The precluded camera software also includes built in livestreaming functionality as well as features meant for use with the device's bundled, spring-loaded stylus.

The device received positive reviews from critics, who praised the upgraded build quality over prior models, along with improvements to its performance, camera, and other changes.

Similarly to the S6, Samsung was criticized for making the Galaxy Note 5's battery non-removable, and removing the ability to expand its storage via microSD.

It was argued that these changes potentially alienated power users—especially because the Galaxy Note series had historically been oriented towards this segment of the overall market.

[13] As with the S6, the fingerprint scanner in the home button now uses a touch-based scanning mechanism rather than swipe-based, and the device also supports Samsung Pay.

[13] The 16-megapixel rear-facing camera is identical to the Galaxy S6, with an f/1.9 aperture, optical image stabilization, object tracking autofocus, and real-time HDR.

[13] The Camera app on the Note 5 also allows public and private livestreaming directly to YouTube, and supports export of RAW images.

However, the Galaxy Note 5 was panned for not offering a removable battery, expandable storage, or a 128 GB model, considering these oversights to be inappropriate for a device in a series that was "unapologetically meant for power users."

In January 2016, it was reported that the design of the mechanism had been revised to allow the safe ejection of a pen accidentally inserted backwards, without causing damage to the sensor.