Samsung Galaxy model archive · 2026
The Galaxy Note family made a large screen and a stored pen a recognisable smartphone idea. This overview follows the main phone generations and explains how that working style connects with selected later Galaxy S Ultra and Fold models.
Generation at a glance
- Original Galaxy Note and S Pen introduced in 2011
- Note20 and Note20 Ultra announced in August 2020
- Note10 Lite is a separate 2020 release
- Later S Pen compatibility depends on the exact model
The lasting idea is immediate access to a pen
The useful part of the Note concept is simple: a writing tool is available when an idea arrives. That can help with a quick sketch, marking a document or taking a note during a conversation. It does not mean everyone needs a stylus, or that every later Galaxy implements the same features. Screen size, pen storage, pressure input and remote-control functions are separate questions. Decide which activity matters to you before choosing a model from the name alone.
Which version is which?
The main family grew from the original Note through Note2, Note3, Note4 and Note5, then Note7, Note8, Note9, Note10 and Note20 generations. Note10+ and Note20 Ultra are distinct higher-tier versions. Note10 Lite followed a separate timetable. The table below is a route through the main phone line, rather than an exhaustive list of every carrier or regional edition.
Main Note generations at a glance
| Period | Main phone family | Place in the story |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Galaxy Note | Original large-screen phone with stored S Pen |
| 2012–2015 | Note2, Note3, Note4, Note5 | Refinements to handwriting, shortcuts and productivity |
| 2016 | Note7 | Recalled model; see the safety note below |
| 2017–2018 | Note8 and Note9 | Later main-series Note generations |
| 2019 | Note10 and Note10+ | Two main sizes within the Note family |
| 2020 | Note10 Lite; Note20 and Note20 Ultra | Separate Lite release and the Note20 generation |
Where the S Pen idea went next
S21 Ultra added support for a separate compatible pen; S22 Ultra brought a stored S Pen into the S line. Selected Fold generations also offer compatible pen input, with their own requirements. Check the particular generation instead of assuming every Ultra, Fold or S Pen behaves alike. Our Galaxy S and foldable guides explain the model families separately.
Looking at one today
Inspect the screen, pen tip, pen slot and writing response across the display. Check cameras, charging and the exact regional model. Older Note phones should be assessed for present software support rather than their historical business reputation. A compatible pen is not a guarantee of every remote feature, and a later Ultra or Fold should be checked individually before assuming it reproduces a particular Note workflow.
Before choosing an older phone, check the exact model on Samsung’s current security-update list and confirm local network compatibility.
Official Samsung sources
Samsung’s S Pen history · Additional Samsung model details · Security updates. Features can vary by country, carrier and software version.