Big smartphones announced in 2020 pushed screens, cameras, and performance to new levels across the industry. Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus each delivered flagship experiences aimed at power users and everyday buyers alike.
These devices reflected rapid advances in 5G connectivity, high refresh displays, and advanced imaging systems. Below is a quick reference to key models, their specs, and how they positioned themselves in the market.
| Brand | Model | Display Size | Main Camera (MP) | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple | iPhone 12 Pro | 6.1" | 12 | LiDAR scanner |
| Apple | iPhone 12 | 6.1" | 12 | Ceramic Shield front |
| Samsung | Galaxy S20 Ultra | 6.9" | 108 | 100x Space Zoom |
| Samsung | Galaxy Note 20 Ultra | 6.9" | 108 | S Pen with Bluetooth |
| OnePlus | 8 Pro | 6.7" | 48 | Warp Charge 65 |
| OnePlus | 8 | 6.55" | 48 | Fluid Display 90 Hz |
Design and Build Quality
Manufacturers emphasized premium materials while balancing durability and weight. Apple refined the flat-edge frame with aerospace-grade aluminum, while Samsung introduced matte glass finishes to reduce fingerprints. OnePlus focused on slim profiles and physical camera modules that stood out on the back.
Durability and Water Resistance
IP68 ratings became standard among these flagships, supporting peace of mind against accidental splashes and immersion. Durable glass sandwich constructions enabled wireless charging, although some users opted for protective cases to maintain scratch resistance.
Display and Visual Experience
Large OLED panels with high refresh rates delivered smoother scrolling and responsive touch behavior. Samsung leaned toward vivid colors and extreme brightness, Apple optimized True Tone for comfort, and OnePlus prioritized fast touch sampling for competitive gaming scenarios.
Adaptive Refresh Rates
ProMotion on certain models and variable 60–120 Hz systems helped balance smoothness and battery life. Users could often set a preferred refresh range in settings to suit reading, navigation, or intense gameplay without draining the battery excessively.
Camera Systems and Imaging
Camera hardware escalated across the board with larger sensors, advanced pixel binning, and improved computational photography. Ultra-wide lenses captured more scenery, telephoto setups enhanced distant subjects, and night modes produced cleaner low-light shots.
Video and Stability Features
Higher-resolution video recording, cinematic stabilization, and better microphone isolation made these phones capable content-creation tools. Directors and creators appreciated manual-like controls, Dolby Vision capture, and robust editing apps available out of the box.
Performance, Battery, and Software
Flagship-grade chipsets ensured demanding apps and games ran smoothly, while ample RAM supported multitasking. Battery capacities grew, and faster wired and wireless charging reduced downtime. Long-term software updates strengthened trust in Apple and Samsung commitments, while OnePlus offered close-to-stock Android with rapid security patches.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Compare network bands to ensure 5G compatibility with your carrier.
- Test camera samples in conditions that match your daily use.
- Prioritize battery capacity and charging speeds for your lifestyle.
- Consider software update policies for long-term security and features.
- Verify display brightness and refresh rate preferences in store if possible.
FAQ
Reader questions
Do these big smartphones support 5G connectivity in all regions? Most models include dual-band and sometimes sub-6 and mmWave support, but availability depends on carrier bands in your region. Verify compatibility with your network before purchase to ensure full 5G benefits. How do the camera systems differ between Apple, Samsung, and OnePlus in low light?
Samsung typically highlights high-resolution sensors with aggressive multi-frame processing, Apple emphasizes balanced color and detail with Deep Fusion, and OnePlus focuses on fast capture with minimal processing lag. Real-world results vary by software version and lighting conditions.
Are the high refresh displays easy to read outdoors?
Yes, all three brands prioritize high peak brightness and adaptive scaling, making content visible even under direct sunlight. OLED panels also offer deep blacks, which further improve readability in shaded environments.
Do these devices include expandable storage via microSD?
Most flagship models from this period rely solely on fixed internal storage, with cloud and computer backups as alternatives. Check individual product pages, as certain mid-range variants from Samsung and OnePlus historically supported expandable storage.