If you’ve ever been torn between choosing a Samsung or iPhone, you’re not alone. One major difference that tech enthusiasts often point out is how Samsung features enhance user control vs iPhone. Simply put, Samsung empowers users to tweak, customize, and fine-tune almost everything on their devices — while Apple keeps things a bit more… locked down.
Let’s dive into the 9 game-changing Samsung features that put control back in your hands and see how they stack up against iPhones.
1. Samsung’s Good Lock Suite: The Customization King
What is Good Lock?
Good Lock is like the ultimate toolkit for your phone. Want to change the layout of your recent apps screen? Done. Want to tweak the color, shape, or behavior of your notification panel? Easy. Good Lock gives you control over UI components that iPhones simply don’t let you touch.
Modules like LockStar, QuickStar, and NavStar let you personalize almost every corner of your device. You can even create custom routines and automation with Routine+.
Why iPhones Can’t Compete Here
Apple believes in keeping things “clean” and uniform — which also means less flexibility. You won’t find an equivalent to Good Lock on iOS. Sure, iPhones are smooth and polished, but they don’t let you paint outside the lines.
2. DeX Mode: Turning Your Phone into a Desktop
Full Desktop Experience
Samsung DeX is a total game-changer. Plug your Galaxy device into a monitor or connect wirelessly and boom — your phone becomes a desktop computer. Open multiple windows, drag files around, and run apps like Microsoft Office in a PC-style layout.
iPhone’s Limitations in Desktop Connectivity
Apple offers a very restricted external display experience. You can mirror your screen or run specific apps like Keynote, but no real desktop interface. No mouse, no resizable windows — nothing close to what DeX offers.
3. Multi-Window and Pop-Up View
True Multitasking in Action
Samsung nails multitasking. You can run two apps side by side or open apps in floating windows. Imagine watching YouTube while messaging your friends — without switching apps.
iPhone’s Take on Multitasking
On iPads, Apple does a decent job. But on iPhones? No true split-screen multitasking. You’re stuck hopping between apps unless you’re using Picture-in-Picture, and even that’s limited.
4. Advanced Display Controls and Always-On Display
Tweaking Refresh Rates, Colors & More
Samsung gives you deep access to your display settings. Adjust color profiles, change screen resolution, switch between 60Hz and 120Hz refresh rates, and even tune white balance.
Always-On Display vs iPhone’s Approach
Samsung’s Always-On Display shows time, notifications, and more — fully customizable. While iPhones have adopted an Always-On Display on recent models, customization is minimal and battery drain is a concern.
5. File Management Freedom with My Files
USB, SD Cards, and Full File Access
Samsung’s My Files app gives users access to the internal storage system like a proper file manager. Want to drag-and-drop between folders? Done. Connect a USB stick or SD card? Easy.
Why iOS Limits File Access
Apple’s Files app is a step in the right direction, but it’s still restrictive. Limited third-party access and no real file system structure unless you dive into the iCloud ecosystem.
6. Customizable Power Saving and Performance Modes
Battery Management Done Right
Samsung lets you choose your performance level. Want to squeeze out every bit of battery life? Use Maximum Power Saving. Prefer smoother performance? Go for High Performance Mode. You can even set custom power profiles.
iPhone’s Fixed Power Modes
Apple offers Low Power Mode — and that’s pretty much it. There’s no option to prioritize speed or create custom settings for battery usage.
7. Advanced Camera Control and Pro Mode
Manual Focus, Shutter Speed, ISO — You Name It
Samsung’s camera app isn’t just about point and shoot. Pro Mode gives you DSLR-style controls. Manually adjust ISO, white balance, focus, and shutter speed — perfect for creative users.
Apple’s Camera App: Simpler but Limited
Apple’s camera app is clean and effective but lacks manual controls. Want full control? You’ll need third-party apps. Even then, integration isn’t as deep as Samsung’s built-in Pro Mode.
8. Edge Panels and Shortcuts
Swipe, Tap, Access — Instantly
Edge Panels give you fast access to apps, contacts, clipboard, and tools with just a swipe. You can even add third-party widgets and actions, making navigation a breeze.
iPhone Lacks This Handy Feature
There’s no true equivalent to Edge Panels on iOS. You’re stuck using Control Center and the Home Screen — both functional, but not nearly as efficient or customizable.
9. App Lock, Secure Folder, and Knox Security
Built-In Privacy and Control
Samsung’s Secure Folder is a sandboxed zone within your phone where you can hide apps, files, and data behind biometrics or a separate password. Add that to App Lock and Knox Security, and you’ve got fortress-level control.
Apple’s Security: Safe, But Not as Flexible
iPhones are known for security, but they don’t offer Secure Folder-like features. You can’t lock individual apps without third-party workarounds, and privacy settings are baked into system layers without much room for user customization.
Samsung’s Approach: Freedom vs Apple’s Walled Garden
When it comes to the battle of Samsung features that enhance user control vs iPhone, the theme is clear: Samsung lets users take the wheel, while Apple holds your hand — sometimes a bit too tightly.
If you’re the type who loves tinkering, personalizing, or just wants more control over your smartphone experience, Samsung is the obvious choice. Apple may offer consistency and simplicity, but Samsung gives you the keys to the kingdom.
Conclusion
While both brands have their strengths, Samsung features that enhance user control vs iPhone are hard to overlook. From deep UI customization with Good Lock to the multitasking beast that is DeX Mode, Samsung empowers its users in ways Apple simply doesn’t.
So, if control, customization, and freedom are what you’re after — the Samsung Galaxy lineup is calling your name.
FAQs
1. Can I install Good Lock on any Samsung phone?
Good Lock is available on most Samsung Galaxy devices running One UI, typically mid-range to flagship models.
2. Is DeX Mode available on all Galaxy devices?
DeX Mode is mainly available on high-end Galaxy phones and tablets. Check your device’s specs to confirm compatibility.
3. Does the Secure Folder really protect my data?
Yes, Secure Folder is backed by Samsung Knox and encrypted — perfect for keeping sensitive files, apps, and photos safe.
4. Can I get similar customization on iPhone with third-party apps?
Not really. iOS is locked down, so you can’t deeply modify system-level settings like on Samsung.
5. Do all Samsung phones support SD cards for extra storage?
Not all newer Galaxy phones support SD cards, especially flagship models like the S21 and later. Mid-range options still might.
6. Why doesn’t Apple allow split-screen multitasking on iPhones?
Apple prioritizes simplicity and battery life. They may eventually add it, but for now, it’s iPad-only.
7. Is Always-On Display a battery killer?
Not on Samsung devices — it’s optimized for AMOLED screens and uses minimal power, especially when customized correctly.