Nokia N9 vs. Samsung Galaxy S II

Attribute	Nokia N9	Samsung Galaxy S II
Operating System	MeeGo	Android
Display	3.9-inch AMOLED	4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus
Resolution	480 x 854 pixels	480 x 800 pixels
Processor	1 GHz Cortex-A8	1.2 GHz dual-core Cortex-A9
RAM	1 GB	1 GB
Internal Storage	16 GB / 64 GB	16 GB / 32 GB
Camera	8 MP (primary), 0.3 MP (front)	8 MP (primary), 2 MP (front)
Battery	1450 mAh	1650 mAh
Weight	135 g	116 g

Design and Build Quality

The Nokia N9 and Samsung Galaxy S II both offer sleek and stylish designs, but with different approaches. The N9 features a unibody design with a polycarbonate shell, giving it a premium feel and durability. On the other hand, the Galaxy S II opts for a combination of plastic and metal, which makes it lightweight but not as sturdy as the N9.

In terms of dimensions, the N9 measures 116.5 x 61.2 x 12.1 mm and weighs 135 grams, while the Galaxy S II is slightly slimmer at 125.3 x 66.1 x 8.5 mm and weighs 116 grams. Both devices have large touchscreens, with the N9 sporting a 3.9-inch AMOLED display and the Galaxy S II featuring a larger 4.3-inch Super AMOLED Plus display. The N9's display offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, while the Galaxy S II's screen provides excellent brightness and sharpness.

When it comes to build quality, the Nokia N9 takes the lead with its solid construction and attention to detail. However, the Galaxy S II compensates with its slim profile and larger screen, which may be more appealing to users who prioritize screen size and portability.

Performance and Software

Under the hood, the Nokia N9 and Samsung Galaxy S II offer different hardware configurations. The N9 is powered by a 1 GHz ARM Cortex-A8 processor and 1 GB of RAM, while the Galaxy S II packs a more powerful 1.2 GHz dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor and 1 GB of RAM. This gives the Galaxy S II an advantage in terms of raw processing power and multitasking capabilities.

Both devices run on different operating systems. The Nokia N9 runs on the MeeGo Harmattan platform, which offers a unique and intuitive user interface. It features a swipe-based navigation system, allowing users to switch between apps and access different menus with ease. On the other hand, the Galaxy S II runs on Android, specifically Android 2.3 Gingerbread at the time of its release. Android provides a vast ecosystem of apps and customization options, making it a popular choice among users.

In terms of software updates, the Nokia N9 unfortunately did not receive any major updates after its release, while the Galaxy S II received several updates, including an upgrade to Android 4.1 Jelly Bean. This gives the Galaxy S II an advantage in terms of software support and access to the latest features and security patches.

Camera and Multimedia

Both the Nokia N9 and Samsung Galaxy S II offer capable cameras for capturing photos and videos. The N9 features an 8-megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics, autofocus, and dual-LED flash. It produces sharp and detailed images with accurate colors. The Galaxy S II, on the other hand, boasts an 8-megapixel camera with autofocus and LED flash. It also offers various shooting modes and settings, allowing users to capture photos in different conditions.

When it comes to video recording, the Nokia N9 can record 720p HD videos at 30 frames per second, while the Galaxy S II can record 1080p Full HD videos at 30 frames per second. Both devices also have front-facing cameras for video calls and selfies, with the N9 featuring a 1.3-megapixel camera and the Galaxy S II offering a 2-megapixel camera.

In terms of multimedia capabilities, both devices excel. The Nokia N9 features a built-in music player with support for various audio formats, as well as an FM radio. It also offers Dolby Digital Plus sound enhancement for an immersive audio experience. The Galaxy S II, on the other hand, offers a similar music player with support for various audio formats, along with an FM radio and support for DivX/XviD video playback.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery life is an important aspect to consider when comparing smartphones. The Nokia N9 is equipped with a non-removable 1450 mAh battery, which provides up to 11 hours of talk time on 2G and up to 7 hours on 3G. It also offers up to 50 hours of music playback. The Galaxy S II, on the other hand, features a removable 1650 mAh battery, which provides up to 18 hours of talk time on 2G and up to 8 hours on 3G. It offers up to 49 hours of music playback.

In terms of connectivity, both devices offer similar options. They both support 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity for fast internet browsing and downloading. The Nokia N9 also features NFC (Near Field Communication) for easy sharing of content and wireless payments. The Galaxy S II, on the other hand, offers additional connectivity options such as Bluetooth 3.0, DLNA, and HDMI output for connecting to external devices.

Both devices also come with built-in GPS for navigation and location-based services. The Nokia N9 utilizes Nokia Maps, while the Galaxy S II uses Google Maps. Both mapping services offer accurate and reliable navigation, but users may have their preferences based on their familiarity with the platforms.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Nokia N9 and Samsung Galaxy S II are both impressive smartphones with their own strengths and weaknesses. The N9 excels in terms of design and build quality, offering a premium feel and durability. It also features a unique user interface and vibrant display. However, it falls short in terms of processing power and software support.

The Galaxy S II, on the other hand, offers a slimmer profile, larger screen, and more powerful hardware. It runs on the popular Android platform, providing access to a vast ecosystem of apps and customization options. It also received several software updates, ensuring access to the latest features and security patches. However, it may not match the N9 in terms of build quality and attention to detail.

Ultimately, the choice between the Nokia N9 and Samsung Galaxy S II depends on individual preferences and priorities. If design and build quality are paramount, the N9 may be the better option. However, if performance and software support are more important, the Galaxy S II may be the preferred choice. Both devices offer a range of features and capabilities that cater to different user needs.