Is OneUI actually better than iOS

Naveen Thakur

26 Dec, 2023

When it comes to smartphones, two giants dominate the conversation: Samsung’s One UI and Apple’s iOS. Both ecosystems have their own loyal fan base, features, and unique philosophies. Apple is known for its simplicity, optimization, and closed ecosystem, while Samsung with its One UI (built on Android) focuses on customization, multitasking, and hardware-software integration across its Galaxy devices.

But the big question remains: Is Samsung’s One UI actually better than iOS? In this in-depth analysis, we’ll explore design, usability, customization, updates, security, ecosystem, and overall user experience to help you decide which is the real winner.

1. Design and User Interface

iOS: Apple’s interface is clean, minimalistic, and uniform. Every app icon follows the same rounded-square design, with consistent system animations. The overall philosophy is simplicity over complexity.
One UI: Samsung designed One UI with “comfort and accessibility” in mind. The interface is colorful, spacious, and optimized for one-handed use. With large headers, easily reachable buttons, and customizable themes, One UI feels more personal than iOS.

👉 Verdict: If you prefer simplicity and uniformity, iOS takes the lead. But if you want personalization and vibrant aesthetics, One UI is better.

2. Customization

iOS: Until recently, Apple offered little customization. Widgets, lock screen personalization, and custom app icons are relatively new additions, but they’re still limited compared to Android.
One UI: Samsung gives you full control. You can apply themes, change fonts, modify lock screens, rearrange navigation gestures, and even enable edge panels for quick access. Features like Good Lock extend customization even further.

👉 Verdict: One UI absolutely crushes iOS in customization.

3. Performance and Optimization

iOS: Apple’s strength is optimization. Since iOS runs only on iPhones, Apple fine-tunes its software for specific hardware. Apps open instantly, animations are smooth, and long-term performance remains consistent.
One UI: Samsung runs on multiple devices with different specs. While flagship Galaxy devices (like S series, Fold, Flip, and Ultra models) run buttery smooth, mid-range models sometimes face minor lags. Samsung has improved optimization in One UI 6 and One UI 7, but iOS still leads in raw consistency.

👉 Verdict: iOS wins in optimization, but high-end Galaxy phones with One UI are almost equally smooth.

4. Multitasking and Productivity

iOS: Multitasking is minimal. You can quickly switch between apps, use picture-in-picture, and on iPads, split-screen multitasking works. But on iPhones, multitasking options are limited.
One UI: Samsung excels here. Split-screen multitasking, pop-up view, DeX mode (turning your phone into a PC), edge panels, and S Pen support make One UI a productivity powerhouse.

👉 Verdict: One UI easily beats iOS in productivity and multitasking.

5. Updates and Longevity

iOS: Apple provides 5–6 years of major iOS updates across all devices simultaneously. An iPhone 11 from 2019 still runs the latest iOS version.
One UI: Samsung has improved significantly. Flagships now get 4 years of major Android + One UI updates and 5 years of security patches. However, updates roll out in phases, meaning not all regions or devices get them at the same time.

👉 Verdict: iOS still holds the crown, but Samsung’s update policy is now second-best in the industry.

6. App Ecosystem and Compatibility

iOS: The App Store maintains strict quality control. Apps are optimized better, receive updates faster, and often launch first on iOS. For creators and professionals, iOS still has a better ecosystem.
One UI (Android): The Google Play Store and Galaxy Store offer more apps and flexibility. You can sideload apps, download from multiple sources, and enjoy better file sharing. However, some apps are not as polished as their iOS counterparts.

👉 Verdict: iOS is better for app quality and early releases, while One UI wins in freedom and flexibility.

7. Security and Privacy

iOS: Apple’s walled garden ensures tight security. Privacy features like App Tracking Transparency, passwordless sign-ins, and regular security patches make iOS one of the most secure mobile OSes.
One UI: Samsung offers Knox Security, Secure Folder, and multiple biometric options. Android’s open nature makes it slightly more vulnerable than iOS, but Samsung has strong measures in place.

👉 Verdict: iOS still has the edge, though Samsung Knox is impressive.

8. Ecosystem and Device Integration

iOS (Apple Ecosystem): The iPhone seamlessly integrates with MacBooks, iPads, AirPods, Apple Watch, and Apple TV. Features like AirDrop, Handoff, Universal Clipboard, and iMessage make cross-device usage effortless.
One UI (Samsung + Android Ecosystem): Samsung is building a strong ecosystem too—Galaxy Watch, Buds, Tablets, Smart TVs, and even Windows PCs integrate smoothly. Quick Share, Samsung Flow, DeX, and SmartThings create a cohesive environment, but it’s not as polished as Apple’s closed ecosystem.

👉 Verdict: Apple wins for tighter integration, but Samsung is catching up rapidly.

9. AI and Smart Features

iOS: Siri is Apple’s voice assistant, but it lags behind Google Assistant and Samsung Bixby in functionality. iOS focuses more on automation through Shortcuts.
One UI: Samsung is pushing AI harder with features like Bixby Routines, AI photo editing, live translation, voice dictation, and Galaxy AI tools (introduced in 2024). These smart features give One UI an edge.

👉 Verdict: One UI currently offers more practical AI features than iOS.

10. Hardware and Device Variety

iOS: iPhones come in limited models with premium pricing. You don’t get foldables, stylus support, or budget options.
One UI: Available on a huge range—budget Galaxy A-series, premium Galaxy S-series, innovative Galaxy Z Fold/Flip, and even tablets. Hardware variety gives Samsung an advantage.

👉 Verdict: One UI wins for diversity and innovation in hardware.

11. Battery and Charging

iOS: Apple prioritizes battery optimization and longevity. iPhones offer consistent endurance but lack fast charging. Even in 2025, Apple lags behind in charging speeds.
One UI: Samsung offers super-fast charging (up to 45W on flagship models), wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging. Battery management features like adaptive power saving also improve endurance.

👉 Verdict: One UI has the upper hand in charging technology.

12. User Experience for Different Types of Users

For beginners: iOS is easier to use, with less clutter and straightforward navigation.
For power users: One UI is better, with multitasking, advanced settings, and customization.
For professionals: iOS has a slight advantage due to app quality.
For tech enthusiasts: One UI is more exciting with foldables, stylus support, and AI tools.

Final Verdict – Is One UI Actually Better than iOS?

The answer depends on what kind of user you are.

If you value simplicity, long-term updates, tighter security, and seamless ecosystem integration, iOS is better.
If you want customization, multitasking, AI features, diverse hardware options, and faster charging, One UI is better.

In 2025, Samsung’s One UI has closed the gap with iOS significantly. While iOS is still the king of optimization and ecosystem, One UI offers a more versatile, powerful, and future-ready smartphone experience.

👉 So, is One UI better than iOS? For tech enthusiasts, productivity-focused users, and those who love control over their devices, YES—One UI feels better than iOS. But for those who prefer simplicity, app quality, and long-term updates, iOS remains unbeatable.