Samsung Galaxy Note 4 vs Galaxy Note Edge: Price, Differences, Comparison

Sep 19, 2014 07:31 PM EDT

Though the Galaxy Note 4 took center stage at Samsung's IFA 2014 presentation, the Galaxy Note Edge has certainly grabbed some of that attention.

Coming from the same manufacturer, the two smartphones represents Samsung's latest response to the rival Apple's upcoming release of the iPhone 6 and its iPhone 6 Plus variant.

Admittedly, there is virtually no difference between the Galaxy Note Edge and Galaxy Note 4. Both phones share the same specs including software and camera. The only distinguishing difference is the external design.

Even so, a number of Samsung fans may still be divided between choosing the Galaxy Note 4 or Galaxy Note Edge. Hopefully, this guide will help undecided buyers reach a faster decision.

Differences

Tech observers have continually pointed out the Galaxy Note Edge's unique display that curves on the right-hand side. That curved edge is actually a second screen. Hence, the Galaxy Note Edge has two screens.

On the front, the phone has a main 5.6-inch Quad HD Super AMOLED display. Observers will notice an additional narrow 160 pixel screen hanging on the right. The second screen operates independently - allowing users to access apps without interfering with activity on the main screen. In theory, this improves multitasking with one hand. Obviously, left-hand users will have trouble with the side screen.

Comparatively, the Galaxy Note 4 has the more conventional flat 5.7-inch Quad HD Display. Like its sister device, the Samsung flagship uses the excellent Super AMOLED screen technology.

Another difference is the battery. The Galaxy Note 4 has the 3220 mAh battery, while the Galaxy Edge uses the 3000 mAh battery. Still, the two mobile devices have fast charging capabilities.

The final decision really comes down to whether or not consumers appreciate the Galaxy Note Edge's unorthodox screen. For those who are comfortable with more traditional smartphones, the Galaxy Note 4 is the better choice.

Similarities

Under the hood, the Galaxy Note 4 and Galaxy Note Edge is entirely the same. They come with the powerful Snapdragon 805 processor, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage. However, the storage capacity is supplemented with a slot for 128GB microSD cards.

For security, the phones have a fingerprint sensor located in the rear. The devices also include a heart rate sensor for measuring the user's heartbeat.

Both the Galaxy Note 4 and Galaxy Note Edge have a rear 16-megapixel camera with Optical Image Stabilization, along with a 3.7-megapixel front camera for "selfies". Other bells-and-whistles include an S Pen.

The Galaxy Note 4 and Galaxy Note Edges come installed with Google's latest Android 4.4.4 KitKat operating system.

Price and Availability

Samsung has not confirmed the price for either the Galaxy Note 4 or Galaxy Note Edge. Nonetheless, the Galaxy Note 4 may have the same starting price as its Galaxy Note 3 predecessor, which had an original retail value of $299.99. Based on current rumor, the Galaxy Edge may command a more expensive starting price.

The Galaxy note 4 is scheduled to hit stores on Oct. 14. Meanwhile, the Galaxy Note Edge is still undergoing FFC certification. So, it is likely consumers will see the Galaxy Note 4 first.

Five major carriers have begun accepting preorders for the Galaxy Note 4 - namely AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, Sprint, and U.S. Mobile.

AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Sprint also plan to stock the Galaxy Note Edge, but have not confirmed preorder dates for the new device.