Why Do People Believe that Android is Better Than iOS?

The common belief that iPhones are superior to Android devices often stems from a lack of direct comparison or experience with high-end Android devices. However, when one delves deeper and uses top-tier Android models, the quality becomes unmistakable. After experiencing a range of phones, it becomes evident that Android's raw hardware quality and user experience can surpass that of iOS devices.

Understanding Raw Performance

When it comes to raw performance, Apple devices are still leading the market. High-end Android devices, such as the Pixel series, offer competitive performance levels. However, the perception that iPhones are inherently superior is often rooted in personal experience and an incomplete understanding of the available phone options.

The Reality of User Preferences

Everyone is entitled to their own preferences. However, the debate over which operating system is better can be more nuanced than a simple performance comparison. Many Android users who have made the switch from an inferior Android device to a top-tier Apple device find that their expectations are often met, but sometimes, the quality of an Android device like the Google Pixel can far exceed their experience with an iPhone.

I, for one, use the Samsung S24 Ultra for its S Pen and note functionalities, which are not available on iPhones. This makes it a superior choice for me, but it's important to recognize that others might have different priorities and preferences.

The Contrast Through Personal Experience

Back in 2020, when the highest-end Android device I used was the Mi A2, I noticed that it was noticeably laggier than my grandpa's iPhone 11 Pro Max, which was a 2018 model. This led me to believe that iPhones might indeed have better animation and optimization. However, my perspective changed dramatically upon receiving a Pixel 3XL in 2023.

This 2018 Android device was still performing remarkably well, even surpassing 2022 smartphones like the Moto G60, G82, and Galaxy A14, which were in my family's possession. The Pixel 3XL's consistent performance over five years with my grandpa's iPhone 11 Pro, a device from three years earlier, further reinforces the notion that premium Android devices offer exceptional longevity and stability.

Apple’s Strengths and Limitations

It's important to acknowledge that despite these advantages, iOS does have some unique benefits. For example, VoiceOver on iOS is highly polished and reliable, even in third-party apps. It provides a seamless experience for visually impaired users while ensuring that the UI is consistently responsive. Unlike Android's TalkBack, VoiceOver does not stutter or lag, making it a reliable tool for accessing information.

The restricted nature of iOS ensures deep integration with hardware, leading to smooth and efficient performance. iOS prioritizes the GUI process at the kernel level, providing instant responsiveness. This is especially crucial for touch devices, as the UI is constantly changing, and any lag can disrupt user experience.

Some people prefer the controlled ecosystem offered by iOS. While it is possible to jailbreak iPhones or sideload apps, the process is more complex than on most Android devices. This restriction can be seen as an advantage for those who value data integrity and security. For instance, the knowledge that messages deleted on a message app cannot be recovered by other parties, even with patched clients, offers a high level of security. Additionally, parental controls are more robust on iOS, making it easier to manage children's device usage and prevent access to inappropriate content or apps.

In conclusion, the perception that Android is better than iOS is often based on limited experience or a narrow focus on performance metrics. When using premium Android devices, the quality and performance can match or even exceed that of iOS devices. The choice between Android and iOS ultimately comes down to individual preferences, specific needs, and the unique strengths and limitations of each operating system.