Do you own a Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge? You might be one of the few users with a phone that resembles the new Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, with its curved screen. However, despite this, there are reasons to upgrade to the newer version of the smartphone, and some of them are particularly relevant to me. The improvements are not just cosmeticThey also affect usability, storage, durability and cameraareas that are noticeable in everyday life.
1.- 5,5-inch screen
I've had the chance to see and use a Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge. And honestly, I'm left with the impression that it's a small phone. Furthermore, with the curved edges, it seems even smaller, and the screen becomes somewhat less usable. It's worth noting that the curved edges look great and can even be useful, but it's part of the screen that we lose. And when I used the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge, it felt like a very small phone. The diagonal of the Galaxy S7 Edge increases to 5,5 inches with the aim of balancing the effect of curved edges and offering a more immersive experience in video, games and browsing.
Perhaps that's why Samsung decided to launch the new Galaxy S7 Edge with a 5,5-inch screen. And I think it could be the perfect size for this smartphone. Slightly larger than its predecessor, with the same screen resolution, the same technology, and a very similar, or even better, finish. The QHD resolution and Super AMOLED technology remain.with deep blacks and high contrast, but you gain in visual comfort when reading and writing.
Another point that makes a difference is the software behind the curved screen. On the Galaxy S7 Edge, the side panel is more useful: It allows for more shortcuts and two columns. for apps, contacts, and tools, speeding up everyday tasks without opening the app drawer. In addition, the feature Always On Display It displays the time, calendar, or notifications with minimal power consumption, something nonexistent in the factory-installed S6 Edge.
Ergonomics have also been improved. The rear glass and metal frame fit together better, with a curvature that It improves grip and feel in the hand.Despite the larger screen, the weight and mass distribution are well managed, making it easy to use with one hand using gestures.
2.- microSD
As an amateur photographer, I'm aware that photos and videos taken with mobile phones aren't on par with those from professional cameras. However, the truth is that we end up using our phones a lot for taking photos, since they have decent cameras. Once we have some 4K videos and high-resolution photos, we'll fill up the memory. But since we can expand the memory with a microSD card, that won't be a problem on the new Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge. The microSD slot is back with a very discreet hybrid tray that allows for economical storage expansion.
This is another difference between this new version and the previous one, and for me, it's one of the key features of the new smartphone. It's one of the main reasons why I believe that if you have a Galaxy S6 Edge, you should upgrade to the new Galaxy S7 Edge. Furthermore, if you've already experienced memory issues with your phone, you've probably come to this conclusion yourself. The expansion supports high-capacity cards (Ideal for music libraries, 4K videos, and RAW files) and frees you from having to delete content. Furthermore, keeping photos and videos on the microSD card makes backups and migrations between devices much easier.
A practical note: the S7 Edge's internal storage is fast and, combined with a good microSD card, allows for... separate apps and heavy data To optimize performance. Anyone who records a lot of video or uses their phone as a game console will appreciate not having to constantly worry about remaining storage space.
3.- Water resistant
The smartphone's design has improved. If there's one thing Samsung phones have always been criticized for, it's their design, almost always made of plastic. The Galaxy S6 arrived with a revamped design featuring a metal frame and a glass back, giving it a very premium feel. However, this time they've gone even further, making the smartphone water-resistant, another feature I find truly remarkable. Furthermore, the design has been polished almost to perfection. They've managed to make the metal and glass edges of the phone fit together so seamlessly that it appears to be almost a single piece. IP68 certification provides peace of mind. in case of rain, splashes or incidents in the kitchen and bathroom.
More subtle, but important improvements: the rear camera protrusion is reducedThis stabilizes the phone when placed on a table, and the aluminum frame is more resistant to impacts. The result is a more solid device, with a better feel and less prone to slipping. Being able to use it in the rain or capture photos in humid environments clearly expands its usage scenarios compared to the S6 Edge.
4.- Better performance and better camera
I'm going to consider it as a single thing, because while I do think there are improvements over the previous version, they don't seem as significant as the other three factors we've discussed. Those other three aspects are key differences from the previous version. These two are improvements that come with the new version, and they're quite obvious. A phone released later should have a better camera and a better processor. This is the case with the Samsung Galaxy S7 It features a more powerful and efficient processor, as well as 4GB of RAM for smoother multitasking with many apps and tabs open.
Performance and thermal stability
Compared to the S6 Edge, the S7 Edge introduces a leap in CPU and GPU that is noticeable when opening applications, editing photos, browsing with multiple tabs and, above all, when playing games. The heat-pipe cooling system It helps maintain more controlled temperatures, reducing performance drops after long gaming sessions. If you use VR headsets or record long videos, you'll appreciate that stability.
Battery life is also improving. With a higher capacity battery and better energy management, It's easier to complete the day....even with intensive use of social media, camera, streaming, and GPS. The fast charging and wireless charging, two comforts that make a difference in everyday life compared to the S6 Edge.
Camera: fewer megapixels, better photos
The Samsung Galaxy S7 features a 12-megapixel camera, which is better than the 16-megapixel camera of its predecessor. This might seem less obvious, but it's explained in detail in a dedicated article. how a 12 megapixel camera can be better than a 16 megapixel one. Larger pixels and f/1.7 aperture They allow you to capture more light, with brighter photos and less noise indoors and at night.
The approach also takes a leap forward. Thanks to the technology of Dual PixelThe S7 Edge focuses almost instantly, even in low light, surpassing the speed of the S6 Edge. Optical image stabilization, professional modes, and 4K recording are retained, resulting in more stable videos with improved focus tracking.
Other key improvements you'll notice on day one
- More polished software: a lighter layer, with fewer pre-installed apps and useful features like Always On Display.
- Samsung PayMobile payments via NFC in compatible countries and banks, adding convenience and security.
- Complete connectivityDual WiFi ac, enhanced Bluetooth, ANT+, fast GPS; everything you need for accessories and sports.
- Usage details: more accurate fingerprint reader, more solid vibration and better touch response on screen.
Two improvements that I find relevant in this phone, and which I consider as a single factor because they are obvious given that it's a newer phone. It's not just a matter of raw power; The sum of small refinements is noticeable which, together, make the S7 Edge more enjoyable to use every day.
One last point about dimensions and finishes: the S7 Edge is slightly larger than the S6 Edge to accommodate the 5,5-inch screen and the higher-capacity battery, but it compensates with more rounded edges and improved ergonomicsThere's also more color variety in certain markets and a less prominent camera bump that makes it easier to prop up the phone without it wobbling.
For those coming from the Galaxy S6 Edge, the jump to the Galaxy S7 Edge is immediately noticeable: more usable screen without losing sharpnessExpandable storage, peace of mind regarding water resistance, a more consistent battery, and a camera that performs better when you really need it. If your usage combines photos, video, social media, gaming, and mobile work, the upgrade delivers real and lasting benefits.
