Galaxy Note 8 vs Galaxy S8+: What Buyers Need to Know

Galaxy Note 8 vs Galaxy S8+: Design

Next up you'll want to consider the design. Although, there isn't much to consider as both phones look nearly identical. The only visual difference is the slide-out S-Pen stylus and two cameras on the back of the Galaxy Note 8.

Either way, you'll get a premium all metal and glass phone. That said, there is one big aspect of the design that gives the Note 8 a nudge to the winner's circle -- the fingerprint scanner. 

Since both phones have a big screen and small bezels the fingerprint scanner was relocated to the back of the device. Samsung's S8 has it right next to the camera, and you'll end up with finger smudges on the camera lens. 

With the Note 8, Samsung heard users complaints and changed it a bit. The location still isn't ideal, but now the dual cameras are on the left, with the flash and heart rate sensor in the middle. This separates the fingerprint scanner from the camera lenses and should help keep them clean. 

Samsung was unable to get the fingerprint scanner inside the screen to work as intended and had to put it on the back again. 

So if you're waiting for something new and different in that regard, the Note 8 isn't the answer. The phone will still be great, has water-resistance and wireless charging, it just might not be enough of a change some are looking for.