Hi mate, I've read a heap of reviews and the general consensus is that the brightness, particularly in direct sunlight is noticeably better than the S4. The colours and viewing angle are a bit lacking and the blacks are a little grey compared but the TFT LCD is meant to be very bright

 

I compared the two side by side in a couple different AT&T stores (so I saw more than one S4Active).

The Active's screen is definitely brighter and in my opinion more "neutral" in it's color cast. I found the S4 screens awfully warm toned with whites being pretty yellow.

 

I have an s4 active and my girlfriend has a regular s4. we just got them last week so we are constantly comparing them. we both agree that the screen on my active is brighter with richer colors. out in the sun it's second to none. the active is the same phone with the same software with the exception of the camera but the difference between 13 and 8 megapixels isn't even noticeable. all around the active is far superior in our opinions. it's tougher than nails too

 

Have you tried getting it wet yet?

 

So is it really waterproof?

 

You've ever seen one taking a dump?

 

Brightness is better ,with richer colours . but the main point is :this phone is beautiful ,for me better then HTC one .it sits in the palm better then S$ ,and it has a rugged look as well . The camera 8 MP is satisfactory with me ,(I have not tried side by side with S4 ) I think the battery life is longer do to absence of the amuled factor .