Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+ (2018): Dual Aperture and Model Guide

Samsung Galaxy model archive · 2018

Galaxy S9 kept the tall display design and shifted attention towards the camera. Dual Aperture and Super Slow-mo were part of the launch story, while the Plus model also offered an important photographic distinction.

Official Samsung product image. Image source: Samsung.

Introduced 25 February 2018. Filed under the original announcement date. This retrospective was prepared in November 2026; shop availability may have followed later.

Generation at a glance

5.8-inch S9 and 6.2-inch S9+
Dual Aperture main-camera system
Super Slow-mo and AR Emoji
Wireless charging and microSD expansion

A camera feature is not the whole camera system

The main lens could switch between two aperture settings, addressing different lighting conditions. That is a different concept from adding another camera with a different field of view. A useful comparison separates those two ideas instead of treating every zoom or low-light claim as interchangeable. The generation also illustrates how playful software features can dominate a launch even when the more lasting benefits are simpler improvements in sound, focusing or handling.

Which version is which?

S9 and S9+ are distinct sizes within the same generation. The S9+ adds a rear telephoto camera, so its difference is more than a larger display. Check the exact model before assuming that a photograph of two rear lenses belongs to the regular S9. Region and carrier information remains relevant to network compatibility and replacement parts.

Looking at one today

Test the main camera in bright and dim light and, on S9+, try the telephoto view. Examine the lens cover, screen edges and fingerprint reader. Look for persistent display marks using a plain background. A previous screen repair or worn battery can matter more than the original price difference between the two sizes. Confirm the phone can still support the services you want to use.

Before choosing an older phone, check the exact model on Samsung’s current security-update list and confirm local network compatibility.