranties and risk bugs.

Price in Nepal & Where to Buy

  • Refurbished Units: ~NPR 80,000–100,000 (check Him Electronics or IMS Nepal for genuine stock).

  • New Old Stock: Rare, but occasionally listed at ~NPR 120,000 (avoid scams by verifying IMS holograms).

  • Alternatives: For similar prices, consider a used S22 Ultra (Android 14+) or Pixel 7 Pro.

Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • Premium build (Gorilla Glass 6, IP68).

  • S Pen (42ms latency, Bluetooth gestures).

  • MicroSD slot (rare in 2025 flagships).

❌ Cons

  • No software updates (security risk).

  • No 5G (limited future-proofing).

  • Weak low-light camera vs. 2025 phones.

Verdict: Who Should Buy It in 2025?

  • For Power Users: Only if you need the S Pen and can tolerate outdated software.

  • For Budget Buyers: Better options exist (e.g., Galaxy S21 FE or Pixel 7a).

  • For Collectors: The Aura Glow color and Note legacy make it a nostalgic pick.

Final Rating: 7.5/10 – A well-aged flagship with glaring software limitations.

Update: Performance in late 2025

As we move into 2026, the Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ continues to defy expectations. While it no longer receives official Android version updates, the hardware remains surprisingly capable for a flagship launched years ago. In my recent testing, the 12GB of RAM still manages heavy multitasking better than many mid-range phones released this year.

The biggest challenge in late 2025 is battery longevity and the lack of 5G in certain regions, but for users in Nepal and similar markets, the Dynamic AMOLED display and S-Pen functionality still offer a premium experience that is hard to match at current refurbished prices. If you are looking for a productivity powerhouse on a budget, the Note 10+ remains a 'hidden gem' in the secondary market.

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Location: Nepal
Tech enthusiast and researcher focused on uncovering the hidden environmental and social impacts of modern technology. Exploring the intersection of AI, hardware, and sustainability since 2015.

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