The Android smartphone sector has seen constant evolution, and few devices have made as much of a difference as the Samsung Galaxy Note 7Since its presentation, this model has been classified by numerous media and users as one of the best smartphones on the marketWhat made it stand out enough to consider it a flagship device? We take an in-depth look. Features, technical specifications, design, security, user experience, cameras, battery and price to give you the most comprehensive and up-to-date guide to the Galaxy Note 7, including the unique aspects of its Fan Edition and the lessons learned along the way.
Innovative design and premium materials
El Galaxy Note 7 design It is one of the most notable and differentiating elements within Samsung's smartphone catalog and compared to its competitors. Samsung opted for perfect symmetry on the edges and curvature of the glass, both front and back, achieving a premium style and ergonomic design that significantly improves the experience of holding it in your hand. The screen 5,7-inch Super AMOLED with QHD (2560×1440) resolution It merges into the sides thanks to a double-curved design that inherits the best of the Galaxy S Edge series, but adapts it to the Note range with its own profile.
The glass is protected by the advanced Corning Gorilla Glass 5, which provides improved resistance to falls and impacts, although always within the limitations of the materials. dimensions 153,5 x 73,9 x 7,9 mm and a weight of 169 grams make it comfortable to handle despite its large screen, although one-handed use requires large hands due to its size.
La palette available for the Galaxy Note 7 includes the elegant Black Onyx, the sophisticated Blue Coral (with gold details that accentuate its attractiveness), and the White Titanium, along with limited editions like the Silver Titanium and Gold Platinum. Each of these colors has been designed to convey luxury and exclusivity, although the coral blue model has been recognized as one of the most iconic ever produced by Samsung.
In addition, Samsung has paid special attention to the terminal's strength and durability. IP68 profile confers you resistance to water and dust, allowing immersion up to one meter deep for half an hour, an essential feature in high-end mobile phones and providing extra peace of mind in daily use.
Curved Super AMOLED display: benchmark visual experience
One of the technical jewels of the Galaxy Note 7 is its 5,7-inch Super AMOLED display. With a QHD resolution of 2560x1440 pixels and a density of 518 ppi, reproduces vivid colors, deep blacks and exceptional sharpness both indoors and outdoors thanks to its extremely high brightness level.
La double curvature side is not just an aesthetic appeal. Samsung has developed specific software functionalities to take advantage of the edges, such as customizable shortcuts, quick notifications, access to contacts and quick functions, as well as the ability to activate the "Always On Display" information on the screen, allowing you to check the clock, notifications and calendars without unlocking the device.
This screen, protected by Gorilla Glass 5, also supports HDR10 videos, resulting in a superior visual experience with richer contrasts and colors for compatible content. The presence of a configurable blue light filter facilitates nighttime use and helps reduce eye fatigue, a feature highly appreciated by intensive users.
Samsung has taken care that, despite the double curve, the touch experience It's precise and prevents accidental touches thanks to optimizations in edge handling. However, some users have reported that certain apps may experience slight distortion in areas very close to the edge, something to keep in mind when using editing apps or games intensively.
High-performance hardware: processor, memory, and storage
At the heart of the Galaxy Note 7 beats a Exynos 8890 Octa-core processor (in most international markets), built with 14nm technology and a big.LITTLE architecture at 2,3 GHz. Some regional versions may incorporate the Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 Quad-core, especially in markets like the United States and Canada to maximize compatibility with CDMA networks. Along with its GPU Mali-T880 MP12 (or Adreno 530 on Snapdragon), the terminal guarantees Exceptional performance in multitasking, intensive applications, and next-generation gamesFor more details about these processors, you can consult the first contact with its benefits.
RAM memory, of 4GB (LPDDR4), offers a fluid and stable user experience, allowing you to keep multiple applications open without slowdowns or unexpected crashes. While some advanced users were hoping for an increase to 6 GB, the balance between performance and optimization is one of the best currently available.
Internal storage part of 64 GB base, being expandable through cards microSD up to 512 GB, allowing you to store thousands of photos, 4K videos, music, documents, and apps. This expansion is especially useful for those who use the device professionally or need to carry their work and leisure needs with them at all times.
Thermal management is efficient, and except during extremely intensive gaming or 4K video sessions, the device barely heats up, maintaining a comfortable experience even during long usage sessions.
Security Systems: Biometric Innovation and Advanced Protection
El Samsung Galaxy Note 7 It was the brand's first mainstream smartphone to incorporate a iris scanner as a biometric authentication system, complementing the already established ones fingerprint reader, pattern, password and PINThis technology allows you to unlock your device simply by looking at the screen, taking security to a new level, highly valued in professional environments or for users concerned about the privacy of their data. For more details on biometric systems, visit How to improve security on Xiaomi devices as a benchmark.
La iris scanner settings It's simple and guided by a tutorial, although it requires the user not to wear glasses or contact lenses at the time of registration. Once activated, recognition is instantaneous, although it may have minor limitations in direct sunlight or for those wearing dark glasses. It's important to remember that, according to the warnings, the feature is not recommended for unsupervised children due to the identification LED.
Samsung does not forget the fingerprint reader Integrated into the home button, it's fast and precise, allowing you to unlock your device, authenticate purchases, and access apps. The "Secure Folder" is where you can store sensitive files and apps. This folder leverages both your fingerprint and iris to provide a double layer of security for accessing private information, ideal for those who use their phone for work or personal use.
Advanced security options include:
- KNOX: Integrated security platform that protects against malware and unauthorized access, especially valued in business environments.
- Secure folder: Protected space to duplicate applications, store documents, photos and sensitive data, accessed only by fingerprint or iris scanner.
- Protection against theft and loss: Ability to track, lock, and erase your device remotely using Samsung’s “Find My Mobile” tool.
Cameras: professional capture and unlimited creativity
The photography section is one of the most valued points by users of the Note range. The 12 MP Dual Pixel main sensor with f/1.7 aperture ensures outstanding performance both day and night, inheriting the best technologies from the Galaxy S7 series. The sensor size (1/2.5 inches) and Dual Pixel technology allow for a ultra-fast autofocus, even in low-light conditions, capturing sharp images with excellent dynamic range. To compare with other models, check out Xiaomi Mi A3 vs. Redmi Note 7.
The camera has Optical Image Stabilization (OIS), resulting in less blurry photos and stable videos, ideal for both amateurs and content creators. The pro mode It gives access to full manual controls (ISO, shutter, white balance), and allows you to save photos in RAW and JPEG formats simultaneously, facilitating advanced editing afterwards.
Video recording supports resolution UHD 4K at 30 fps, HD slow motion and dynamic focus functions, while the front camera of 5 MP f / 1.7 It's perfect for high-quality selfies and video calls in any situation thanks to its large aperture and advanced HDR management. If you want to improve your photos, you can also check out The Xiaomi Mi Note 10 and its 108 MP camera.
Creative features include:
- Precise and distortion-free panoramas.
- Live Photos and Animated GIFs from videos or bursts.
- Selective blur for portraits with a softened background.
- Quick image editing and GIF creation directly from the gallery.
At the software level, the camera interface It's fast, customizable, and allows quick access to both automatic and creative modes, including "screen-off shooting" by pulling out the S-Pen, great for spontaneous captures.
Battery, autonomy and fast/wireless charging
The Galaxy Note 7 is equipped with a 3.500 mAh battery which, combined with the efficiency of the processors and AMOLED technology, ensures that you can survive the day with intensive use. In real-life tests, it has achieved between 5 and 6 hours of active screen time, enough for a full day of browsing, streaming, gaming and professional tasks.
La fast charge allows you to recover up to 50% of battery in just over 30 minutes and the full charge in approximately 75 minutes. Port Reversible USB Type-C modernizes connectivity and improves charging and data transfer efficiency. It also features wireless charging (Qi and PMA), which adds convenience and versatility to everyday life. To learn more about battery life, you may be interested in the new versions with greater autonomy.
In terms of energy management, Samsung includes several power saving modes customizable, allowing you to restrict background application activity, reduce screen resolution and brightness, and limit connectivity to maximize autonomy according to each user's needs.
An important detail: The battery is not removable, following the trend of premium mobile phones, which contributes to its compact design and IP68 sealing.
S-Pen: Enhanced Productivity and Creativity
The characteristic S-Pen It is the differentiating element of the Note series. In the Galaxy Note 7, this accessory reaches its maximum expression thanks to a Refined design, thinner tip (0,7 mm) and to 4096 pressure levels. It's so light and precise that writing or drawing on the screen feels natural and without any noticeable delay. For creative use, it's also recommended to check out How to get the most out of the S-Pen on your Galaxy Note.
Exclusive features enabled by the S-Pen include:
- take quick notes even with the screen off (Screen Off Memo).
- Advanced screenshot selection, with editing and integration into PDF or presentations.
- Instant translation of words and blocks of text by hovering the S-Pen over them.
- Creating animated GIFs by extracting video clips or screen motion.
- Professional drawing and sketching, with tilt and pressure detection for artists and creatives.
- Direct document editing, handwriting recognition, and export to digital text.
La integration with the Samsung software layer It's exemplary: removing the S-Pen activates a floating "Air Command" menu with customizable shortcuts to your favorite functions. It's even possible to add shortcuts to third-party apps.
The S-Pen, like the Note 7, is water-resistant, allowing it to be used even if the screen is wet, an advantage in professional or creative environments outside the office.
Operating system and user experience
The Galaxy Note 7 was released with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow and the renewed customization layer TouchWiz UI (Grace UX), which subsequently received updates to higher versions of Android in its international and refurbished editions (such as the Fan Edition). Samsung's tier includes significant improvements to the interface, customization, notification management, shortcuts, and the aforementioned "Secure Folder." For more details, visit .
La user experience is fluid, intuitive and highly customizableTouchWiz has evolved to better integrate Google services and native apps optimized for the S-Pen, as well as digital assistants and productivity tools like Samsung Notes, Smart Select, and Samsung Pay for secure mobile payments.
Connectivity options include:
- Category 9 LTE with ultra-fast download speeds.
- Dual-band 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac Wi-Fi for stable, fast connections.
- Bluetooth 4.2, ANT+, NFC and USB-C 3.1 for data transfer and accessory syncing.
- GPS with support for A-GPS and GLONASS, providing fast and accurate positioning.
The terminal has support for Samsung Pay, enabling secure and fast mobile payments with NFC technology, and with additional services such as smart device management through Samsung Connect.
Comparison of specifications and performance tests
The Galaxy Note 7 is positioned as one of the references in benchmarks and real-life testsFor example, in tests like Antutu, Geekbench, and PCMark Work, it outperforms most Android alternatives of its generation, demonstrating that the CPU, GPU, and RAM are optimized to deliver speed and stability for any task. To see how it compares to other models, check out .
| Benchmark | Galaxy Note 7 (Exynos 8890) | Galaxy S7 Edge (Exynos 8890) | Nexus 6P (Snapdragon 810) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antutu | 134680 | 112920 | 61623 |
| Geekbench (Single/Multi-core) | 1782 / 5322 | 2117 / 6063 | 1342 / 4778 |
| PCMark Work | 4951 | - | - |
In everyday life, experience translates into smooth transitions, demanding applications that are lag-free, and effective multitasking even with intensive games and processes open simultaneously.
Fan Edition: responsible and more ecological evolution
Following the problems detected in the first units of the Galaxy Note 7, Samsung launched the Fan Edition (FE) reusing components but adapting the battery to 3.200 mAh and reinforcing quality controls with an 8-point verification system. This edition includes Android 7.0 Nougat as standard and includes all the security and software improvements, giving a sustainable second life to the most advanced hardware of its generation. You can find more information at Note 7 Fan Edition review.
The Fan Edition retains the design, core specs, and all the advanced features of the original Note 7, with the only limitation being a slightly smaller but still competitive battery, and is recognizable by the "Fan Edition" inscription on the back.
Connectivity, sensors and extras
In addition to the features already mentioned, the Galaxy Note 7 has a wide variety of sensors and technologies:
- Heart rate sensor and barometer, useful for health and fitness applications.
- Proximity sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope and digital compass.
- Active noise cancellation for crystal-clear calls and audio recordings.
- Powerful speaker with strong vibration and customizable notifications.
- High-quality media player supporting MP3, WAV, FLAC and HD video formats.
- Dual SIM support on select versions.
- Document editor (Word, Excel, PDF) and integrated productivity services.
La SIM card is of the nanoSIM type, compatible with the main 3G and 4G networks in the Spanish and European markets.
Price, availability and rating
At launch, the Galaxy Note 7 was positioned in the range of 800 to 900euros, reflecting its position as a premium smartphone and embracing all of today's technological innovations. The Fan Edition, relaunched in select markets, had a lower starting price, although it was limited to limited editions, primarily in South Korea.
The Samsung Galaxy Note 7, both in its original version and in the Fan Edition, has left its mark with its Iconic design, power, biometric security and leading productivity thanks to the S-PenThe user experience is perfect for those looking for a device that combines the best of a high-end smartphone with the capabilities of a professional, creative tablet.
This generation marked a turning point in the history of the brand and the Android universe. While its history was marked by challenges and critical decisions regarding battery safety, the Note 7 represented the consolidation of technologies that later became standardized throughout the mobile industry. Those who value the S-Pen, enhanced security, premium design, high-end camera, and a distinctive experience continue to consider the Galaxy Note 7 (and its Fan Edition) one of the most complete and revolutionary smartphones, despite its challenging commercial journey.
